Some time ago, jonquil mentioned some lists of food-related things to do before you die (can't find the original post). Now there's another one, due to appear in the Observer this Sunday, but some of it's already on the web hereHaven't done many of these, but I do know how to make a dry martini, am proud to say. Not quite sure what 'dismember a chicken' ( Read more... )

Two friends who came for dinner on Saturday brought along the jeroboam of Vacqueyras given them by her father for Christmas. And very good wine it was too. Of course, since there were only four of us to drink it (and a few other things), I spent Sunday with a terrible hangover, but a good time was had by all, and the Green Beans with Shallots, ( Read more... )

ajhalluk recently wrote a fascinating post about the way that Muggle-born children are absorbed into the magical world, and the possible problems as they are encouraged to separate themselves from their original culture/community; a problematic point in the books, and one which has not yet been dealt with by Rowling. Among other things, she asked 'are ( Read more... )

Took my goddaughter to see Cinderella at the Opera House yesterday afternoon; fab, especially Alastair Marriott and Philip Mosley as the Step-Sisters. Darcey Bussell danced gorgeously - particularly with the broom in the first act - but as usual failed to convey any emotion despite Jonathan Cope (we love you Jonathan! er, sorry) doing his best. ( Read more... )

Working a little slowly today, owing to housemate's birthday drinks yesterday, which started with tea and wine and crisps and sausages and children in the afternoon and finished up with chilli and several rounds of blue margaritas, and a long, involved and passionate discussion about Lolita, Wagner and Jane Austen ( Read more... )

Happy birthday oursin! and hope your computer gets better soon.

Just got back from one of the DNB launches - this one aimed at London historians, I think. Anyway they had a panel of people choosing their London 'heroes and villains' from the Dictionary. It was chaired by Katherine Whitehorn, and when she was announced I thought 'aha, Cooking in a ( Read more... )