Thursday, 8 October 2009
We won!
It has just been announced on the 1 0'clock news that the building of the dirty power station at Kingsnorth in Kent has been shelved. The official reason being given is that there is no demand any more, but who cares! Greenpeace, who have laboured long and hard for just such a decision are claiming victory, and so they should, imvho. Who says that sustained, peaceful protest doesn't work? Not me and I am proud to have been a part of that protest, however small and insignificant my part in it may have been.
Monday, 24 August 2009
Country File report
There was a report on this week's 'Country File' TV programme about the benefits of cutting out meat altogether for one day a week and that we should eat far less red meat than we do. The idea is being sponsored by Sir Paul McCartney and it is not only beneficial to our health, but also good for the environment in general, because methane gas, as produced by cattle is the biggest contributor to Global Warming. There was a great deal more in the report and I found it very interesting indeed.
It did strike me, however, that had I seen it nine months ago, I would have found it offensive in the extreme! Isn't it fascinating how we, as humans (or at least me, at any rate) are ready to dismiss out of hand a new idea, without having tried it! Having been a vegetarian for the best part of nine months (is it really that long?) it made perfect sense and I can vouch for the fact that our new eating plan still excites and is still delicious. The fact that it is also good for us and the environment is a wonderful added bonus, as far as I am concerned!
It did strike me, however, that had I seen it nine months ago, I would have found it offensive in the extreme! Isn't it fascinating how we, as humans (or at least me, at any rate) are ready to dismiss out of hand a new idea, without having tried it! Having been a vegetarian for the best part of nine months (is it really that long?) it made perfect sense and I can vouch for the fact that our new eating plan still excites and is still delicious. The fact that it is also good for us and the environment is a wonderful added bonus, as far as I am concerned!
Thursday, 13 August 2009
Economies and the downside of being retired
Now, I love being retired! We made the decision to do so, some five years earlier than originally planned, due to Ray's health and I am very glad that we did. He has made a remarkable recovery and although he still has to be careful (and always will) it does mean that he can rest, whenever he needs to. And far from being bored, the exact opposite is true for me. I just cannot believe how quickly the days go by! It is wonderful not to be chasing the clock and to be able to take each day at the pace that is comfortable for us.
Sadly though, the plain economic fact is that pensions do not rise in line with the cost of living! Our utility bills, for instance, have doubled this year and we are seeing our food bills creep up slowly but surely as the weeks pass. For lots of reasons, all our credit cards were shredded some months ago and we determined not to use them ever again. So, this week, I decided to conduct a small experiment. We have to get into the mindset that if we haven't got it, we do without, until the next big shop. We are nowhere near being poverty stricken, but we do need to stop just nipping down to the shops, whenever we feel we cannot live another moment, without whatever it is we are wanting. So, aware that we had a plentiful supply of all the basics and the ingredients for the meals I had planned until next Monday (when we do the next big shop) I decided that we would see just how little money we could spend this week. The bank balance is fairly healthy, right now, having had Ray's pension paid into it last week and mine due in tomorrow, but even so, I just wanted to see if it could be done. And I am both pleased and proud to announce that Ray and I, together, have spent a total of £1, this week! That was on a little quiz that his work people are putting on for charity, so as it is for a good cause, we felt it was right to do so.
So, it can be done and to be honest, we have not gone without. We have had food, whenever it was needed and not one of has felt in any way deprived. So, a good week all in all and one which will be repeated in the future, you can be sure of that.
Sadly though, the plain economic fact is that pensions do not rise in line with the cost of living! Our utility bills, for instance, have doubled this year and we are seeing our food bills creep up slowly but surely as the weeks pass. For lots of reasons, all our credit cards were shredded some months ago and we determined not to use them ever again. So, this week, I decided to conduct a small experiment. We have to get into the mindset that if we haven't got it, we do without, until the next big shop. We are nowhere near being poverty stricken, but we do need to stop just nipping down to the shops, whenever we feel we cannot live another moment, without whatever it is we are wanting. So, aware that we had a plentiful supply of all the basics and the ingredients for the meals I had planned until next Monday (when we do the next big shop) I decided that we would see just how little money we could spend this week. The bank balance is fairly healthy, right now, having had Ray's pension paid into it last week and mine due in tomorrow, but even so, I just wanted to see if it could be done. And I am both pleased and proud to announce that Ray and I, together, have spent a total of £1, this week! That was on a little quiz that his work people are putting on for charity, so as it is for a good cause, we felt it was right to do so.
So, it can be done and to be honest, we have not gone without. We have had food, whenever it was needed and not one of has felt in any way deprived. So, a good week all in all and one which will be repeated in the future, you can be sure of that.
Monday, 10 August 2009
Visiting the Farmer's Market
We trolled off to Didcot on Saturday, because that was where the nearest Farmer's Market was. I simply loved it, although was a wee bit disappointed that the vegetable guy wasn't there, but I suppose we are all entitled to holidays, now and then. It was really, really good, though and we picked up a programme of their intended future appearances and three weekends out of four, for the next few months, they will be at either Newbury, Wantage, or Hungerford. It seems to be a consortium of local farmers, which pleased all of us no end, because it means that we should get to know them over time.
We bought some cider in a box, which is delicious, some home produced unsalted butter, which worked out at only £1 for a half pound block, some raspberries, plums, home made soap and some really lovely bread, so all in all, it was an excellent experience. The butter guy had some amazing cheeses, so they will be bought on our next visit! Most of it was a little pricey, but well worth the extra pennies, if what we have sampled thus far is anything to go by.
The veg box scheme has been cancelled, which is a shame, but is, we feel for us, the best decision, bearing in mind the falling standard of the produce and also the fact that we seem to have fruit and veg coming out of our ears, right now! The aim this week is to spend as little as is possible and use what we still have, before it needs to be thrown. So, some interesting meals planned for the week, culminating in a big shop next Monday, if I have my way, which will be good for us, the environment (because we won't use any petrol) and most of all, for the bank balance!
We bought some cider in a box, which is delicious, some home produced unsalted butter, which worked out at only £1 for a half pound block, some raspberries, plums, home made soap and some really lovely bread, so all in all, it was an excellent experience. The butter guy had some amazing cheeses, so they will be bought on our next visit! Most of it was a little pricey, but well worth the extra pennies, if what we have sampled thus far is anything to go by.
The veg box scheme has been cancelled, which is a shame, but is, we feel for us, the best decision, bearing in mind the falling standard of the produce and also the fact that we seem to have fruit and veg coming out of our ears, right now! The aim this week is to spend as little as is possible and use what we still have, before it needs to be thrown. So, some interesting meals planned for the week, culminating in a big shop next Monday, if I have my way, which will be good for us, the environment (because we won't use any petrol) and most of all, for the bank balance!
Tuesday, 4 August 2009
Small update
I am very aware that I haven't added to this blog for ages, so here goes.
We are starting to harvest the potatoes and the few that we have had, thus far taste completely fantastic! The difference is just amazing and they are well worth the wait. We have been eating our own home grown salad for ages now and again, the difference in taste from the shop bought stuff is very noticeable indeed.
As a result of this and also because there are several Farmers Markets around here, we have decided to ditch the Veg Box Scheme we are subscribing to. The quality of the produce in the boxes has deteriorated - it started off as very good indeed, but as the weeks have gone on, we have noticed that the quality has slowly been getting worse and now, we cannot eat some of the stuff in there, before it goes off and has to be thrown away. Going to Farmer's Markets, will, we feel stop the waste. We can see what we are getting, before we get it and can just buy what we need, knowing what there is in the garden, for instance. We shall see how it goes, so watch this space!
There was some research published recently, about organic produce not having any more nutritional value than non organic. Shock, Horror! Apart from the way the survey was done (if the newspapers are to be believed) it seems to have completely overlooked the fact that those of us, who choose organic, like we do, do so not for the nutritional value, but because it is better for the environment. Yet another case, I feel of a set of facts and figures being tailored to the writer's perspective, rather than being approached with an open mind and letting the facts prove whatever it is they actually prove!
We are starting to harvest the potatoes and the few that we have had, thus far taste completely fantastic! The difference is just amazing and they are well worth the wait. We have been eating our own home grown salad for ages now and again, the difference in taste from the shop bought stuff is very noticeable indeed.
As a result of this and also because there are several Farmers Markets around here, we have decided to ditch the Veg Box Scheme we are subscribing to. The quality of the produce in the boxes has deteriorated - it started off as very good indeed, but as the weeks have gone on, we have noticed that the quality has slowly been getting worse and now, we cannot eat some of the stuff in there, before it goes off and has to be thrown away. Going to Farmer's Markets, will, we feel stop the waste. We can see what we are getting, before we get it and can just buy what we need, knowing what there is in the garden, for instance. We shall see how it goes, so watch this space!
There was some research published recently, about organic produce not having any more nutritional value than non organic. Shock, Horror! Apart from the way the survey was done (if the newspapers are to be believed) it seems to have completely overlooked the fact that those of us, who choose organic, like we do, do so not for the nutritional value, but because it is better for the environment. Yet another case, I feel of a set of facts and figures being tailored to the writer's perspective, rather than being approached with an open mind and letting the facts prove whatever it is they actually prove!
Wednesday, 8 July 2009
Tiny Rant!
Today was the start of the G8 submit being held in Italy. And on the agenda today was global warming. 100 Greenpeace activists from 15 countries occupied four coal-fired power stations across the country, demanding decisive leadership on climate change. In America more activists climbed Mount Rushmore challenging Obama to be a Leader on global warming not a politician.
And closer to home, while our leaders discussed the worlds fait. Other individuals concerned themselves with more important matters like, who has a right to start their own forum about cats! I mean for crying out loud people. Does it really matter? I guess you could say it matters enough for me to be blogging about it. But that is only because I am completely exasperated with the small mindedness and petty stupidity of some people. I mean come on. There are much more important things to fight about. How about world poverty or, simple pleasures, like the right to free speech. All these things that here in the west we take for granted. So much so that our days can be consumed by such pathetic issues like who’s set up a new forum. And just think if we only got as worked up about global warming as we do over the petty things in life, how much more we could achieve.
And closer to home, while our leaders discussed the worlds fait. Other individuals concerned themselves with more important matters like, who has a right to start their own forum about cats! I mean for crying out loud people. Does it really matter? I guess you could say it matters enough for me to be blogging about it. But that is only because I am completely exasperated with the small mindedness and petty stupidity of some people. I mean come on. There are much more important things to fight about. How about world poverty or, simple pleasures, like the right to free speech. All these things that here in the west we take for granted. So much so that our days can be consumed by such pathetic issues like who’s set up a new forum. And just think if we only got as worked up about global warming as we do over the petty things in life, how much more we could achieve.
Sunday, 5 July 2009
Who would have thought it (certainly not me!)
When we we left the protest and the rally yesterday, we stopped off at a restaurant for dinner. We used to live in Kent, for many years, so it was a real pleasure to meet some old friends, who we hadn't seen for years. Oddly enough, they have moved away too, so to suddenly meet them like that, was doubly pleasurable. They asked, of course, how we all were and what was going on in our lives. Well, where do you start? Because, so much has happened in the past seven months, it is hard to know where to start, in truth. And all of it, everything is down to Jacqueline. I read this blog from the beginning, today and as Jacqueline says, in the introduction to it, who could have foreseen that a simple little decision to become a vegetarian, would have had such an impact on our lives? It is like ripples on a pond and I can honestly say that life in general, has never been so much fun and having new experiences is fantastic, we are all learning loads and life is very, very exciting, these days! Thank you, Jacqueline. Thank you.
Doing The Miliband
Both Ray and I joined Jacqueline on the protest yesterday, at Kingsnorth and it was a really good day. In my youth, I cared about stuff, was a member of CND and did my wee bit to try and change things for the better. But yesterday set me to thinking. When did I stop caring? Life got in the way, I guess and bringing up children, putting food on the table and a roof over our heads became more important to me. Not any more. How can we, as a nation, commit to reducing carbon emissions, for instance, then go and build a brand new plant, which is going to belch filth into the atmosphere? Seems crazy to me (and presumably to the other thousand or so folk who were there yesterday too!) And it surprised me just how normal we all were. OK, there were one or two rather obvious professional protestors, but the majority were just like us. Normal, ordinary people of all ages, colours, shape and size, who just care about the environment and the legacy we are leaving our descendents. Like Jacqueline, it will not be the last protest that I will be going on.
Saturday, 4 July 2009
Mili-Band Kingsnorth
Today we all went down to the E-on power station in Kingsnorth to protest about the new coal-fired power plant.
It seems insane to me that whilst the government is, quiet rightly, calling the west to a greater commitment to reduce climate change. That they then agree the go ahead for a dirty coal burning power station. If we are going to preach to the rest of the world we need to put our carbon free foot print where are mouth is.
So today we joined around a thousand other like minded people to march on Kingsnorth to form a human band around it in honour of Mr Ed Miliband to say no to coal. If the goverment is going to be agreeing to a new power station it should be wind powered.
It was the first protest I've ever been on and I'm telling you know it won't be the last. The overwhelming feeling of achieving something today was good. As Mum says it might not achieve anything. They may still go ahead, but if nothing changes and when it's too late to turn back the clock. I don't want to wishing I hadn't actually at least tried to do something when we did have the chance.
It seems insane to me that whilst the government is, quiet rightly, calling the west to a greater commitment to reduce climate change. That they then agree the go ahead for a dirty coal burning power station. If we are going to preach to the rest of the world we need to put our carbon free foot print where are mouth is.
So today we joined around a thousand other like minded people to march on Kingsnorth to form a human band around it in honour of Mr Ed Miliband to say no to coal. If the goverment is going to be agreeing to a new power station it should be wind powered.
It was the first protest I've ever been on and I'm telling you know it won't be the last. The overwhelming feeling of achieving something today was good. As Mum says it might not achieve anything. They may still go ahead, but if nothing changes and when it's too late to turn back the clock. I don't want to wishing I hadn't actually at least tried to do something when we did have the chance.
Tuesday, 30 June 2009
Update
The garden is going well. We have been enjoying some home grown salads for a few weeks now. The chocolate mint and tarragon are having a fight for supremacy. The mint is winning but the tarragon is putting up a grand fight, whilst the poor rosemary is cowering in the background. I need to separate them soon.
We’ve re-planted some of the veg beds because we made the rocky mistake of not watering the old seeds enough. So far so good. Although the birds have been at the broccoli. They’ve nearly destroyed them all! The blue radishes are going great guns and the carrots are starting to come up.
I’m currently visiting family and had my first visit to McDonalds since going vegetarian. There are some distinct advantages namely that you get your burger cooked fresh. And if like me you also insist on having no salt on your fries you actually get a hot edible meal.
We’ve re-planted some of the veg beds because we made the rocky mistake of not watering the old seeds enough. So far so good. Although the birds have been at the broccoli. They’ve nearly destroyed them all! The blue radishes are going great guns and the carrots are starting to come up.
I’m currently visiting family and had my first visit to McDonalds since going vegetarian. There are some distinct advantages namely that you get your burger cooked fresh. And if like me you also insist on having no salt on your fries you actually get a hot edible meal.
Monday, 15 June 2009
Standing up for once.
I’ve finally come off the Anti-depressants I was on. I can’t say it was easy. I’ve spent days feeling constantly motion sick despite standing perfectly still. And O my good god have I been angry. I’ve been angry at every thing. The problem with the anti-ds, that I found, was although they made me happy that was the only emotion I had. I didn’t care about anything. It was great nothing bothered me but on the downside. Things that should have bothered me didn’t even bother me. When I finally came off the happy pills, as they where called in this house, I was bothered by everything. I was starting to worry that my previous laid back self, the one I knew before the illness, was going to be replaced by this permanently angry stranger.
Thankfully for me female hormones had a part to play in my permanent angry state. Now those hormones have subsided some what. I find I’m left with a much more pleasing side affect. Before my illness I found I was always being walked over by others, especially in the work place. I hated standing up to people and no matter what the injustice I would always back down. In fact I never really stood up in the first place.
Now all of a sudden I’ve found my inner bark. Today for the first time I challenged someone else’s behaviour. I wasn’t nasty or bitchy. I just stood my ground and not allow myself to be walked over. My councillor, if I still had one, would be proud. I certainly was.
Thankfully for me female hormones had a part to play in my permanent angry state. Now those hormones have subsided some what. I find I’m left with a much more pleasing side affect. Before my illness I found I was always being walked over by others, especially in the work place. I hated standing up to people and no matter what the injustice I would always back down. In fact I never really stood up in the first place.
Now all of a sudden I’ve found my inner bark. Today for the first time I challenged someone else’s behaviour. I wasn’t nasty or bitchy. I just stood my ground and not allow myself to be walked over. My councillor, if I still had one, would be proud. I certainly was.
Sunday, 14 June 2009
Breaking News
The plot that I re-sowed has already got some shoots coming up all in very neat rows. It's all very exciting. We've put some plastic covering over them to protect them from the birds. I guess we now sit back and wait.
Time for an update I feel.
The garden is coming on nicely. The veg in the pots are just about ready for harvesting. In fact we had a very nice home grown salad last night. The carrots, which grow short and stubby instead of long, are very nice. I’m not quiet sure if it’s the fact that they are a different variety or that they had only just been picked 15mins before being eaten but they were the best carrots I’ve ever tasted.
The veg patch is not doing quiet as well as the pots. But we were expecting some failures this year. We believe the problem is the fact that we didn’t water the seeds quiet as often as we should have done. I’ve planted some more seeds in one of the plots and they are being watered every day. So will see if our theory was right.
The peppers are coming on very nicely. They are still the thing I’m most proud of. No sign of fruit yet but I’m happy to wait and see what happens.
The Dill has completely surprised me by being rather aggress in it’s growing spurt. It’s at least four times as big as it was when we first brought it. I’ve had to move it into it’s own pot. I also don’t think it will be long before I have to move the Tarragon and Rosemary to a safer pot away from the chocolate mint that is threatening to take over the whole crate.
Cooking wise I’ve learnt how to make my own cordial. We had some apples that where past their best so I thought I have a go at making raspberry and apple cordial. It’s dead easy. Boil equal amounts of sugar and water in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves. Add the raspberries and simmer until you have a sweet smelling red liquid with pips in it. Then juice your apples and add to the saucepan. Give a good stir and remove from the heat. Pass all the liquid threw a sieve (keep the left over pulp to make a gorgeous apple and raspberry crumble later :D) allow to cool and then pour into a sanitised bottle. It can only be stored for a maximum for 14 days. But don’t worry there is very little chance of it actually lasting that long before it’s all been drunk.
Saturday, 6 June 2009
The worms
The worms for the Wormery arrived yesterday. It has amazed me that Jacqueline even wanted a Wormery, because she absolutely loathes worms! But, it would seem that her passion for organic gardening is stronger than her worm phobia. Mind you, I did detect a little shudder, when she opened the package! They are now safely ensconced in their new home and hopefully are peeing for England (or at least for Berkshire) We are told that worm pee is liquid gold in organic gardening circles!
The other big news is that we have started to be able to actually eat some of the produce that is being grown. We have had a couple of salads this week, using the rocket and spinach and the difference from the shop bought stuff is incredible. Mind you, you often hear people, particularly of my generation, complaining that food just does not taste the same as it used to. Well, of course it doesn't! My Dad, in common with most men of his age had an allotment and grew practically all the veg we ate, as kids. The stuff he couldn't grow was bought from a small local greengrocer, who usually had his own smallholding and sold the excess in a shop. Food was still rationed then and it was the only way to survive. Nowadays, we buy the majority of our food from supermarkets and even 'fresh' vegetables and fruit are probably a couple of weeks old, having been shipped from God knows where, then stored in a warehouse awaiting shipment to the local Sainsburys' (or whoever) Is it any wonder it has no discernible taste! Anyway, so far our produce has tasted fantastic and I am really looking forward to the day when we eat some of our home grown potatoes. Watch this space!
The other big news is that we have started to be able to actually eat some of the produce that is being grown. We have had a couple of salads this week, using the rocket and spinach and the difference from the shop bought stuff is incredible. Mind you, you often hear people, particularly of my generation, complaining that food just does not taste the same as it used to. Well, of course it doesn't! My Dad, in common with most men of his age had an allotment and grew practically all the veg we ate, as kids. The stuff he couldn't grow was bought from a small local greengrocer, who usually had his own smallholding and sold the excess in a shop. Food was still rationed then and it was the only way to survive. Nowadays, we buy the majority of our food from supermarkets and even 'fresh' vegetables and fruit are probably a couple of weeks old, having been shipped from God knows where, then stored in a warehouse awaiting shipment to the local Sainsburys' (or whoever) Is it any wonder it has no discernible taste! Anyway, so far our produce has tasted fantastic and I am really looking forward to the day when we eat some of our home grown potatoes. Watch this space!
Tuesday, 2 June 2009
Coming Out
Some people who know me will be rubbing their hands with glee at that title. They will be congratulating themselves claiming they always knew the truth they were just waiting for me to admit to it.
Well you’re all still wrong.
Yes I may spend the majority of my life in jeans, jumper and t-shirts. I prefer trainers to high heels. I very rarely wear make up. But all this alone does not make me gay. I dress the way I do because it is practical and comfortable, and for reasons I will go into in just a short time, I feel no need to impress anyone else but me.
Correct me if I am wrong but I believe that in order to be a lesbian I need to be sexually attracted to women. Now although I see no problem with other women who do have that preference (as long as you are happy what does it matter I say) I do not personally share that attraction.
So why you are asking have I never spoken about a boyfriend? Why then have I never been seen on the arm of some bloke? The question is simply that I am not sexually attracted to men either. In fact I'm not sexually attracted to anything. I am what is know as an asexual.
Now before you ask. Yes I am perfectly happy, which as I said before is all that really matters at the end of the day. I do not feel like I am missing out on anything. I am completely happy with my own company and quiet content with my little lot in life. My only reason for making my sexuality, or rather lake of it, public is so that I can finally stop having to justify my lack of partners and you guys can finally stop waiting for me to meet mister right.
On a different note. The tranquillity garden is complete. The medicinal herbs arrived and are all planted. I now have an additional stone hedgehog and stagnant water feature. It is surprisingly relaxing out there. I love it.
Well you’re all still wrong.
Yes I may spend the majority of my life in jeans, jumper and t-shirts. I prefer trainers to high heels. I very rarely wear make up. But all this alone does not make me gay. I dress the way I do because it is practical and comfortable, and for reasons I will go into in just a short time, I feel no need to impress anyone else but me.
Correct me if I am wrong but I believe that in order to be a lesbian I need to be sexually attracted to women. Now although I see no problem with other women who do have that preference (as long as you are happy what does it matter I say) I do not personally share that attraction.
So why you are asking have I never spoken about a boyfriend? Why then have I never been seen on the arm of some bloke? The question is simply that I am not sexually attracted to men either. In fact I'm not sexually attracted to anything. I am what is know as an asexual.
Now before you ask. Yes I am perfectly happy, which as I said before is all that really matters at the end of the day. I do not feel like I am missing out on anything. I am completely happy with my own company and quiet content with my little lot in life. My only reason for making my sexuality, or rather lake of it, public is so that I can finally stop having to justify my lack of partners and you guys can finally stop waiting for me to meet mister right.
On a different note. The tranquillity garden is complete. The medicinal herbs arrived and are all planted. I now have an additional stone hedgehog and stagnant water feature. It is surprisingly relaxing out there. I love it.
Thursday, 28 May 2009
Ripples on a pond
The thing that has fascinated and excited me most about our change of lifestyle, is the knock on effect it has had into all aspects of our life, here. I had for a long time been interested in the VegBox scheme, so with our food bills being a cut by a third, due to Jacqui and I no longer eating meat, we signed up. What we got was a revelation! The fruit and veg were so much fresher than we had before and therefore lasted for much longer. That started Jacqueline wondering what it would be like, if we grew our own. So, a couple of small plastic greenhouses were purchased, a corner of the garden was cleared and dug and off we went. Because of my disability, I can do very little to help, but Ray and Jacqueline have worked very hard to get it off the ground and we are starting to see the results. I can't wait to harvest and cook it, in time so I will be doing my bit, as well.
Jacqui has suffered very badly from hayfever, over the years and it was, to be honest, the one downside that we found by moving here. We are in a deep valley here, surrounded by the Berkshire Downs, a lot of which are owned by the Jockey Club, but also many of the fields are sown with oilseed rape. This meant that as soon a spring started to spring, and the rape came into flower, then poor Jacqui would start to sneeze and be really unwell. But this year, it is all different, touch wood. Because she is outside almost all the time she is at home and it is still light and not pouring with rain, she seems to have built up a resistance to it and so far, is doing really well. Ray too, suffered really badly from prickly heat, as well and as soon as he was exposed to any sun, he would break out with the most horrendous itchy hives on the exposed skin. That has gone, as well. It would seem that a combination of eating more healthily and the gradual and regular exposure to the sun that working in the garden has given him, has built up an immunity for him, which I am delighted about, because it was very hard to see him suffer like he did.
And as for me? Well, I am starting to question everything we buy! Is there a cheaper, more healthy alternative? Do we really need it? Can we find a way to be more responsible as environmentalists, with the stuff that we do need? Jacqueline is very good at this and will bring me up short, at times, where excessive packaging, for instance, is involved. As much as is practical, we buy organic, now and I have been amazed at how it is often it will be only a few pence dearer, or in some cases, cheaper than non organic produce and products. We also look for Fairtrade products, as well. I have, at long last overcome the temptation to approach total strangers in the Supermarket and go "Look!" as we get to the checkout, because our trolley has no more junk in it! And again, because our food bills are less, when we do buy meat or fish for Ray, we can get much better quality for him and that is good, because we try to source meat and fish that has been raised responsibly and not factory farmed. Eating with a clear conscience is a really good experience, I can assure you. And although we are eating cheaper, we are most certainly eating better and healthier, as a result of which, we are all seeing the benefits. More energy, clearer skin, slimmer waists and shinier hair, all round in the Monument household!
Jacqui has suffered very badly from hayfever, over the years and it was, to be honest, the one downside that we found by moving here. We are in a deep valley here, surrounded by the Berkshire Downs, a lot of which are owned by the Jockey Club, but also many of the fields are sown with oilseed rape. This meant that as soon a spring started to spring, and the rape came into flower, then poor Jacqui would start to sneeze and be really unwell. But this year, it is all different, touch wood. Because she is outside almost all the time she is at home and it is still light and not pouring with rain, she seems to have built up a resistance to it and so far, is doing really well. Ray too, suffered really badly from prickly heat, as well and as soon as he was exposed to any sun, he would break out with the most horrendous itchy hives on the exposed skin. That has gone, as well. It would seem that a combination of eating more healthily and the gradual and regular exposure to the sun that working in the garden has given him, has built up an immunity for him, which I am delighted about, because it was very hard to see him suffer like he did.
And as for me? Well, I am starting to question everything we buy! Is there a cheaper, more healthy alternative? Do we really need it? Can we find a way to be more responsible as environmentalists, with the stuff that we do need? Jacqueline is very good at this and will bring me up short, at times, where excessive packaging, for instance, is involved. As much as is practical, we buy organic, now and I have been amazed at how it is often it will be only a few pence dearer, or in some cases, cheaper than non organic produce and products. We also look for Fairtrade products, as well. I have, at long last overcome the temptation to approach total strangers in the Supermarket and go "Look!" as we get to the checkout, because our trolley has no more junk in it! And again, because our food bills are less, when we do buy meat or fish for Ray, we can get much better quality for him and that is good, because we try to source meat and fish that has been raised responsibly and not factory farmed. Eating with a clear conscience is a really good experience, I can assure you. And although we are eating cheaper, we are most certainly eating better and healthier, as a result of which, we are all seeing the benefits. More energy, clearer skin, slimmer waists and shinier hair, all round in the Monument household!
Wednesday, 27 May 2009
A week off.
I’ve had a wonderful 10 days off work. Went to Norfolk to visit my Nan and Aunt. It was great to see them and potter around in Nan’s garden sorting it out for her. Got home on Friday and made a visit to one of our local garden centres. I completely fell in love with an elderflower bush called Black Lace.I love plants and flowers that are either blue or black. There is some thing about the colour that makes them so striking. Add them with some white or yellow plants and you have an amazing display. This is exactly what I did. The Black lace will have its own display of medicinal herbs in the fullness of time. But The Japanese Maple (a tree I have wanted for a long time) already has it’s own display of compliment flowers. This is a bit of a side step for me. My little garden experience has always been solely with edible plants. But as I said the Maple and been something I have admired for a long time and the chance to own one for myself was too good to pass up. I must admit that I had a wonderful time wondering around the garden centre picking plants I thought might look good together. The finished result came together quiet well I think and I already find my tiny spot a very relaxing place to be. I love being out there, listening to the birds and next doors chickens, just gazing at the little display. It takes all my cares away. It’s just me and nature and for that short time I remember why I go to work, and work so hard. All so that I can enjoy moments like that.
Also on our trip out, we topped up on other herbs that we have not yet grown ourselves. I think we are pretty much covered for the culinary varieties. Including a wonderfully tasting chocolate mint, which according to my sister tastes like an after eight mint! I can’t say I am a great fan of mint but this variety really is gorgeous.
But the biggest news and something I have craved for ever since reading of existence, is the purchase of my very own wormeary. They were being sold off for only £40 a snip from their normal price. The worms themselves have been sent off for and their new home is set up awaiting their arrival. Lots of free plant feed and lovely compost, all from our kitchen scraps what more could any gardener ask for?!!
Tuesday, 19 May 2009
Making your vote count.
This morning we got a flyer through the letter box for the BMP. I was so angry I ripped it up and shredded it. I hate injustice of any kind. But to judge someone just because of the colour of their skin just makes my blood boil. In my opinion people like the BMP are scum. And I personally do not want to live in a country run by bigots like them. I know that our pollutions haven’t exactly been earning our trust lately. But I believe that actually it’s a wake up call for all of us. I know I have been guilty of taking our democracy for granted. I can’t say I have taken much notice of what happens in politics. Up until recently I didn’t even know the name of my local MP. It can seem so confusing and disheartening at times. After all aren’t all politicians just the same? What is the difference between the Tories and New Labour? You certainly can’t trust any thing they say, it’s all just spin.
But attitudes like that are when parties like the BMP slip in and politicians start to believe that they can behave however they like. This June vote and make it count. Let your local MP know what you are concerned about. Stand up and be counted. As the advert says ‘if you don’t vote you don’t have a voice’. Who do you want to be representing you in Europe? Who do you want to be voting on your behalf for policies regarding climate change or human rights? If you don’t vote you can’t complain when you don’t like the outcome.
Please do your homework and make your voice heard. Vote on June 4th.
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/elections2009/default.htm?language=EN
But attitudes like that are when parties like the BMP slip in and politicians start to believe that they can behave however they like. This June vote and make it count. Let your local MP know what you are concerned about. Stand up and be counted. As the advert says ‘if you don’t vote you don’t have a voice’. Who do you want to be representing you in Europe? Who do you want to be voting on your behalf for policies regarding climate change or human rights? If you don’t vote you can’t complain when you don’t like the outcome.
Please do your homework and make your voice heard. Vote on June 4th.
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/elections2009/default.htm?language=EN
Changing the habits of a lifetime
I have come to the conclusion that there is nothing quite as boring as a brand new, fully fledged, card carrying, born again vegetarian! I can bore for England at the best of times, but Jacqueline and I were just so blown away by our discoveries, that we wanted everyone who would stand still long enough and listen, to be able to share in our excitement and maybe even try it out for themselves. Of course, vegetarianism isn't for everybody, and we fully appreciate that, but it is not just about vegetarianism alone. That has just become the launch pad for us to look at our whole lifestyle, make some changes and reap the not inconsiderable benefits, whilst at the same time, doing our little bit for the good of the planet. We know that we alone, cannot change the world, but we can all do our own little bit and together, can effect some changes that our planet so desperately needs.
We live in the country, after moving here three years ago from suburbia. Ray had been forced to retire, due to ill health, so we upped sticks and moved, with the intention of living a more relaxed lifestyle. Living here is so tranquil and we have all benefitted from the changes that coming here has brought. We began to realise that, living as we do, surrounded by farmland, it was silly not to make use of that. We found a farm nearby, that sells free range eggs and a few home grown vegetables. The eggs are half the price of those in a supermarket and are as fresh as can be. This is very evident, when you crack one open. The yolks are a deep golden yellow and sit atop a nice solid albumen, which is indicative of their freshness. And they taste delicious!
As I have already said, the only vegetables that I thought I liked, were potatoes, broccoli and cauliflower, so what was I supposed to do with all this new stuff that was turning up in the box, week after week, most of which I had never seen, never mind eaten! The supplier that we use, who are Abel and Cole, do have a recipe index on their website and that proved to be very useful. We started to surf the internet and found http://vegbox-recipes.co.uk/about-veg-box-recipes.html. This site has proved to be invaluable, because not only does it have loads of recipes, it also has an index, so that we can see what it is that we actually have, if we have never seen it before. And as we started to look at food labels, we discovered so many additives and preservatives, it was frightening. So, back to the trusty internet and also our cookery book library, to see if we could find recipes to make ourselves, which is how Jacqui discovered one for peanut butter and I discovered one for tomato passata. Both so easy, it is mindblowing. I will post them both, sometime very soon, I promise. We have also discovered a recipe, as yet untried for whole grain mustard. I am looking forward to trying that one out, I can tell you!
We live in the country, after moving here three years ago from suburbia. Ray had been forced to retire, due to ill health, so we upped sticks and moved, with the intention of living a more relaxed lifestyle. Living here is so tranquil and we have all benefitted from the changes that coming here has brought. We began to realise that, living as we do, surrounded by farmland, it was silly not to make use of that. We found a farm nearby, that sells free range eggs and a few home grown vegetables. The eggs are half the price of those in a supermarket and are as fresh as can be. This is very evident, when you crack one open. The yolks are a deep golden yellow and sit atop a nice solid albumen, which is indicative of their freshness. And they taste delicious!
As I have already said, the only vegetables that I thought I liked, were potatoes, broccoli and cauliflower, so what was I supposed to do with all this new stuff that was turning up in the box, week after week, most of which I had never seen, never mind eaten! The supplier that we use, who are Abel and Cole, do have a recipe index on their website and that proved to be very useful. We started to surf the internet and found http://vegbox-recipes.co.uk/about-veg-box-recipes.html. This site has proved to be invaluable, because not only does it have loads of recipes, it also has an index, so that we can see what it is that we actually have, if we have never seen it before. And as we started to look at food labels, we discovered so many additives and preservatives, it was frightening. So, back to the trusty internet and also our cookery book library, to see if we could find recipes to make ourselves, which is how Jacqui discovered one for peanut butter and I discovered one for tomato passata. Both so easy, it is mindblowing. I will post them both, sometime very soon, I promise. We have also discovered a recipe, as yet untried for whole grain mustard. I am looking forward to trying that one out, I can tell you!
Monday, 18 May 2009
Mum's view of how it all began
Vegetarian! I was horrified! After all, veggies were a pain - cranks, who just liked to make things difficult for me, when they came to visit! After all, there is only one decent recipe for a veggie, isn't there? And you can't eat Macaroni Cheese for every meal! And I don't even like vegetables, apart from potatoes, broccoli and cauliflower.
But, Jacqui had been so ill and it was good to be able to talk to her about her feelings, because she had been unable to do that for such a long time, it seemed. So, with a heavy heart and a lot of trepidation, I agreed to support her in her decision. It would probably be a flash in the pan, anyway and she'd soon get bored with it all. How wrong can you be?
I am disabled, seriously overweight and cooking for the family had become a real chore. It hurt to stand for too long and Jacqueline worked some highly unsociable hours, at times, so we would often eat late. I think that it is important that we make the effort to sit down, round the table and eat together. That way, we can talk, have a laugh and share our day, but it had become no fun, whatsoever. It seemed as if we were grinding along in a bit of a rut and I was very aware that both Ray and I were putting too much pressure on Jacqueline, because we looked forward to her coming home and expected her to entertain us, almost.
At first, Jacqui started to bring home frozen veggie meals, which I would cook, whilst Ray and I ate our normal meals which, if I am honest, had become routine and boring. She would offer us a little taste and I was pleasantly surprised, because although the taste and texture was different, it was very palatable and not disgusting and tastleless, as I had assumed. Then Jacqui asked if she could cook for us, on her days off and of course, I had no problem agreeing with that! The very first thing she cooked for us was a Peanut and Apple Nut Roast. I absolutely loved it! Both Ray and Jacqui felt that there were too many peanuts and not enough apple, but for my tastes, it was perfect. Vegetarian cookbooks started to appear and suddenly, food became fun! We began to experiment more and the range of food we started to eat increased. And to my complete amazement, the food bills dropped like a stone. And the best thing for me, as a Mum, was to see clean plates after almost every meal, rather than a couple of dispirited mouthfuls being eaten and the rest thrown away.
I had alway been interested in the concept of the veggie box scheme. Good, fresh, local produce being sourced and small farmers being supported by the schemes. So, we looked into it and found a Company that delivered to our area and we put in our order. Our weekly box also includes fruit and the best thing of all, for me, was the quality of the produce. Instead of it only lasting for a few days, we found that both the vegetables and the fruit would last for weeks (that is, if we didn't eat it first, which we usually did!) It also means that the vegetables we get are in season and it is really good fun to sit down each week and plan the menus around the stuff in the box. So, it was not much of a decision for me to become a fully fledged vegetarian, as well. Ray decided that he still wanted to eat meat, on occasion and I have no problem with that, at all. So, at the beginning of each day, he will ask what we are intending to eat that night and sometimes he will eat totally vegetarian fare and at other times, he will request some meat, as well.
And, just like Jacqueline, we have seen unexpected benefits. My weight is starting to come off and to stay off. To date, I have lost 2 stone and although the weight loss is slow, it is steady and is still going down. My whole system has been slugguish all my life and I have been plagued with constipation for years. Not any more. I have so much more energy and standing and cooking each night is not a chore. And it seems that the more that I do, the more I can do. My daughter may have has some hair brained schemes in the past, but this is one of her better decisions and one which I for one, wish that we had made years ago.
But, Jacqui had been so ill and it was good to be able to talk to her about her feelings, because she had been unable to do that for such a long time, it seemed. So, with a heavy heart and a lot of trepidation, I agreed to support her in her decision. It would probably be a flash in the pan, anyway and she'd soon get bored with it all. How wrong can you be?
I am disabled, seriously overweight and cooking for the family had become a real chore. It hurt to stand for too long and Jacqueline worked some highly unsociable hours, at times, so we would often eat late. I think that it is important that we make the effort to sit down, round the table and eat together. That way, we can talk, have a laugh and share our day, but it had become no fun, whatsoever. It seemed as if we were grinding along in a bit of a rut and I was very aware that both Ray and I were putting too much pressure on Jacqueline, because we looked forward to her coming home and expected her to entertain us, almost.
At first, Jacqui started to bring home frozen veggie meals, which I would cook, whilst Ray and I ate our normal meals which, if I am honest, had become routine and boring. She would offer us a little taste and I was pleasantly surprised, because although the taste and texture was different, it was very palatable and not disgusting and tastleless, as I had assumed. Then Jacqui asked if she could cook for us, on her days off and of course, I had no problem agreeing with that! The very first thing she cooked for us was a Peanut and Apple Nut Roast. I absolutely loved it! Both Ray and Jacqui felt that there were too many peanuts and not enough apple, but for my tastes, it was perfect. Vegetarian cookbooks started to appear and suddenly, food became fun! We began to experiment more and the range of food we started to eat increased. And to my complete amazement, the food bills dropped like a stone. And the best thing for me, as a Mum, was to see clean plates after almost every meal, rather than a couple of dispirited mouthfuls being eaten and the rest thrown away.
I had alway been interested in the concept of the veggie box scheme. Good, fresh, local produce being sourced and small farmers being supported by the schemes. So, we looked into it and found a Company that delivered to our area and we put in our order. Our weekly box also includes fruit and the best thing of all, for me, was the quality of the produce. Instead of it only lasting for a few days, we found that both the vegetables and the fruit would last for weeks (that is, if we didn't eat it first, which we usually did!) It also means that the vegetables we get are in season and it is really good fun to sit down each week and plan the menus around the stuff in the box. So, it was not much of a decision for me to become a fully fledged vegetarian, as well. Ray decided that he still wanted to eat meat, on occasion and I have no problem with that, at all. So, at the beginning of each day, he will ask what we are intending to eat that night and sometimes he will eat totally vegetarian fare and at other times, he will request some meat, as well.
And, just like Jacqueline, we have seen unexpected benefits. My weight is starting to come off and to stay off. To date, I have lost 2 stone and although the weight loss is slow, it is steady and is still going down. My whole system has been slugguish all my life and I have been plagued with constipation for years. Not any more. I have so much more energy and standing and cooking each night is not a chore. And it seems that the more that I do, the more I can do. My daughter may have has some hair brained schemes in the past, but this is one of her better decisions and one which I for one, wish that we had made years ago.
How it all began
2008 for me was not a good year. To cut a long and personal story short the end of the year found me struggling with a bad case of depression. If I was to get any better things had to change and the best place to start was with something small. For me that small thing was to become a vegetarian. It was something I had wanted to do for a long time. But for one reason or another had never taken the plunge.
I had always been a fussy eater. My range of choice foods was mainly fast food and frozen processed junk. Consequently I was constantly tired and lethargic. My choice to go vegi had nothing to do with health but more of a need to eat with a guilt free conscience. My reason for mentioning my poor diet is really to help you understand the horror with which my mother took my momentous news. I seem to remember a cry of ‘what are you going to eat? It’s hard enough to feed you know!’ I promised to find some recipes that I felt I would like and cook them myself. Before long I was not only cooking for me but for everyone else.
It was almost overnight that I feel in love with food. Not just eating it but cooking it too. Always in the past I eat because I had to. Dinner had to be fast and quick to hand, as I never thought about what I was going to eat before I got hungry. Food was there simply to keep me alive. Now Dinners are planned a week in advance. I look forward to all my meals, so much so there is no picking in-between. Needless to say I have a lot more energy and enthusiasm. I can honestly say I have never felt so good.
The unexpected side effects
Along with the increased energy levels have been some other unforeseen side effects. Once I started cooking and enjoying my meals. I became interested in exactly what was going into my food. The easiest way of knowing what goes into your dinner is to cook it yourself. And of course if you want to know that your ingredients are completely organic without them costing you an arm and a leg is to grow it yourself. And if you are going to be organic you also need to care about the environment. If you care about that and you cut down your carbon footprint and recycle more you start saving money.
So what starts off as a simple decision to not eat meat suddenly becomes a life changing and exciting journey. I do not want to go through the last few months of 2008 ever again. Nor would I wish it on my worst enemy. But in a lot of ways I’m glad. It was a huge kick up the butt. One that I so desperately needed.
I had always been a fussy eater. My range of choice foods was mainly fast food and frozen processed junk. Consequently I was constantly tired and lethargic. My choice to go vegi had nothing to do with health but more of a need to eat with a guilt free conscience. My reason for mentioning my poor diet is really to help you understand the horror with which my mother took my momentous news. I seem to remember a cry of ‘what are you going to eat? It’s hard enough to feed you know!’ I promised to find some recipes that I felt I would like and cook them myself. Before long I was not only cooking for me but for everyone else.
It was almost overnight that I feel in love with food. Not just eating it but cooking it too. Always in the past I eat because I had to. Dinner had to be fast and quick to hand, as I never thought about what I was going to eat before I got hungry. Food was there simply to keep me alive. Now Dinners are planned a week in advance. I look forward to all my meals, so much so there is no picking in-between. Needless to say I have a lot more energy and enthusiasm. I can honestly say I have never felt so good.
The unexpected side effects
Along with the increased energy levels have been some other unforeseen side effects. Once I started cooking and enjoying my meals. I became interested in exactly what was going into my food. The easiest way of knowing what goes into your dinner is to cook it yourself. And of course if you want to know that your ingredients are completely organic without them costing you an arm and a leg is to grow it yourself. And if you are going to be organic you also need to care about the environment. If you care about that and you cut down your carbon footprint and recycle more you start saving money.
So what starts off as a simple decision to not eat meat suddenly becomes a life changing and exciting journey. I do not want to go through the last few months of 2008 ever again. Nor would I wish it on my worst enemy. But in a lot of ways I’m glad. It was a huge kick up the butt. One that I so desperately needed.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)