Val's Cafe

Kitty

Toni, the doggy next door wasn't whining much. We've had worse. So after today your bifold doors will be legal. Good, good. Yes I hope Holly enjoyed her birthday. We gave her £20 and wanted no change. She picked up the Radio Times, but said they had no Paracetamol, but gave us a box of 100 from her grandad. Bless.

Martin ca,e today for my blood tests and BP, which was 139/79 with a pulse of 85. Not bad for me. I downloaded a BP app for my iPad to keep a record of it.

Joan, we had heavy rain in the night, but no thunder. Normally we would have nipped round to introduce ourselves, but I can't do it any more, so we will have to hope they pop outside when the wheely mins are emptied tomorrow.

Aidan, my missing post was much longer than the one I typed up later, but ne'er mind mi duck. I agree, it is not one jot cooler here. Especially inside. But the sun is off the living room now so I'm not quite melting. https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iBuSe0UK1rny9HT9x8OsDVyDs3MKJZwn

Thank you for the Lemon, Almond and Oat breakfast bites, and the Marjolaine.

Hoping Barbara and Carol are well, and that mig is feeling stronger now. t4591 t4591 t4591 t4591 t4591 t4591 t4591 t4591

Vegan One-pot linguine with olives, capers, and sundried tomatoes

One pot linguineIngredients
200g dried linguine (or spaghetti)
500g passata with onion and garlic
1 red chilli
6 slices sun-dried tomato (from a jar)
50g pitted black olives
1 tbsp capers
1 tsp sugar
2 tbsp olive oil
Handful fresh basil
Method
Find a large lidded saucepan in which the linguine will lie flat on the bottom, or snap the linguine in half to fit in a regular pan. Cover the linguine with the passata, then re-fill the passata carton or jar half way with water (250ml), and add this to the pan. Bring it to the boil and reduce to a simmer. Keep stirring whilst the pasta softens to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
De-seed and finely slice the chilli, drain and finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes, halve the olives and drain the capers, then add all these ingredients to the pan, along with the sugar and olive oil. Stir well, cover with the lid and cook on a medium heat for 10-11 minutes, (stirring regularly), until the pasta is cooked through.
Roughly chop the basil. When the pasta is cooked, stir in the basil and a grind of black pepper (it shouldn’t need any salt), then serve.

bubbles

Florence !! Clarence !! you are needed, to do a sweep -



Guess what was looking at me, when I woke up this morning eight long legs and many eyes, :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock:

I had to be VERY brave and catch it in some tissues - no idea how I managed that - but, I did, thinking to myself "it is THAT time of year AGAIN" :roll: :roll:

So, that was a wake up I wasn't expecting, but, felt rather brave afterwards
Next time I will just scream :roll: :roll:

Hi Joan and Sue - hope you are ok (((()))), we never had the thunderstorms that were expected, just some rain and thankfully it is a bit cooler today. Cool enough to get the dryer going again

Dads toe is 95% better, one more visit next week and I think it will be ok to leave uncovered.

We did enjoy our coffee and brunch in the T room. It was lovely.

Now, where's Toni, oh, you are back now, with Lucy, right, you were there and then gone............. :shock:

I hope the Building inspector gives the all clear and signs things off. I am sure he will, you had a great team of workers doing the job, as it should be done.

Cake is ok for the waistline, once it has been cut :? :? That's what I decided when the carrot cake was looking at me this morning, saying EAT ME So I did :oops: :oops: :? :?

I sometimes have a decaf if we are in Nero's, you cannot tell the difference with their coffee's. I did quite well not to leak today, just a little wafting and I was ok :roll: :roll:

Ooo, Man from Merc rang, Hildegard is ready to collect on Monday coming t4591 t4591 Exciting..........................

Mother does need a bit of pampering when it comes to her foods now, well mashed gourmet chicken and cockles A kiss me quick hat, oh no, Mother would not be amused :roll:

Sleek was over, no wonder there was shrieking, if she had set up a whole Liberace stage set, candelabra's, crystal piano, lights, glitz and over the top glam t115006 t115006 t115006

Mother gave her the spell, it was one that was rarely used, from her time in Las Vegas (Mother was in Vegas ???? Who knew that one :shock: :shock: )

I guessed that you would be manic at the moment, of course you want everything to be totally perfect and it will be. Just take care of you, at the same time t4591 t4591

Hair is looking lovely, what time did you say the hairdresser was coming on Saturday? silly o clock, that's right :shock: :shock:

The Hawk Moth caterpillars are quite a size. Dad had a big mesh cage that he made, with areas for pupating. They were lovely to watch and they could trough their way through lime and willow leaves in no time at all.

Hi Kath, bless, Holly is looking after you very well, donating some paracetamols I am sure she enjoyed her glasses of wine for her Birthday t4591
Glad there was no more whining from the new doggy

That BP reading is fine in my books Very good in fact. Good idea to keep a record on your ipad. I am sure Martin was pleased to see you and vice versa.

I hope you manage to "bump" into the neighbours, when the bins are moved tomorrow. They might need reminding when to put their bins out (good excuse to see who is who) not that we are being nosy at all. :? :?

So your post was much longer, huh, it is so annoying when they vanish, or click on cancel, instead of submit, which I have done a few times :roll: :roll: :roll:

Good that you are not melting, I am ok today as well mi duck, not so ott - hoorah. Is it Autumn yet ?

I have felt like the wicked witch of the west, I am melting, melting..........poof, gone

Ta for the one pot Linguine, looks amazing, shall enjoy some of that later, thank you kindly.

Hi Barbara - how is everyone, ok I trust t4591 as ok as can be. Did Niamh enjoy time in the paddling pool?
Glad it is cooler, our chillows should be nice and cool today, much better for resting. (with one eye open, checking for spid--s) :? :?

I hope Carol is having a lovely time with her family, oodles of cuddles, looking forward to seeing some piccies t4591 t4591

Hi to everyone else, in and about. I had better do some more pottering, drying to do, spid--s to check for :? :roll:

Leaving lots of love and sparkles t4591 t115006 t115006 Will pop back later, XXXX Aidan

Lemon and Blueberry Madeira Cake

bubbles

Ok, that is enough Blueberry and Lemon Madeira cake Aidan...........know your limits :? :? :oops: :oops:

I think this is the coolest evening for what seems like months and it is wonderful t4591 t4591

I hope everyone is as ok as can be. t115006 t115006

A quiet evening here, the tennis is on from N York, good job they have two humungous stadiums that have roofs that close, as it has been pouring with rain, putting paid to lots of matches on outside courts.

Hi Toni, I hope you have had little rests along the path of another busy day. t4591 I am sure your friend was a great help. Only two days to go............. :shock:
All will be just wonderful -

Niamh will have been over to see Nan and Gdad. Hope you and yours are doing ok Barbara, (((())))

Carol will be busy visiting family

Kath is going to find out who has moved in next door - it is a need to know basis

Time to potter a little, check round for any spid--s. You can look and look and see none, then, when you don't expect it, there is one sat there, staring at you :shock: :shock:

At home today, B will pop round to Dads, with the shower boot, so he can have a nice shower without getting his tootsie wet.

Lots of love and sparkles to all t4591 t115006 t115006 Take care XXXX Aidan



Mushroom and Egg Bagels

frogmorton

Morning everyone Yesterday rained almost all day today I am hoping for slightly better I need to crack on!

Oh Bagels Aidan mushroom and egg! thank you very much I will be good though and only have one because mushies are Kath's favourite!

OMG!! Have Flo and Clarence been?? :shock: I would have fair swooned away too. Just like Pepe! Sleek said Tosca had to use the fishy smelling salts to wake you up! She said she put a spell of 'unkonshus bray-vary' on you so you could sort it out :animal_busy: She wouldn't sully her paws herself, no never dahling!

Sleek loves her Liberace/Vegas spell (it's reusable) and yes Mother was quite a poker player in her day apparently she (with her 'face') was almost unbeatable!!

I did a bad thing with my lemon madeira cake :oops: I put president butter on it It was fab-u-lous!

My friend also had some I hope that was ok? She was a great help and LOVES the new doors skylights and floor! We put some classic Motown on Alexa and had a right old sing along!

I am very glad to hear Dad's toe is almost perfect now

Kath the man from building control signed us off so all good

I am pleased to hear that the doggy wasn't too disruptive and of course some dogs are a nightmare :roll:

Bless Holly she is a good neighbour. Do you fuss her children? I wonder whether she sees you as an extra pair of Grandparents for them t4591

Your BP sounds not too bad at all - mine is lucky to be 90/60!!! I am low low low...sometimes dizzy low.....an app is a good idea

Kath that linguine was heavenly and one pot too less washing up! thanks v muchly!

Barbara will have been busy with Niamh I hope they didn't have the rain we did :?

Carol will have been away visiting all the small people and their larger parents. I hope having a great time m0150

Joan it rained all day yesterday :shock: today we have to get the candles and glass balls to the florist and pick up Pom's supply (she is doing the bouquets) Then Tia's dress needs to be taken in for steaming t69044

I wonder how Crinkly is getting on with that thesis :? :? Glad it's not me I am rather short of brain cells these days

Love to all

Toni xx

dachshund

Hello Kathleen Aidan Toni
. Kathleen I know how you feel I cannot walk has far has I used to I use sick or my walker. You take things steady(((((()))))
Aidan that's good your Dad's toe is better for him walking((((()))
. no we didn't have the rain either((((())))
. Toni I bet you are so busy now the day is getting close(((((()))))
. take care love to Barbara Carol Mig ((((())))))
. Joan xx

Kitty

Joan, thank you for your concern, you are so caring and thoughtful which is why we all love you. t4591

My laptop is busy searching for all sorts of evil things invading it's delicate inner parts. There are 4 security apps running which is slowing everything down. So if I disappear at some point, you will know I've been flushed down the virtual toilet along with virus and other baddies.

Toni, aw, thank you for saving me some bagels. I think there are enough for you to have more. I saw Holly yesterday, she was just settling down for a bit of sun. But she was suffering from the night before, I don't know how many glasses of wine she had. Oh well you're only young once. I tried to talk to Esme, she just hid her face and ignored me. Can't say I blame her.

Aidan, we still haven't seen our neighbours. Although Chris heard them put their wheelie bin out at about 4am, just as we were crawling out of bed. So someone had to be at work early. :shock:
I think that's what time Flo and Clarence start work. Hope the've done a good job.


I've had 4 begels, and 2 slices of Lemon and Blueberry Madeira Cake Ta muchly.

Vegan Lemon Blueberry Muffins


Ingredients
2 cups GFJules Flour or all purpose gluten-free flour containing xanthum gum
1 tablespoon gluten free baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup granulated sugar
8 tablespoon dairy free butter melted and cooled (we used Earth Balance soy free sticks)
½ cup plain almond milk yogurt (or dairy free yogurt of choice)
1½ tablespoons flax meal mixed with 3¾ tablespoons water, let sit 5 minutes
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 packed teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons almond mlik (or dairy free milk of choice)
1½ cup fresh blueberries, rinsed
2 tablespoon turbinado sugar
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, yogurt, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla and almond milk until well combined.
Mix flour mixture into wet mixture until thoroughly combined and no lumps remain, about 1 minute.
Gently fold in blueberries until evenly distributed.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let batter rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375 degrees and spray a 12 cup muffin tin with canola oil spray or line with paper muffin cups.
Using an ice cream scoop or large spoon, portion batter evenly into prepared muffin tins.
Top with extra blueberries if desired and Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the top.
Bake 25 -30 minutes, or until the muffins are golden and toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let muffins cool in muffin tin on wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove from tins and let cool at least another 10 -15 minutes.

bubbles

Hi to all - a nice pleasant and cool day, with some sunny spells. Bill had goose bumps earlier today :shock: :shock: and the heating was showing a flame symbol, so was almost about to come on.

What a difference two days make

We did have some rain yesterday as well, Toni. Glad you loved the mushroom bagels, I only had two, I think - ooops. Plenty for Kath though.

I assume Clarence and Florence came through last night, as there were no 8 legged arachnids on the bedroom walls this morning - phew. I seem to wake up about 5 and have to check everywhere again :roll: :roll: :? :? getting a bit OCD really.

Pepe would have fainted, along with Daddy and your good self :roll: :roll: :roll: all three of us, in a row
That was the hideous smell, of sun dried mackerel, to bring me round - thanks Mother. She did well, to impart the bravery, for me to sort the spi--- out. She was having none of it. :animal_busy: :roll: :roll:

Wonder where Mother stashed her fortune, if she was so good at Poker, given the looks she has at her disposal ? There must be gold, hidden away.


I am sure Sleek will re use the Liberace spell, on numerous occasions, she cannot resist the crystal grand piano. t115006 t115006

Butter on Madeira cake is almost an essential and by all means, share with your friend, as much as you like Love Motown classics, they will never ever date. Bet you had a right sing along

My BP is on the low side, I remember after one of my angio's, my pulse went down to 38 and my BP was 80 / 50 - talk about the monitors going bonkers :roll: :roll: :shock: :shock:

A busy day, Tia's dress to the steamers, florists, candles and glass baubles. Pom is a love, doing the bouquet's t4591 t4591 Exciting, cannot wait to see some pictures t4591 t4591 t69044 t69044

Steady away, mind your back................Sleek will be reporting to Mother, at siesta time...............

Hi Joan and Sue - hope you are both ok (((()))) it is cooler today and a lot less humid. Very pleasant.
I read about the stand off with a gunman in Swindon - no one was hurt, thank goodness :shock: :shock:
Love to both and to the doggies XX

Hi Kath - four security apps running, that will eat up some of the resource, but will be worth it if any gremlins are ousted.

So Holly had more than one glass of wine for her Birthday - ooops, a bit of a hangover. As you say, if no harm done, you are only young once. I think I can remember that far back :roll: :roll:

Esme hid from you, awww, tell her you are the lovely lady who buys her little treats, for Mummy being so kind. So, she has to peep and say hello t4591

Your neighbours wheelie bin went out at 4 in the morning - goodness me :shock: :shock: That is VERY early. Wonder where the lady / man work, to be up at that time of day??

Florence and Clarence did a good job last night, thank you. I have asked that they come back, there needs to be regular checks :? :? :? To prevent further swooning :roll: :roll: :roll:

4 bagels, you were a hungry lady Good for you. One is never enough, where mushrooms are concerned.

Thank you for the vegan Lemon and Blueberry Muffins, very tasty - I will have a scoop of Toni's clotted cream, for extra calcium

Hi Barbara - hope you and yours are doing ok. Niamh gone back home now? To give you a little break. Your Bro and his GF will be over tomorrow, which will be nice to see them and have a natter.

I see Carol has put a lovely picture of her, cuddling baby Kian, on FB t4591 t4591 t115006 t115006 Bless, it is a great photo.

Time I was pottering a little more. It has been nice to pootle about and get things done, without being in a meltdown.

Will pop back later on, leaving lots of love and sparkles to all t4591 t115006 t115006 XXXX Aidan

barbara12

Evening all..sorry I missed yesterday Niamh had her cousin come round and they had a pool day in the rain
Kath how kind of you to teat Holly for her Birthday..so she had wine..and why not its a shame your new neighbours put the bins out early ..that was a good pan of Aidans.. thankyou for the Linguini and the lemon cake ..I think :?
Joan I used to love sunbathing but I can only sit for 15 mins then I am bored.. just love the peace and quite of my garden though..the front of the house is so noisy with traffic..I would love to have been a nurse but we had to go to the work..just to bring a wage home..
Toni not long now wow its looking lovely at your house..I am sure the photos will be stunning..yes try and rest never mind boogieing around the kitchen I cant wait to see the dress..and yours of course..
Aidan..I love the pic it is mesmerizing..and thankyou for the nutty meringue, praline buttercream and chocolate ganache..forgot what else there were but it was good..
So dad toe is doing well , I am so pleased..I intend getting Mr B back to the doctors next week..wish me luck.. my brother is coming Monday now and his daughter my niece ,that I meet now and then is coming round with a food platter..shes a love..he is expecting a letter any time from Christie's
Niamh had a brilliant day even though it was raining ..once wet I suppose..must say it is much cooler today..and I bought myself a parka from Debahams in the sale 50 down to 25..navy blue it is and I love it.. and they had a food fair in Wigan so bought lots of goodies
Right better move
Love to everyone and thankyou again t4591 t115006 t4591
Right better move

crinkly1

How very kind of you to remember me, Toni!

Thankfully it's not a Thesis but a mere MA dissertation and, wonder of wonders, I've just finished the actual writing. Now 36 hours remain until submission deadline in which to sort out all the tedious 'technical' bits. Can't risk losing marks for incorrectly set out Bibliography etc.

Have popped briefly in and out of the café for brain-energising nibbles and a reminder that the real world still exists - which concept is sometimes contradicted by your amusing conversations, clever graphics and animations!

Best wishes to all from a currently very Creaky-wrinkly one

bubbles

Hi to all - hope everyone is as ok as can be : )

Hi Barbara - don't you worry, if Niamh was having a pool day, with her Cousin as well, then so be it, even if it was raining t111055 t111055 Once you are wet, you are wet I guess

I do try and find the best pictures for us all to enjoy, we can never have too many sparkles, butterflies or a little bit of magic t4591 t115006

This covers most of them



I would have to look back, at all the cakes and goodies we have had - spoilt rotten we are why not eh.

I hope you can get Mr B back to the Drs next week You will need all the luck I am sure t4591 :?

Change of plans for your Brother visiting, with your Niece too. Bringing a food platter, sounds lovely. I am sure you will have a good time, with lots to talk over. t4591 t4591

It is cooler and just lovely. We did have some sunshine, but I was not pothered. Love a bargain, half price is good and you love your new Parka. Sorted for the cold weather now Then off to the food fair in Wigan - you have been out and about.
We aim to have some "us" time when we get the new car, little trips out, I can show Bill some of the Dales and little places that he has never seen. I know the Dales very well, used to drive from Skipton at every opportunity. Many moons ago now.

You are more than welcome to all our love and hugs and well wishes, it's always a team effort on here, which is very comforting t4591 t4591

Toni, I hope you have had a bit of a rest, ready for the last full day of bringing plans together. If you have met yourself coming back, then you need to slow down a little :shock: :shock:

Sleek said that mummy was bizzy, going everywhere at once :? :? :shock: Mother understood fully and has sent some calming potions, that will be in various drinks apparently, throughout the next couple of days She said they are quite sayf :?

I think Mother is coming over to yours this morning, while we are at the GC. She is all for looking at the preparations and sneaky peeking, plus Sleek wants to show off her outfit and tiara t115006 t115006

Carol will be having a wonderful time with little peeples and adult peeples, so many cuddles from everyone t4591 t4591 t4591 Looking forward to more pictures.

Big hi to everyone else in and about. Mig DD SW Toady Mell Kerrin Elizabeth Christine Crinkly and all................

Watching the tennis, as we do, just about every tournament throughout the year Golf is on too, but we cannot watch everything at once.

Apart from that, a quiet evening. Nice pleasant temperature.

Ooo, Hi there Crinkly, just spotted you there, so glad you popped in to let us know how things are going with your MA
So, all the writing is done, all credit to you. Doing the fiddly bits is a bit of a bind, but has to be done and we don't want any marks deducted at all.

I love your comment, coming in to see that there is a real world. :? Well, yes, there is, albeit festooned in graphics and often quite crazy conversations, laced with treats of all descriptions t115006 t115006

Hope those creaks are not too painful (((()))) Look forward to seeing you very soon.

Time I was moving again, before I set. Lots of love and sparkles to all XXXX Aidan



Blueberry Oatmeal Pancakes

frogmorton

Today I must be the fastest woman in the world :shock: :shock: :shock: Pancakes consumed at speeeed! thanks Aidan!

It's all go...At least so far the day is bright and the skip is gone from outside of the house - not keen on that being in the photos Wish me luck t4591

I must have taken a calming potion last night :roll: thanks to Tosca-puss because I slept like a log ready to face today. I have indeed met myself coming back, but this is the last push then we can enjoy tomorrow t4591 Sleek is keen to show her everything today and help with her wand in any way she can

Mother's poker winnings? They have been used for good as you'd expect! a fair bit went at 3 day cafes - Edinburg, London and of course brum's one. She may divulge some more information over time.... :? Sleek is being taught how to manage the fortune as part of her apprenticeship. Online banking I am told with pawprint technology :shock: :shock:

You are right! How did you know? My back is mildly sore ATM not surprised really, but I'll live

Kath don't you worry Esme will be won over by you when she gets a little older and sees you more.

Poor Holly had a sore head :oops: I hope she's recovered now bless her.

Of course you need extra mushrooms whenever they are available!

Loved the lemon blueberry muffins yum-mie Ta very muchly

Joan you couldn't be more right! I am super busy at the moment, but hope tomorrow will be much calmer as it should all run like clockwork :?

So there are pics on facebook of Carol with Kian!! Oh how lovely

I bet you are feeling creaky Crinkly! with all that writing - a dissertation was it? Oops sorry, but many congratulations in finishing it Now the fine tuning has to be done and won't you be relieved to see that gone. WELL DONE is all I can say. I did mine around 30 years ago and would never wish to do it again.

You should be very proud of yourself!

Barbara the dress is here finally after a steam yesterday! It's in my room safely hidden from prying eyes (Lucy!) today I will go into the spare room with Tia and her friend/ bridesmaid) The best man is going to help me decorate the car. We have sneakily arranged this by text

I am so glad Niamh had fun with her cousin - as it should be bless her.

I was a tiny bit worried it might be your dear niece's Dad who is ill - oh dear he will be most comforted knowing how close she is to you. Still thinking of you all ((()))

A new coat sorted already?! Go you I am impressed.

Mr B has a Dr's apt and you had better be there ears pinned back. Cloak available if required of course


Right that's me off to face the day hair-wash and shower first so it's not too slippery from my up-do!!

Love the everyone

Toni xxx

frogmorton

Modified an online post-box poem to suit us I will post a pc of the box later if I get to sit at all :roll:

OUR WEDDING DAY POST BOX

We know it’s not traditional,
It’s not the way it’s done,
Rather than a wedding list,
We’d like a bit of fun!

Please don’t think of us as rude,
Please don’t take offense,
We do not want to upset you,
That’s not the way it’s meant.

We’ve lived together for a while,
And all the bills are paid…
We’ve got our plates and pots and pans,
Our plans have all been made.

So if you wish to contribute
And help our future life
Your gift would help us make our home
Complete as Man and Wife

With love from Michael and Tia 31st August 2019

dachshund

Hello everyone
it’s Friday again the days fly don’t they
Joan is on her way back and I have washed up so we are nearly ready for Dial A Ride Our jacket potato with cheese and beans and a lovely cup of coffee
Have a lovely weekend everyone and a good week next week I will speak to you all again then
Love Sue

Kitty

Morning Sue, it is surprising how some days go more quickly than others, which just see to drag on and on. OOO, jacket potato with cheese, can we all come? Enjoy and keep safe. t69044

Toni, what a beautiful poem from Michael and Tia. Can they come and be our new laureates? They are better than this cantankerous old curmudgeon. Blimey, where did I get those words from? I'm sure it will be a wonderful wedding with the Mother Of The Bride beaming with pride.

Aidan, we have m0150 , but it is quite a bit cooler. We might have showers later, I hope the Tesco delivery misses any downpours we may (or may not) get. I'd choose golf over tennis, if only for Peter Aliss' hilarious commentary. He is so observant and picks up on all that is going on - even the match. Many thanks for the Blueberry Oatmeal Pancakes .

Crnkly1,

Thankfully it's not a Thesis but a mere MA dissertation

There's a difference? whichever, it's way over my head (as are most things). Any way, well done you for completing it.

Barbara, I can't stay in the sun for too long as I get all red and headachy (is that even a word)? Well done on getting the parka, it will come in handy for winter. Sending hugs and hope your brother doesn't have to wait long for his letter.

Vegan Irish Stew with Savoury herb dumplings (Plenty for Kari too)

Ingredients
For the Stew
3 tablespoons olive or canola oil, divided
1 pound cremini mushrooms, cleaned and coarsely chopped
2 medium celery stalks, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 (12 ounce) bottle vegan stout beer
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 cups chopped cabbage
1 small russet potato, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes
1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons finely chopped chives
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
1 cup + 2 tablespoons unflavored soy or almond milk
3 tablespoons olive or canola oil

Instructions
Begin by making the stew. Coat the bottom of a large pot with 2 tablespoons of oil and place it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the mushrooms in an even layer. Avoid crowding the pan and cook them in batches if needed. Allow the mushrooms to cook for about 5 minutes, flip, and cook 5 minutes more, until lightly browned on both sides. Remove them from the pot and transfer to a plate.

Add the remaining oil to the pot. When the oil is hot, add the celery, carrot, and onion. Sauté for about 10 minutes, until the veggies begin to soften.

Stir in the garlic and flour. Sauté about 2 minutes more, until the garlic is very fragrant and the flour evenly coats the veggies.

Stir in the stout, broth, tomato paste, cabbage, potato and thyme. Return the mushrooms to the pot. Raise the heat and bring the liquid to a boil. Lower the heat and allow the mixture to simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. The veggies should be a bit firm at this point. You can add up to a cup of water during simmering if the broth reduces too much.

While the stew simmers, make the dumpling dough. Stir the flour, nutritional yeast, baking powder, salt, thyme and chives together in a medium mixing bowl. Stir in the milk and oil to form a soft and sticky dough. Be careful not to overmix.

After the stew has simmered for 10 minutes, taste test the broth and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Then drop 2-3 tablespoon dollops of the dough into the stew. Make sure you've got plenty of room, as the dumplings will expand as they cook.

Cover the pot and lower the heat. Allow to simmer for about 15 minutes more, until the veggies are tender and the dumplings are fluffy.

Ladle into bowls and serve.

bubbles

Hi to all - nice breezy day, warm enough, but not melting

Where's Toni, there she is, was, will be, has been, ought to be, is on the way, is on the way back, is in, is out...................... :shock: :shock: :shock:
The fastest Toni in the UK at the moment. As you say, for a more chilled day tomorrow t4591 t4591
Sleek tried to keep track, but gave up in the end and took Mother into her ickle house for a catty latte

Glad the skip has gone, never a good look on photo's :? :? :?

Ah, the potion has started, glad you slept very well last night. t115006 You will need all the energies possible. Did you have time to speak, when you met yourself coming back

Mothers "stash" of winnings is very well hidden, I think she uses the same bank as the Queen. Pawprint and Iris recognition. Sleek also has the codes required, somewhere in a vault, not in her ickle house though, it is all cloaked in secrecy and can only be used for good causes

I just had extra ouchies in my back and thought mmmmm, me thinks Toni is suffering a little, but managing to keep a lid on things at the moment.

The girls have seen the dress and were open mouthed at how beautiful it is. t4591 t4591 Of course, no one saw them go in, or out, of your room, they used the cloak of invisibility. t115006 t115006

Oooo a decorated car, brilliant, we like them t4591 t4591

The Post box is just ideal. Our Nephew and his Wife, had a very similar thing when they got married. They had a house, pots pans and plenty of material things.

I am sure Michael and Tia will complete the home beautifully, as Husband and Wife t69044 t69044 t69044 t69044 t4591

Hi Sue and Joan, it seems to be always Friday...............time goes faster and faster, or are we getting more aware of time passing, as we get older..................... :? :? :roll: :roll:

Hope you both enjoyed your lunch and coffee's, whilst out and about on Dial a Ride. Do they pick you up from the door?

You pop in anytime you like Sue, you are always welcome t4591 t4591 (((())))

Kath, you are not old and cantankerous, nor a cumudgeon at all, stop it, Matrons orders.
As a published poet, you are, by rights, the Laureate of the forum and so it shall remain, it is the law

The golf commentators are really good. Do you like "radar", I think he is hilarious, as is Peter Alis. Dame Laura Davies is nice too, right down to earth, as it Dotty, the American lady.

That vegan stew looks SO SO good, I am bringing my pot, to take some for supper, with lots of crusty corn bread t4591 t4591 ta luv XX
Hope any ouchies are minimal, some sparkles and extra hugs t115006 (((()))) just in case they are needed. The Possums are on duty if needed.

No spid--- last night, so Clarence and Florence are doing a good job so far - hope they can keep up the good work, save me from having the vapours again. :roll: :roll: :roll:

Hi Barbara - Has Niamh gone home now, or stopping over until the week end.
No pool today, I would guess it is too chilly. Nice to be able to breathe though and have some fresh air coming in.

Extra (((()))) for you and yours t4591 t4591 you know we are thinking of everyone XX

Not sure if Carol is back today...............I cannot remember how long she was going for..............I am sure she will be in, to let us know and show us more pictures of her new GGS Kian t4591 t4591

We had a pleasant time at the GC this morning. It got really busy and people were waiting for tables. I had my fav, cauliflower pot, with chippies. B had a Beth special and Dad had scrambled eggs on toast.
I had to have a scone, all the chocolate orange cake had been eaten - how rude :shock: :shock: :? :?

Time I was pottering again. Pills due and drying to sort. I will pop back later.

Lots of love and sparkles to all t4591 t115006 take care XXXXX Aidan

I am just icing some donuts

barbara12

Evening all on my phone..its easier in bed
Aidan niamh went then came back this afternoon.
she Is having sleepover with daddy.
Thankyou for the chocalate doughnuts..you are getting really good at this icinvlad you got a table at the gc..and at least you know dads has eaten
Yes when your new car come enjoy some time having ride outs..I do love the dales...and it will do you both good..and thankyou for the lovely butterfly pic..and all the extra hugs
Sue and Joan I know how you look forward to your jacket potatoes.. my kind of food...hope you are well and keeping warm
.dont believe I am saying
that..but I know you feel the cold
Hi to Kath..and thankyou for the vegan stew recipe ..make me almost want to go vegan..have you met your neighbours yet..
Hi to crinkley.. and fingers crossed that you get good mark's.. I am sure you will..
Toni I hope all goes well tomorrow and it's the perfect day..I am getting all excited..so can only imagine what you are all going through.
I am sure the photos will be lovely
Right I had better go typed enough
Love to everyone..sleep well xxxx

bubbles

Hi to all - as the excitement mounts, ready for the Wedding of Michael and Tia, tomorrow.
Toni, Paul and all the family will be uber happy and excited for the wonderful day ahead.

To the Happy Couple Michael and Tia t4591 t4591 t69044 t69044



Toni, I am sure Friday was THE most hectic day, for a long time, if not of all time :shock: :shock: You must have been shattered



Sleek and Mother have been going through their wardrobes, putting the finishing touches to their oh so sparkly outfits t115006 t115006

Hi Barbara - reclining in bed, writing your post. Don't blame you, whatever is the most comfortable, especially if you are not on your laptop

Niamh was there, went, then came back for a sleepover, bless her t4591
I am good at icing and piping now. I should be on the bake off :?

Dad managed to get our favourite table, while B and I had a ciggy in the car park at the GC. Lots of people, with it being the last week end of the school holidays.

We always make sure Dad has easy things to eat at home and also when he is out, he normally has main and then ice cream, you can always tempt him with mint choc chip

We will enjoy some little ventures when we pick up the new car on Monday. Skipton Tuesday for a start

The Dales are stunning, even more so in Autumn and Winter. We used to drive up to Buckden to go sledging, there was always deep snow, great fun, in the days of able joints. :roll: :roll:

Hugs are always present (((()))) for all t4591 t4591

Hi Carol - I see from FB that you are safely home, were there problems getting back from your visit ?

The live tennis stream on Amazon Prime has just gone squiffy, seems to be a huge global issue :roll: :roll: :roll: just as the night matches were starting grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

I am going to go potter and slam some pots about :x :x

Now, I had better put some Canape's out, for the Wedding Breakfast t4591 t4591



Love and sparkles and raising a glass, to the Bride and Groom t4591 t4591 t115006 t115006 t69044 t69044

XXXXX Aidan

frogmorton

I have a mouse (or a vole) behind the curtain :roll: Sleek has been at it again! That'll teach me to get up while it's still not light :roll:

Sleek is in the cat-house not allowed back in here.

Firstly can I thank you all so very much for your kind wishes for today I am sure it will go well and Tia and Mikey will get htched without a hitch!!

I thought you might all like to see some pics. This one is of a fabulous display Pom (somehow???) found time to make with the leftovers after she did the girls' posies (hand ties), buttonholes and corsages! So you can see exactly which flowers have been used. With the addition of some rather pricey calla lilies.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/15MXAVeGHe1vFidnEivlaGb6ZVE0S0mDA/view?usp=sharing

This is Paul's and my wedding day with all 3 girls as bridesmaids. Our plan is to take 'the same' pic at each of their weddings

https://drive.google.com/file/d/15UXCpQqaE2ZvgMN3RebqrdXU5i1cxG8n/view?usp=sharing

I did indeed meet myself coming back but no time to do more that wave and rush past Aidan

I ironed dresses, did minor repairs and hoovered our outside stairs (YES I DID!!!! don't tell me you wouldn't have done too Aidan!!). Sorted everyone to take their cars over to the venue and lifts back.....

Then started on the house....and would you believe it?! an angel came in the door my friend ready to help before I knew it with her help we were done

Paul had organised (not his best move really) for he and I to have a meal out with some friends from France so that was squeezed in.

Then back here to check on the girls who had all had a dominoes and be super-silly singing wedding songs 'I'm going to the Chapel and I'm gonna to get ma-a-arried…..'

An Irish neighbour has put a statue of Prague out for good weather.... m0150 m0150

Take care everyone I feel like I'm going to be away forever :oops:

Toni xx t4591 t4591 t4591 t4591 t4591 t4591 t4591

dachshund

Hello Kathleen Aidan Barbara Toni
. Kathleen you are a kind helpful lady you have a good weekend((((((()))))))
. Aidan yes Dial a ride are door to door where ever you go. That was good you got your favourite seat. love to Dad((((((())) have a good weekend(((((())))
. Barbara I used shopmobility yesterday they have different people running it he said they are trying to get one in every town. have a good weekend((((((())))))
. Toni I hope the weather's good up there All the best to Tia and Michael enjoy it(((((()))))
. take care all love to Carol Mig ((((((()))))))
. Joan xx

Kitty

Toni, what an adorable photo of you and your girls. I love the bouquet too. It will be a wonderful day for you all. I hope the weather stays good so you can take some wonderful photographs. https://drive.google.com/open?id=10Cvyqikj2DgMvQWhyFta2EEFUQcJ8tIP

Joan, thank you for your sweet comment. Our local town has a shop mobility, it's very popular with the local disabled community. If Chris and I could get into town, we would certainly use it. Sadly our dial a ride no longer exists.

Aidan, dad has good taste in ice-cream, I like choc chip too, and rum and raisin. Oooh, not long now until you get your new car. Can we have some canapes now, or should we wait until the wedding feast?

Barbara, I'm glad you enjoyed the casserole, I know what you mean, it was the dumplings that attracted me to it. (SLURP)

Carol, I hope you enjoyed your visit with your family, especially baby Kian. I bet Florence was happy to see your photos. I listened to Radio Derby this morning. One of the presenters had 3 guests with 8 legs on her show. Don't tell the others, they were Tarantulas, I think they would be a bit scary even for our intrepid duo.They certainly would scare me.

Time for a slice of vegan wedding cake.

barbara12

Afternoon all I have been praying all morning for Michael and Tia to have good weather for there wedding..and it worked here so hope it did in Stafford..Many Congratulation to Micheal and Tia t4591 t4591 t69044
Toni you will be so tried but happy I am sure... we had a downpour this morning then it went bright now its another downpour
What a lovely photo of your wedding with the 3 girls there.. so I hope you missed it..and good on Pom for doing such a lovely display..bless her..so the girls were all singing Im getting married.. all the excitement..hopefully the mouse has left home now...
Joan I hope we get shopmoblity back ..I only used it once..but if my OH gets that he cant drive it will come in..
Kath what a lovely vegan wedding cake, we can all share it afterward..me first....
Aidan I love the wedding breakfast..so much to choose from..our weather went nice for a couple of hours so I hope it did for the wedding..its so exciting .. yes Niamh came back and has gone home again...might be back tomorrow- glad to hear that dad is eating ok with a watchful eye form you and B..and thankyou again...
I see that Carol is safely home thank goodness..
Love to everyone
t4591 t115006 t4591

bubbles

Congratulations to Michael and Tia, on their Wedding Day t4591 t4591

I pray all is going well, without a hitch and the weather has been favourable to you all t115006 t115006

I was very careful, pouring the Champagne :? :?



A Mouse / Vole - behind the curtain, oh Miss Sleek, that was not a Wedding Gift :shock: :shock: :roll: :roll:

I was saying to B, you would be up and about, well before daybreak :animal_busy: :animal_busy:

Sleek rang Mother and said she was in the cat house and banned from some rumes :roll: :roll:

I am sure everything will be fine and Michael and Tia will share the most wonderful day together, with families and friends alike.

Pom certainly knows how to arrange the flowers. They were left overs, wow, way to go Pom, does she have more hours in the day that we have :shock: :shock: We always run out......

Love the pic of your Wedding to Paul, with the girls, gorgeous. Oh yes, you must keep the tradition of the same picture at all weddings t4591 t4591

At least you had time to wave at yourself coming back
Ironing, mending, hoovering stairs outside yes, you are right, I would have done exactly the same thing.

Then an Angel of mercy came to your aid with the housework and it was done in no time. See, there are Angels about, at all times. t115006 t115006 Very kind of her.

A meal out with friends, wow, you did well to fit that in as well. Paul was thinking it would make you sit down and rest a wee while.

Do you know, I was singing Going to the Chapel, in my head on and off all day Friday Pizza and singing songs, perfect for all the girls, let their hair down a bit........................

HAIR, was that all done in time :shock: I am sure it was

A Statue of Prague, how wonderful. I do hope the weather is kind.

Looking forward to seeing some photo's t4591 t115006

We will all take care, you too and no, you are NOT going to be away for ever, just today t4591 t4591

Hi Joan and Sue - hope you are both ok, it has gone a good deal cooler, which I don't mind. I know you like it when it is warm. Our heating was thinking about coming on the other morning, the gas symbol was flashing on the thermostat

Thank you for the (((()))) and well wishes. Dad came round this morning for his lunch and enjoyed watching the golf from Switzerland.

We do get very precious if all our fav seats are taken at the GC, well, the T rooms too.............we often move tables, when people leave

Good that Dial a Ride take you door to door t4591

Shame that yours was taken off the road Kath. Cut backs :roll: :roll: :roll:

Oh yes, Dad loves his ice cream, they normally pop an extra scoop in at the GC and don't charge for it. It is locally made and very good. There are three places nearby that make their own ice cream, all wonderful flavours and super creamy

Help yourself to Canapes, there are hundreds of them to munch on.
Car on Monday, very excited indeed

Tarantulas - oh my no no no, imagine one crawling up the bedroom wall - no, don't think of it Aidan :? :?

Thank you for the wedding cake, looks wonderful. Should I pop some into boxes, for people to take home t4591



Done, I hope they look ok....................

Any ouchies? Some (((()))) to help them on their way

Hi to Carol Hope you are recovered from your journey home. I am sure you had a lovely time with your family, cuddles and snuggles from all your little peeples and bigger peeples t4591 t4591

Hi Barbara - I dare not look at the weather for the wedding this morning, when it was throwing it down. Bill rang Dad and said I will come fetch you - NO, I am fine, I have coat and hat. Well, he was drenched when he got here t111055 t111055 t111055 we did ask.................

Sunshine on and off since then. Keeps going dark and ominous looking. :? :?

I hope the mouse has left the house too :shock: :shock: if not, Sleek will catch it again :roll: :roll:

Niamh has gone home for a night, time to put your feet up for the evening

Dad is doing ok with his food, with our help. He enjoys his croissants and coffee, here on a Sat morning.

Well, I had better move a bit. Time for pills. I think the wedding has gone perfectly and it is time for the meal t4591 t4591 To the Bride and Groom ...........................

Will call in later. Love and Sparkles to all, take care XXXXX Aidan

t4591 t4591 t115006 t115006 t69044 t69044

bubbles

The wedding celebrations will be continuing, first dance, party party, fireworks - I guess everyone will sleep pretty soundly tonight t4591 t4591 t115006 t115006

I am sure it has been a magical Day Toni, a very proud moment for you and yours to share together t4591 t4591

Now it does feel like you have been gone for weeks :shock: :shock:

I hope you are not up at the crack of dawn this morning, no meeces or voles to greet you :roll: :roll:

Just in case there are some sneaky ouching backs, some extra sparkles. Sleek and Lady Glitter Sparkles (who thought the wedding was totally awesome t4591 t4591 ) asked Tinkerbell to lend a hand with some magic dust.



Time I had a little piece of Wedding Cake

And breathe.................................................................. :animal_busy:

Hi to Carol - hope you are all recovered from your journey home, looking at FB it sounds like the day was a bit of a trial :roll: :roll:

Hi Barbara - have you had chance to put your feet up for a while, before Niamh comes back to see you today
Are you going with Mr B, to the Drs, this coming week? I would guess so.

Dare I say there is a nip in the air tonight - a whiff of Autumn.
Definitely cooler.

Hi to everyone else in and about.

Time to move, tennis to keep and eye on and some pottering to do.

Must clear the car out today, ready for her moving on to pastures new on Monday. t4591

Everyone take lots of care. Love to all t4591 t4591 t115006 XXXX Aidan

dachshund

Hello Kathleen Aidan Barbara
. Kathleen have a good day it's September not bad weather this month (((((())))
. Aidan have a good month all of you is it this month you get your new car((((((()))) love to Dad((((((())) and B(((((())))
. Barbara I hope this month is not too bad for you and your family(((((()))).
. take care all love to Toni and family I hope it went well (((((((()))
love to Carol Mig (((((()))))
. Joan xx

Kitty

Hello everyone, I expect Toni has shed a tear or 5. What a day she has had and it was so exciting, Tia and Michael made the perfect pair and all pusskins were purring the Wedding March. Now we have a super abundance of wedding cake, yum yum yumyum.

Emily and Alex had a wonderful week with Chester and Campbell in the Lake District. Cottage just across the road from the beach and beautiful weather. m0150 m0150 m0150 m0150 m0150

Joan, yes we do get lovely weather in September and sometimes even October is just as good. I don't mind cold as long as I can wrap up warmly.

Thank you for the breakfast tray Aidan with a posy too, nice touch. And tomorrow you get your new car, more excitement. I tried to ring dad this morning but it kept going to voicemail! So I sent Anita a message (she was walking Marley). So she got him on facetime which I don't use, and told him off. He hadn't put the handset on properly - AGAIN - eventually he rang me. :roll: My piece of boxed wedding cake was just delivered by special (winged) delivery, thank you.

Barbara, it seems your prayers helped as you ended up with the downpours. When does your brother and gfriend visit? She must be a lovely person, knowing the challenges ahead. Yes, Carol is safely home, I think she took oodles of photos.

Apple caramel cheesecake (raw)
Great for those opting to make healthier cheesecakes.

Ingredients
'Pastry’ base
100g walnuts
30g almonds
10 dates
1 tbsp coconut syrup
2 tsp apple juice
Cheesecake
100g cashews – soaked and patted dry
4 tbsp coconut syrup
1 tsp vanilla paste
1 tsp lemon juice
4 tbsp coconut butter - melted
2 tbsp coconut milk
Caramel and apple sauce
2 apples – peeled, cored and diced
20 dates
3 tbsp Maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla paste
A little warm water if required

Method
To make the pastry:

In a food processor blitz the walnuts and almond to a powder.
Add the dates, coconut syrup and apple juice and blend until you have a thick sticky paste.
Turn this straight into your cheesecake (ringed) tin (having lightly greased it with coconut oil). Press firmly down ensuring that the mixture is compacted into the base and well into the corners of the tray. Put this in the freezer to firm up.
To make the cheesecake:

Blend the cashews, coconut syrup, vanilla paste and lemon juice in a food processor until you have a smooth paste.
Add the coconut butter and coconut milk and blend again to fully combined.
Remove the base from the freezer and pour the cheesecake filling over it. Chill down in the fridge for about 12 hours before removing the ring from the tin.
To make the sauce:

In a food processor combine ¾ of the diced apple, dates, maple syrup, vanilla paste. Blitz until you have a coarse but well combined paste. You can add a little warm water to the mixture to help it form a nice caramel.
Pour this into a mixing bowl and stir through the remaining diced apple. Smooth this mixture over the cheesecake, you can do this before removing the ring from the tin to help prevent the cheesecake collapsing if you like! Remove the ring, and serve!