Category Archives: Musings & Inspiration

Rainy Day Ramen. Hirafu Village.

Its raining in the village today. It’s quite warm at zero degrees celsius  This is the first time in six years we have experienced rain. Usually its a snow storm or “brizzard” that puts the lifts on hold and gives … Continue reading

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Ohayo Gozaimasu. The Paddington Foodie in Japan.

Ohayo Gozaimasu. That’s Good Morning in Japanese. It’s 6:30 in the morning and we have just landed at Narita Airport in Tokyo. In transit. Waiting for our connecting flight to Sapporo in Hokkaido.  The northern most island of Japan. Then … Continue reading

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The Accidental Gift. Of BBQs, Pizza Ovens and Clay Paving Bricks.

Christmas gifts. They say it’s the thought that counts. A well-chosen gift speaks volumes. Here is an accidental gift. Quirky and inexpensive. A definite conversation piece. At home with my parents we decided to make pizza for lunch. My parents … Continue reading

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Strawberry Santas With a Cautionary Tale. Of Christmas Excesses. Past, Present and Future.

Tis the season to be jolly. Fa la la la la, la la la la. I’ve lost count of all the pre Christmas catch-ups, get togethers and cocktail parties I have attended over the past few weeks. Don’t get me … Continue reading

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The Simplicity of Christmas. Fresh from the Farmgate. Cherries and a Bowl of Eggs

Its always the simplest gestures that  bring a smile to my face. Amidst the frenetic madness of this past week I came home to a wonderful surprise. More fabulous farm fresh eggs from Pat’s chooks and a box of just … Continue reading

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Fabulous Foodie Bijoux Gifts. Idea No 1. Dolci Sapori Confetti. Sugared Almonds With A Twist

One more week to go until December. The Silly Season. Frivolous and fun. End of year celebrations go hand in hand with thank yous and tokens of appreciation. Gift giving shouldn’t be a chore. I’m on the look out for what I like to … Continue reading

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Sacre Bleu! The Not So Busy Bees of Ribeauville Alsace.

I’m very proud of this photo. It was taken in my father’s garden. The apple and cherry trees were in bloom, and masses of honeybees were pollinating the blossoms. In a moment of weakness I challenged myself to take a photo. … Continue reading

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No Doubt About It. Writing a Recipe that Works is No Easy Feat.

I love the buzz and anticipation of sourcing and trying out new recipes, but I have to say there is no greater frustration and disappointment than the recipe that simply doesn’t work.  You know the ones I am talking about. Firstly, they … Continue reading

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