Autumn fruits

Autumn has definately arrived here in the lakes. We have had some gorgeous sunny days here and the trees are turning the most beautiful colours. Our plan was to go and take some photos of the stunning scenery here at this time, probably from Tarn Hows. Unfortunately as is usual, the best laid plans didn't quite happen. When we finally managed to have the time, in swept the other Autumnal weather that we all know so well, with rain over the last couple of days.

The compensation is that you don't feel quite so guilty about not being out in the garden tidying up and planting winter baskets and troughs - I'm sure they'l keep until the weather improves again.

I managed to harvest our grapes recently and have made some wine, now happily blooping away in the kitchen. It remains to be seen if Chateaux Langdale works out or not, but its all a voyage of discovery since moving in in March this year.

I've managed to make plum jam, plum wine and chutney (thanks to Tracey my Mums friend for the plum donation), Damson jam from the tree in the lane outside our Guest House, strawberry and blueberry jam. I'm rapidly turning into a rosy cheeked country girl! Our guests are happy with my jam, and it sits alongside the Hawkshead relish jam and marmalade that we already supply for breakfast.

I recently enjoyed a weekend in Manchester with a lively group of friends and although I may be developing a taste for country life there's still that pull of the bright lights of the city for me as well. Thats the good thing about living here I can be straight into Manchester city centre in about 1 hour 45 mins by train from Windermere ... best of both worlds really.

Well the nights are drawing in and time to light the wood burner I think and toast my toes. Till next time

Ann-Marie