Sloe Gin

I forgot to mention that I made 2 litres of sloe gin yesterday, following a BBC recipe and one from my partner's father.

We had picked about 2 lb of sloes the previous weekend before we went to Spain, and had put them in the freezer, as it was a bit early to pick them. All the recipes suggest that the sloes must not be picked until at least October after the first frosts. However, as we will be away, we took a chance and picked them early, as it has been such a hot summer.

I pricked each sloe a few times with a cocktail stick and placed them in the kilner jars (1 lb per jar) we had brought from Rajanis Superstore ......only the budget conscious in Bristol will know of Rajanis. This took about an hour !! Then added a litre of gin to each jar with 8oz of sugar..........a mixed metric/imperial recipe. I then added a pinch of flaked almonds to each jar , which is not called for in many recipes, but I recall adding many years ago to good effect.

Both jars were then shaken vigourously, and today the sugar has nearly dissolved, and the gin has taken on a deep rosey hue . We took the jars over to J's parents today to shake daily whilst we are away, and it should be ready for Christmas ............doubtless, they will want to try some, although they have also made a couple of litres.

Also tried a citroen camper van which a neighbour of J's parents had for sale .....M reg , 30k miles , but asking £9,995 which we thought was a bit steep, even with "............only 1 previous lady owner". I took it for a test drive, but it was really scary , with very spongey brakes.

Scoured a car boot sale (Trench lane) for a camping table without success, even with J making offers to all stall holders for the tables they present their wares, but to no avail. After trying Woolworths, T J Hughes and B&Q, gave up and went to a camping shop in warmley and got one for £16.99 discounted from £19.99 by J.

One week today until were off to Spain, and just sitting in garden posting this blog while J starts packing. Wally, the neighbours big ginger tom is keeping me company.

Tomorrows post from Southampton visting Mother.

C