All set for trick-or-treaters.

Bumper crop of bay boletes (Imleria badia) this year. They grow in our front garden, but usually there aren’t enough to harvest after the slugs and squirrels have got to them. This year there were 478 grams (over a pound) after trimming. They were Antonio Carluccio’s favourite wild mushrooms.

Just back from meeting our new grandson, Charlie (6 days), for the first time. He wiggles a lot more than his big sister, Tilda (3 years), at the same age…

Hoppin’ John for New Year’s.

Making pear- and applesauce. Step 1: Cut up 20 Egremont russet apples and 10 Conference pears into an 11 l / 12 qt stockpot / preserving pan. Cover and place over very low heat. (The induction hob is brand new, so I’m still working out the exact level. I used the lowest flame on a medium gas ring.)

Ready for the neighborhood kids.