I spent many years working in shops. And I love them. I love creative window displays, chatting to customers, satisfying piles of folded jumpers, a finger spaced rail and that specific type of boredom you have when things are really, really quiet.

This week I thought I’d write this blog in the style of my Dad- but no one wants a blog that’s written on the back of an envelope that also contains several anecdotes from yesterday’s The Times obituaries. Or do you? You’ll probably love it.
Can I get you a wee drink whilst you’re sat there? Hey, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere…etc.

It would be impossible to ignore the events of this week. The stomach churning reality of watching someone being forcibly and brutally killed. Or the heartbreaking aftermath of street protests, fists raised, knees on the ground. And knowing- in that way that you do- in the pit of your stomach, that watching that murder wasn’t really the worst part of it. 

Here is my signature recipe for light and fluffy raspberry marshmallows. One of the great pleasures of making marshmallows is that their delicate texture allows you to play with flavour combinations in whatever way tickles your fancy. Playing with new tastes and pairing fruits with herbs, spices and even vegetables is how to become a true Marshmallowist. Once you have mastered this basic recipe, you can go on to dream up your own flavours....

What is it you love about food? Is that an odd question? You might have a complicated relationship with it. But however you felt about food prior to this lockdown I’m sure you feel different about it now.