So, here we are. It is October.
Blow me down, I didn’t see that coming.
But as the nights draw in and air is sprinkled with chilliness, we can start to look forward to all of the amazing things autumn and winter brings
1. CHESTNUTS
Chestnuts have been a long standing tradition in the Stevens house, with the accompanying “ooo, ooo, ahh”s as you try to handle them whilst still too hot.
My favourite its just to have them simply roasted
-pre heat the oven to 200c
– using a sharp knife add a slit down the middle of each chestnut… if you don’t they can explode and bits will be in your oven FOREVER.
– roast in the oven for about 30mins
– leave to cool as long as your will power will let you. Remove the shells with a tea towel to protect gentle hands from the heat.
– Eat them all, or eat as many as you can before I get my mitts on them.
Chestnuts also make a tremendous addition to chicken pies, creamy pasta or chocolate brownies- I await an invite to your chestnut banquet
2. FIREWORKS
Well, they are great really. Being wrapped up, drinking hot chocolate and staring up at the sparkles, is really one of favourite things to do all year. However a little plea from me to the general public- Please don’t film it on your phone. Just watch with your human eyes, for the love of god.
3. JUMPERS
Chilly breezes call for some delicious knitwear.
I dream about knitting my own, but it’d be ready for next autumn if I got my skates on, I am not a speedy or skilled knitter.
As always a kit from WATG is high on my list and this one has some beautiful texture and chunky snuggliness that is right up my street.
4. BOOTS
From keeping feet dry on drizzly day or for stomping about in the leaves. These two pairs are the object of my lust. Giving both a smart and casual option.
5. CHRISTMAS CRAFTS
And here is where the cold winter nights come into their own- full of christmas crafts. I know you will moan that I’ve mentioned christmas already, but with sooo many of you, that I love dearly and want to shower with gifts, my production line needs to keep going at the steady pace.
Here’s a few ideas for easy Christmas gifts, you can make a start on now.
Macrame Bracelets.
really easy to do and jazz up with beads or hoops. I have seen slots of these available in shops for extortionate prices, so make your own!
I love Honestyly WTF’s version.
Use interesting beads and charms, for totally unique gifts.
Pickle some sh*t.
the supermarkets are filling up with beautiful autumnal fruit and veg (if you have a fruit tree I’m extra jealous), stock up whilst the price is good and make some pickles, jams and chutneys.
I will be pillaging the plum supplies to make Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s spicy little number. You can then package up in fancy kilner jars and god knows the world loves a kilner jar.
Hand painted plant pots.
You can pick up terracotta pots very cheaply, so why not get your picasso on and do something personal for your buddies? Then plant up with succulents and cacti for a low maintenance gift. I like these metallic, being neutral will ensure your gift will find a home in any decor. If your friend is a culinary whizz, why not plant with a hardy rosemary plant or a chilli plant for ad hoc guacamole parties? This guide from Find It Make It Love It is such a synch
Vintage tea-towel cushions.
These are so easy to whip up. Search in charity shops or on ebay for interesting designs. Then use fabric from your stash or a cheap plain cotton to make the cushion backing with an envelope opening for extra easiness. Check out Craft Bits version.
…Now I must go and locate some chestnuts immediately.
Fuck Off Bunting. 