Sunday, January 25, 2009

Carole Lombard's Barbecued Spare Ribs

“Every cent anybody pays in tax is spent to benefit him.
There’s no better place to spend it.
I enjoy this country and I really think I get my money’s worth."

I've had my head in my hands most of this month, worrying about my tax return. I finally completed it yesterday. How refreshing - and timely therefore - to find this quote on the most excellent www.carolelombard.org website this morning. Gives me a new perspective on things and very Alvin Hall. Sort of.

I'm having a Lombard weekend as I attempt to write a blurb to go with her spareribs recipe for the book. I'm applying myself with renewed vigour to the project now that we are entering 2009. I am trying not to be distracted by the DVD of My Man Godfrey which is hovering beside me, as I must actually write the stuff rather than just thinking about it.

Maybe I will reward myself with a viewing of the film once the work is done. In fact, I may indeed do that after having a My Man Godfrey Martini in the 5th Floor Bar of Waterstones Piccadilly when the month of sobriety comes to an end. Perfect.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Marlene's Lamb Chops en Casserole


"When you're dead, you're dead. That's it."

I went to the funeral of a very religious friend this weekend and my crazy sister-in-law announced very loudly at the wake to nobody in particular that she didn't believe in the afterlife. A stony silence fell over the room as everyone momentarily stopped tucking into the delicious spread prepared by the local Women's Institute.

The funeral was a very sad affair with a few moments of brilliance. John had appeared in many guises in various episodes of Dr Who and the ham fisted organist gave a pretty valiant effort at playing the theme tune as the coffin was carried down the aisle. My brother-in-law wore a tie with a dalek on.

Last week in a rare night in for two at number 43 I made Marlene's Lamb Chops for Ginger. She's soon to leave us to embark upon married life so every moment is being savoured. She announced that Marlene "sure knew how to throw together a dish" and I agree. A notoriously good cook.

I can't help feeling very sad at the thought of our happy home breaking up soon but we sure have had some good times and it is great to have the blog to be reminded of some of them.