January 2009

There is not much to be done outside as it is too cold and everything is frozen.  Sit indoors and read the seed catalogues and choose what to grow this year.

Notes on Husbandry From an Almanack for 1736 in the reign of George II.

‘This is the season for good husbands to lop and prune superfluous branches from fruit trees; uncover their roots. Set all kinds of quick sets and fruit trees in the new of the moon. Be sure the wind be not North nor East and set the same side to the South which grew at the first. Set beans, peas and parsnips. The weather mild and moon decreasing dig gardens.
It is hurtful to fast too long. Use meats that are moderately hot, for the best physick is warm diet, warm clothes and a merry and honest wife.’

Good advice for the times!

The birds would appreciate fresh water each day that their water in the birdbath is frozen.
A birdcake would help them keep warm and well fed. Here is a recipe that is based on one that was recommended by the RSPB one year.
No measurements needed just enough fat to bind the ingredients together.

Birdcake

Bird seed; Raisins; Peanuts; Grated cheese; Suet, lard or dripping. Melt fat and mix in all the ingredients either make into a cake in a tin and serve in slices when set or in clean yoghurt pots.  Make a hole in the base and thread through a length of knotted string long enough to hang from a tree branch so they look like bells.