very jolly birthday weekend last week, thanks to all who came round on sunday night. this morning was, i should say, something of a classic at fern verrow and surrounds with lots of cracking veg, first quinces of the year, lamb and duck eggs. i am very hopeful that there might be tiny grapes to report on next week - one of nature's wonders to be sure. on my return i made up some green tomato and chili chutney and fussed over the radicchio on my balcony.