One Question

"Why do we do it?"

This was Linda's question to me on our opening night last week, performing Alan Ayckbourn's Life and Beth with The Centralian Players, and is one that I invariably ask myself in the days approaching any live performance of our productions.

Every script becomes akin to a comfort blanket for each member of the cast, with us until moments before we walk onto the stage and returning once again to our nerve-ridden, sweaty palms almost as soon as we are off, soothing away the jitters just by being within easy reach.  That, and the various sweets and cakes that people bring in, encouraging a quick comfort-munch before the next appearance.

Warm Extremities

Well, I hope you all had an excellent Christmas!

Unfortunately, at this end, various bugs were having their best Christmas ever by making me ill Christmas Eve so I couldn't perform the annual feck-is-it-Xmas-already-I-must-go-out-and-buy-something ritual, made my nephew literally cough his guts up Christmas Day and now my parents, sister and brother-in-law are doing battle with the little buggers.

First Loaf

Okay, after that rather depressing last post I figured it was probably worthwhile lifting the mood somewhat.

This past week, I have been recovering slowly but if there is one thing I hate it's being cooped up.  It's a little better at my parent's place since their house is so much larger than my tiny flat, but I still needed to get out and get some fresh air.  For a few days this week, I have done exactly that since my Dad also has to exercise his knee, so a little wander should do us all good.  It was tiring, but definitely good to get out.

Today, however, I was feeling rather tired and opted to stay in, instead taking inspiration from the Great British Bake Off and attempting to make my first loaf of bread.  As with anything I do, I went for the hardest option and attempted Paul Hollywood's Eight-Strand Plaited Loaf.  I got as far as the fifth step of the plait and gave up, as my dough was not really playing ball and the plaiting didn't make a lot of sense!

The result: a single-strand plait!

My first loaf!

It came out quite dense, so I think there was probably some more kneading to do, but it was soft and moist in the centre and went nicely with my Mum's homemade plum jam :-)

Not bad for a first attempt!