With just 4 bags to go before we close for Christmas I thought I would let those who have joined us during 2016 know what Tuppenny Barn does in the way of a Christmas bag. As we close over Christmas the final bag for 2016 is a ‘bumper’ version and to last a fortnight to cover the closure period. They come in 2 sizes £18 and £27 and will contain traditional christmas stock items and then you will have the opportunity to add your choice extras. I will be sending out an email next week detailing what the bags contain and the extras to choose from. Between now and the week leading up to Christmas we will be having lots of our jams and chutneys for sale, christmas wreaths, willow stars and other seasonal fayre – all made by hand and lovingly produced!
Last week I had a late birthday treat and went to the River Cottage Kitchen recently opened in Winchester. We were there for their seasonal tasting menu lunch accompanied by commentary from Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall. He was, as usual, very amusing but passionate about the menu and produce we ate. I got to taste cardoons for the first time – something we grow at TB but never harvested as they are used as a screen in front of our rather large rainwater harvesting tank. Needless to say it was an extremely tasty lunch and a real mid week treat!
This Tuesday evening we will be having another of our making evenings from 6.30 – 8pm if anyone wants to join Rosie and myself. It is communal affair making some of the items we are requiring for the shop. If you want to come along there is a glass of wine and mince pie to be had – just let Emma know you are coming on emma@tuppennybarn.co.uk Emma is now putting the final touches to our Christmas Market which is on Sunday 11th from midday until 3pm. Do come along to see the wonderful producers and artisan crafts people she has managed to gather together as they have some beautiful gifts for sale. There will be our traditional pop up cafe running throughout. If you are coming if you can walk or cycled to us that would be helpful as the car park space is limited.
The girls and I are now thinking about the flowers we need to select for next year and buy rose root stock and bulbs for the spring. I am really looking forward to planning the expanded flower cut flower areas. This Saturday I am running my annual christmas wreath course – the sixth I have done I think! We have been fully booked for a while so looking forward to meeting all our students. Abi is running the children’s christmas workshop alongside and has asked me to request any unwanted jam jars you might have that she can use. I also have a request for any berry foliage (with berries of any sort) as my normal source is not available this year. We are also in need of holly. They can be dropped off at Tuppennybarn at anytime or happy to collect/cut if necessary – just let me know!