Today I was a lady who lunched.  And shopped.  Actually I shopped before I lunched.  Twice.  And shopped again after lunch.  I can do girly 🙂

Breakfast was banana and chia porridge with fresh raspberries.

Sweet banana, sharp raspberries and creamy porridge.  A yummy and healthy start to the day.

I went to Rolvenden Farmers market to buy some lovely fresh vegetables.  I bought a cauliflower, purple sprouting broccoli, 3 large leeks and a big bag of brussel sprouts for just £2.10.  And it was all grown round the corner in Frittenden.  I also bought some fish (John Dorey and Red Gurnard) and some delicious nibbles for lunch; an oat and linseed loaf, a walnut loaf, 4 mini quiches, smoked salmon and mackerel pate.

I bought these gastronomic delights because 2 dear friends were coming for lunch.   I used to work with Julia and Olivia years ago.  Same place and same time as when I worked with Katherina and Kath.  That was an awesome place to work.

To go with our Farmer’s Market purchases, was a salad from the garden and a lovely bottle of red Julia brought.  This is “Teapot Julia“.  Who brought me some stunning orange roses which I love – thank you so much.

Dessert was a raspberry and chocolate brownie, with fresh raspberries.  Such a winning combination and so tasty it was worth every calorie.

As well as eating, drinking and chatting we managed to support the Barnardos Christmas Fair in Benenden.   We also went to see a friend who had transformed her home in to a winter wonderland and where we bought lots of lovely Christmas gifts and goodies.  So Christmas shopping has officially started.

I was busy this evening and since I still felt full from lunch, supper was just 2 small slices from the oat loaf with ham.

I didn’t have time for a walk today and I ate far too much bread but sometimes you have to relax about what you eat.  I didn’t go crazy so I don’t feel too bad about it.

I love seeing old friends and am so pleased they travelled down to visit – thank you ladies :-).  With whom shall I have lunch tomorrow?