Bread of heaven - or some such hymn . . .

Whilst my fan and friend were out enjoying themselves I had a cooking afternoon.

Made some white (naughty) bread plus a very nice asparagus tart (Delia's recipe) for tomorrow, as am going out for the day and want 12 hours freedom from cooking. Will serve tart slightly warm with something and salad.

Expecting guests for early supper or high tea whatever takes your fancy at 6pm this evening.
A rolled shoulder of local new lamb with rosemary from garden is presently roasting in the oven - 200ºC for half an hour - then reduced heat to 150ºC for another hour (or a bit) followed by a rest for 25 mins (lamb not me). Juices - with some madeira - will be delicious.
Have scrubbed some local new potatoes, made onion sauce, fresh mint (from garden) sauce, and a cauliflower awaits my attention.
Think I deserve a rest and a nice glass of hmm . . . G & T? Sparkly wine? No . . . . . . .

Ah, will have a large 'Horses Neck.' For those not intiated into the ways of the British Upper Middle classes - this is their favoured pre-dinner drink and consists of a large glass into which is put plenty of ice, a very large shot of brandy, topped with proper dry ginger ale (NOT the Canadian sort, it's too sweet). A couple of slices of lemon complete the concoction.

So my hearties - BOTTOMS UP!