This week’s update is pretty brief. The notorious Ballymaloe ‘week 5 slump’ creeped up on me out of nowhere midway through last week and so I was a little distracted with nerves and worries and forgot to get snapping. We did have snow however….
Towards the end of the week, things definitely took a turn for the better. I had some amazing experiences in the kitchen and loved experimenting with gluten free recipes. Sadly after a month of eating gluten, my body just decided enough was enough so I am back to eating no gluten which is hard, especially in cookery school. For me, I would rather feel energised and nourished from what I eat than just satisfy a craving. Don’t get me wrong, I love the delicious white and brown yeast breads that we have been making and only last week, we were introduced to pasta making. However, there are alternatives and needless to say I am certainly not going hungry 
Straight after our Friday afternoon demo, I packed up my bags and hightailed it to Dublin for the weekend. I had visions of shopping, eating and wandering aimlessly around the city. With shoulders heavy with anxious worries, I knew this was the best stress buster.
A trip to Dublin is not complete without a visit to the Temple Bar Food Market. I’m a big fan of Llewellyns Orchard. Steaming hot cups of mulled apple juice with an optional shot of Calvados Apple Brandy…I think so!!
And a visit Ed Hicks stall at the TB Food Market is a must. The smells of the unctuous hot dogs being sizzled always draw in the crowds and his Bacon Jam gets me every.single. time. Irresistible!!
With a full belly and happy heart I had a yearning for some….Ice Cream!! On a cold almost wintry day in Dublin? Yes, Please!!
A spot of vintage shopping always makes me a happy lady and I couldn’t resist the AMAZING sale on in Om Diva. So much wonderful, pretty, stunning and special dresses for a bargain!
My very first trip to the Pepper Pot Cafe was a spectacular event. They were so nice about catering for gluten free me and even had some rockin’ suggestions of what would go best with their delicious gluten free bread. Could I go past the bacon and cream cheese? no siree bob!!!
and I just LOVE their tea cups and pretty plates….
With a fresh new energy flowing through me and more a focused head on my shoulders, I ventured back down to the wilds of East Cork back to Ballymaloe. Immediately upon arrival, I was greeted with hugs, delicious food and heartwarming smiles.
Life….is good!
Reblogged this on Croí na Céilí Band and commented:
Blog from the Ballymaloe Cookery School, Co. Cork. If I were there, it’s how I’d spend my day!