That time of year...

Haggis, Neeps and Tatties with Moleskine, Steinbeck at the Babbity Bowster
Originally uploaded by Lost in Scotland

Here in central Illinois the weather has finally reached a point where I can venture out without experience the hot, humid and sticky of summer. I love the autumn. I love the fact that we are heading into the cold, crisp days of winter. It is time to think of comfort food and nice hot drinks. I long for the fare of Scotland most at this time and proudly look to my wall display of Scottish recipes. I dig out the Scottish cookbook (wait a minute, why didn't I have this open all year round--stupid git, eejit). Its time to dust the cobwebs off the clay cooking pots.

I miss Scotland terribly right now. The sun is setting at 3pm now and footie is in high gear. People are spending more time in the pub, enjoying the roaring fires, good times and food.

DSC00002
Originally uploaded by mickthefiddler

The music seems more vibrant and lively. I used to love going into the pubs in various parts. I loved it when man and beast took up their place at the bar. I remember one time in small town between Aryshire and Kilmarnock, when an older gent walked in with his two lovely Brittany Spanials, settling at the bar. The dogs trotted over to the peat fire and nestled down for the night. Pub life in Scotland is a way of living. To be savored and cherished. You forget that there is tv or any other form of entertainment. You can live there for hours and learn what it is to live.

Now is the time for Haggis, Neeps and Tatties, for steak bakes and venison stew, for grouse in clay pots and anything salmon. And to wash it down, cider or my favorite lager. Half pint will do.