Editorial Autumn 2014

Written by Chez & Jamanda

Summer is pretty nearly over; and what a good one it has been! But now the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness is upon us and the question is what can you DO with all that flipping fruit? The blackberries have been fantastic and with no sign of any frost yet just keep going. Sloes and plums seem to be a bit patchy but if you look they are out there! The Downsizer Articles Section has the know-how you need, whatever the season - but for autumn, let's start with gathering your Wild food and turning it in to Chutney, Preserved Mushrooms or Jellies and Jam. And don't forget Sloe Gin!

Various dark-winter-night type celebrations are coming up. Make yourself a Graveyard Cake for Halloween and remember to get your Christmas Cake and Christmas Pudding done early enough that you can 'feed' them well before the date. Our forum has a very active Make Your Own ... section, too, with lots of discussion about creating your own presents and decorations for the winter celebrations, as well as lots of people interested in spinning, weaving, knitting, crochet, felting and sewing; from beginners to the very experienced.

Fresh air's important, though, as well as all this inside stuff for the long winter evenings. We have articles on Things To Do On The Plot in September, October and November. Unless, of course, you are South of the Equator, in which case you might like to join in discussing the First signs of Spring.

If you haven't come across Downsizer before, please have a look around and find out more About Us!

Thanks to colour it green, Shan, Mochyn, SandraR, Sally too, sally_in_wales, Jamanda, tai haku and Barefoot Andrew for the pics above.