I haven’t had much time to write this week - life, that cheeky wotsit, has a habit of barging in and hogging all the limelight. So, if this blog is shorter than usual, you can blame the Universe, the Council, Elon Musk, or, let’s be honest, me. That’s my usual hall of fame of scapegoats, anyway.

I couldn’t help noticing that the weather’s been doing its best impression of a moody teenager lately. It’s not just “a bit cold” or “a tad chilly”- it’s proper stroppy brass monkeys cold, with not even a sliver of warmth to be found. But, and this is the important thing, it’s not too cold. Nothing’s turned into a full-blown ice rink out there: no frozen rivers, no mass pandemonium, no disasters. Meanwhile, down under, Australia’s been hosting its own version of a roast: over 40 degrees day-after-day - and if you’re converting like I do, that’s roughly 110 degrees in “real money”. (I shan’t mention the Metric system here - that’s one to discuss out over a pint or seven.) But of course, relentless heat brings with it inevitable fires and general chaos – and potentially the destruction we’ve all seen in California recently.

So, maybe a little cold isn’t such a bad deal after all. The weather, much like life, can be unpredictable (I know - I’m now sounding like Radio 4’s Thought for the Day, aren’t I?) Anyway, if you’re not actually on fire, you’ll probably come out the other side just fine. Give it a few weeks and Spring will be here - sunshine, fresh air, and we’ll all be running through the fields, Theresa May style.

Hay Fever – I’m Looking at You Honey!

Now, as a shopkeeper, I’m not officially allowed to claim that local honey cures all known ills (yes, I’m looking at you, hay fever), but trust me - it works for me. A spoonful on my toast each morning, and my hay fever has gone from a daily nuisance to something I don’t even think about.

You have probably already guessed where you can buy the very best, purest, really local honey from… yep – you’re right, and we sell full pound jars (which is actually about 20% more than a 454g metric pound – so we think we’re the cheapest too!)

“Phil – Do You Have Any Samples to Taste This Week”

Thank you for asking. And yes, I do. But it is not honey, it is something that might just rescue you from the doldrums of dreary weather: this week’s taster - chutneys! Yes, you read correctly. I’m pairing these sweet, tangy concoctions with some cracking cheese for a taste explosion that might just make you forget all about the weather outside. So, pop by the shop on Saturday and sample a bit of this edible magic. Think of it as a mini holiday in a jar – sans jet lag.

And Now A Drumroll…

please, for the next instalment of my ongoing series, “Why Shopping Locally is Not Just a Good Thing, but a Necessary Thing.”

Reason 3: The Personal Shopping Experience.

Ever notice that in a small local shop, you’re greeted like an old friend rather than just another faceless number? Here, the people running the place actually know you - yes, even you Barnaby (with that quirky habit that I won’t mention). A friendly natter with yours truly might just be what someone needs today, especially for our elderly or vulnerable neighbours. I mean, when’s the last time the chap at Tesco asked how your dog’s operation went? Didn’t think so.

That’s all for this week, folks. Until next time, keep warm (or cool, if you’re elsewhere) and remember: if life throws you a googly, just check you’re not on fire.

Oh, and Happy Valentines - whether you’re spending it with someone special or treating yourself to a cheeky nibble of cheese and chutney, enjoy!

Take care and Have a great week !
Cheers!
Phil
Phil’s Good Food in Wokingham, 2-4 Broad Street, offers a range of high-quality, ethically sourced products, from local honey to world-class cheeses, indie beers, wines, chocolates and much more. Our beautifully curated hampers make the perfect gift, or you can handpick your favourites, and we’ll create a bespoke hamper just for you!
We don’t deal in mass-produced plastic nonsense!
www.philsgoodfood.co.uk
#shoplocal