Winter Solstice weekend

This weekend happens to be the Winter Solstice. Traditionally, it marks the mid winter period, as well as the shortest day of the year. There are also countless cultural and religious practices and observances that are associated with the solstice. I was somewhat inspired by this and decided to do cook and bake. I made a lovely Vichyssoise, served warm, not chilled. I made some wonderful braised lamb shanks....slow cooked, until the lamb was almost coming off the bone. For dessert I made a delicious Cardamom Sour Cream Cake. I agree with Melinda's sentiments about the benefits of using seasonal produce. This morning, my wonderful husband made some freshly squeezed orange juice. 

Aside from cooking and baking, I have followed intently the plight of the Iranian people after the elections earlier last week. That - and the horrible injustice of Aung San Suu Kyi's incarceration. This weekend marks her 64th birthday. If you get an opportunity, you should leave a message on the website set up - 64 words for Aung San Suu Kyi. Additionally, you can also follow the Iranian election protests on twitter and youtube. I have really liked the fact that technology is being used to give voice to the voiceless.. to the marginalised and those for whom basic human rights are but a dream.