Samaras

I had no idea that’s what these are called! I usually call them ‘wings’ but I think they’re also commonly known as ‘helicopters’. Anyway, they reside on the lovely maple tree outside Smithers’ study.

It’s been a busy, but very enjoyable day. I baked a lemon cake and a batch of Nutty Joys for the birthday boy so that he could take them with him to share among his friends when they meet together this evening. (I’ve been doing that since they were all at school together!). I made a second lemon cake for Smithers, aka "Moley", much to his relief, and also held back some of the Nutty Joys as well, so he wasn’t left out.

Our middle son and his family are just back from the Lake District, having had a much better week, weather-wise, than was forecast. 

Meanwhile, Smithers and I are looking forward to a quiet evening and some well-earned rest.