This will be a short one. I’ve run out of time today but will be back over the weekend for the real part two Sicily post.

Ah, Sicily. It has only been a week since we were there, and I’m already missing it. To recreate a little of the holiday, I made rigatoni alla Norma with roasted aubergine, pecorino cheese and fresh basil. It was delicious and has become my favourite vegetarian dish.

As I mentioned above, this is just a preamble to part two of the Sicilian adventure writing. Since coming back home I’ve been trying to get the garden in order starting with the raised beds, and they’re gradually getting there. The peas are planted and I’ve planted out some courgettes and squash. Next up will be the carrots and leeks. Then the slug battles begin! We also planted up a half barrel I sourced earlier in the year, which is looking really nice. I hadn’t realised how important it is to keep them moist or fill them immediately when you get hold of it, as the wood can shrink and the whole thing can fall apart.

The post-exam period opens up a whole raft of gaming opportunities, too. I’ve almost convinced myself to buy Elden Ring and Breath of the Wild at the same time. That would probably consume the rest of my life, but I’m really looking forward to playing games without revision guilt hanging over me.

Escape to Sicily part two is next on the agenda, and will be landing some time over the weekend. For now, go and make yourself some pasta alla Norma!