CARMEL SOMERS, owner of the iconic Good Things café in Durrus developed her love and appreciation of good food in her childhood “while surrounded by lavish roast dinners, meticulous baking and too much butter”.

A COUPLE of weeks ago my daughter-in-law Rachel’s new book shot to the top of the bestseller list. Can you imagine Bertie’s reaction when he was knocked off the number one spot by a book on home cooking! This is Rachel’s sixth book in just six years. Can’t imagine how she manages to keep all the balls in the air with three little dotes to look after and regular stints on Market Kitchen as well.

LAST WEEK I hopped off the train in Portlaoise on my way to Cork especially to make “an appearance” at a book launch — not something I would do on a regular basis.

IN RECENT years I have become increasingly fascinated by the Muslim culture and am eager to learn more about the way of life and of course the food. I have enjoyed delicious Syrian and Lebanese food in several London restaurants, most notably Le Mignon in Delancey Street and Yalla Yalla Restaurant just off Brewer Street in Soho.

AWARDS are two a penny these times, so much so that they often come and go with minimum publicity.

AS PEOPLE dig out their winter attire in preparation for the cold dark nights ahead, many thousands of holiday makers will actually be packing their swimsuits and sun-tan lotions to fly off to the sun.

HALLOWEEN creates almost as much excitement as Christmas nowadays. For weeks shop windows have been packed with witches, broomsticks, pumpkins and scary masks to tantalise the kids.

Serves 5.

A simple and totally delicious barnbrack, suitable for coeliacs or those with a wheat intolerance. This loaf keeps very well and is delicious cut into slices spread with butter.

Pumpkins galore – if you want to find a pumpkin David and Siobhan Barry, Ballintubber Farm have a terrific selection at the Midleton Farmers Market today. Contact 086 8238187.