Crumbs to Crunch

Summer is finally here! In Tohoku we're enjoying a small window of perfect weather, the glorious few weeks of sunshine and blue skies before the scorching humidity of the majority of the summer months. It's time to make the most of it and get outside!  With this in mind, we headed to the prefecture of Yamagata on a flower tour. The first stop was Sasho Rose Garden. This lovely little garden was stunning with its multitude of roses in every colour. The blue skies and walls of roses made the perfect backdrop for taking photographs. As a Crumbs to Crunch sister, it was also vitally important to find the perfect snack to match the surroundings. Sasho garden didn't disappoint and I was quick to snap up some rose gelato. Its mild and delicate flavour was the perfect accompaniment to this peaceful garden.  Next stop was Iide Dondendaira Lilly Garden. We were a little early to see all the lillies in bloom, but the ones that were out were beautiful. I loved the orange and y...

I visited Quebec several years ago and since then have become quite interested in its history. I was eager to visit Quebec House in Kent was the home of General Wolfe, the controversial figure who brought Quebec under British control. The house has an exhibition about the Quebec campaign and also shows what life was like in the 1730s. I was surprised to discover most heavenly smell when I entered the house. I followed my nose to the kitchen to find some goodies... To my surprise, a lady was baking treats in this 18th century kitchen. The recipes were taken from General Wolfe's wife's recipe book. I tasted lemon drops which were like clouds of sugar and also a fruit cake that had a hint of orange blossom. The cook informed me that the most popular cake with the visitors are the macaroons. They are flavoured with rose water and are even gluten free. I loved connecting with the past through these treasured recipes. Quebec House is well worth a visit, not just for the free...