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We’ve been enjoying such a glorious spring here in Shropshire, and the wildflowers have really put on the most incredible show this year. I know I keep going on about them — but honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever seen them looking this good.

Right now it’s hawthorn, cow parsley and buttercup season, and I’ve been making the most of the sunshine by heading out for a walk every day in between stints at the computer.

We’ve also got swallows nesting in the barn for the first time in years, which I’m absolutely thrilled about. There’s just something very special about hearing them chattering away while I’m out in the garden.

🍓 In the Kitchen

I mentioned in my last email that I’m not the biggest fan of rhubarb. But I’ve just discovered a recipe that Rob and I both loved so much, I’ve made it twice in two weeks!

It’s a Rhubarb Fool with Homemade Meringues — a really simple dessert that feels a bit special without much effort.

I also tried a healthier version for breakfast, swirling the rhubarb compote into yoghurt and topping it with granola. That was pretty good too!

If you’ve got a garden full of rhubarb (or a neighbour trying to offload theirs!) or you’re looking for new breakfast ideas for your guests, you’ll find both recipes on the blog here:

👉 Easy Rhubarb Compote and Fool Recipes

I’ve also updated one of my older blog posts – "Running a B&B – Has It Met My Expectations?"

I originally wrote it after 17 years of running my own B&B. I’ve now refreshed it to reflect where I am today, running Bed and Breakfast Academy full time.

It’s an honest look back at what I loved about running a B&B – and the parts I found a bit more challenging, like never quite having enough private space in the early days!

👉 Running a B&B – Has It Met My Expectations?

🥄 Also in the Kitchen

As well as making rhubarb fool on repeat, I’ve been trying a few viral recipes that keep popping up on social media.

We loved the date snickers bar — it passed the husband test! Just split a Medjool date, add a tablespoon of peanut butter and two hazelnuts, then cover in melted dark chocolate and chill. Yum! And probably healthy… depending on which guru you listen to.

I also tried the viral cottage cheese bread… safe to say that one wasn’t for me. I could barely finish a slice!

🎧 Podcasts

I don’t seem to have much time for reading or audiobooks lately, but I have managed to fit in a few podcasts.

I’ve been following Dr Stacy Sims, an exercise physiologist who focuses on women’s health, for a while now. I recently listened to her interview with Mel Robbins, and it was really eye-opening.

She explains why women shouldn’t be training or eating the same way as men – our bodies work differently, especially after menopause. The problem is, most of the research is still done on young men, not older women.

It’s well worth a listen if you want to stay fit and strong as you get older – which, let’s face it, you’ll need to be if you’re running a B&B!

Wishing you a great weekend, whatever you’ve got planned.

Karen

P.S. Thinking about running a B&B but not sure where to start? My First Steps Workshop will help you figure out if it’s right for you.

P.P.S. Ready to dive in and make your B&B dream a reality? My Complete Bed and Breakfast Course offers everything you need to set up, run, and market a successful B&B.

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