(I continue camera – less. I will hopefully be able to rectify the situation over the weekend. Until then it’s iPhone and old pics. Above is a picture of the blue sky from my bedroom a few days ago. Below is the most inspirational couch in Ballymaloe.)

Today I made : An apple tart.  I have made quite a few here but each requires different techniques. Today’s used two kinds of pastry – shortcrust on the bottom, flaky on top – and a fluted edge.

I also made mint and apple jelly which is meant to go with lamb but I will most likely spread on toast.

Also some mini jam tartlets with scraps of pastry that we ate as snacks, and I practised omelettes to prepare for tomorrow’s technique exam. It may look like I didn’t make much but I can assure you I had a busy morning. I also had to return to Tuesday’s pâté de campagne which needed to be sliced and sampled.

Ciabatta made by Emer in demo

Ottolenghi’s pureed beetroot with yoghurt and za’atar, made by Emer

MY PIE

This evening my housemates and I had a study party. We bought chickens, fish and oranges and practised our knife skills while quizzing each other on herbs. I successfully made a paper piping bag after four failed attempts (you have to be able to fill it with water and have no leaks). I better get asked to do it tomorrow!

I have studied and practised as much as I can. My goal for the exam is to remain calm under pressure. Even if things go wrong you just have to enjoy the experience or what is the point??

I learned : Ciabatta was invented in the 1980s by an Italian baker who was worried French baguettes were invading Italy.

Food of the day : Polenta with butter and Parmesan. We were given a taste after the demo and most people threw theirs out but I love the stuff! It’s like a savoury, grown up Ready Brek (cream of wheat).

Line of the day : From Darina. “Agriculture is the best form of healthcare.”

Órfhlaith