What to ask for for my birthday

[Helsbells]

So my birthday was actually a few weeks ago but my mum and dad have said they would like to get me something, or give me money. I don't want money because i am pretty sure it will end up going on everyday life or something for baby and I want to get something for me to improve my selfsufficientishness! I was thinking of maybe asking for a cider and cheese press, like this one:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/LARGE-FRUIT-CID ... 411&sr=8-1
But not sure anyone got any ideas of something I could get?

[Mustardseedmama]

That is one extremely useful looking gadget! I'd go for that or a steam juice extractor (which is the next large-ish gift I am requesting from my sweetie).

Happy Birthday late!

[Thomzo]

Hmmm, doesn't look big enough to me

I love my dehydrator, unless you already have one.

Zoe

[Green Aura]

I agree with Zoe, it'd take ages to squish fruit with that and you don't need one for cheese - a clean pound jar filled with water will do just as well.

I wouldn't have a juicer either (sorry MSM) - but I take my fruit as it comes, pretty much

I'd go for a Kitchenaid mixer (depending on available funds). You can get loads of spare parts and the attachments are fab (think future presents). I'm currently saving up (read nagging OH ) for the pasta attachment. We've got the sausage stuffer which is brilliant.

[oldjerry]

Depends on how much loot you've got coming,but I'd have a look at the 'All American' canner.

[Mustardseedmama]

I agree with Zoe, it'd take ages to squish fruit with that and you don't need one for cheese - a clean pound jar filled with water will do just as well.

I wouldn't have a juicer either (sorry MSM) - but I take my fruit as it comes, pretty much

I'd go for a Kitchenaid mixer (depending on available funds). You can get loads of spare parts and the attachments are fab (think future presents). I'm currently saving up (read nagging OH ) for the pasta attachment. We've got the sausage stuffer which is brilliant.

Yes, I prefer my fruit whole too, but I do make a lot of jelly, for extended family, friends, and here at the house. Plus my Sweetie has diverticulitis, and cannot have seeds. Our Vitamix is a wonder, and saves me so much time, but with a juicer I could put up loads of fruit juices, and then he could share, seed-free.

Although I know whole fruit is much better for all of us, when it comes to small fruit like strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries, he cannot do it. So I need that juicer!

[2ndRateMind]

Or this one? http://www.balliihoo.co.uk/better-brew- ... p-485.html
Many happy returns, 2RM.

[frozenthunderbolt]

All good sugestions, i would add a hand mincer (unless you're veggie) and or a good pressure cooker - save energy and great for pulses - combine it with a hay box type setup and you're rock and roll!

[Helsbells]

Ooooh all such good ideas, now I am really confused! Hmmmmm, Don't think mum n dad would be willing to fork out £400 for a kitchenaid mixer though I would love one, I did think as well about getting a hand grinding mill.

[Green Aura]

I got mine of fleabay - less than £200. And it was still under warranty, not that it needed it. But it gave us the confidence to buy it - that's the joy of something that can be fixed if it goes wrong.