When the oven does work, and is firing nicely, the results are amazing. Nothing dries out in the gentle cast iron heat. And anything slow cooked is marvellous.
It's comforting to hear the noise she makes as the water fills up and she gurgles and glugs, heating our hot water cylinder. You can hear how the fire's going too, by the crackle and ticking noise the oven makes. That noise in the background keeps me company when I'm home during the day. Lets me know what's going on and if she needs my attention. Just like a child, silence usually means trouble and the fire's gone out.
She's a little bit contrary, but extremely capable when she feels like it. And we love her dearly. We've yet to think of a name for her, I'm not entirely sure, maybe after my one of grandmothers, Hilda or Cecilia. What do you think? Do you have any suggestions that might suit this contrary English lady?
P.S. here's what the kitchen usually looks like, taken on Sunday morning.