Another week, another domestic saga. This time, the girls have befriended a pet bunny who lives on our development and hops between the houses. They have called it Cottontail although other people call it Colleen, and it’s actually suspected to be a boy. (It’s notoriously hard to establish gender in bunnies — I know this because my otherwise very intelligent friend accidentally had three litters of bunnies in a matter of months.) I was given strict instructions not to encourage Cottontail-Colleen but I have to confess we have slipped him a few carrots. This is mainly because the LH is away “working” in Mexico City and I am not sure how much work can be done in proximity to all those margaritas. I am jealous!

Still, if the LH is cross upon his return, he will at least have company from Jules and Ellie. Our cats are not amused and exceptionally suspicious of this terrifying beast. It is strange to see them being chased across the garden by something so cute and fluffy. I have to say I have been impressed by all the leaps and hops and after the girls asked me how high bunnies can jump we asked Google. (Chloe, my seven-year-old, refers to Google as an actual person by the way. I have yet to break the news ...) Anyway it turns out that the highest rabbit jump recorded is 100cm. I also discovered that rabbit show jumping is a real sport. It began in Sweden in the 1970s and in 2001 made its way across the pond with the establishment of the Rabbit Hopping Organisation of America (I swear I am not making this up). I also learned that male bunnies often spray challengers with their own urine, so have advised the cats to maintain their stronghold on top of the BBQ.

On that note, I should probably link into nutrition with a delicious recipe for rabbit stew. Just kidding! How about a full nutritional profile for the humble carrot? No? Well in that case, here’s something completely unrelated. It’s a nut butter freezer-fudge that is totally delicious and packed with plant based fats and protein. This means that just one or two pieces is completely satisfying. No empty packet of Oreos or junk food remorse around here. I have just made some to sweeten up the LH when he comes home. I think you should make some too. Now hop to it! (Sorry ...)

Nut butter freezer-fudge

Ingredients:

1 cup cashew or almond butter (well mixed and at room temperature)

4 tbs extra virgin coconut oil

2 tbs maple syrup (grade B if possible)

1 handful good quality dark chocolate chips

1/2 tsp sea salt

Method:

1. Line a small baking dish (approx 8 x 6) with parchment paper

2. Beat the nut butter together with the oil, maple syrup and salt.

3. Transfer the mixture into the dish and top with the chocolate chips. You could replace these with goji berries or coconut flakes if you like.

4. Freeze for at least two hours then either cut into squares and pop back in the freezer or simply cut small pieces as you go.

Note — this would work fine with sunbutter (sunflower seed butter) if you are nut-free.

The advice given in this article is not intended to replace medical advice, but to complement it. Always consult your GP if you have any health concerns. Catherine Burns BA Hons, Dip ION is the managing director of Natural Ltd and a fully qualified nutritional therapist trained by the Institute for Optimum Nutrition in the UK. Please note that she is not a registered dietitian. For details, please go to www.natural.bm or call 236-7511. Join Catherine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nutrifitandnaturalnutritionbermuda