A Mystery Object, a Great Idea, Mega Lemons, Booze & More! - Off Grid

In this video I actually escape the cupboard corner of my off grid barn conversion and get outside! I spend a bit of time inside to test a great idea I got in the comments of my previous video, but for the most part I'll be outside in this one!
I cut the grass, I walk to Sinead's place to check her lemon tree, I attempt to walk to another friend's place to measure an exciting item to see if it'll fit in the tiny house, I collect some straw, and I start the process for making limoncello!
This video is packed with stuff... I hope you enjoy it!
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I'm Kirsty and I'm novice builder attempting an off grid stone barn renovation here in Central Portugal. I love going slowly, learning along the way, and trying new things as I attempt to build a beautiful tiny house using natural materials.
If you like my stuff and want to help support the channel, please like my videos and share them around! 😀 Or if you'd like to help financially, my Paypal is below. Any amount goes a long way and is much appreciated!
Paypal: paypal.me/trav...
Instagram: / portugalfromscratch
Facebook: / portugal-from-scratch-...
Horribly Neglected Website: www.portugalfro...

[@barbaradavie150]

Today I'm going to comment as you go. Limoncello! Yes!! I'd love to make it so I'll be very interested to see how you go! Looking for inspiration. Sad that Manny the Mango deceased. I can't believe a mango can even grow outside the tropics. I enjoyed the walk through the bush. Pretty dense! ...Beautiful lemons! "Sawdust Limoncello"! Ha ha! Ooooh, I could almost smell those lemons. :) I loved this video. I love all your videos. Thank you.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I’m hopeful that Manny 2 will thrive as long as I wrap him for winter… let’s see! I’m hopeful about the limoncello… I’ve never had it before!

[@anniemac3075]

Amanha is the word for Kirsty progress, definitely you have your own way of doing things! Looks like the wall needs to dry longer before using the jigsaw but it's less likely to damage it than the Japanese saw, nearly had a fit when you wielded it in the last video thus the suggest re jigsaw!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes the Japanese saw would have sucked! My dad had the idea to also drill holes so there's less to saw through and for the blade to catch on... could work! Thanks for the idea! It's difficult to know who says what as there are so many comments and it's hard to go back through them... so thanks again!

[@anniemac3075]

@@PortugalfromScratch You're welcome, good luck with it anyway, looking forward to seeing it completed.

[@etellopez7638]

Hi!! I don't comment offen, today I just wanted to point out that you are my inspiration and enjoy your videos, and how much progress you make day by day. From Hamburg a half argentinian, half portuguese working hard to buy my place in Portugal ❤❤❤

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Wow thanks for the kind words! Good luck!

[@susanlecuirot1573]

Nothing wrong with a bit of mish mash Kirsti 😍!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Glad to hear that! 😀

[@robine916]

Mikey and Larry are going to love their new couch! 😆😆🐈‍⬛🐈💕💕

[@PortugalfromScratch]

And me too! 😀

[@robine916]

@@PortugalfromScratch 💖💖

[@artycles]

Another lemon use is "whole lemon blender cake". You can probably search using that phrase...It's a great style cake! Keep up the great work

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh thanks, I'll look that up!

[@Ceilidh444]

Love the feature wall, the stone shelf and your land :🙂

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks very much!

[@carolkar5687]

As always your vids are well done & entertaining. Enjoy the process.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks so much!

[@deborahbasel184]

I enjoyed today's video. Look forward to seeing the rest of the process of your Lemon Vodka.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Glad to hear that!

[@NextStopThailand]

9.9k followers. Gonna hit that 10k anyday now!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Woohoo! Sooooon!!

[@CherylJohnston-l3t]

Just coming back to say how much I love your content! I look forward every week to your videos. So happy you are also highlighting Larry & Mikey - I admit I tune in to see them as much as I do to see your adventures, renos, gardening, etc. :-)

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks for sharing! Glad to know about the cats... sometimes they make themselves scarce but I always try to find them at least for a bit!

[@michelleellis8201]

I had to laugh when you talked about how some viewers are not so patient with your progress on projects. I get really excited about certain projects and want to see everything associated with it. That being said, I like that you jump around because it keeps things more interesting 😊 take care!❤😊

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yay, glad to hear that!

[@gabrielebehr563]

Mango Manny Rest In Peace😢. Peach and Pear looks great. Your Lemmon tree is fabulous. With couch your corner is more comfortable. Congrats. 🍷👍

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thank you. 🥹 Poor Manny.

[@private15]

You can use a long strip of fabric or scarf to hang a bucket from your shoulders. Look up fruit picking bucket. Leaves you with both hands free.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Great idea, thanks!

[@danaysalvarado367]

Those big lemons are perfect for making spanish 🍋 lemon rind dessert, its like a marmalade. Delicious on desserts like ice cream, scones, cake filling or just plain toast

[@danaysalvarado367]

Ps. If you can the dessert it will be great for bartering with your friends too

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I've never heard of it, I'll look it up. Thanks!

[@Mariadaserra]

I never miss a video from your channel. I admire everything you do, I love the woodwork, the small shelves are awesome. I love crafts and you are one of my inspirations. Looking forward to the next video.😊 Enjoy all the recommend recepies with your lemons!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks so much! I'm getting lots of good lemon ideas here. 😀

[@balletworkout1]

I always look forward to your videos. I was cutting small branches yesterday with that pruning tool that i bought because of seeing yours. I love that thing! Saves so much time and energy!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

The Tool of Joy! A few people have bought it from here and also friends here in Portugal and all of them seem to love it!

[@virginiajorgensen8614]

It is so nice to have trees full of lemons. Great trimming. And it will be nice to have a couch. I’m sure that Mikey will love it. The algae sure grows quickly in the water tank but that area will be a great hang out.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

It does! so quickly! I need to sort the overflow again. Yes I'm so lucky to have that big tree, I love it!

[@jannetomlinson1831]

Great vid Kirsty,LLemon ello on the rocks in the pool in August sounds good. I’m sure you and Sinead will egg each other on to get things done when she comes and she can sometimes hold the camera. I am frustrated that you don’t get have 10000 members yet.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh that does sound good! Yes Sinead and I will help and motivate each other for sure... but I'll have filming and editing so that'll slow things down. Aaaalmost at 10,000!

[@lorimontcalm9086]

I just keep thinking of all the extra steps you put in changing the camera angles. I'm sure your progress would be faster if you had a camera person. Remember it is just you, only so much energy and time in the day. Maintaining the land, building, preparing food, shooting and editing, your progress is just fine!! Hugs from 🇨🇦

[@PortugalfromScratch]

A cameraperson... I wish! 😀

[@sappir26]

Usually when they ask for 100 proof vodka, they mean 75% or above. I make lemon extract and that's what I've learned. The only alcohol that is 100 proof is rubbing alcohol and you don't want to be drinking that 🤪 also, I believe that all the peels need to be completely immersed in the liquid in order for them not to mold. If you don't have enough vodka to cover them, you can weigh them down with a glass weight.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Oh thanks! I was wondering about the peels sticking out... I'll find a weight. For the proof thing, I think 80 proof is 40% alcohol, so I did look that part up and didn't end up with rubbing alcohol, thankfully! 🙂

[@eleanorluckhurst9192]

Bravo to a viewer for the fret saw suggestion. I enjoy the variety you put in your videos. It reminds me of my Nova Scotia gardening days that I loved. Projects are great to have ...even the ones that are no so enjoyable. How nice it is to see all your amazing handiwork and know you created it. Kudos, Kirsty.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I'm lucky to gets lots of nice comments and ideas here and this one will do the trick! Yes it's nice to look around and know that I'm ticking off projects, little by little. 🙂

[@deborahlee8135]

"I don't have a lot of organic matter on my land" 😂😂😂😂 I had just been envying all the grass you have to strim and thinking what marvellous mulch and/or compost material. I couldn't get that much from my 2.5 acres in a year! I'm trying to remediate the soil, so hopfully we'll see some area improvements in the next 12 months, but in the meantime i will continue to eye yours with envy. ❤

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I've mulched with grass before and the seeds just bring up more grass around the tree which is what I'm trying to avoid... I prefer to just let the grass land wherever and go back into the ground. But you're right, it's a lot!

[@deborahlee8135]

@@PortugalfromScratch you could add into your compost if it gets warm enough, that would kill seeds. I guess it depends on whether you need extra green components when making a new pile. 🤔

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I'm quite hands off with my compost and it seems to work ok... but really it's just easier to let the grass stay where it is and go back into the land. Perhaps when I get more on top of the composting process I'll do this, though. Thanks!

[@susanadams-wauro6716]

Wow! That closet wall looks amazing....love the shelves! Lemoncello!!! So jealous! You've got lemons, we've got snow...again! Cannot wait for Spring. You have so many flowers popping out...lovely. Yay, you got a sofa....Mikey will be so very pleased! Lol. Cheers from the homeland 🇨🇦

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! Yes things are coming along and the lemons are the best!

[@ritamailheau771]

Way to soldier on with these projects. You can always throw a sheet over the couch if you find one you like better. The important thing is to have a comfy place to relax and read etc. By the way, I love that you have Mikey and Larry in each episode. They are so cute. 😊

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Very true! I'm sure the blue will grow on me. 🙂 Sometimes the cats just aren't around but I can usually catch them in the morning, at least!

[@woomobile]

Hi Kirsty, another great video. So not only are your mum and dad due soon but your friend is finally moving, bet youre well excited lol, I look forward to seeing her progress. Re lemons, i bet there are millions of things you can make from your lemons like cleaning products, air freshners bug repellents etc but im sure people will give you great ideas in the comments, my 1st choices would be Lemonade and lemon sorbet 🤤🤤 Have a great weekend👍❤

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I made a lemon cordial which I can add water to as I drink it... it's delicious! I can't wait for Sinead to get here. There will be lots to share!

[@donnahenderson2676]

The couch looks great but you will definitely want covers for dit so it’s not covered I. Cat hair and dirt. Something washable as well. Can wait to be sitting there sipping lemon drinking

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Me too!

[@robynclarke5274]

I love the china flat peaches. They are grown in Australia and England, Other you tubers also grown them in Portugal and Missouri. If you prune inward facing branches you won't have that prickly issues.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes the lemon tree needs a good prune, thanks for the tip!

[@MomPuff-b9w]

I absolutely love ❤️ you and your videos!! You are truly an inspiration!! Much love 💕 & blessings 🙌🏻🦋🙏🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸Amazing wall!!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😀 Ah thanks so much!

[@gardentours]

I'm sure strimming was more satisfying than weeding. You get so much done in a relatively short time and you don't have to kneel down 😉🌝

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I love strimming! So satisfying! Weeding... not so much. 😆

[@bengtspostofficpetu6434]

Action-packed action as usual.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes seems like I was busy! 😀

[@WriterGeek]

I've only ever tried lemons straight from the tree once, and they smelled so amazing (and tasted 'lemony-extra'). It must be so lovely having such tasty abundance right in your garden.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes I really am so lucky to be able to pick fruit right from my own land!

[@kathleenmurray6034]

Love your vlogs Kirsty ❤ your fruit trees are amazing. Keep up the great work ❤

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks!

[@susangranger3089]

Lemoncello dessert is lovely, or a lemon mouse, could make with those Lemons!!!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh so many ideas!! Thanks!

[@johenderson3742]

One of those lemons seems to be called Stanley 😂🍋

[@PortugalfromScratch]

It's not very tasty, though! 😁

[@sari4079]

I'm very excited about your limoncello. It's gorgeous stuff, hope yours will work out fine. You are a very busy person and it's great to see all the stuff you do. 🙂

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Me too! It's my first time making it. 😀

[@debravanwinkle3946]

You can always put a nice cover over it which will help with cat fur adhering to the velvet

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Very true!

[@Live-Your-Passion]

candied lemon peel might be a good recipe you would like to try

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I was actually just about to look up a recipe! 😀

[@ruthnoronha8206]

Every time I have to buy lemons in Calgary I think of you!!! Ha! Ha! Like $4 each sometimes.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Holy crap! That's a crazy price! I'm very lucky to have to many!

[@johenderson3742]

Just an idea regarding the couch... It may be the type that has removable arms, in which case you could take one off creating a sort of chez lounge which would give you some more space?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh that would be perfect, if so! I'll make sure to check, thanks!

[@polgarauk5606]

Hi Kirsty 👋😁 Ahh patience yep that is one thing I have an abundance of didn't always but with 3 Autistic/ADHD children you learn to have a lot of it 😂😂 I like the way you do things and feel at home here and it's the way I have to do things too so comforting knowing others that work the same way. Regarding the sofa maybe some sort of throw or blanket over it? When we had sofa given not quite to our taste bit gratefully received that's how I dealt with it. See you next video 😊

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I'm lucky that I enjoy this process so nothing seems like it needs to be rushed. 🙂 A throw is a fine idea! Though maybe the blue will grow on me, the same way as the my door colour!

[@michelleellis8201]

I think you and the girls she get a couple goats that you can move between the 3 properties to help with weed control ❤️. They would be so cute!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I love goats! I would love that... perhaps one day!

[@Mariadaserra]

I've had goats and sheep to control the weed but the problem is that vegetable garden and goats don't get along well together 😂​@@PortugalfromScratch

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yep! Goats can be tricky for sure! Good fencing is a must but a long way off for me.

[@zacharyneufeld3854]

Id place some cardboard around youre new trees and plantings with mulch to snuff out those weeds that are depleting the soil of nutrients . Watering between layers is key !

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I always try to do this but I don't always have enough cardboard as I prefer to use it on my garden beds. I'm hoping a thick layer of mulch will help! Thanks!

[@sailaway1015]

You're going to like the Limoncello mid summer, unfortunately I'm back to Canada in another week. Plan to come back late summer ⛱️... woohoo 🎉

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I’m so excited to give it a try!

[@deborahbasel184]

You might be better planting Manny the Mango 2, up near your house, so it is a little more protected from winter frosts. Plant comfrey under your Pear tree, for a living mulch.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes maybe... but I don't really have space and it's way more windy up there. Let's see! I had comfrey under my pear and other trees but until I set up proper irrigation they suffer. This year, I hope!

[@hildaperezcolon]

For Manny the mango, you should buy a mango and use the pit to grow a Manny Junior mango. It does work I have used a mango pit and I have grown a mango, but don’t plant it outside in the winter in Pennsylvania USA because it will die too cold. I know that I just wanted to try it. Good luck. Hope you find a good Manny, or use my idea eat the mango and grow the pit into a tree, love your videos keep them coming. Thank you.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I think I want a head start rather than growing from a pit... plus many fruit trees need to be grafted so they give reliable fruit rather than something that might not taste good. I don't know if mangos need grafting, though. Do let us know how it goes!!

[@jackvanleeuwenkamp4706]

1 1/2 ounces gin, 2 ounces lemon cello, 6 ounces tonic water and loads of ice……. Your welcome! ❤️🇨🇦

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😀 Thanks!

[@annaroseferris]

Oh….my…god!!!!!!! 🙌🙌🙌

[@daisysmum7336]

RIP Manny the Mango 🥭 😢😞

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🥹

[@Marc-mo8bt]

Thanks for doubling the video output this year! I’m wondering why this video was only 720p, is the new cam already broken? I would actually like to see them in 4k, but this probabaly increases the production effort and technical requirements.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Oh actually I wasn't sure what to do... I accidentally saved a file that was 20 gigs! They're usually around 2 gigs. I saved the file in 1080p (I think?) and it was 5 gigs... I uploaded both but couldn't see a difference, really. I might have chosen the wrong setting this time around and that's why the 720p but I actually know zero about any of this stuff. Usually I just choose the 'KZbin' setting. My problem is that my internet is slow and cuts out when uploading the videos. So the 5 gig file I experimented with took several hours to upload. 😬 I'm open to ideas!

[@Marc-mo8bt]

@@PortugalfromScratch The picture quality is normally good. KZbin reencodes the material you upload so what you see is not what we get. I assume that your 720p video had a way higher datarate than necessary or the wrong codec was selected (up to 1080P H264 is recommended), otherwise it would be below 1GB. KZbin itself gives datarate recommendation of 8Mbps@1080@30, 16Mbps@1440p@30 and 40Mbps@2160p. Higher rates might improve the end result but will also increase the file size significantly. I could imagine that using 2k (1440p) and the more efficient H265 codec with the same datarate as today would result in better image quality at the same file size. But this is something for experimentation, e.g. by using a 1 minute sample video.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I uploaded both version of the video to KZbin and watched them but didn't notice a difference. But I do think I chose something different to what I usually choose... I think I pick some Premiere Pro KZbin preset but accidentally did the 720p thing and uploaded that instead. I think I was also worried about the playback speed with a larger file? Assuming a small file would playback more quickly? I guess as someone with crappy internet this is on my mind. I'll do some research and experiment... thanks for the info and I'd love to hear what you think of the next video's quality. Thanks!

[@teresasilva706]

Hi there, looking at the sky it’s soo upsetting and frustrating seeing that they are also doing Chemtrails in Portugal too,( weather manipulation, weather control, weather modification, whatever they wanna call it, it’s soo sad and frustrating.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Sorry that makes you sad...

[@mrsmunchin]

❤

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂

[@beverleyyoung5844]

Are you going to grow a lemon tree from those seeds so you have a different variety ?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I'm so limited on space that I only have room for maybe three or four more trees and I already have the avocado and macadamia still to go in. So I'll likely just stick with the variety I have and I'm sure Sinead will be happy to share the little lemons with me. 😁

[@anitaschrems1044]

Wäre toll wenn du einen Rasentraktor hättest.Mein Gott so viele Zitronen wunderbar.😊

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Oh ya, that would be good!

[@ruthnoronha8206]

When I went to the Italian store her in Calgary they had preserved lemons. In salt I think. My mom said it’s like you split the lemon not all the way put salt in the opening and pack it tight. Then squeeze lemon juice till you cover the lemons. Add salt. It takes about 3 weeks at least to soften the rind. The Indian way is similar, but you cut the lemon in pieces. You layer rock sat snd layer of lemon pieces and keep going till you get to the top. Then add lemon juice over the top. I remember my mom using weights to press it down , I don’t. Now after 3 or 5 weeks if the rind is soft salty and not bitter it’s cured. Now to make the spicy paste. That I’m not sure how to make. I can ask my mom. Hopefully KZbin has some recipes.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

My friend Kimberly will come help with the lemon pickle... she's a pro at it. I'm definitely going to do salted preserved lemons, I just bought some salt the other day so I'll do that soon. But really... I don't even seem to be making a dent in the lemons!

[@anitaschrems1044]

Wieviel Minusgrade hält ein Zitronenbaum aus ?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I really don't know, sorry! It rarely goes below zero here, though.

[@Jaantoenen]

I don't remember where I bought it and so far can't find it. Might have to compromise. Kopper Garden vodka that is.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ah ok!

[@Jaantoenen]

@@PortugalfromScratch I make mine with cinnamon sticks.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh nice! I've been laming lemon tea in the morning with a cinnamon stick in it. 😁

[@wooby9898]

Dang girl I can’t believe every time I see you outside the ski is always full of chem-trails. You want thick rinds for lemon pickles.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thick rinds? Ok that's good to know! I think our plan is to do an experiment with both types of lemons.

[@ManuelPineiro-dr1oc]

Hi

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Hi!

[@elainekaufman2264]

Just a thought..why no put your wood in boxes or bags and leave them at your friends building. You are doing a lot of loading and unloading at each end.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Not sure I understand… I’d have to fill the boxes or bags and then load them into the wheelbarrow anyway… ? I don’t have boxes or bags to fill, though. 🙂

[@ManuelPineiro-dr1oc]

Montevideo

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂

[@InstrumentalBackTracks]

🏳‍🌈👌

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂

[@debravanwinkle3946]

I always enjoy the variety of your tasks imo a lot of tasks R being accomplished I don’t envy you though dealing with all that tall grass but we are all aware of some jobs that needs attending to R a pain n the butt an what thrills me the most R the viewers sharing they’re ideas That is always plus 👀👍🫶🏻🥰

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes I'm very lucky to get lots of great feedback and ideas! 😀

[@Reet64]

This is going to sound ridiculous, but lemons make me happy! Just looking at them! You're so lucky to have that tree right where you can see it out your front door.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Me too, actually! I'm very lucky, indeed!!

[@mbd6054]

Yes. Me too. They're like little balls of sunshine.

[@cazicature]

I feel like this with orange trees 😊

[@portugal1969]

❤

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂

[@jennichristie5264]

You might be able to make lemon essential oil from the cold pressed skins. No idea how but the oil is really useful for adding to cleaning recipes and diffusing and adding to water for refreshing drink. If u have freezer space you cld squeeze the juice first and freeze into blocks. Dried lemon zest might be great for cooking.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I definitely need a bigger freezer! I can also freeze the zest, apparently. Thanks for the ideas!

[@roneldastrydom2077]

My favourite channel, can't wait to see your building techniques every week, beautiful place you've got, greetings from South Africa 🇿🇦🇿🇦

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks you! I’m excited to keep sharing!

[@sherrylawson3258]

Love the couch as temp until you create one....question about water tank. When your Dad helps you build deck over it how will you clean underneath on thise times you have scrubbed it out etc? Or will that not be necessary with it covered? Also I get a kick out of your pace on projects. In this world of rush-binge-fastfoward your channel is so refreshing!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

He has a plan for making parts of the deck removable. 😀 I’m glad you like my pace… that’s a nice way of looking at it!

[@annaroseferris]

I wonder if you could can lemon curd to preserve it, because that would be a fantastic barter item. I’m feeling very confident in your limoncello and the amazing summer cocktails that will come from it! Go team lemon another fun video

[@PortugalfromScratch]

No idea, I'll look it up, thanks!

[@patingram4138]

If you add vinegar to a jar of peels and let it sit for a few weeks you will have a great all purpose cleaner.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Good to know, thanks!

[@deborahlee8135]

Salted preserved lemons are also wonderful. And maybe gelato?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I just bought more salt to do this!

[@mbd6054]

Your pace is not slow. You get a myriad of tasks done every day. The abundance of lemons is amazing and beautiful. Did you ever think of taking a cutting from Sinead's lemon tree? They're supposedly easy to propogate. Great video. Thank you so much. :)

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I don’t have space for more trees but perhaps I could put it into a pots see what happens? I’ll investigate, thanks!

[@sheilajoseph9953]

Kirsty make some Lemon and lime marmalade, tastes deliscious on toast. 💚

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh yum!

[@WilliamHenderson-gv4wk]

Your mum loves marmalade

[@deborahwhite2339]

You can make lemon ice cream also for a refreshing snack when it's hot out. I shall look forward to the interesting projects coming up. 🙂👍👍🇨🇦

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh! I love ice cream... I'll look up a recipe!

[@BrendanClark03]

Pickle your lemons...they are great in morrocan inspired recipes Freeze them also after slicing them..great as icy refreshments in drinks on hot days

[@deborahwhite2339]

Three ingredients: Lemon Ice Cream: zest and juice 2 lemons + 170 gm sweetened condensed milk, mix. 400 ml 35% cream, whip until stiff, then fold in lemon and milk mixture. freeze x 6 hours. I wonder how it would be with 1 lemon and 1 lime.@@PortugalfromScratch

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Both great ideas! I think Kimberly is coming on Friday to help me make the pickle. 🙂 I wish I had more freezer space!

[@deborahlee8135]

​@deborahwhite2339 i've not heard of 35% cream? Obviously it isnt just cream, what other ingredients does it have please, we probably call it something different in Australia.

[@paulrogers3385]

An interesting video for viewer information (interests me)...(maybe others too) would be an informational video(with a friend helping) following you around while you shoot footage. I have not seen anyone explain the struggle of setting up camera shots, moving cameras, doing the work, explaining the work and then the editing process.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh nice idea, I think it would be a fun one and I really do put a lot of work into the video side of things so could be informative, too!

[@ruthlarson6334]

Kristy of da jungle. Wasn’t sure how deep into the flora you were gunna go 😂. You were thwarted in your sojourn - the holy grail/ the big blue throne! Final results were great though. Comfy couch an absolute necessity 😊. Covered with a meaningful piece of fabric (perhaps something from your African adventures?), and the royal blue disappears.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes it was so frustrating to be so close! And of course after driving over I saw the neighbour and she just told me to tear it down... next time!

[@LindaCuthbertson-el5ys]

Hi Kirsty, we love watching your progress. You are doing an amazing job on your land and in your home. Liking the limoncello 😋, love from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 xxx

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks very much!

[@monikacarless_wordwitch]

I was just thinking of your bathroom area, will there be room to put the composting toilet in there? I'm sure you have a plan. I think you said there was going to be an outdoor toilet, but will there be an indoor one?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

It'll be outside, tucked beside the toolshed towards the back of the top terrace but I'll have a mini one for rainy days and winter that will likely live in the shower. Let's see!

[@keart65]

I wonder if your lemon is a Lisbon lemon. Looks like it might be. Comfy furniture is not overrated. I have wondered to myself on several occasions how you can possibly be comfortable sitting in a plastic garden chair all the time. Especially how hard you work. You really need a nice place to chill.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I know! Me too... I hate this chair, especially since I spend a lot of time sitting and editing. I guess everything comes with time and hopefully it's couch time, now! 😁

[@annaroseferris]

I was thinking it was a sorrento lemon …?

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Perhaps, I'll look it up!

[@barbaranielsen2888]

Lemons are mot common in Costa Rica. There are 5 or 6 species of limes which are called Lemons here. I grew up using lemon and I believe they taste superior to limes. Congratulations on the new couch for the cats! Lol

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I have three lime trees, too, and I love the limes that I've gotten off them. I like cooking Mexican food so love limes, too!

[@NeptunikNeptunik]

Lemon branches with thorns are brave part of the tree, lemon trees should have lemons ready to pick flowers or green lemons not harvest all ready to pick lemons

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes I think there are still a few greenish lemons in there but most are ready with more on the way! 😀

[@ruthlarson6334]

Lemon squares with the short crust? Needs lots of sugar but yummy. Wasn’t sure if you have an oven or just a stove top.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yum yum! I have an oven but I've never been much of a baker... but there's always a first time!

[@ChronicallyHopefulChar]

Oh wow! Those donut peaches are my favourite, so delicious! We can find them in supermarkets here in the UK which is always a treat. Exciting to have them growing in your garden!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Yes they taste way better than they look! It took awhile for me to even try one. 🙂

[@susanaughey9343]

That wall is cool. I can’t wait to see the final look. As far as the couch, you can pick up some fabric or even a colorful sheet you like to cover the blue if you really dislike it. Mikey and Larry I am sure could care less😅. Great video.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Actually I don't mind the blue really... it's just a bit... aggressive? But it sort of matches my door!

[@katherinehofmann388]

Your life looks so satisfying to live, greetings from the mountains in British Colombia.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

It is! I seem to work a lot but I love it! 🙂

[@Sonyareay]

Don’t forget to hit the like button!!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

😁 Yep!

[@mariatajes9054]

Maybe it's a meyer lemon

[@PortugalfromScratch]

The small ones? I think the huge ones from my tree might actually be what's called a citron... not even a lemon, apparently? Who knew!?

[@avivat3010]

First message: Kirsty, I just found out why your newly planted trees might be suffering! Best tree planting video ever: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pGrJpYB5j9CIqa8feature=shared I'm sorry that you lost your mango tree! It's always hard to lose a tree. It looked like you had great fun out on your land. Currently, in Toronto, we're expecting 15j cm of snow. Worst storm of the whole season, apparently. Woo hoo! Enjoy your temperate season and have fun over the next few days. Best, Angela P. S. Limoncello is one of my faves!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Ooh amazing video, thanks!! Ya Manny was ding So well so I got overconfident, I think. Next time I'll make sure he's cosy for winter!

[@avivat3010]

@@PortugalfromScratch It's hard to judge for the first time. There are 3 videos on the same channel about fruit tree care. I think I sent you the link for how to prune last time. The third one is coming out soon. Good luck with the wall build and tool shed build. Now that you have the material, it should go smoothly. Take care until next time!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Thanks! I was working on the foundation today and tomorrow switching focus to finishing the inside walls... I'm looking forward to seeing how it turns out!

[@AadanmaxamadCusmaan-y8n]

Hellooo

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Hi!

[@sandramckenzie653]

Kirsten I can see why you love to strim. It clears ugly to good and makes your land look great. What you need is a freezer to put lemon blocks in for your hot summer time enjoyment. I absolutely love lemon curd. Enjoy!

[@PortugalfromScratch]

I do! When I build my toolshed my plan is to stick in a chest freezer and a washing machine. 😁

[@PortugalfromScratch]

It's so relaxing, especially with the light, quiet electric strimmer. 😀

[@R1chiesART]

You just need salt and Tequila now! Lol

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Woohoo, yep!

[@R1chiesART]

Haha... surprised you didn't have it to hand!.

[@BethS55]

Royal blue is a nice color. 💙. I was wondering what the tarp on yourside of home is covering and what has been the reason for some finished walls? Thanks

[@PortugalfromScratch]

Good questions! The tarp is covering a hole in the wall where there's a sort of non-window where I had to break into my house by tearing down the wall... 😆 A window will go there eventually but without the tarp the top of the wall lets rain in, so it's there until the rains stop. None of my walls will be truly finished (final plaster) until I learn how to do it. so the partially limed walls are just me building up the walls as I get extra lime and time. Eventually all of the walls will be final plastered all at once which is a different mix and technique I need to learn still. 🙂

[@BethS55]

@PortugalfromScratch Thanks for answering me very honestly. I was hoping a window would be there at some point. Ya know, I think your very talented at anything you put your mind too. ✨️ You WILL DO A BEAUTIFUL JOB ON THOSE WALLS. I'm looking fwd. 👍

[@PortugalfromScratch]

@@BethS55 Thanks! The final plaster of the walls will likely be one of the last things I do and I'll practice first on my toolshed and other places, I think. I'm filming my next video now and I might mention something about my window in that video... it's a common question, for sure!

[@Marc-mo8bt]

Is putting in a window that much effort? Maybe you can show the opening and explain your plans for better understanding. I think you should/can not tackle this alone. I agree that the outlook will be stunning (so make it as big as possible :-)) as your place is beautiful.

[@PortugalfromScratch]

It's not the window, I'll have that made, it's making the stone window hole. It's just a tricky job I've been avoiding because I know it'll get done eventually but I haven't had the time so far and I don't mind life without it. Though it is getting a bit much now so once the rains stop this year I think I'll tackle it.

[@fayewhelan7209]

❤

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂

[@PortugalfromScratch]

🙂