During the post Christmas cold snap the boys grabbed an opportunity to grip their hiking sticks and get out in the mountainous snow.

Quick post,

Here’s the initial circuit diagram of the system, lots to be refined and defined yet. The formatting of the diagram is based on a system used for railway signaling that clearly indicates where wires connect physically, and makes it easier to construct the circuit, but some of the symbols might therefore be unfamiliar. For example M and A are relay coils, and associated switches within relays. Switches are always illustrated showing the physical position of the contacts in the normal position.

Initial stages of the master power control panel are in place. The left panel is main power control and it controls main and auxiliary battery supplies. The red switch controls main battery (currently not connected) which will be locate in a storage bunker out the back. The green switch controls the smaller auxiliary battery located in the cuboard. The panel to the right controls all main supply DC supplies, exculding the AC inverter. More to follow.

Well there’s about 15cm of snow out there in places. Lots of fun, and very pretty as long as we don’t need to go anywhere

Not bad for a night after work, with twin 16 month old boys. 6 Fresh baked rolls for work, Fiona’s yummy sticky flapjack’s, and an excitable yeast starter munching away on some fresh wort ready for tomorrow nights pitching.

The boys up to all sorts around the garden and house:

Well folks, I’ve taken the plunge to save some money and (attempt!) to learn the art of brewing. Partly influenced by a recent brewery tour birthday present (Thanks Kirstin & Matt), and a number of articles I’ve read over the last year or so on the “greeness” of home brewing. Having now read about the process, if all works out well with my first few casks, I might go down the full grain approach! Watch this space. My Dad used to brew his beer a few years ago, but this is the kit I’m using:

Short description of above: 1 Malt & Hop extract supply from Woodfordes brewery in Norfolk. 1 Fermenting vessel with CO2 release. 1 Syphon, 1 Thermometer, 1 Large Spoon, 1 Hydrometer, 1 Tub of cleaning powder, 1 Pressure Cask, 1 Capper, 80 Crimp bottle caps.