Before I get onto the pickled coleslaw and potato scallops, I was not meant to be home tonight for dinner. I'd been invited to the launch of Hoi Polloi at Old Parliament House. Unfortunately on Monday evening I started experiencing some mild colicky abdominal pain and on Tuesday morning it was still there. I wasn't indisposed as such at that time but figured it would be prudent to inform the organiser. It's a good thing I did because after dinner last night I was up a few times. The good thing is today I felt better and after a good day at work I figured I should indulge a little. Hence the takeaway potato scallops.