Healing

Thank you all so very much for your kind comments on my previous posts. The corner did, in fact, turn out to be a rather long bend in an incredibly long road. But I am finally heading in the right direction, thankfully. 

It is also the reason I found myself back in the city, taking some time out to rest and recuperate. Time to just 'be'. Slow, gentle walks along the river. A large sofa. A furry blanket. Home cooked meals. Probably the worst Christmas movie I've ever watched. Possibly the worst movie ever! 

Admiring Christmas lights. Enjoying some leisurely coffee stops. Awesome city views.

I'm still having to take things very easy, but I'm happy to say that I'm seeing some improvement and beginning to feel much better. This holiday, I'm doing only what I feel comfortable with. Anything else can wait. 

Sending you all my warmest, heartfelt wishes this festive season. 

Back soon. 

J. X

Winter Solstice

 

Peace. Hope. Light. 

Blessings.

J. X

Finding Comfort

 

It's been a difficult few weeks. Recently, I experienced a bit of a health scare. In fact, I'm still finding things challenging day to day, but I think I've finally turned a corner. This weekend, I've begun to pick up, and I'm finally beginning to feel much more like myself once more. Prioritising my well-being, I've been back in the kitchen, this morning, cooking up some delicious, nourishing soup for my lunches this week, and also, some blackberry compote, to stir into my morning porridge. 

Long walks have not been possible, but I have managed some short strolls through the fields and along the river. I've enjoyed watching the changing scenery and starkness of the landscape, as we hurtle towards the end of the year. 

With only two weeks until the winter solstice, I'm wishing my time away. Longing for the wheel to turn, before we head towards the light, once again. 

Just being outside in the fresh air has been enough to lift my spirits. Which is just as well, with more energetic activities off the table for the time being. Quiet evenings, cosy pyjamas and early nights are what's needed just now. Whether I like it or not, my body is dictating just how much I can do each day. My priorities have had to change and I've needed to let some things slide. 

Back soon. 

J. X

Early November

I think I may have mentioned before about how reassuringly predictable the seasons have been, this year. So, it came as no surprise when November arrived grey and damp. The days have been so gloomy, that during the week it often seems as though I hardly get to experience daylight.

It is for that reason, sometimes this time of year can feel like a bit of a slog. Almost a lull. As if I'm holding my breath, preparing myself for when December arrives. Then I have to keep reminding myself that our Yuletide celebrations look very different these days. And even though they are still just as enjoyable, they no longer need to be planned for weeks in advance.

Last week, we went to our local bonfire and fireworks display. It was such a great evening and very well supported. It was a great opportunity to meet up with friends from the village, and to enjoy a good catch-up before the fireworks began. Luckily the rain held off, and we were treated to a fantastic display. And even though the air was damp, we managed to stay lovely and warm by the fire. Also, I might have been holding my insulated coffee mug, but let's just say it wasn't coffee inside ;)

The weekend weather forecast had been mixed, but we made the most of the one dry day, and took a walk up to Hill Top. Leaving the car behind, we took the small ferry across the lake, then, after taking a short detour to visit Claife Viewing Station, we walked the leaf strewn path up alongside the lane. We continued past Far Sawrey, along by the church, then across the muddy field to Near Sawrey. 

It was quite a breezy day, and we spent a while trying to catch some of the falling leaves. It was all fun and games until one of us almost fell in the lake. Yes, that was me! We enjoyed a good look around the house, and managed to find the 'Two Bad Mice' hidden in various cupboards and corners.

Then, as I'd taken our new flask with us, we enjoyed some delicious hot chocolate, while sitting in the garden. A very lovely way to spend our morning. 

This week, the autumn colours have begun to fade. Most of the trees are now bare, changing the countryside to a more muted, bleak landscape. Frosts have been forecast for the next few days, and there is already a distinct chill in the air.

J. X