November always feels like a quiet month to me. Once the fireworks are over, even though the stores expect us to immediately go crazy for all things festive, I like to take it a bit slower. Don't get me wrong, in the background plans are being made and gifts are being sought out, but I'm not ready to be eating mince pies and roasting chestnuts just yet, or whatever else Instagram may lead me to believe I should be doing.
We've had a gentle couple of weeks. Germs have reared their ugly heads once again, so we've suffered some restless nights. Lily has had a horrible cough which has gone on for several weeks now, that thankfully seems to be easing off at last.
On the fine days we have taken some lovely short walks in the local area and spent a good while watching the Salmon jumping in the river. The leaves, once a carpet of red and orange under foot, are now slowly turning to a sludgy brown mush and the trees at the back of our house are beginning to look quite bare. There's no doubt Winter is approaching!
On the not so fine days I have found myself spending a lot of time in the kitchen once again. At this time of year I find a lot of pleasure in cooking good hearty food for the family. Filling, comforting meals of Homity Pie, Curry, Stew and Dumplings. I take great satisfaction in knowing everyone is well fed. And when it comes to baking I have a little assistant on hand to help out.
I has been a pleasant change not having any plans so far this month, other than our usual day to day routine. Sometimes the mundane is good. No drama, no challenges, no rushing around. Just time to take a step back and appreciate what we have.
J. X
