This morning, after waking at a much more respectable hour, we got wrapped up well and headed out for a walk. Following a busy week and with the temperatures having dropped quite dramatically we decided not to take on anything too challenging, opting instead to enjoy a gentle stroll around the village of Grasmere.
Although overcast when we set off, the sky looked promising and it looked as if the sun would break through as the morning progressed. Our walk took us alongside the River Rothay, past the little Gingerbread shop and a short way up the Easedale Road, before crossing the fields towards Allan Bank, a large Georgian house which is owned by the National Trust. The property is currently undergoing some renovations, but we were able to walk through the wooded grounds and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding snow capped fells. The path through the trees, although steep, makes for a really pleasant walk and has the added appeal of being an area which is home to red squirrels. We saw two today but they move far too quickly for me to even attempt to get a photograph.
After a short rest, overlooking the lake, to enjoy a delicious caramel hot chocolate and some Gingerbread, we returned alongside the river once more, where I picked up a large handful of fir cones which I will use when making my Christmas wreath during the week.
On arriving home I surprised Lily with the snow globe and, just as I expected, she was absolutely thrilled with it and it was just lovely to see the delight on her face. She keeps turning it upside down to watch the snow fall, and the tune? Well, I've lost count of the times I've heard 'Jingle Bells' today. I'll be sure to post a picture of it tomorrow.
I spent this afternoon making some more headway on my Christmas jigsaw. It has 1000 pieces and is proving to be quite the challenge. I set this out on the dining table a few days ago and I'm hoping to finish it by Christmas Eve. I don't have any choice really, as we're going to need somewhere to eat Christmas Dinner : )
J. X
