I never meant to be absent for so long. Almost as soon as we'd rung in the new year, I was back at work and it feels like I've hardly stopped since then. Even so, January is now beginning to drag on just a bit much for my liking, and I find myself yearning for spring. Not long to wait now, or so I keep reminding myself :)
It's been an incredibly cold week here, with temperatures down to -6. We've experienced snow, frost and ice and thankfully the new boiler I had fitted last year hasn't had any issues. The same couldn't be said for my old TV, however, which after 16 years of loyal service, finally gave up, and there is now a shiny new model in it's place.
It is early on Saturday morning and the wintry weather has been replaced by cloud and rain. Lily's tennis lesson has been cancelled, and so a more relaxed weekend is in order. It comes as quite a relief actually, as it will give me a chance to catch up. There are a few chores I could do with getting out of the way. Then again, besides the weekly shop, it's no big deal if they don't get done. The main thing I need to do is to write a menu plan. Since returning to work my hours have changed (yet again!). Only slightly on this occasion, but I am finding it even more of a challenge to make healthy choices when it comes to eating and I have noticed my energy levels have slumped. I realise preparation is the key, but with being short on time I clearly I haven't been prepared enough. I will clean out the fridge and make that my priority today.
J. X
Oh, I feel exactly the same, enough of January already and especially this cold weather. Spring can't come quickly enough for me.
ReplyDeleteIt's a long winter in the North. Hopefully spring will soon be here. X
DeleteLovely photo of a very grown up Lily enjoying the ice. Food prep is definitely essential when you are working-my 48 year old spent all last Sunday prepping food for lunches and dinners for the week and some for the freezer. Catriona
ReplyDeleteYes, being prepared makes things so much easier during the week. For once I've managed to plan our meals, completed the weekly shop and even prepped the vegetables. X
DeleteHappy New Year Jules...soon be warmer?! x
ReplyDeleteThank you, Jackie. And to you!
DeleteYes, I do hope so. It's been blowing a hoolie all night here. X
I'm ready for spring too, the weeks of dreary weather then this cold snap have really put me off winter!
ReplyDeleteTry to give yourself breathing space this time of year, late winter can be very draining xx
At this time of year, we should all really be hibernating. X
DeleteCold everywhere! Snow and ice make for nice photos!
ReplyDeleteThe winter menu should naturally include hot soups and warm dishes.
Luckily, "Spring could not be far away".
Winters can feel long in this part of the world. I'm dreaming of summer picnics and swimming in the lakes X
DeleteI wonder why it is that when we run out of time one of the first things to suffer is the one that we should least allow to suffer: our diet. It is a national cultural problem and even those of us who have more time don't always allocate it properly. I took myself in hand last November and am now reaping the rewards. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, of course, Graham. And it is of some comfort to know I'm not the only one who is remiss in this department. I've since taken myself in hand, although I'm not entirely sure how long this will last. X
DeleteBrr it seems to have been cold everywhere and now we have warnings for Storm Isha
ReplyDeletehttps://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-68043800
Definitely roll-on Spring.
All the best Jan
PS Lovely photographs you've shared.
We've weathered this first storm, although it seems there is another one headed this way. X
DeleteGlad to hear you had fun skating! Sounds like you've been busy!
ReplyDeleteWe had a lovely afternoon skating, thank you, Bless. Yes, it's been a bit hectic here lately, but I'll be certain to catch up with you shortly. Xx
DeleteWhat a lovely way to spend New Year's Day. It's supposed to be slightly warmer this week, let's hope so. xx
ReplyDeleteIt might be warmer (the ice on the container pond has finally melted!), but it's blowing a hoolie, thanks to storm Isha. Xx
DeleteThere's never enough time is there? like you say preparation is key, I find that if I write a to do list the night before things are more likely to get done. Lovely photos you can see how cold it is, I haven't been ice skating since I was in my teens, well done for getting back on the ice after your accident it would knock anyone's confidence. Keep warm. x
ReplyDeleteI'm always working from a list. It's just having the time to do what is on the list that I struggle with :)
DeleteGlad you had a more relaxing weekend and kept cosy with that new boiler. The skating looks fun :) B x
ReplyDeleteThank you, Barbara. It's reassuring to know that I have a reliable source of heat and hot water. X
DeleteIt looks like you and Lily had great fun on the ice at the end of the year. I'm glad that your back is so much better now after the accident last year. I always like to have a list or a plan, unfortunately it doesn't always get completed on time. I have learnt to accept this... mostly! As our shops are only 5 minutes down the road our plans for meals can sometimes be a little on the spur of the moment. We do still try to keep meals healthy and fresh although sometimes life gets in the way and a more convenient meal is in order. Hope you are all ok after the stormy weather we have been having. Take care x
ReplyDeleteHi Beverley! Meal planning has always proved a little bit tricky for me. Some weeks I find that I will be very organised and it's great, but at other times I let things slide and this is when I find myself making less healthy choices ;)
DeleteThe outdoor ice -skating looks so fun - a terrific way to enjoy winter! Recently I was reading about the London Frost Fairs – they sounded like a great way to pass time in winter, but must’ve been bitterly cold. I am terrible at food planning – I don’t know why - it would certainly make things smoother – a new year, a new plan, I will start today!
ReplyDeleteI feel so much more organised when I have a plan. I just need to be more consistent with it. X
DeleteGood for you, Jules. A healthy diet is so important. I love your photographs, especially the skating one.
ReplyDeleteI feel sluggish and tired when my diet is poor, which in turn leads me to eat for convenience rather than nourishment. I think I will make some soup this weekend. X
DeleteI am glad you went back to ice skating after your fall last year. You are brave! I don't think I would have... I am a surprisingly good ice skater, a mystery. I hope you get used to your new work hours. And yes, neglecting all but the essential chores and relaxing is exactly what a dark January calls for x
ReplyDeleteThank you, Christina. I was fine skating, but felt a little panicky whenever anyone came too close to me. X
DeleteWe have had the cold weather here in Portland, Oregon as well - although it is now warmed up. It seems as though we have very similar climates. Now be careful on those ice skates - you do not want another spill - but good on you for getting back. Hang in there- Spring will be here soon enough!
ReplyDeleteIt does indeed sound like we have similar climates. We're back to wet and grey here today, but it still feels very cold.
DeleteMy earlier accident has made me very cautious on the ice. I was incredibly lucky that my injury wasn't permanent. X
Happy New Year. I feel like that cold frosty weather was so long ago now. Not loving the greyness and rain. X
ReplyDeleteApologies for the late reply, Shazza. I think we could all use some sunshine just now. X
DeleteHello, my friend. I have missed visiting you here. I am back from our trip and finally feeling better, and caught up on things! I am with you in that I need to plan our meals or we end up getting too much take out! Have a cozy evening, and spring will be here soon!
ReplyDeleteTake out! Now that's a thought ;) X
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