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

I'm so Glad

 

As far as Octobers go, this one has been rather lovely. Autumn has been spectacular, so far, and Mother Nature certainly knows how to put on a fabulous display. The temperature dropped, almost as soon as the clocks changed, and it's quite reassuring that it all feels perfectly seasonal. I'm beginning to feel much more settled, knowing the wheel is turning exactly as it should. 

I've been off work this week, which has given me the opportunity to get on top of things at home. This always helps me to feel much more rested and in control. The house is clean and tidy once more, and I'm still noticing the benefits of my earlier de-cluttering. I've managed to pass on another two bags to the charity shop, and if Lily doesn't stop growing soon, I'll be having to pass on many more. I still need to decorate, but I think that is more likely to be in the new year now. At least it will feel that bit more manageable, seeing as I won't have as much to work around. 

At the start of the week, we enjoyed a few days away, staying in a lovely little cottage, in a village, near Richmond. Besides one incredibly windy morning, we were so very lucky with the weather. The sun shone every day, and it felt good to spend so much time outdoors. The autumn colours looked stunning, and the riverside circular was so beautiful that we walked it twice! It really didn't have anything to do with the delicious chocolate brownies they served at the cafe, I promise ;) The top photograph is the view from where we were sat.

It felt so relaxing, even though it was for just a few days. I like to get away at this time of year, preferably somewhere that isn't too far to travel. During the daytime we explored the local area, then in the evening we would just cosy in by the fire. Perfect. 

On our journey home, we stopped off by the River Ure, and walked along Aysgarth Falls. Recent rainfall had resulted in a significant amount of water, and the noise from the falls was incredible.

Last night, I accompanied Lily and two of her friends while they went trick-or-treating. Lily went dressed as a black cat, and enjoyed such a great evening. Things have changed so much since I was young, and it's lovely to see children and adults out, having so much fun. Some of the costumes were amazing, not a black bin liner in sight! Not to mention all the Halloween decorations and carved pumpkins! I can just about manage to create a regular Jack-O-Lantern without injuring myself, and that's only when I manage to get it home in one piece (although that curry was delicious). I've cooked up a large pot of soup, and I always make sure to toast some of the seeds to snack on. But I have saved a few, so that we can have a try at growing some of our own pumpkins again, next year. 🎃

Back soon. 

J. X