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