Autumn Weekend

I'm going to quietly ignore the gloominess of this morning. The mist and mizzle hung unnecessarily heavy over the fields. Whenever I chance wearing anything less than a jumper, the cold gets into my bones and leaves me feeling thoroughly miserable. I am now resigned to feeling this way until April, when the warmer days begin to creep back in, and my shoulders learn to relax once more. Such is this time of year - I was clearly built for a milder climate.

That said, at the weekend we enjoyed two of the most glorious days. Perfect autumn weather - the kind that feels so very good for the soul. Crisp, frosty mornings giving way to delightfully warm sunshine as the day progressed. I seized the opportunity to switch off, relax, and soak up some of that autumn gold.

In recent years, we've spent a morning at the pumpkin patch and it makes me so happy that Lily will still indulge me in this tradition. Although in spite of her initial reluctance, I think that she secretly quite enjoys it. Naturally, we arrived good and early - the first through the gates! As time went on there was a steady stream of visitors. Usually, my good intentions of choosing just one or two pumpkins, inevitably finishes up with us returning home with several more than we need. On this occasion, there were five! Including some tiny, decorative ones. They are now all sitting patiently at the back of the house, waiting to be carved. I'm never the most creative with my designs, favouring a regular old Jack-o'-lantern. Some of the pumpkins will definitely become soup, and I'm really looking forward to toasting the seeds.

Next up, was a woodland wander. The sunlight through the trees painting beautiful patterns on the forest floor. Leaves drifted to the ground, but just out of reach. Our relaxed pace meant that neither of us were quick enough to catch any as they fell - perhaps another time, or maybe the joy is simply in watching them these days. Sitting on a bench in the sunshine, eating our picnic lunch, was probably the most relaxed I've felt in months. One of life's simple pleasures, which somehow felt out of reach for so long. 

The following day, and another favourite walk. Feeling reassurance in familiar surroundings. Getting stronger each day. I even baked some ginger cookies. 

I have a few more days left to work before autumn break. After which I should be back in a more settled routine. It's been a long time coming. 

Back soon. 

J. X