'Tis the Season...

 

I hope you all enjoyed a calm and peaceful Christmastime. I've been intentionally absent in this space for a while, as I needed some time to reflect on the holiday and acknowledge a few aspects which were rather challenging for me, this year. Even though I thought that I'd been prepared for it, the reality was much harder than I had anticipated. The last few weeks have seen many ups and downs, but as usual I'm focusing on the ups, as that is what's keeping me going just now. 

Keeping everything incredibly simple has been a huge help, as well as being quite the eye opener to what I really don't need to bother with in future. I did, of course, enjoy taking the time to make my own door wreath, using some fir tree branches, which I'd gathered from the woods, and tied with some pink velvet ribbon, which had been wrapped around one of last year's Christmas presents. This is something I really enjoy doing, and I find it so relaxing.  

On Christmas Eve, just like last year, we met up with some friends for a girl's brunch. It was a relaxed and happy occasion and I have a feeling that this will become a regular event moving forward. After all, this is how traditions start.

Even though I'm almost certain that Lily simply does this for my benefit now, we left out the obligatory carrot and mincemeat shortbread for the big man himself. No whisky this year, as for some reason, Lily decided milk would be the more healthy alternative :)

Christmas Day was fairly quiet and relaxed. Dinner was excellent, if I say so myself :) with the only leftovers being five balls of stuffing. This I was thrilled about, as it meant we could get back to eating 'normal' food straight away.

The very inexpensive crackers were a hit. And I've particularly enjoyed transforming the leftover card into next year's gift tags, already. I just adore the robin and holly print.

As is tradition, we went out for a walk on Boxing Day morning. I don't know if it was because of the gloomy, damp weather, but it was much quieter out than usual. The fell tops were covered with cloud, but there were still some gorgeous views to enjoy. I realised that I haven't spent as much time outdoors recently, so I really must rectify that in the New Year. Then it was back home again, where I cooked up a rather tasty homemade take on a Greggs Festive Bake. Simply served up with a side of pickled red cabbage, it was so delicious that it has been suggested as an alternative to next year's Christmas dinner! 

Yesterday, we enjoyed some time ice skating. It's one of my favourite things to do at this time of year, even though I'm sure that, by now, I should have graduated to being the person who sits and watches, while holding all the bags. Even so, I'm quite happy to take my time skating tentatively around the edge of the rink, while Lily glides away effortlessly across the ice.

We're now getting ever closer to 2025, and I'm feeling more positive and hopeful. Prioritising my own needs is still an ongoing learning process, but I'm getting better at it all the time. Looking back over the last twelve months, I'd like to think that I've seized opportunities and made the most of my days. There's always room for improvement, of course.  

I joked with Lily about doing a New Year's Day dip in Derwentwater, and she was, surprisingly, up for it! Maybe in 2026. 

J. X

Gently Into December

  

 

As the title suggests, I have been easing myself into the month, being mindful of taking on too much, and so far, it's all going rather well. I've turned down a couple of events I felt I was being pressured into. Go me! (Or not, in this case), and I've lowered my expectations. This is very much a positive thing. With so much going on in the  background, it would be foolish of me to think I could keep up a pretence of everything being normal when, in fact, it is anything but.

That's not to say I am not enjoying myself, it's just all happening in a much quieter way this year.

The decorations are up! I think we might have even put them up a little earlier than usual, and we can thank Storm Darragh for that. It arrived the weekend we had planned to go to London to see the Christmas lights. I was quite relieved, to be honest. A weekend spent hunkering down at home, and making everything look festive, was very welcome, and although it was incredibly windy here, we fortunately managed to avoid the worst of it.

Even the decorations have been pared back this year. Not that I ever go overboard, but I've discovered that less is most definitely more in this little house. The advent stockings are in their usual position above the fireplace and the lovely, festive bunting, which my friend gifted me last Christmas, has been hung in the dining room. I've laid fairy lights around the base of the bay window, which give a warm and welcoming glow from outside, and the many decorations that we've collected over the years, have been lovingly hung on our tree. Each one holding precious memories of Christmasses past. 

This year, I didn't buy just one special decoration for the tree, but six! As a child, I remember two little bells hung on the Christmas tree. One green bell, and one red bell, although both of them appeared rather faded with age. I would just love to ring those little bells, which made the most magical sound. The bells I've bought were quite inexpensive, but they sound exactly the same. And each time I brush past our tree, they give that same magical ring. It is so lovely to hear. And, what makes me incredibly happy, is that I've noticed Lily occasionally pausing by the tree to ring one of them, just like I used to do. 

At the beginning of the week, Lily and I visited Sizergh Castle. This year, they are holding a Winter Light Trail, and I thought it would be a lovely way to spend an evening. It was really quite magical. The lights and music were almost hypnotic, and there was something to see around every corner. After the trail we were invited to walk around the house, where each room was decorated for Christmas throughout the years. It was all beautifully presented, and something a bit different. We really enjoyed it. 

Despite my best intentions, I'm still waiting for my festive spirit to arrive. And if it doesn't, then I'm quite okay without it. I'm still having a very lovely time, it's just different this year. Tomorrow, I'm hoping to finish my buying my Christmas gifts, and then I think I'll make a start on planning my Christmas food shopping.

J. X

The In-Between Days

It's been another quiet day, spent indoors. While the rain, once again, lashed at the windows, I busied myself with tidying the house and attempting to restore some sort of order, now that the festivities are behind us. I'm resisting the urge to start taking down the decorations. I don't usually do this until after we've seen in the New Year but for some reason I'd quite like to have the house back to normal before then. I'll leave them up for now, although  I might change my mind again tomorrow. Right now, I'm not even certain what day it is.

I've been looking ahead to next year and making some plans. I've already booked two short trips away, which I'm really excited about. There's another mini adventure I have in mind for me and Lily. And I've even been persuaded to sign myself up for something, which will be a bit of a challenge. This might just be the year I say 'yes' to more opportunities, instead of coming up with reasons why I shouldn't bother. 

J. X

Christmas Day

Blessings of the season.

Wishing you love, hope and peace.

Merry Christmas. 

J. X

Christmas Eve Eve

 

It has been almost as busy as Santa's workshop here today. This morning I cleaned the house from top to bottom, washed and dried two loads of laundry, then this afternoon I baked some flapjack, some mince pies, and finished wrapping my presents. Christmas Day is almost here.

The Winter Solstice, yesterday, was welcomed with candles and reflection. And after my successful supermarket and farm shop visits, I happily busied myself in the kitchen. Oh, how I have enjoyed spending more of my time in there over the last couple of days. I bottled the vodka and made a final batch of compote using the delicious blackberries I gathered back in summer. I also made a large batch of carrot, sweet potato and butternut squash soup. The weather outside was frightful, and as the rain poured and the wind blew, I felt very grateful for my warm, cosy home, realising how fortunate I am to have a safe roof over my head and cupboards filled with nourishing food. 

The turning of the wheel. Winter is upon us. From here onwards, the days will start getting longer and we will see a return to the light. As someone who is never happier than when feeling the warm sun on my face, this brings me a great sense of calm.

In the evening this manifested as a sudden urge to go out for a run. Lately, having had little to no opportunity to get out running, this was quite unexpected but very much enjoyed. The simple fact that I am still capable of this activity is a huge bonus - I wasn't certain my legs would manage. It was damp and it was dark, but the wind had subsided and the air was still. The run left me feeling quite energised and I made a note to myself to not leave it quite so long until I go out again.

Back to this evening, I put my feet up and enjoyed one of my mince pies with a drink of hot blackcurrant. Now that everything is prepared, I intend to relax and enjoy the next few days.

J. X

Shopping

Christmas is now just a few short days away, and Lily is in her usual state of excitement, with high expectation for the 'Best one ever!' 

Today I have found myself buying some late-in-the-day Christmas presents and finishing off those gifts which were almost complete. The weather hasn't done do much to help me feel festive. It's been blowing a hoolie for much of the day, and it was all I could do to stop myself from being blown off my feet. It did, however, make me feel relieved that I was close to home. Had we travelled to Edinburgh I would have spent all my time there worrying that our return train could have been cancelled. 

Gift shopping completed, I treated myself with a visit to my favourite store. It is full of the most beautiful gifts and homewares and I can always be guaranteed to find something I just need to bring home with me. On this occasion it was another tree decoration and a candle holder. These were actually quite inexpensive, and anyway, I can always consider them an early Christmas present to myself :)

I have, at least, managed to put off getting the main Christmas food shop. Well, I think I probably have most of what I want already. There are just a few more fresh items I need to get, along with the cheeses. I might try and go early in the morning, before it all gets too busy. 

J. X

Decorated for Christmas

 

Thank you so much for all your lovely comments on my recent posts. And also for understanding that it sometimes takes me a little while to respond. I think I've finally caught up now. 

The work's party, last night, was so much fun. I'm not entirely sure why it was advertised as being quite different from the typical Christmas party night, however. Because in all honesty it was every bit the same, aside from the street food option. There was food, a well stocked bar and the usual mediocre band. The only difference I can think of was that it was held in what can only be described as an outdoor, marquee style space. I think that was why I was told it might be a bit chilly. As it happened, I went well prepared, with warm leggings under my chiffon culottes, and a large warm soft scarf, should I have needed to wrap up. I even took my hand-warmers! My green velvet top was worn off the shoulder, so you can see why I was a little bit anxious. Anyway, in the end there was no need for any of it. The venue was actually quite warm, and I spent most of the evening dancing, which is probably why I feel a bit achy and tired today - It's the most exercise I've had in a while :) It felt really good to let my hair down, after what has been a rather busy and unsettled few months, and it was lovely to see my colleagues all enjoying themselves. 

Today my intention was to take things easy but instead, this morning, I found myself finishing the Christmas shopping and writing the last of my cards. I feel more relaxed about it all now, although I still need to get them all wrapped.

This afternoon, however, Lily and I took a drive over to Levens Hall, where they have the rooms all decorated for the festive season, along with musicians and choirs performing Christmas music in the main hall. It was a really lovely atmosphere and the fresh foliage decorations looked beautiful.

Outside, it  was a different foliage that provided the decoration. The topiary garden, which dates back to the 1690's, was mesmerising and I imagine it looks all the more special during the summer months. 

For now the weather has reverted to it's customary grey and damp. At least it stayed dry long enough for us to enjoy a walk around the garden.

J. X

A Lovely Evening

  

Good food, a lot of dancing and much laughter. 

J. X

Seeing Stars

 

A mince pie isn't the only new decoration on our tree this year. And no, I'm not referring to the cats - neither has attempted to climb it - so far, at least :)

We actually have twelve gold coloured, glass stars. I'd almost forgotten about them, as I'd bought them on sale at the beginning of this year. But they are really lovely, beautifully made and hung with some gorgeous, soft, green velvet ribbon. I still haven't got round to making some dried orange slices, but hopefully I will find the time at the weekend.

This evening, I've been out for an early Christmas meal with some friends. It was such a  nice and relaxed atmosphere, and the food was absolutely delicious. It's not often that I eat a three course meal, so I'm feeling rather full now. 

Tomorrow night I'm off out again! This time it will be for my work's Christmas celebrations. I'm not quite sure what to expect but I've been told it will be quite different to our usual Christmas party. And also, that I should wear something which will keep me warm!

J. X 

The Tree is Up

 

We've spent a lovely evening decorating our tree. Now, which cat will be the first to try and climb it?. 

J. X

Spirit of Christmas

 

I'm feeling very tired this evening. Back tomorrow.  

J. X

Presents

 

I was chatting with a friend earlier today, and I was saying how I'd forgotten just how busy work can be at this time of year. It often feels exhausting, but it's a lot of fun at the same time. Today was Christmas jumper day. Mine has a large Christmas pudding on the front, which is quite appropriate, seeing as that's how I'm feeling at the moment. 

I've hardly stopped this week and any spare moments I've had have been spent trying to source Christmas presents. This has always been something I have found rather stressful, given that I'm not a huge fan of shopping. And I tend to put far too much pressure on myself to get the perfect gift for everyone, which of course is never going to happen. Unrealistic expectations. 

It can also be incredibly time consuming. Whether shopping online or on the High Street, these things invariably take much longer than I anticipate. Is it just me? That said, I don't think I'm doing too badly this year. Most of my present shopping is now complete, with just a few more items left to buy. Then I can relax.

This evening I have been busy baking some Mincemeat Shortbread, as tomorrow it's my turn to provide the festive treats for the staffroom. The coffee table is already hidden beneath several tubs of chocolates, and these are only going to increase as we get closer to Christmas. 

J. X

Tree Decorating

 

Thankfully, I woke this morning to find that most of the snow had thawed overnight, leaving the roads clear once again. The garden is still looking rather white, however, and as the temperatures are forecast to drop below freezing tonight, I expect there will be some patches of ice to contend with tomorrow. 

It has been a beautiful day. The sun shone and the sky was blue. I managed to find time to hand deliver several of my Christmas cards this morning, and I took another handful to the Post Office, feeling quite pleased with myself for being much more organised this year. 

At work this afternoon , myself and a colleague were given the wonderful task of decorating the tree. It was a lot of fun to do, especially as it is a real tree, and this year it is a respectable size. I spent a lot of time up a ladder in order to reach the higher branches, but even then I still struggled to get the star on the very top. Luckily I have fairly long arms and a blatant disregard  for my own personal safety :)

I'm looking forward to decorating our own tree, although I'm undecided as to whether it should be done before the weekend or early next week, by which time we should have a new ornament for it. The small kitchen tree is already looking lovely, decorated with bells and stars.

Oh, and I promised an updated photograph of the wreath with the holly added. I definitely prefer it with the red berries.

J. X

Christmas 2022

Hello, again! Finally :)

Thank you all so much for all your kind comments and messages on my previous post, both privately and on here. You have all been so kind, especially as I have been absent from this space for a little while. It will be time for a good catch up in the next few days, but first I thought I should write a few lines before this year ends. 

I have enjoyed a lovely Christmas. Simple and relaxed, which is just how I like it to be. The last day of school term came around very quickly in the end, and the very next day we were on our way to Edinburgh to visit the Christmas markets. If you have been reading here a while, you might remember this trip was originally planned for Christmas 2021, but I made the decision to postpone due to the constraints of travelling etc. I have to say, Edinburgh looked beautiful all decorated for Christmas. The markets were bustling, but not too crowded and everyone looked to be having a wonderful time. Our hotel was excellent, and we were staying right in the centre of the city, so we were ideally located for seeing the sights and visiting the markets. Everything was fine until the second evening. We had already enjoyed a ride on the carousel and I booked for us to go ice skating, which is something we love to do at this time of year. Once we had been kitted out, Lily sped off confidently and I followed at a slightly more controlled pace :) It felt good to be back on the ice again. Everyone was having fun, even those who could barely stand. Christmas music was playing and it was all so very festive. Then it happened. Almost as though in slow motion, I could see a young woman begin to stumble quite close to me. Then as I slowed, gently swerving to avoid her, she tried to steady herself by grabbing hold of me, but instead I was pulled right down, onto the cold hard ice, on my back. I was in pain, and the impact left me feeling badly shaken and nauseous. After a minute or two I was able to stand and a very nice young man came to assist me off the ice, by which time it was clear I wasn't seriously injured, just very badly bruised and in shock - thank goodness! It could have been so much worse.  

The following morning it was also becoming increasingly obvious that I was finally succumbing to the cold virus which had been doing the rounds at work. Smiling to myself, as I had been telling my colleagues for the last few weeks that it would get me just in time for Christmas :) I just found it odd, that rather than feeling the need to 'feed' this cold, I had lost my appetite instead, wondering if perhaps I was still just feeling shaken up by my accident. On arriving home I thought I should take a covid test, just to rule it out, only to discover I had a positive result!

As you might expect, I have been having to take things easy since then. Thankfully, my mild Covid symptoms have completely disappeared, but I now realise my sore back is going to take a while longer to recover.

It was still a lovely Christmas, I just made some adjustments. I didn't bake my own bread on Christmas Eve, I bought an iced sponge cake from the supermarket and Lily had the important task of adding the festive embellishments, I didn't bake the mince pies until the 28th and nobody even noticed! The door wreath never materialised. Lessons learned - I really dont have to try and do it all. The girls were here for Christmas Dinner, and all in all it was a very relaxed affair. We managed to get out for a short walk in the woods on Boxing Day but the wet weather has seen us spending most of our days at home. 

Boo has been very well behaved and all the Christmas decorations remain intact. The house is in disarray, the kitchen cupboards contain far too much chocolate and the coffee table is hidden beneath the usual pile of Christmas detritus. I have been procrastinating for as long as possible, but I think I will need to tidy it all up very soon.

I am still feeling rather fragile, but intend to concentrate on building up my strength over the next few weeks. 

Thank you, again, for always taking the time to stop by and read my little blog. Sending warm wishes to you and yours for the coming New Year. May it bring you peace, joy and happiness. 

J. X