January

Since the beginning of 2019 turned into a rather worrying and stressful time, I feel like, so far, this month I've been a little on edge and expecting a potential problem to present itself.  Foolish, I know, as no amount of worrying can prevent anything bad from happening and only serves to leave me feeling tense and wrung out, and I'm also relieved to say that, so far, the year is ticking along very nicely indeed.

Following a lovely festive break, I've settled into my stride once again with work and running the home. The Christmas cake is all gone now and I baked some shortbread using up a half jar of mincemeat I discovered hiding at the back of the fridge - it was delicious!

Most importantly, I've spent lots of time outdoors. I've been taking part in RED January, which is an initiative to get active every day throughout the month, and so far it's going well. I might have thought otherwise when I found myself soaked through to the skin while running in the pouring rain last Saturday evening, but I'm feeling much better for it and it's so good to be doing something just for me.

On Sunday we went for a gentle walk up Sale Fell, which overlooks the top end of Bassenthwaite Lake. It's a walk I've been meaning to do for some time now - one of many! - and with the weather on our side, for a short time at least, it was just the right distance and height to enjoy this short stroll, while still being able to enjoy some beautiful views. It was rather windy at the summit, however, we didn't hang around up there for very long.

I have noticed the afternoons drawing out ever so slightly and I'm looking forward to ever increasing hours of daylight. My houseplants, which were beginning to look rather sad, have all been moved to the kitchen windowsill in order to get as much light as possible and it's beginning to get a little crowded there, especially with the recent addition of some hyacinths which are just starting to open up.

On these cold dark evenings I've been keeping busy with a new crochet project. A small blanket for my friend who's baby is due in March. I hope to share the finished results very soon.

Later, I'm going to enjoy some time catching up with some blog reading but, as we're forecast a bright and frosty day here, I'm off out to enjoy a walk in the woods first.

Happy Saturday!

J. X

Welcoming the New Year

I've enjoyed a lovely festive season and all too soon find myself at the beginning of this new year, curious as to what it may hold. It's been the time of year when time stands still and I've struggled to remember what week it is, let alone what day but I've enjoyed every moment.

Christmas day itself was spent with family and we played games, ate delicious food (the BEST roast potatoes!) and laughed a lot. I've possibly eaten far too much chocolate but isn't that always the way.

In sharp contrast to the excitement and joy of Christmas, Boxing Day was a much more relaxed affair with a leisurely morning spent walking through the woods. The air was cold and damp but after our walk we soon warmed up with a hot chocolate enjoyed on the cafe's outdoor terrace. We were even joined by a cheerful little robin.

In fact, we've enjoyed quite a few walks out these last two weeks, which I've really enjoyed. I always like to get out and blow the cobwebs away, especially when it can be so easy to hunker down at this time of year.  Last Sunday we climbed Raven Crag, above Thirlmere. It's not an area I've ever visited before, although I'm sure I'll be returning very soon, as there is so much more to explore. The steep climb up the through the pine trees behind the crag, opened up at the summit platform to reveal the most beautiful view over towards Clough Head and Helvellyn, with the occasional  views of Skiddaw visible through the trees during our descent along the forest tracks .

The following day was much more overcast but it didn't deter us from walking up High Rigg. This is only a small fell but we took the long route over Wren Crag and along the ridge before reaching the summit, then dropping down to enjoy our lunch beside the beautiful little church at St. John's in the Vale. Disappointingly, the low cloud meant views were limited but it was enjoyable nonetheless and it was lovely to see another robin perched on the bench in the churchyard.

On New Year's Eve I kept my promise and took Lily ice skating. The bright, sunny weather made the perfect day for it, and the ice was full of people joining in the fun. It didn't feel too busy, however, it was just right and, although  Lily didn't feel quite brave enough to skate without holding on to either myself or the side of the rink, she had a wonderful time and I get the impression we will be going again next year.

New Year's morning was spent the same as last year, cooking sausages by the lake, reflecting on the previous twelve months and constantly reminding Lily not to paddle so deep that the water goes over the top of her wellies! Whatever the coming year has in store, some things will never change.

Happy New Year.

J. X

Merry Christmas

Sending warmest thoughts and best wishes for the festive season.
Merry Christmas.

J. X

Christmas Market

In recent years, on the run up to the big day, once the gift shopping is complete and school has closed until the new year, we have taken ourselves off to visit a Christmas market. This year we chose Edinburgh.

Edinburgh is my favourite city and to see it decorated for Christmas and covered in thousands of twinkling fairy lights is a most magical feeling, especially as many store windows were dressed so beautifully for the season.

The market itself was home to stall upon stall selling wonderful festive goodies and, as usual at these events, the aroma of mulled wine and freshly cooked waffles fillied the air. Children and adults alike were excited to enjoy traditional fairground rides and browse the stalls and attractions.

Yes, it can get busy and crowded at times but if timed right it really can be a wonderful experience.

We took a ride on the huge ferris wheel (Lily's favourite) where, at the very top, we could see right over the city from Arthur's Seat to out over the sea. Lily went on the helter skelter and together we rode the gorgeous double carousel. Afterwards I enjoyed some hot mulled wine, which seemed to taste so much more delicious when drunk outdoors in the cold, even if it was from a paper cup. 🍷

While we were there we bought a new decoration for our Christmas tree and some cheese to have with our meal on Christmas eve, but mainly it was just about having fun and soaking up the festive atmosphere.

I'm almost ready for Christmas Day now. This morning I will be baking some bread and mince pies, and I'm sure we will get out for  a gentle walk at some time today.

Happy Christmas Eve!

J. X