Christmas Traditions

This afternoon, I was slightly taken aback when a colleague wished someone a Happy Christmas. The days are passing quickly and even though I feel reasonably well organised (for once), I had a sudden realisation that Christmas is a little over two weeks away and there is still so much I keep meaning to do. I've been gradually working my way down my list and I've noticed that, although some of these activities are changeable each year, there are just some things I like to do the same every Christmas. We all do them, our own little traditions that make Christmas's special to us. It might be something that reminds us of our childhood, such as hanging a particular decoration that brings back special memories, how we like to  countdown to the day itself, or even the special treats we bake to enjoy with family and friends. 

This last week I've been to the florists for some eucalyptus. For many years now I've liked to display sprigs of eucalyptus somewhere in the house throughout December, usually across Lily's advent calendar. This year, because the florists were closed until the 2nd, I have placed some in a vase above the fireplace instead, and I might use some in my door wreath - something else I need to get on with this week.

Another little tradition of mine is buying clementines. Now, if I'm being completely honest, it is highly  likely they won't all get eaten, but the sweet citrus scent of the ones that do will transport me right back to my childhood, eating them while sitting underneath the Christmas tree in the twinkly colourful glow of fairy lights. I remember gazing in wonderment at all the brightly coloured, old style baubles and quirky (often questionable) decorations hanging from the tree, and twisting strands of gold lametta around my fingers. 

Home made apple sauce, Winter Spice Vodka, gingerbread, enjoying a glass of Baileys while decorating the tree. A tin of Roses or Quality Street? A tin of each? A trip to the nearest town to see the Christmas lights. Mince pies, winter walks, a new tree decoration. These are just some of the little things that make it feel like Christmas for me. Sometimes I add to the list. Last year we had the best time ice-skating. Sadly, that won't be happening this Christmas but we will be looking forward to enjoying it again next December.

Christmas is going to be very different for everyone this year but what I would love you to share, please, are your little traditions. What little things make Christmas for you?

J. X 

Winter Spice Vodka

With temperatures just above freezing, it was a very chilly ride into work this morning. The sun was still to rise and the roads were blissfully empty. It was a very early start, but there is something wonderful about being out at that time of day when most people are still tucked up in their beds. 

My morning passed quickly and it didn't seem long before I was home again. A quick bite to eat and I soon remembered about the blackberry vodka, which had been steeping in the cupboard since the end of summer. It seems a long time ago now, and back when the weather was still warm and sunny it did feel a little odd to be making use of cinnamon and cloves in the kitchen, but for minimal effort these few ingredients magically transform into a delicious drink just a few months later. There is a link to the recipe in the sidebar if anyone would like it.

Whilst sterilising some bottles in the oven, I set about straining the blackberry mixture through a muslin cloth and into a large measuring jug. It was very important that I squeezed out every last drop, as I really wouldn't want to waste any :) 

If my previous year's batches are anything to go by, it really is delicious and I'm looking forward to enjoying my first taste at the weekend. And, no, the mistletoe has not been placed there to make it look aesthetically pleasing, I just haven't got around to hanging it up yet :)

J. X

Choosing Our Tree

Shortly after lunch, and following a relaxed morning spent at home, we wrapped up well once again and excitedly headed out in search of our Christmas tree. This felt like quite an event, as we haven't bought a tree for the last few years. Our previous pot grown tree had served us well until recently it, sadly, became root bound and couldn't be revived.

Our first stop was at the garden centre where we'd bought our previous tree. There had been plenty of choice when we'd last visited but this years offerings were disappointingly poor. Had we wanted a freshly cut tree, there would have been no problem, but as we prefer a potted tree which can be used again and again it can be a little trickier to find just the right one. 

The next garden centre had much more choice. There were trees of every variety, shape and size, and it didn't take us long to find exactly what we wanted. Not too big or too small, it was just right. They also had a very nice fire pit where it would have been very easy to while away more time than was strictly necessary. Once we'd made our decision the helpful assistant was quick to bag our tree and I might have even put some mistletoe in our trolley : )

After spending some time watching the little train travel around the model Christmas village, we returned home, where we brought the tree into the porch. Lily has watered it well and we'll allow it some time to settle before we bring it into the house to decorate. 

As promised, here is a picture of Lily's snow globe. It is still, apparently, the 'best snow globe ever'. 

J. X

  

A Chilly Morning Walk

This morning, after waking at a much more respectable hour, we got wrapped up well and headed out for a walk. Following a busy week and with the temperatures having dropped quite dramatically we decided not to take on anything too challenging, opting instead to enjoy a gentle stroll around the village of Grasmere.

Although overcast when we set off, the sky looked promising and it looked as if the sun would break through as the morning progressed. Our walk took us alongside the River Rothay, past the little Gingerbread shop and a short way up the Easedale Road, before crossing the fields towards Allan Bank, a large Georgian house which is owned by the National Trust. The property is currently undergoing some renovations, but we were able to walk through the wooded grounds and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding snow capped fells. The path through the trees, although steep, makes for a really pleasant walk and has the added appeal of being an area which is home to red squirrels. We saw two today but they move far too quickly for me to even attempt to get a photograph.

After a short rest, overlooking the lake, to enjoy a delicious caramel hot chocolate and some Gingerbread, we returned alongside the river once more, where I picked up a large handful of fir cones which I will use when making my Christmas wreath during the week. 

On arriving home I surprised Lily with the snow globe and, just as I expected, she was absolutely thrilled with it and it was just lovely to see the delight on her face. She keeps turning it upside down to watch the snow fall, and the tune? Well, I've lost count of the times I've heard 'Jingle Bells' today. I'll be sure to post a picture of it tomorrow.

I spent this afternoon making some more headway on my Christmas jigsaw. It has 1000 pieces and is proving to be quite the challenge. I set this out on the dining table a few days ago and I'm hoping to finish it by Christmas Eve. I don't have any choice really, as we're going to need somewhere to eat Christmas Dinner : )

J. X