Woodland Wander

 

Having asked myself on numerous occasions what day it is, not to mention having had little concept of time, I have finally found myself in that period between Christmas and New Year where I have no idea what on earth I'm doing, and I quite like it. In all honesty today has passed in a bit of a blur. I know I have eaten too much chocolate, drunk far too much coffee and not done anywhere near enough housework, but as I'm not expecting any visitors at anytime soon, I will readily overlook that :)

This morning I went for my booster. Now unlike my previous appointments, where some kind, gentle souls very carefully administered my vaccinations, today I was subjected to someone I can only describe as a young child in training, who proceeded to jab me quite forcefully in the top of my arm before I'd even had chance to roll my sleeve up properly. To say I was shocked was an understatement. Even the second volunteer, who was recording my details, was clearly taken by surprise and went out of her way to make sure I was okay afterwards. Not to worry, at least it was quick. I was grateful he had volunteered his services and I'd like to think perhaps his technique improved as the day went on :)

This afternoon, as I was fortunately not feeling any side effects, we took a short walk through the woods and out towards the pond. Even at only 2 o'clock the light was already flat and low, and it felt as though it could have been much later in the day. The path through the woods was very muddy beneath our feet and I was glad we had decided to wear our wellies. The obligatory sticks were gathered and the stream explored before wending our way back up the steep hill as darkness began to fall. Momentarily the sun broke through the cloud casting a beautiful light across the trees. 

This evening, I've been taking it easy, and I won't be long out of bed. Tomorrow, the forecast doesn't look so great, so I think I will take the opportunity to have a tidy through and at least clear the kitchen. It's all looking a bit of a mess right now. 

J. X

Back on the Ice

It has been two years since we've been skating but we finally made it back on the ice. Since the last time, Lily has grown in confidence and there was no stopping her. She loved it. 

What a wonderful way to spend our afternoon. 

J. X

Quiet

Even though I am enjoying a quieter festive season this year, there was still no escaping the gradual build up and and general anticipation. Therefore, my post Christmas slump has landed much earlier than I expected. I've felt exhausted today. Rather than over indulgence, I think it probably has more to do with  having almost reached the end of another chaotic year in survival mode, and now I have finally allowed myself to relax. 

I'm not complaining, however. I've had a lovely Christmas and have spent much of today relaxing and doing very little. There aren't many days in the year when I can actually achieve this. 

We did manage to get out for a gentle walk this afternoon. The weather was a little wetter than had been forecast, so we cut it a little short and went through the woods, instead of up and over the hill. This is one of my favourite routes, as it is little known there, and usually very quiet, although today it was incredibly muddy underfoot. We had to be very careful not to slip. We took a slight detour from the main path to visit a very old Yew tree, which is said to be around 1600 years old! It looks remarkably well,  considering. 

As well as being damp, the weather was very cold, and so we didn't hang around for very long. Returning home, I was quick to warm up again with a mug of hot chocolate, and I also put my Christmas present of some slippers to good use. They are the cosiest pair I've ever owned.

This evening, my Boxing Day tradition of Biryani was much appreciated, and my day was rounded off with a small glass of Baileys. I might have to have a sort out in the kitchen tomorrow, as with all the generous gifts I've been given, it curently resembles a small off licence!

J. X

Christmas Day

 

And just like that...

It's been a lovely couple of days. This Christmas was never going to be easy for me, but with some careful consideration and little in the way of expectation, it has turned out to have been one of the most relaxed and stress free years I have known in a long time. Just what I needed, in fact. 

Following a gentle afternoon walk, the annual family Christmas Eve buffet was a huge success, and I think I may have eaten my own body weight in cheese. Baked camembert with homemade cranberry sauce, and some crusty bread for dipping, a cheese board and some of my courgette chutney, followed by some freshly baked chocolate Yule log covered in Baileys buttercream -  delicious! Excitement levels were high, so it was gone 11pm before Lily finally fell asleep, and I wasn't far behind.

I was awake all too soon. Mog had been keen to start the day and expected me to keep her company. I didn't mind really, it was lovely to drink my coffee whilst enjoying the quiet of the early morning, as I knew it wouldn't remain that way for very long.

The usual frenzy passed me by this year and our morning was a calm and unhurried affair. Presents were exchanged - all of them having been thoughtfully chosen - and, along with many others, Lily was thrilled to receive the one gift she had been hoping would be under the tree this Christmas morning. I'm calling it a success! Our roast dinner was cooked in as simple a way as I could manage and it was incredibly tasty. This afternoon, we went out for a lovely, albeit very chilly, walk down by the river, arriving home just as darkness fell and in plenty of time to call in on family and wish them a Merry Christmas. 

This evening has been spent mainly with my feet up and enjoying a glass of wine. Now, I think I might just treat myself to another mince pie - It is Christmas, after all.

J. X