Dark Days

 

Thank you all so much for your kind words on yesterday's post. After a fairly reasonable night's sleep. I felt a lot better this morning. Certainly much less achy at any rate, and I haven't felt quite as chilly. As it turns out, I appear to have a cold. Just a regular cold. I'd almost forgotten what that was like. 

Before I began to feel unwell, I'd had a pleasantly productive day. The last of my Christmas cards were written, I'd wrapped the majority of my presents, and as you can see from the photograph I finally got around to drying the orange slices for the tree. 

It hardly got light today, which isn't exactly surprising seeing as the winter solstice will be here before the end of the week.  I really dislike how dark the days have become, and it's easy for me to see why many people struggle at this time of year. Thank goodness for the Christmas lights, as they bring with them some much needed sparkle. 

This afternoon I attended the school's Christmas celebration. It was a lovely service including several of my favourite carols and various delightful contributions from the children. It's hard to think that this was Lily's very last one, and that this time next year she will be at secondary school. Where did those years go.

Tomorrow, will be my last day ay work until the new year, and I am more than ready for the break. If I've learned anything recently, then it is that I need to do much more than I am doing currently in order to improve my wellbeing. 

J. X

An Early Night

 

It's been a productive day, but I'm feeling achy and shivery this evening. I've just taken some paracetamol and I think an early night is in order.

Back tomorrow. 

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