Cold

 

I really don't tolerate cold weather very well at all, but I haven't found the recent low temperatures too unbearable, that is until today. It has been freezing all week, and so incredibly chilly that I made sure Lily has been wearing a pair of leggings underneath her school trousers each day! But it was -9° when I took her to school this morning! A little 'fresher' than I would like. 

It also doesn't help that I have been feeling tired today, as I had woken several times during the night.

An ordinary day, it began as usual for me, by putting some food down for Mog and Boo. Who, if appearances were anything to go by, hadn't eaten in days :) Next, I topped up the bird feeder, with a reminder to myself to buy some more fat balls next time I am in town. I also put out some fresh water and some small pieces of bread. We've been receiving plenty of visitors on these frosty mornings. My favourites, as always, are the robins.

This afternoon, I was, again, helping at the Warm Space event in the village. And after it proved to be so popular last week, I baked some more of the mincemeat shortbread, which went down a treat, and disappeared just as quickly.

An unexpected, last minute cancellation of plans, meant we have, at least enjoyed a less hurried evening.  Now, it is an early night for me, as tomorrow I will be spending the day rounding up Shepherds, Wise Men and Angels!

J. X

O Christmas Tree!

 

Much like our new bauble, I sourced our Christmas tree back at the beginning of the year. And yes, it is artificial. Lily wanted to go big this year, which for us would have meant having to get a cut tree. And as many of you know, I don't like the idea of a tree without roots.

Although I usually prefer a living, potted tree, I do quite like this one, because of its lack of symmetry and realistic shape. It is neither too big nor too small, and just the right width that it doesn't dominate the room. Also, it would probably withstand the attentions of a small kitten should he ever be inclined to give it a closer inspection :)

It is much lower maintenance than a real tree. I don't need to water it on a regular basis, or constantly vacuum up pine needles, although I had forgotten just how long it takes to unfold all those branches. 

If I'm being honest with you, I think I might just have been converted. Although, next year, I might consider a real tree again. Just a small one. In the kitchen. 

J. X

Wide-Eyed!

 

You might not think it from looking at this photograph, but Boo has not yet attempted to climb up the Christmas tree. He will occasionally take a gentle swipe at a bauble or two but has, so far, allowed all of the other decorations to remain untouched. I think I will keep him ;)

Christmas is gradually building to a low simmer here, and yet I am still not feeling quite in the festive mood. I've managed to buy all but one of my gifts (As always, I'm trying not to think about the wrapping!), I've written all of my cards, and yet somehow it all seems a little flat this year. I don't expect the current climate is doing anything to help the situation, and I have noticed the stores here are already running down their Christmas supplies. 

I realise that with working longer hours, I haven't had as much time as I would have liked to prepare this year. Something to address another time perhaps. Then again, I'm probably expecting too much of myself as well. After all, I am very good at that :)

It is my work's Christmas 'do' this weekend, and to mark the occasion I have treated myself to something new to wear, that is neither practical nor outdoorsy! Two dresses arrived yesterday.  Yes, two! The first one I ordered went missing in the mail, and so I ordered myself another. Of course, the first one eventually turned up, albeit two weeks later than it should have. Now, they are quite similar in style and I really like them both. So, I just need to decide. Do I go with sparkles or sequins?

J. X

Herdy Bauble

 

Every December I buy a new decoration for our tree, and this year was to be no exception. Only this one I got way, way back in January, and tucked it away safely in a drawer. That was until last weekend, when I took great joy in finally hanging it up on our Christmas tree.

This gorgeous little sheep bauble has been hand felted from actual Herdwick fleece, and he has the most adorable expression. He is sitting beautifully, high up on the tree, in between Peter the Polar Bear and Glittery the Mouse Angel, who are keeping a watchful eye on him Now he just needs a name.

J. X