New Year's Eve

I woke early this morning and, as usual, I crept downstairs to sit quietly and enjoy my first coffee of the day. It had been another cold night and the garden was again covered in frost but, disappointingly, there wasn't any sign of the snow which had been forecast to arrive overnight. I'd switched on the tree lights and checked my phone for messages, before I glanced out of the window at the front of the house to see a few light flakes floating down. Not wishing to get my hopes up, I went into the kitchen to make my coffee, but I could see the snow beginning to settle along the driveway. A short while later I heard squeals of glee from upstairs. Lily had opened the curtains to see a covering of white. There wasn't enough snow for us to go sledging but it was still a magical way to start the day.

Today, we've enjoyed a walk by the river. It seemed quite appropriate really, considering we spent so much of our time there this year. Amongst all the worry and uncertainty there has always been something reassuring and constant in it's familiarity. We've walked along the banks, paddled in it's clear waters, enjoyed picnics on the rocky shores, looked for toad spawn and even fished for minnows. It's been lovely to watch how the seasons have changed the landscape throughout the year and this morning was no exception. The water covered the rocky shores where we had sat during the summer months and the bare trees gave little cover to the river below. 

This evening will be spent quietly. Still weary from our walks over the last few days, I expect I shall be in bed long before the clock strikes midnight. Therefore, I'm taking this opportunity to wish you all a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year. 

J. X

Snow!

This morning, we began our walk from Patterdale, a small village just south of Ullswater, striding out across farmland with the frosty grass crunching beneath our feet. The sun was still low in the sky at this time, but our destination looked promising and, as we climbed higher up the fellside, we soon left the shade of the valley behind.

The first stop on our route was Boredale Hause. A pass between the Patterdale and Boredale valleys, where various paths meet. We were last there when we took the track heading north up Place Fell, back in November. Today, instead, we took the path leading south towards Angle Tarn, a popular place for wild camping during the summer months.

The way ahead was a like entering a winter wonderland. Enough snow to be magical, not too much that walking was in any way difficult. It was powdery and dry. Unfortunately, not suitable for making snowballs - I tried :)

Looking across at the Helvellyn range.

The northern, and true, summit of Angletarn Pikes. It's not as intimidating as it looks and we climbed the path right to the top.

The southern summit. 

Our lunchtime view. Angle Tarn looking beautiful in the winter sun.

Back at the car, tired but happy, and an opportunity to enjoy a warming drink before heading for home.

J. X

In Search of Snow

This morning, wrapped up warmly against the cold, we set off for our walk. The temperatures had been below freezing overnight and I wasn't going to take any chances, so we put on our salopettes and layered up. Our aim today was Binsey, a small stand alone fell to the north of Bassenthwaite. 

Slightly overcast when we began our climb, the sun was quick to break through the clouds and in the short time it took for us to reach the summit, the sky had cleared and we were treated to the most beautiful views in all directions. Then, while we were sat eating our lunch, even Skiddaw could be seen just peeping out above the clouds. With the air so crisp and still, it was tempting to stay there for longer but with Lily feeling restless we made our way back down the fell, being careful to avoid the patches of ice on the path. 

Not a bad place to enjoy some of the mincemeat shortbread I'd baked yesterday.

It would have been lovely if there had been more snow, but I'm hopeful we might see some more before the end of the week.  

J. X

Frosty Morning

Although, disappointingly, I didn't wake up to snow this morning, there was a light covering of frost, and the field behind the house sparkled white. A beautiful winter scene. 

I've enjoyed another relaxed day, having reached the stage between Christmas and New Year when I'm not quite sure as to what day it actually is. Not that it matters, of course. Having spent many years working all throughout the festive season, I relish this time to do with as I please.

Today, this included another walk in the woods. The low winter sun dazzled against a clear sky and puddles had turned to ice. Even by early afternoon the shaded ground was still frosted, the distant fells dusted with snow. 

On returning home, I was soon warmed up with a hot drink and it wasn't long before I was busy in the kitchen, baking for the week ahead. The weather forecast looks promising and, with some slightly longer walks planned, we need something tasty to keep us fuelled in the chilly outdoors.

Using one of the jars still remaining in the kitchen cupboard I baked some mincemeat shortbread. Just as tasty as (if not more than) mince pies, this is much more simple to bake, and makes around sixteen pieces, which are easily wrapped up to put in the pocket of my rucksack.

The link to the recipe is here. This time I made mine without the cranberries and almonds.

J. X