Pebble Dash

Contending with a chesty cough, my outdoor time this weekend was pretty still. We took a trip to Shanklin Chine, a classic old seaside destination with a quiet out-of-season feel. I’m not very good and sitting and doing nothing, but a pebbly beach certainly encourages it. The roar of waves and retreating rattle of hundreds of pebbles rolling over each other is a sound that demands full attention, and cuts out everything else. I could sit and listen to it for hours. Which is a good job, when you’re on a beach trip with a photographer.

Snow Day / Sick Day

Whilst every kid on the Island, both big and small, was whooping in delight at Friday’s snow day, I was left coughing in bed. I’m pretty sure it’s the first EVER snow day I haven’t been out the door in the first hour of its discovery. Tom more than made up for my sickly excuses, with boots on by 9, and thermos and camera in hand. He was gone just long enough for me to start getting worried, and for him to take a lot of photos.

While Tom was out exploring the unfamiliar landscape of our local area, I spent the weekend relishing some enforced rest. I took a trip home to see the family. We sat and caught up on busy lives, while I concentrated on such arduous tasks as finding the comfiest spot by the fire, and choosing my second slice of cake (gingerbread or coffeecake?) A day with family, holed up by the fire amidst a snowy scene is a pretty good way to spend a sick day. The snowball fight will have to wait ’til next time.

Just Keep Walking

Happy new year to you! It’s been welcomed in with plenty of rain, but I’m hopeful for some more cold bright days before too long. Nothing beats a windy walk up a hill, sharing the view with nothing a few disinterested sheep.

And when there’s no one else about, the trees and gates are free for climbing and hopping.

It’s going to be a busy year, but if I can just get out and jump around in the fresh air, I know I’ll keep my head.

Playing Christmas Catch-Up

Looking up at gold christmas bauble in tree — Hidden bauble on Chawton Lane

So apparently it is already mid-December, which has completely taken me by surprise. Advent has been a slow-burner this year, but I’m relishing each day all the more since I’ve realised the holidays are just around the corner! Last weekend was filled with good winter things: carol singing, Mum’s home baking, and a walk to find a tree. We didn’t get the tree; can you believe two places were sold out? So the tree will happen Thursday. And the wait is only adding to my general festive glee. Must go now, the mince pies are calling.

Rainy day discoveries

On a wet day in Winchester I discovered a leak in my boots, and the pleasing shelter of a big brolly. On our wanders we found paths turned to streams and dens made of willow; a new coffee stop where I realised the genius of biscotti, and a Dickensian book shop where I picked up the first delight of the festive season.