Winter months......

Well, my dear friends, we may be in the depths of the winter months but planning aplenty forges ahead. What to grow in the kitchen garden, of course a priority, but also many a show and tell session regarding the cutting garden as well. Dreaming of the bounteous and fruitful baskets of produce a delight to entertain these cooler months. A new trug, a gift to my lady guardian for the festive season, will no doubt provide sterling service, along with a sturdy basket to transport the wares from one estate to another. Much excitement this week regarding a larger and more sturdy wagon to transport all manner of items was purchased by our lady guardians brother in law. My, my such a joyous thing to behold. The very first journey will be to purchase some fine compost to enrich the kitchen garden, a must for any serious gardener. The benefit of the larger wagon meaning only one trip is required to transport this important produce. 

Planning also for the continued upkeep of the estate; a little like the forth bridge but we a merely keepers for our time. An old home requires love and attention on a regular basis hence the annual review of the estate, with lists drawn to prioritise the work and tradesmen required. Following on from the new windows last summer, is the internal decoration of all, yes all rooms. My guardians are modest in their requirements and therefore the walls will be freshened with paint only. New drapery is required in the dining hall and my lady guardian will set to once the material has been chosen and purchased. The estate garden as always requires upkeep and my guardians will fit this in amongst the other requirements. 

The joy of winter however is the quiet evenings spent enjoying the fruits of one's own labour; the fire burning in the grate with logs cut by ones own hand, a nourishing meal all made from one's home grown produce and the benefit for one's mind and body in ensuring the continued supply of both. February can bring some of the harshest weather therefore a plentiful larder and log shed are warming thoughts in themselves.

My lady guardian has spent these evenings fashioning a crocheted blanket for the expected first born of a colleague; with care and attention a delightful blanket is forming before our eyes. I do believe one should test these things before they are given, alas my lady guardian is most strict about this matter and keeps it firmly packaged away from my brother and I.