One more sleep......

Well, 'pon my soul, dear friends, what on earth has happened to the weather? Why one could fair float to work with the deluges of late. Our dear green and pleasant land really is a tad soggy. Give me crisp frosty weather for the festive season for nought can surplant a cold festive snap. I do so hope for a crisp Christmas Day on which to sally forth for a brisk constitutional. Alas, dear souls, me thinks one may be disappointed. The antipodeans report oddities in their own seasonsonal weather too, for they have experienced marble like hail storms in what is now their summer. Such, my dears, is life for whomsoever truly understands the weather. 

Today may have been Christmas Eve however t'was another normal professional day of toil for many of us. Thankfully, after a mad dash, skip hop and jump, I was able to attend the latter half of the Carols in the Cowshed. Such a beautiful tradition kept alive by our dear neighbouring farmer whose family have done so for many years. The joy it affords one is really quite hard to express but Christmas just is not Christmas without it. Traditional carols, mixed with new, voices raised in song, smiling faces ....Why, fair marks the beginning of the festivities for me. 

To the antipodeans, I wish an early Merry Christmas for 'tis tomorrow already today over there. We do so wish you have a lovely day and look forward to talking to you later on your day today and our day tomorrow. Now, do keep up dears......

Where ever you are, dear souls, have a very Merry Christmas and may all your wishes come true. Do also try to remember those less fortunate than yourselves for there by the grace of god go we. A moment of kindness goes a long way; a kind word, a coin, a tasty morsel and a hot drink; whatever you choose, dear souls.

Dashing and prancing, blitzing ....

Dear souls, where is the time going! Why 'tis fair galloping past at a rate that takes one's breath away.  The festive season is fast approaching and one has amazingly managed to bring together a few little contributions for the festivities. We are yet, however, to decorate for we are firm believers in waiting til mid point in December. This very eve our dear next door neighbour has been indulging the children and creating a garden winter wonderland. 'Tas to be said that one does believe that it is not just the children who enjoy decorating for their dear father has spent the last few hours enthusiastically threading endless lights on trees and across buildings, why he even has lights that emulate snow falling - so very pretty. 

We were most fortunate to receive an invitation to a delightful art exhibition this last weekend. We enjoyed some time on the day of rest perusing some very nice art indeed and chatting with our hosts, two eminant local artists. Both are hugely respected for their art and are most lovely people indeed. We do so enjoy these invitations. 

Last evening saw me cutting out two garments in preparation for another day of fun, enjoyment and sewing with my seamstress friend. The male guardian will once again be at his professional toil therefore we will spend a day in fruitful activity. Two garments have been prepared for one really cannot decide which to undertake on the day. Cutting them out in preparation will save time on the day and potentially allow one to complete a garment under the gimlet eye of my tutor, and maybe even discuss the construction of the other. My "tutor" is a strict tutor and I know the garment will be made to her usual precise standard, which is so worth the extra effort. I am really looking forward to my day of sewing, dear souls, so very much. 

Just "doing"....

Well, my dears, the last week has seen a respite from our professional toil but has not seen a respite from "doing", for there has been much to be done and, thankfully, we are reaching an end. The library has been well and truly sorted; the old favourites dusted down and repositioned, those given but not quite to one's taste repurposed and a general lightening of the groaning shelves, floor and, indeed, any surface overwhelmed by many years of avid reading. No book has gone to waste and our chosen local charity has benefitted threefold for that is the number of trips did take of the carriage to restore order. Thankfully, both the male guardian and I are of the same mind when it comes to books; no bent spines, no folded pages, dust free and always a bookmark to hand (be it, on occasions, a hastily torn snippet from a discarded periodical). Whilst it is indeed sad to be saying farewell to quite so many, it gives great pleasure to know that they will be read and enjoyed by others, plus go tward benefitting the charity's work. 

The materials have finally been chosen for the soft furnishings to cover the windows in one's bedchamber and the upper hallway and work commenced to complete them. A most delightful position to be in. The house is lighter, less cluttered and generally has space to breath after a year of sorting and "doing". Oh, how wonderful it does feel and most definitely worth the upheaval.

Tomorrow, sees the first day of  December when I am sure many a door will be eagerly opened in the run up to the festive season. Thoughts have turned to the celebratory meal and provisions checked to ensure an enjoyable but modest meal will be partaken. Once again, one will endeavour to attend the Carols in the Cowshed, professional toil allowing, for is a most enjoyable and heart warming service to remind one of the important things in life. 

Frost Moon

Well, dear souls, quite the stunning sight did I feast my eyes upon as I left my place of toil this very evening. For there, hung just upon the skyline was the most gorgeous of frost moons. Initially, appearing orange of hue, it faded to a silvery orb, complete with glistening aura, climbing high within the sky as I strode  t'ward my carriage, homeward bound. Oh the joy of such natural splendour really is quite something to behold. The air has a frosty demeanour, spiralling forth both morn and night as one ventures briskly forth. Autumn has fast begun to make way for Winter now and the landscape is once more changing with leaves of jewel bright colours a plenty upon the ground as I traverse daily, crunching through their frost laden midsts each morn, my arrival punctuated with a crisp and brittle herald. The berry laden hedges busy with chattering birds eating their fill as they hop between branches, chattering angrily at each other lest a tasty morsel be snapped from within their reach for the race is on for the survival of the fittest through our harshest season. Pheasants are abound, their raucous cries echoing across the fields and comical gate as they dart across lanes, followed by the thunderous beat of wings as they take flight, their plumage glistening as the fading rays of sun catches them. Their is much to admire and feast ones eyes upon should you be fortunate to venture forth at sunrise and before sunset in our glorious countryside, my dears.

Relishing autumn

Dear souls, 'tas been frosty these last few mornings, with fresh crisp air in which to take my morning walk to work. The simple joy this affords one really is quite hard to describe. Clear blue skies, frost encrusted scenery and plumes of white breath streaming a'fore me on my brisk journey to and fro.
A cooler climate is more suited to one's Celtic colouring. As the sun rises above the horizon, golden fire bright rays caress the land that sparkles with a million diamond facets of frost, glimmering on a sea of mellow greens, gold, browns and reds. 'Tis the land that I love and warms my heart to gaze out upon it in all it's autumn glory. Jewel bright berries are scattered through the hedgerows, skeleton seed heads standing to ghostly attention in fields and verges. Bleak, yet glorious in its suit of many changing colours, marching as it does t'ward winter. The air is sprinkled with the earthy smells of the soil, fallen leaves and fires both garden and home, spicing the air. Oh Autumn.

The clocks have turned back and all Hallows' eve have come and gone. Guys Fawkes or Bonfire night stands primed on the edge of the stage for the performance on Monday. My dears, the year fair dashes t'ward its climax. Tempts fugit as one has oft said. The language of the homemaker is all in this season of mellow fruitfulness, harvest time, "hygge" or now "coorie" from the Scottish line. Not matters where the origin emerges, for most country folk are enamoured of the gathering and preparing for a warm and cosy autumn/winter season. The log sheds are full to bursting, the larder crammed with produce, the home primed for whatever weather is to come our way through autumn on to winter, hunkering down for the onslaught. Dear souls, we are prepared and one enjoys one's favourite season with time spent in honest toil and exercise spent in our blessed countryside, where my heart belongs. Long walks, garden toil, so good for body and soul with a warm home in which to repose at the end of each day, a silent prayer for the joy in the simple pleasures of life we enjoy.

Fruitful season

The weather has been truly glorious with huge cerulean blue skies and temperatures that remain in double figures during the day yet subtle indicators of autumn abound; the leaves in the orchard are dropping  and the the colours of the countryside have changed from lush green to golden hues enhanced by reds and yellows. The smell of autumn abounds, a rich loamy decay with subtle spicey undertones of the autumn bonfire. Such a delicious, evocative scent. As dusk creeps in there is a slight nip to the air, hinting at things to come. The holly berries glow ever richer and more red as each day passes with the excited chirrup of the ever present bird life taking full advantage of such a bountiful larder. The orchard has produced so much fruit, why 'tis quite impossible to find willing takers in a county renowned for the fruit and, indeed, the produce of said fruit. An apple a day is said to keep the doctor away, why one can only imagine quite what an orchard full of the fruit can do for the male guardian and I, my dears.

The new covering of the upper floors really is quite the most delightful and feels so gloriously decadent to scrunch one's bare toes upon. Tas been a fair time arriving at the point when ''tis right  thus one takes every opportunity to enjoy the sensation. Blissful, quite blissful and in such good time for the winter months, thankfully, for there was a time that one was not quite sure 'twould be achieved. Such a long wait has truly made one appreciate that which we now have. We are indeed, most fortunate although the male guardian would be inclined to say patient and hardworking, more than fortunate. No matter for one is truly grateful and most delighted with the outcome, dear souls, most delighted indeed. 

And finally......

Well, the nights are drawing in and it begins to get dimpsey just after 5 pm and by 6:30 pm the sun is setting. Whilst it has been a gloriously warm day, the evenings are cooling and the curtains are drawn against the darkening skies. 

Since returning from our time in the Highlands it has been all hands to the deck to prepare for the last element of upheaval within our little home. Each room has been stripped of furniture and further decluttering undertaken in preparation for this last stage. Finally, we were ready and the carpet fitters descended. Oh my, what a frenzy of activity. On the first day, two rooms were completed in no time at all, then, on the second day, the remaining room plus the upper hall and stairwell were carpeted. My dears, what a delightful job they have done; it looks truly amazing. Such lovely gentlemen and most hard working.
 Be still my beating heart for I do believe it really is quite stunning. All that is left to do is to make the soft furnishings for the windows, and lo, 'tis complete. 

Having reviewed the way we live, we have decluttered and repurposed with a vengeance, including furniture we have acquired over the years, to create a more relaxed less cluttered home. Why, our dear little home has taken a deep breath and exhaled, sensing a lighter approach to the way we live. 

Mountains, moors, lochs and Ben's

We have, dear souls, spent the last week in Sutherland, the far north of Scotland, in a beautiful eco-Croft that harnesses nature to heat and power it, set in the most stunning scenery of mountains & moors, sitting on the shore of a sea Loch. It was truly stunning in its build ethos to sit naturally and unobtrusively within the environment as well as being a wonderous, peaceful haven. And oh, the peace, the glorious peace, so restful and calming that bore away the stresses and strains, allowing the mind to wander at will and appreciate nature in all it's glorious abundance. The people within this small community were warm and welcoming allowing us to enjoy the delights of their homelamd for but a short time. The weather was ever changing which was reflected in the Loch, calm as a mill pond one minute, dark and boiling the next; the colours ranging from black, grey, midnight blue, aqua and green. Skies were endless with clouds as ever changing as the Loch; white and fluffy to black and grey. Mists and rain as well as more rainbows of such brilliant hues than one has ever had the fortune to see in one week. ''Tis truly autumnal with the leaves glowing red, orange, yellow and gold against a backdrop of russet, brown and mossy green moors dotted with purple heathers and flecks of white cotton grass. On a clear night the stars were like a million brilliants with constellations well demarcated. Small coves and white beaches, moors of gold, brown and green, crashing thunderous waterfalls, rivers, and the sea, all contributing to the omnipresent sound of water. Huge rocks, towering Ben's and mountains abound as far as the eye can see. Highland cows, merlin and eagles to name but some of the wildlife spotted. I confess I do so love the highland cows in all their horned, statuesque and splendidly shaggy glory, standing firmly planted where the fancy takes them, oft in the middle of the very carriage way one is attempting to traverse. Nought shouts so loudly of Scotland to me than the vision of those glorious great beasties. How the sights and senses have been titillated with colour, fresh clean salty or peaty air, the sound of the sea, rain, wind, the crunch of sand or pebbles. Treasures of shells, sea urchins, Loch glass and feathers have been gathered creating an impromptu nature table.

We have travelled through many miles of truly breathtaking scenery, along single track roads with passing places aplenty, taken a slower pace and appreciated the measured lifestyle of highland living.

Dear reader, this part of Scotland has crept upon me and left a part of itself forever lodged deeply within my heart.

Frosty Harvest Moon

Oh my dears, what a glorious sight was the harvest moon last evening, glowing steady and bright as it rose high in the clearest of skies. A sight to behold indeed and one that issued in the first frost of the autumn season, something to delight in as one walked the few last miles to work; such a bracing and refreshing start to the day.  This evening a full moon shines bright once more, lighting our glorious countryside. Our resident owl sits nearby in our small orchard, its calls echoing across the fields,  rising and falling in intensity. Such beautiful ethereal creatures, gliding across the fields in search of a late meal or two. 

Autumn, with its coat of many colours....

Be still my beating heart, dear reader, 'tis here, the season of  "of mists and mellow fruitfulness" (Keats), "No spring nor summer hath such grace as I have seen in one autumnal face" (Donne). Why from the first day of September,  'tas gently been strolling forth, staining the sky minutes earlier each day, a cooler air as we rise and retire. The first windy day of autumn resounding to the thump of striped blush pink, yellow and rosy red apples crashing earthwards. How my nose did twitch to smell that heavenly aroma of autumn's fine presence. The leaves have begun their spectacular autumn show of many colours that shine so brightly and lift the heart. The holly hedge is laden with berries that have suddenly burst forth,  reddened to a most delightful hue that shouts out against the glossy green leaves. Even the resident squirrel has afforded us much hilarity. Why, only t'other morn he dashed across the sanctuary lawn,  catapulted himself upon the garden bench outside the large terrace windows, launching himself t'ward us only to find himself spreadeagled upon the glass. Dear reader, t'was truly  stuff of cartoon like merriment, oh how we did laugh. After righting himself and glaring most righteously, he was off again, bounding through the garden. What a delightful sight to raise the mood for the day, sheer and utter joy, my dears. 

Autumn, "liquid gold is in the air; whoever looks round sees eternity there" 
                                                                                                            John Clare

An Englishman's home is his castle

Home, such an evocative word. One that means many things to all manner of people, be it good or bad. The male guardian and I have lived upon our small estate for well over twenty good  years. 'Tis a home more than anything, not a possession to show off one's design flair, nor a symbol of one's wealth. Just simply, home. A small cottage, garden and orchard in which to relish the seasons, enjoy nature, nurturing each other and the lifestyle we hold so dear. Comfort reigns along with the ability to kick back and sniff the roses for this is life, not a rehearsal. I do so love our home, a place of sanctuary and comfort; no sharp design statements just wall to wall comfort. To love, laugh, mourn, relax and just be, for this is life; the up's, the down's, traversing the highway, growing older, somewhere to remember the good times and mourn the bad, hopefully wiser and learning to "stand and stare", "sniff the roses" and more. Somewhere to lay your head at the end of the day, to feel oneself relax as it hones into view, driving down a narrow green lane amongst glorious countryside and suddenly there it is, a small stone cottage that lifts the heart, solid and reassuring, our sanctuary, our home. Hard earned and oh, so appreciated for its solid simplicity. A door of our own to open to friends and loved ones, or to close against the storms and push the bolts home. How these walls have seen life over many years of lives lived within them. 

Where did that come from

Now, when my dear seamstress friend requested company on a foray into the world of clothes shopping I happily obliged. 'Tis most advantageous to take with one a trusted second who will direct one away from those things one has set one's heart on only to resemble something akin to that which one is trying to avoid. Thus, we set forth on a little trip bound for a nearby small city intent on visiting a particular retailer of repute. Well, dear souls, the choice, the colours, textures and fabrics, why t'were quite divine. A proverbial sweet shop. We are both ladies who adore colour and texture, not keen on the mutton dressed as lamb but not so in to one's dotage that fashion has become a byword for laxity with one's appearance. We are both of an autumn palette with some differences that separate our choices. What can one say bar there was much to draw the eye and several hours slipped by with my dear friend trying on all manner of garments and accessories. She has an unerring eye for that which goes together and her colour combinations are something to behold. I have to say dear souls, whilst spending so much time in said establishment t'would have been rude not to try the odd thing. Dear reader, somehow I came home the proud owner of a beautiful dress and quite the most gorgeous pair of shoes imaginable. 

My dear seamstress friend was fair tickled pink when the senior shop assistant asked if she could take a photograph of the dress I had worn for the occasion for 'twas made of fabric produced by said establishment. This particular establishment has a newsletter where they like to showcase customers makes using their fabrics. Such a feather in my friend's teaching cap for this was only possible due to her excellent teaching skills and patience with me. Normally, one would decline, however, the smile upon my friends face forbade me to decline on this occasion.

Much to one's delight, the male guardian was free from his professional toil today. We have spent the day pottering in our little home and garden, making steady progress on keeping all ship shape. 'Tas been a delightfully mixed day, and now, since supper has been enjoyed, we shall settle for a restful evening before it all begins again on the morrow.

Fun and laughter

Well, dear souls, what a weekend. There has been sleep, a prerequisite of a Bank Holiday weekend when one is off,  chores, gardening, baking, sewing and so much more, packed into three days. Time with one's loved one's, good friends, food, much laughter, planning, doing and, of course, fun. My, oh my it has been fun and fulsome.

'Twas such a joy to have time off with the male guardian for two whole days together, to switch off from one's professional toil, just be and enjoy each other's company. Absolutely essential to spend time away from the working environment and recharge the batteries with loved ones. Time spent on those essentials in life such as a the company of  those near and dear, to walk in our glorious countryside, enjoy unfettered fun and laughter,  is so grounding and makes one appreciate the little things in life and gives perspective to those elements of life that can be tiresome over time. 
Such bliss .

On the third day, as someone famous once said, my dear seamstress friend and I spent time on a prototype garment; a most comfortable wide legged, bib and brace jumpsuit that really is the bee's knees. It is so very comfortable and can be dressed up or down as one desires. My dear friend is just so clever at adapting patterns and ideas into garments to make one's very own style walk off the drawing board to become the desired garment. No following the usual trends but setting of our own to our own hearts desire. As one gets older, one is more happy to buck the trend and not follow on as part of the flock but to enjoy exploring the range of possibilities that enthusiasm, passion and the right tools can allow. There is also the joy of learning another skill, so good for the little grey cells and one's wardrobe, a win win situation, do you not agree.

Blissful Bank Holiday weekend

Oh, the joy of a Bank Holiday weekend, that extra elicit day to be with one's loved ones, lay on an extra moment or two and revel in the delight of being at home. Oh, how I do love them. The male guardian has two of the three days away from his professional toil and enjoy them we shall. Little matters what we shall do for 'tis the very fact we have time off together that makes the day. 

The weather is cooler, with intermittent rain and sun, the fields have been scarified and the beginnings of the next season can be felt.., with September knocking at the backdoor as Summer lingeringly passes through the front. The sound of apples dropping as the breeze blows through the orchard has once more notified us of the imminent arrival of autumn. Not two days past was the cacophony cackle of a pheasant, sure signs of a year moving on. ''Tis a favourite time of year for me and I shall make the very most of it both in and out of our home.As we sit here in our bedchamber enjoying that first cup of English breakfast tea, all that can be heard is the wind in the trees, apples dropping, and the birds as they go about their daily rituals. A time to breathe and listen to the calming sounds of the countryside.

An unexpected delay in the works upon our little home is a short hiatus that will be absorbed in to the  programme but has not stopped it, thankfully. When one is keeper of an old home the unexpected is not quite so unexpected after all these years, the joy of preserving something that has stood the test of time. 

Stitched up and bound

Dear souls, another glorious day spent in the art of the seamstress with my two dear like minded friends. Such fun and laughter to be had midst the flurry of activity and the whirring of machines. The style of the item to be made was prechosen and patterns prepared; the material had been chosen some time earlier in the summer, in such  delightful colours, well selected for each maker. Today saw the fabric, cut, sewn, bound, pressed, interfaced and lo a garment began to appear.  Dear souls, such is the expertise and skill of our dear friend that the quality of said garments really is above and beyond that which one would have hitherto achieved. Two very satisfied people have only the finishing to undertake and yet another garment will be complete, each fitting their maker perfectly. The gimlet eye of our dear friend and tutor ensures no stitch is left unpicked if her high standards are not achieved thus ensuring the very best of quality. Once the finishing is complete and a final press undertaken, will said garment be complete, for 'tis the pressing that is so vital throughout the procedure. The joy of producing such a garment to be proud of is second only to the delight of being so skilfully tutored by our dear friend and colleague.

The Gardeners answer to the Swiss Army knife

Now, the Swiss Army knife is a much lauded piece of equipment for good reason. It is THE piece of equipment for those in the know when outward bound or indeed just outside. Over many years, the male guardian and I have utilised many a piece of garden machinery and lo, dear souls, we believe we have found our own gardeners equivalent to the Swiss Army knife. Now, we are all different and what suits one will not another so we fully understand if you do not agree. This little gem is a multitasker and oh, how it doth deliver; grass is strimmed, the brush is cut, the hedges trimmed, branches cut, both low down and on high. What an invaluable addition to one's armoury as a country dweller. The garden really is benefitting from this little gem, as there is nought so enjoyable than that which delivers or "does what is says on the tin". In times past we have used equipment that has come with all guns blazing only to fail as it quickly becomes apparent that it really is not as robust as advertised - most disappointing, is it not. As I gaze upon our small estate, I can see the evidence of what this Gardeners Swiss knife equivalent has  achieved with crisp yew hedges, grass/brush free banks, tidy orchard, etc, and am most satisfied to have finally found this solid little worker that is such a joy to use. It is one of those fundamental pieces of equipment, rather like a drone bee, that goes about its work without fanfare yet one returns to time and time again because it delivers. One can only hope you find your own Gardeners equivalent for it will revolutionise your gardening day.

Dawn and Dusk

Where, dear souls, is this year going? One blinks and finds oneself midway through August already? I really do not know quite where time has gone. 'Tis fair to say that dusk is creepy slowly earlier as each day passes; why, does not seem like yesterday that 'twas light til gone ten in the evening and yet, here we are, with darkness upon us at same time this very eve. Tempts fugit, dear souls, tempts fugit. 

As I sit to write this missive, the male guardian is at his professional toil and the rain, yes, rain can be heard drumming upon the external surfaces of our home. ''Tis much needed for the ground remains dry and plants are thirsty. The morrow is also said to bring more rain and touches of thunder, all adding to the feeling of moving on in the season. 

The planned works continues on our small estate with workmen booked for the last aspect of our home's upgrade before carpets can be laid, well in time for autumn. Work has commenced on trimming the yew hedges and generally keeping the garden tidy. 

The countryside around us has seen a mass of activity to gather the harvest which is now all safely stored. The sounds and smells of harvest time are quite the sweetest and so evocative of one's childhood spent helping on the farm. Oh, how I do love it.

Storm clouds

I do not know about you, but being a keen gardener and of Celtic colouring, I am more than a little grateful for the band of rain that has settled over us this last few days. The temperature has dropped a little, cold it is not, but enough to make working bearable, and the garden is thirstily absorbing every drop. Dear old Blighty has been crisply brown for sometime now. Let us hope this last cloud or two reverses this, particularly for the farming community who are struggling with crops and feed for livestock. 

Whilst ''tis barely August, the autumn is beginning to encroach with blackberries forming big juicy berries and, oh my, the orchard. Well, dear souls, twill be a bumper crop that is for sure. The wind that has accompanied the rain has dropped quite a number of apples that the male guardian and I have diligently spent clearing, all the better for keeping the lawns in order. Wind drop will barely dent the crop which has grown significantly with the rain. 

We continue the work on our home and, at last, there is an end is sight, thankfully.

One maintains one's fascination with the people watching and continues to find it all very amusing. Shakespeare barely described the many faces of man, nor woman, in his seven ages of man for there is naught so complex as humanity; my recommendation is to face the mirror and ask what one's own contribution added to or subtracted from the situation. Generally, people are prepared to accept that which added, but rarely acknowledge that which detracts for ''tis a telling thing to undertake to look into one's own behaviour with honesty. Dearie me dear souls, let us hope that the evolution of man continues in the right direction. Fascinating, do you not agree, simply fascinating. One has had the most delightful opportunity to be asked-to observe, discuss and assess people's behaviour in a professional undertaking of late and 'tas, dear souls, been a most fascinating time. Why, to be able to undertake this sort of thing and be paid for it really is the bee's knees. 

Now...

Now, my dears, you may be thinking that one's post can be a little melancholy of late, but one is a keen observer of humanity and rarely does this encroach upon one's psyche. Yes, there have been times when one finds the actions of man incomprehensible, but there is little that one does not observe, review and move on from. That, dear friends, is life and life goes on. I am a firm believer, as you may be aware, of the healing nature of home (being one's sanctuary), the cyclical rhythms of the seasons, nature in all its glory, and most importantly, loved ones. Add to this plenty of laughter, music, a good book or two, a comfortable armchair, one's latest project (for one must have a little something on the go), a plentiful supply of a fine English tea and a full bodied fresh coffee, a little tasty savoury morsel, or a fine homemade slice of cake. My dears, the list is endless. 

Essentially, my musings are merely observations on life. One hopes the message is clear, this is what makes life's rich tapestry, and how very interesting it all is. I cannot imagine a life without observation for is this not what we all do? We watch, hopefully, we learn, we understand, we ignore, we adapt that which we have seen; all part of the lessons in life. So very, very fascinating.

The male guardian is, alas, once more toil bound and I am continuing the seemingly forth bridge project that encapsulates the painting of the woodwork. 'Twill, that said, be a most delightful sight once complete. An occasion one heartily looks forward to. Thus, dear friends, one must continue,  rather than dallying here any longer......

Oh, dearie me.......

Dear souls, I am so very sad for we have come to the end of the male guardian's time off and he returns to his professional toil on the morrow. It has been an extraordinarily peaceful time off together, away from the stresses and strains of professional life, the constant encroachment of want over need, targets and agenda's that really have nothing to do with toil. It is a strange world we live in, my dears, and the longer one is in it, the firmer one believes in the gorgeously apt saying of the north, "there's nowt so queer as folk". People really are rather naively complex and a few days away from it all has been a panacea to all ills. To spend time in an all together different calm and peaceful environment is so very good for the soul; to breathe fresh country air, feel the sun on one's skin, to walk barefoot on grass, the dawn chorus, a body weary from an all together different toil, and, most importantly, enjoy the company of those we love. Absolute unadultered joy, held close to one's heart, such that memories are made of. 

Peace and quietude

'Tas been a busy week for the male guardian and I have been most fortunate to have a day or two away from our professional toil and oh, what a joy 'tas been. Tucked quietly away in our country home, only venturing forth as necessary, peaceful and calm. Slightly cooler weather than the previous few weeks, much to one's relief for we have continued to make headway with the planned works. We have enjoyed waking at a more leisurely time, and taking time to sniff the roses as it were. 
A morning cup of tea taken in one's bedchamber, curtains thrown back and windows wide, the dawn chorus in full swing, gazing across golden fields - such a joyous start to one's day. Mind and bodies free from the usual routines, such bliss. 

The planned works continue, my dears, but we are making good headway. We are most pleased with the chosen colours for they are of a palette that is most complimentary to this old home of ours. Being off together lent us the opportunity to review choices for the covering of the floors, and oh, my, my there are many. Thankfully, the male guardian and I are similar in out taste and practicality, narrowing choices fairly easily. All that remains is for the chosen establishments to come and "measure up", then submit their quotes. In the meantime, the last of the workmen required to finish the project have been booked. Once this remaining piece of work is complete, the flooring can be laid upon agreement of quotes and dates. Oh, happy days,  for the end is in sight and, if all goes to plan, well in advance of autumn and winter which will be most pleasing. 

Yesterday, we took some time to walk by the sea. We packed a small picnic and enjoyed this light repast as we sat a while, taking in the sights, sounds and smells of the beach that we had chosen to stop awhile at. How I do enjoy the rhythmic sound of the sea, so mesmerisingly soothing. The journey home across the countryside afforded a delightful walk to stretch one's legs and an opportunity to stand and stare. Not another soul to be seen, just the breeze whispering through the leaves, the rustle of small creatures in the undergrowth and the muffled sound of our feet upon the floor of the tree lined way. Truly a blissful, blissful day. 

Brush and needle

Today, dear souls, has been a most productive day for the male guardian has taken up the brush. The stairwell ceiling and walls now bear testament to his diligence and a most delightful sight they are too. Such a becoming shade, a continuance of the upper hallway, so right for an old building such as that in which we reside. A further coat on each is required, but nonetheless we are most pleased with the progress, most pleased.

I have also taken the opportunity to undertake a little sewing in an attempt to replicate the skills I have been taught by my dear seamstress friend. Thus, I have nigh completed a summer dress, lined with complimenting fabric and merely requiring the hem and the sleeves to be completed. I am most delighted with the garment, for my dear friend has taught me well.  Such a testament to her skills as both a seamstress and teacher, for one would ne'er have gotten thus far without such exceptional talents, for which I am most grateful indeed.

The complex mind

It is, without a doubt, my dears, the most interesting part of life, to stand and stare.  The minutiae of life really is quite fascinating if one is remotely interested in humanity, and there is much, dear souls, to observe. One subscribes to the theory of Carl Rogers and unconditional positive regard in one's fields of contact, nurturing the characteristics in others that are believed to form the five aspects of a fully functioning individual. As with much in humanity, it is rarely a smooth path, which can test the positive regard of many an individual. The self concept of those being nurtured is influenced by life experience and the interpretation of those experiences which can be influenced by many things, which, in turn, lead to the states of congruence or incongruence. Over many years, I have been most fortunate to have been in a position to be able to observe humanity at its best, and its worst, forming a sound knowledge and experience of how communities of people interact. Acknowleding the potential for being an understatement worthy of jest is stratospheric, but simple facts are facts; humans are complex and the direction we aim to achieve is that which directs us toward the good life. 
Sadly, the many influencing stressors we meet along the way can detract from the direction of achievement. A safe haven in which to explore and learn is vital, however, needs but one incongruent defender to threaten it's existence, to create an altogether different environment. The ability to step back and see the bigger picture when aiming for the good life is a rare thing, but one that is a large part of self actualisation. How humans do suffer over the complexities of simple theories of nature or nurture, rarely understanding the basic concept of solid foundations in psychological growth; many unable, or unwilling, to scale the complexity of the human psyche, fully grasp those characteristics that create self actualisation for themselves, nor nurture it for others. It is an exhausting business, dear souls, dealing with the mind and body of those one comes into contact with, for they are many and varied. 

Thankfully, one can ride the peaks and troughs of life's rich tapestry and still see the good in humanity. One is all to grateful for the love of one's family and the solid foundations this has allowed one to create. Rest and recuperation are a most vital practice and one that, to maintain one's sanity, is religiously planned. The joy of attaining one's personal safe haven and utilising every moment to re-evaluate and rebalance cannot be stressed enough. 

"Life is simple, the complexities within it have to do with the motive of the human being/s" resounds in all but a few walks in life. Human beings, that complex cohesion of cells creating life, as we know it.

Weather conundrum for harvest

Hmm, a little conundrum; a colleague and I were discussing a comment she had heard about the weather we are currently experiencing; should one describe it as a "heatwave," or simply "summer"? Well, what a discussion point indeed for the English, such is our obsession with the weather. Hmm, indeed. 

The temperature has continued to rise, with 31 degrees yesterday and something akin to that this very day. The fields around us have continued to turn a ripe golden colour, and lo, this very day the harvest has begun. The air is now redolent with the warm, ripe aroma of ripened harvest, a sweet delicious scent reminiscent of one's childhood spent helping on the farm. Oh, how I do love harvest time. Let us hope the current weather holds 'til the harvest be safely gathered in. 

Light refreshment....

Such bliss to walk in summer rain for 'tis, on the whole, warm, light and refreshing. One really did enjoy one's homeward bound journey today for, after such scorching temperatures of late, it was indeed a delight to march along whilst receiving a gentle warm shower of summer rain. We have been most fortunate, my dears, to have had a number of bursts of rain today and oh, how the garden has absorbed it. The temperature remains warm and the forecast consistently positive but a little respite for the garden is a must. Added to this was the drop in temperature last night as a preamble to the main event today. Oh, how blissful it was to finally be able to sleep, such delightful comfortable sleep. How we do so enjoy that gloriously satisfying deep sleep, leaving one refreshed and able to face the day with a spring once more in the step. High temperatures for prolonged periods really are quite exhausting, particularly in a country such as dear old Blighty, that really is not used to it. One can only hope that the overnight temperature remains conducive to another night's restful slumber.

It ''twas whilst out and about with my sewing bee friends recently that one espied oneself in a mirror in the fabric retail establishment we were visiting. It has to be said dear souls, I was fair astonished to see that one had acquired a healthy light tan, much to my amazement. Being a fair skinned redhead, one generally does not tan, merely acquires freckles with a decent coating of factor 50 sunscreen atop for good measure. But lo, before me, staring back in quite an astonished manner was my very own tanned face. The hilarity that ensued at the dawning realisation really was quite amusing. I have however been making my daily walk for well over a year now and feel so much happier and healthier for it. Not only has it benefitted one's pocket, but one's mental and physical health too, therefore what is not to like. Walking really is a most advantageous and enjoyable pastime. The weather has not deterred me bar one day in winter when the snow and ice abound; I stepped upon a very icy surface indeed, ending up flat on my back, teeth jarring together when I received a mighty head butt from the piece of ground I was walking upon. The stars and flashing lights went on for a few days accompanied by an almighty headache. That day I was most grateful for the transportation I received to my professional toil. 'Tas not, however, my dears, deterred me and I remain a fervent supporter of such a simple and enjoyable form of exercise. All the better to enjoy the glorious countryside we are most fortunate to reside in.

Fabric retail.......

One has been most fortunate to have another delightful day with my sewing bee friends. We spent some time in a little old market town a mere thirty minutes away in the carriage from our little estate. We had purposely made the journey to visit a most delightful fabric retail shop. Deary me, the choice, the colours, oh my, my, sheer bliss. All three left said shop with a little something or more to be delighted with. I have no doubt dear reader, we shall return, before err long, for there was much to delight the eye for the dress and home maker, so very much. After a number of hours browsing both dress and furnishing fabrics, we rested a while and enjoyed a most welcome cup of something, a very welcome refreshment indeed. The three of us are rather fond of independent retailers who offer something a little different and were not disappointed in this lovely little market town. We did venture forth once more and found ourselves in one such shop where we all three fell for a pair of shoes apiece (thankfully, all completely different styles). Sense however prevailed for two of us, despite the pair one coveted oneself being quite the most beautiful and comfortable shoes one had ever had the joy to try. One could not, however, justify in any way the cost, for one's eyes watered on espying the price tag. Such a sad, sad moment, my dears, for they were a feast for both the eyes and feet; never before had a pair of shoes fitted so well and felt so right but, a second glance at the price tag saw one wisely return them whence they sat. The beautiful leather and cashmere goods were to die for but one's conscience could not allow it. Practicality will out, and there is much left to do upon the estate.

On our return, after a short interval and light repast, we set to and completed the garment that been started a week or so ago at our last Sewing Bee meeting. The male guardian arrived as we were finalising the double stitched hems and sensibly took himself off in to the orchard to bask in the sunshine with a restorative cup of tea and a little something to nibble. He did not wish to reprise his previous experience of three twittering ladies in various stages of undress before him as he unexpectedly arrived home. Far too early in the day for such displays, my dears. 

These days are such a joy and others are already in the planning stages. New patterns are being sought for the fabrics purchased and much discussion and debating will ensue. Further little outings will also feature, for information purposes, you understand. One really should do one's research do you not agree. 

Oh, my.......

Oh my, dear souls, for 'tis warm, oh my it is. Dear old Blighty is ablaze with sunshine and, sadly, we are also seeing what the Australians would term "bush fires" on the moors of the north. Saddleworth has been ablaze for days and the poor people living in the surrounding area are suffering. Stirling efforts by the Firefighters and armed forces can be seen on a daily basis across the media to keep things contained. Sadly, the reportings are nearly always accompanied by stories of foolish people happy to literally inflame the situation. Take heart dear souls of the north for we are with you in spirit, if not physically, and can only hope for an early end to it for you.

The land is dry and parched, with the sanctuary garden showing great patches of brown lawns. One cannot remember when it last rained, and the water butt levels are lowering. Why, fair reminds me of summers of my childhood spent strawberry and black currant picking to earn a penny or two.

Maintaining the Estate

What glorious weather, dear souls, big blue skies and, deary me, bloomin' hot for working in. The male guardian and I were most keen to catch up with some jobs that required doing upon the estate. Today happened to be one of the days that we actually had time off together and oh, my, my was it warm. The male guardian cut the lawns and we undertook a "trim" on the hedge that marks the boundary between our sanctuary garden and the orchard type field of our neighbours. Well, my dears, 'tis done and very elegant it does look. The sun beat down relentlessly upon us as we worked and, despite a most sensible covering of factor 50 sunscreen, I am sure there are a number more freckles upon my face than were there this very morning. The horse flies rose up and most determined they were to enjoy a feed upon my fair skin but I was most fortunate to be in the possession of a skin cream given to me by my dear twin sister, made from Australian sandalwood. Three bites were duly treated and my legs covered in said cream. Well, what an amazing little tube of delight for one cannot even see where the bites were and the dreaded itching has not ensued. Hm, I must thank my dear twin sister for a very affective cream it has turned out to be indeed, for anything that copes with the dreaded horse fly bite is a must in one's armoury if one resides in the country as we do.

The sanctuary garden is now bordered by a delightfully crisp hedge and we are once more able to appreciate the hills in the distance, the small man made lake and much more. The lawns are trim and tidy and everything in the garden is rosy. 

After such hot work, a cool shower, fresh, clean clothing and a little light repast was all that was required. How happy we are to have spent our day in physical work to maintain our home. Whilst the male guardian treats himself to something sweet, I am enjoying a small bowel of the most luscious cherries; oh my goodness, how I do love cherries. The season is short so that, thankfully, the male guardian is not a fan. How fortunate am I, dear friends, how fortunate indeed. 

The longest day

Well, my dears, the longest day has come and gone all too swiftly. One has, however, made good use of the light before it begins to fade by a few minutes each day, and will continue to do so for as long as possible. The painting has thus come on in leaps and bounds, the second and third coats applied each evening after one had returned from one's professional toil, and the male guardian was away toiling. It is a most beguiling colour of many shades, dependent on the time of day and light. One is really rather pleased with it. White, flat sheen woodwork will complement it in a way that is becoming to this old house and some, yet to be found, material destined for the window coverings. Why it really is quite exciting my dears.

The male guardian and I have spent a relaxing morning before he was once more duty bound to his professional toil. Once he had departed, the winter bedding was collected from one's niece in the dry cleaning establishment she runs most efficiently in the small local town and is now airing on the line, absorbing the sunshine. The cashmere, inherited from one's late mother, has been hand washed and is lain upon a flat surface to dry outside, in preparation for careful storage before the winter months arrive. The linen is flapping in the breeze and windows are wide. I am also assisting a colleague in drying rose petals for her impending wedding, such is the plentiful supply from ones garden, and am duly keeping an eye on their progress as I enjoy a restorative cup of tea before once more donning one's overalls to return to the task of painting woodwork. As busy as a bee, dear souls, for there is much to do and enjoy in this life and I am making the most of the fine weather whilst one can for 'tis, after all, good old Blighty. 

Summer fruits

Whilst 'tas been a while since we have had time off together, it was finally achieved for the male guardian and I over the last few days, thankfully. One has oft commented on the simple pleasures, and 'twas these simple things one looked forward to during this precious time. The ability to lie on past our normal hour of rising, partaking of a leisurely breakfast together, and choosing how to spend our days. Inevitable chores were undertaken, along with tasks upon the list of projects to complete the upper floor of our home. More ceilings and walls have been painted, the latter in a most becoming and restful shade that will be complemented by white woodwork. The spectrum of colours available to choose from has grown exponentially over the years and there are some very becoming shades to suit an old country property such as ours. As with all things, it takes time, interspersed as it is with our professional toil. 'Twill be most satisfying when the jobs are completed and the upper floor is much updated, something that has long been on our list of things to do.

The estate gardens have also received some attention, weather permitting, for 'tas been overcast but warm and drizzling; that light, refreshing warm drizzle that is most welcome on a sticky, warm day spent decorating the upper floor. It is most delightful to see the roses, peonies, nepeta, hydrangeas and all coming in to their own, what a glorious sight to behold. 

The range of vegetables and fruit available is at its finest and one does confess to making the most of the fruitful time of the year. Why, the larder is fair overflowing with all manner of healthy options to choose from, much to one's delight. Good, simple food to fuel one through the various projects one is involved in, inbetween which one is gradually making headway on the summer cardigan for my seamstress friend - I have at times feared ''twas in jeopardy of becoming a rather cool winter garment, which really would not do, dear souls, dear me no. 

Sewing Bee?

Do three people make a sewing bee? Hm, a literate conundrum but ne'er mind for one is required to rise early to prepare for a day of patterns, fabric, lessons, laughter, lunch and fun. Two ironing boards and irons, three machines, sometimes an over locker, three pairs of glasses (for we are all ladies, ahem, over the age of consent, shall we say), scissors, pins and all the ecoutraiment required for such a day, as well as the all important yards, or should that be metres, of fabric, washed and ironed in preparation. A little something for a light lunch is always on the agenda, therefore, some rather lovely cheeses from the local delicatessen are placed in the larder upon the cheese board, lush baby plum tomatoes of quite the sweetest taste sat in a bowl beside the cheese, and further light morsels make up  the lunch preparations. Good tea and coffee are a must, as well as a slice or so of homemade cake to go with our afternoon refreshments. Joining all of these things is the prescence of two good friends. There are few rules for the day bar the banning of talk about our professional toil for this is a day to forget we are professionals and have fun and laughter. So good for the soul, and a bonus for one's wardrobe and skill set. What, dear souls, is not to like.

As the day wend on, it was clear 'twas a good day for some, t'others struggled, but our seamstress friend kept us moving forwards with laughter, merriment, and patience in abundance. The quick unpick was yielded on more than one occasion, needles threaded and re-threaded, highs and lows came and went. At the unexpected early arrival of the male guardian a state of mass undress was a near miss as we tried on our garments in various stages of completion. Dear man, patience is his middle name and he idled in the front hallway awhile whilst our en masse deshabille was corrected. There is little left to complete bar the use of the overlocker, hems and cuffs to complete for which a date has been set. Despite the anxst this particular fabric caused, we are nearly there. We have learnt some new skills, understand the complexity of fabric a little better and certainly are aware of the experience of our dear seamstress friend who patiently guided us through this particular garment, for which we are extremely grateful. After a restorative cup of fresh coffee and a little morsel of tasteful moreishness, they were on their way to their respective homes. Such a delightful way to spend one's downtime, in the company of likeminded friends, ending the day in the company of the male guardian who is so delightfully charming to one's friends. One is most fortunate indeed in the choice of one's soulmate, do you not agree.

Technology and tasks

Whilst one is not perhaps the most technical of people, I do so enjoy some of the advantages my electronic devise does afford me. Whilst my darling twin sister and her partner live, literally, half the world away, I was able to enjoy their company for several hours this very morning whilst the male guardian is at his professional toil once more. Oh, how we did laugh, gossip, plan and reminisce. How the time did fly for there was so much to discuss. Sat comfortably with a large cup of English breakfast tea within reach and the ever present garment on the needles; tempus fugit indeed. My dears, it really is just the ticket. The picture was as clear as if they were sat in the same room and the joy of shared hilarity so much nicer when one can see the mirrored enjoyment in their faces. Oh, how I did enjoy it, why, it fair set me up for the day.

Alas, one's chores awaited but, much boosted, they were soon complete as the mind wandered  joyfully over our conversations as I worked. A trip to the small local town for some necessities did not take long and preparations for a day with my elite sewing bee are well underway for we meet on the morrow. During my visit for necessities, I took the opportunity to pop in to the small, but perfectly stocked, fabric shop. Oh, dear, dear, for they have had new stocks and the choice of summer fabrics is quite amazing. The will power was sorely tested but thankfully one did not buckle under the strain, merely memorised information filed for later use, as one does. Such a riotous palette of colours and patterns, I have no doubt, dear souls, that the next visit may not go so well.

One was required to visit the dry cleaners where one's niece runs a very tight ship indeed and provides a very admirable service to her local customers, with a prompt and reliable service. Then on to the most important hardware store for necessities and a tempting bunch of sweet Williams. My dear late Father used to grow them when I was a child and my late Mother always appreciated a bunch or two when in season. A resplendent bunch now sits in one's home emitting the most evocative spicy, sweet scent of years gone by. Alas, dear souls,  one must not sit idling for there are cakes to bake and supper for the male guardian to prepare therefore on, on is the motto of the moment. 

Progress

Dear reader, no sooner had one finished a garment than thoughts of others were soon to be seen drifting through one's head. Thus found me, the very next day, cutting out not one, but two dresses in preparation for a little light crafting.  My dears, those skills which one had so diligently learnt were put to the test, but one has been taught well and no calamities ensued. This evening, after cleaning away one's decorating ensemble, the trusty sewing machine was bought forth. Dear souls, just three hours later all that was left to do was the hem of a summer dress, designed to keep one cool. I am uncertain who is more delighted, my dear seamstress friend who taught me or myself. Oh dear me, this is such a delightful pastime, the possibilities are endless. 

The painting continues, and will continue a while yet before 'tis complete, but one can already see the effect. T'will mean some furniture chess to ensure all rooms are undertaken, especially to have new floor coverings laid, but ''tis a small price to pay to have the upper floor of our home as has been long envisaged. Alas, one's home is rather like the fourth bridge, no sooner than you have completed, than you are required to start again. Thankfully, as the male guardian and I tend towards the classic items, new furniture is not required and one has long been able to produce curtains and blinds.

Our dear neighbour, who adjoins our land, has returned the front boundary to its original status and taken down a rather large, unruly and somewhat unsightly hedge planted by a predecessor. It's removal has opened up the view as ''twas originally built and oh, the difference 'tas made. 
The garden is blooming with blooms abound; the roses are glorious, acquilegia are everywhere with the hydrangeas preparing for the supporting act. Oh, how I do love a English country garden, especially one that we can now appreciate from every room. 

The joy of Completion

I have, dear souls, completed the summer dress I started last weekend. My dear seamstress friend did spend the morning with me overseeing the completion, and finishing, of said garment. As, always, I find her tweaking of a garment invaluable for a tuck here, a correction there and one has the perfect fit. I feel myself most fortunate to spend time in her company, for not only does she have a quick mind and sharp wit, she is a most diligent teacher. If she asks to see something, one really does feel that twist of anxiety, but knows that a job well done will be praised and, those a little less than perfect, will elicit the most practical and helpful of advice and guidance to make it right. As she was taught by her Mother, I am being taught by her, that good finishing of a garment is de rigeur. Once complete, one is required to press the garment one final time, then don it and stand, twist, turn and sit under the gaze of the perfectionist. It is however this attention to detail and perfectionist stance that ensures one is left with a garment that one is proud to wear and, importantly, will last for many years, if cared for correctly. One's wardrobe has grown exponentially since we commenced our sewing soiress and most enjoyable they are too. Oft times, it is peaceful and quiet with all bar the combined thrum of two or three machines bent on the production of a garment apiece, other times there is a tuition talk and, at others, the delightful chatter and laughter of people enjoying the company of like minded people. A simple, but practical pastime, spent in the presence of like minded people, how very civilised, my dears.  

Busy, busy.....

Well, dear souls, once more one has been busy and productive, aside from one's professional toil. Painting, sewing, gardening as well as the ubiquitous garment growing upon the needles. Windows have been thrown wide to take the very best possible advantage of the glorious weather we have been experiencing and, oh, such a glorious time 'tas been. One really does enjoy being busy, for one has a proclivity for getting things done. The garden has well and truly burst into life and the fledgling yew hedge has put on such a spurt of growth that there is a palpable difference in height. The delightful and architectural thistle, recently planted, has also put on growth and already 'tis attracting bees in good numbers, much to one's joy. We are unfurling from our particularly long winter to enjoy every moment possible of a British summer. As long, my dears, as the temperature does not suddenly increase exponentially, for that would just not do.

My dear seamstress friend and I spent a delightful day cutting out garments and sewing over the weekend, whilst the male guardian was at his professional toil. Three garments cut out to practice one's cutting skills and a new summer dress commenced in a most becoming fabric. My dear friend completed a garment in half the time it took oneself to complete the top of the new summer dress. One can only dream of such expertise and speed. 

Another day was spent painting, painting, painting and we are nearing completion, whence the production of the soft furnishings commence. Regular watering of garden planters now feature as a regular requirement with the promise of great rewards in due course. 

No doubt the Australian contingent of the family are lamenting the decrease in the temperature, marching as they are t'ward winter as we do Summer, with June in barely a week's time. It is, however, notable that temperatures largely appear on par in both countries. One does so like the temperature we are currently experiencing, so comfortable in which to work, do you not agree.

Productivity

The male guardian and I have had a most productive time over the few days of the weekend, going hither and thither, cross county's and back. 'Tas been busy, it has to be said but, as the saying goes, "if you want something done, ask a busy person". The upper floor of our dear home is beginning to take shape and these last few days have seen a fresh coat of paint upon ceiling and walls of a most becoming and restful shade. Fabric for one set of windows has been chosen from a rather delightful outlet specialising in fabrics and awaits one's ministrations, along with delivery of some blackout fabric, for 'tis most important when someone undertakes night duty to reproduce that darkened environment in which to partake of restful sleep. Since I last undertook a soft furnishing project of this type, new devices have been produced to ensure a smooth rise and fall of a roman blind, so much nicer than fiddling with hooks, string and the like. My dears, the joy of an hour, ahem, or two, spent considering fabric is such a delightful pastime. Oh, I did enjoy myself but the choice, dear souls, the choice really was so difficult. Bolts of beautiful fabric did so dazzle the eyes, one felt like a child in the proverbial sweet shop, however, one finally made one's choice, purchasing enough to create two roman blinds. An added bonus was the dress fabric section; I do believe a return visit will shortly be on the cards.

The garden has also received our ministrations; the lawns neat and tidy, some new containers purchased and filled with an assortment of potential, a few new plants selected and each spot for them carefully considered before planting. Oh, the delights of a garden, however, residing in the country as we do, we are oft visited by the local wildlife. Once again, we have been visited by a member of the Brock family and well, where do we start. As a species they are most strong indeed but also have an inherent foraging tendency that has seen the estate lawns come to resemble a forest floor after the wild boar have been through. No, dear reader, 'tis not a good look for the lawn, for it has been left pockmarked and cratered in their wake. Typically, they have ignored the actual orchard, where one would not mind, and gone straight for the lawns. Ah, well, dear souls; the joys of living in the country are many and varied I do believe. Infinitely smaller than the Kangaroos that visit my dear twin sister's garden and for that I am most grateful. Imagine the size of the holes if a badger were the size of a kangaroo. Oh, my, my, we are thankful for small mercies, my dears. 

Glorious Bank Holiday

Dear souls, what a glorious Bank Holiday we have had the good fortune to experience. Vast blue skies, not a cloud to be seen  and warmth such as we have not seen for many a month. The annual May Fair, for which the local village is renowned, will have had a most advantageous benefit from such glory for 'twas most busy when the male guardian and I did show our support. The crowds were plentiful, the artisans many and there were some most happy faces indeed returning to their carriages, purchases a plenty.

May is a beautiful month here in this county. The hedges and banks are full of frothy cowparsley in abundance, the wild garlic in all its pungent glory abounds, fields are green with tractors busily to ing and froing across them. There are new leaves emerging in all their acid green splendour and apple blossom in the orchard. The wildlife is at large full of the joys of spring.  Oh, such a vast glorious landscape of sheer natural beauty. 

Work continues intermittently on our small estate; the male guardian and I are pacing ourselves through the ongoing phases. The delight in completing each section is immense and the knowledge of a job well done, most rewarding. In between the various works, we are enjoying the estate gardens and endeavouring to keep them in order. The draw of ones garden on a sunny day really is immense and one I do confess has gotten the better of us at times. Meals al fresco, or wiling away the hours, what is not to like. Simple pleasures, my dears, but ones that give such happiness.

Colour conundrums and weaving wonders

Well, indeed, my dears, for we are at a most exciting time in the works on the dear old home; yes, 'tis the colour, fabric, texture and weave section that sets many a ladies heart alight. There is still some work to be done but starting early when making ones deliberations for the soft furnishings and carpeting is such a sensible proposal. The electronic device has been oh, so helpful in the investigation of textiles, carpeting and paint samples. Why, one can order the most delectable of free samples to be delivered directly to one's door, such a miracle of modern technology and so time saving. One just unlocks the parcel box at the end of a day spent at one's professional toil and lo, as if by magic, a little packet of some delightful samples have arrived. I do so like this type of shopping, dear souls, for what is not to like. 

The ground floor of our home comprises hard flooring, largely due to the simple fact of living in the country which requires robust, hardwearing flooring that can withstand all types of traffic of the two and, indeed, four legged variety. Thus, a simple brush and mop restores its glory in the blink of an eye. A number of rather lovely rugs are deployed in the main rooms for warmth and comfort but can equally take a good amount of hard usage. The second floor however, is a slightly different story bar rooms set aside for ones ablutions. One really does regard these as utility areas thus, hard flooring is once again deployed and the mop and bucket reign. For other second floor areas, one still believes in value for money and most definitely robust but a softer approach is taken. 

One has made diligent use of the electrical device to review the plethora of paints and colours on offer, and oh, my, my, there are many. A most sensible option has been the introduction of the tester pot and I do believe may help the male guardian and I in our choice. There is nought so sensible as being able to coat a section of wall in a chosen colour to be able to appreciate the interplay of light throughout a day to gain perspective on the appropriateness of one's choice. I am inordinately fond of the chalky colours, so suitable for an old building such as the one in which we reside and have made a considered choice of colour to try. A tester pot was purchased and test patches painted, awaiting the male guardian's verdict on the 'morrow. Oh, the suspense, dear souls, the suspense. Added to this is the postal delivery of fabric samples that are eagerly awaited. The joy in making this final push really is palpable for 'tas been long awaited and we fully intend to enjoy it, my dears. Onwards, therefore, onwards and keep the momentum going til all is complete. 

Spring weather

Well, my dears, what a glorious week we had last week. The temperature rose, the sun came out, all was balmy and lo, the garden burst forth. There it was in all its fresh green finery, honesty flowers in their purple and white frothy glory, plum and cherry blossom, with a smattering of apple thrown into the mix. The euphorbia bracts are zinging in acid green against the dark red and green of the leaves on the rose, all underpinned by the yellow and cream daffodils and narcissi. The sound of spring is alive with bumble bees bimbling about, their deep drone reverberating as they go and  the tweeting of the birds. All the while overlaying the sound of tractors and garden machinery frantically working to catch up any time lost due to the previous wet weather. Such a delightful time to be in one's garden., Oh how one does just love it. 

All very much respite from the schedule of works from the workmen. Oh, the upheaval, dear souls, the upheaval. Quite how it appears to involve every room in the house is beyond me but there 'tis. One must keep one's eye firmly on the prize and retain one's sense of humour in situations such as 'tis. 

The male guardian and I are delighted by the continued visitations from a charming gentleman who has been visiting us for some years. He is impeccably dressed in the colours of the autumn and winter seasons and really is a sweetie. Of late, the male guardian and I have noticed that he appears to be gathering a following of rather lovely ladies. First there was the one, swiftly followed by another, and now, my dears, there appears to be five in all. It has to be said, Cedric really is most charming; he ushers the ladies into the garden ahead of him and duly keeps a watchful eye as they partake of a light morsel. Throughout the visit he chatters and coos away to them in a most becoming tone, only becoming strident if he senses danger and one of his ladies is dawdling. He raises himself to his tallest and lets out a warning shout. 

Cedric and his ladies are pheasants, and along with the blackbirds, thrushes, robins and more who do share our small estate with us. 'Tis the season of breeding and procreation, no doubt the reason for Cedric's rather charming entourage. The male guardian and I were also very happy to see the return of a pair of Swans to the small lake behind us. Such a delightful ethereal sight to see. We really are quite lucky with the wildlife that visit us and hope to do so for many a year to come.

Something in the woodpile

Well, my dears, the peace and somnambulistic ritual of life on our little estate has been well and truly shattered over the last few days for we have once more had workmen in the house. The preparation, the undertaking and the clear up are inevitably an upheaval but are the beginnings of a programme of works scheduled across the year to maintain our old home for generations to come. The positive side of this is the aforementioned reviewing and repurposing of the contents of one's home for it has been the recipient of items from the homes of others, some intentionally given and others inherited. This is our opportunity to consider our options and select those that stay with us and those that will be offered up for the use of others. All storage spaces within the house will be stripped of its contents and consideration undertaken before any restocking ensues. Thankfully, we have spread the task over the year as the workmen come and go, for the male guardian and I do so hate major upheaval amidst the professional toil, as many of us do.

Our biggest project over the year will be the review of our "library" stock, for we are both ardent readers. Whilst we have both utilised the mechanical devices for reading, our preference remains the printed word in the form of a book. This does however create the problem of storage for we have many, many books through the classics to popular fiction and personal interest tombs. This will require nerves of steel and true negotiation skills to undertake, me thinks. 

A bonus, however, of having people in the house, and a soupçon of amazingly clement weather (read that as not raining) is that we have restocked the log shed for next winter. Oh, the joy in a full log shed; the cut wood can bake away and dry out beautifully over the summer months. This ensures, dear souls, a low water content and thus means a better burn, which in turn is better for the fire and the chimney. The male guardian and I do feel that this is a job well done and were most delighted with ourselves once 'twas complete. Why, we did celebrate with a fine cup of English tea and a slice of homemade Victoria sandwich; such decadence, my dears, but one that was well deserved, I do believe. 

A little light crafty retail therapy

My dear friends and I had arranged to spend an afternoon reviewing the wares of a small local rural town, not least due to the fact that they posses a rather tempting looking fabric shop.  'Tis a small shop but it does stock some rather lovely fabrics and had drawn us in rather like a sweet shop does for little, and some not so little, children. Like many rural small towns, it has a small but select number of artisan shops that have not been replaced by large conglomerates stocking the same wares in every town. There are a number of empty stores that one hopes will attract further artisans and not be handed over to the bigger outlets, nor more coffee shops, as there are already quite a few. One's wish is that there is someone out there who recognises the need for a good quality yarn shop for there is not one to be had for many miles and one has to travel some distance to be able to see and feel quality yarn. Wool Merchants, please do take note for I do believe you would do well. 

My dear friends and I spent a delightful few hours reviewing the wares, particularly in the fabric shop. The main attraction was the cotton fabric for 'tis a small shop, there is little space for much else and the owner is a keen quilter thus the range is largely limited to rather delightful cotton fabrics but oh my, there are such pretty fabrics on offer. My dear seamstress friend was in her element and chose three or four rather becoming patterns to purchase, much to her delight. We then partook of a rather lovely cup of fresh coffee in a little cafe behind a small but long established local food emporium that is well renowned locally, and further afield, for its wares, such is the choice on display. Once refreshed we wandered at will and enjoyed reviewing some rather lovely merchants wares. Much was admired, many an "ooh" or "ah" escaped but we were sensible in our purchases. It was a most pleasant afternoon of girlish enjoyment, and, dear reader, one was home in time for tea. 

During our time at the fabric shop I purchased some wool felt and thread to undertake some appliqué wool felting blocks. I am slowly attempting to complete enough blocks to finish a quilt that will also encompass some appliqué blocks my dear late mother, a sister and I started some years ago now. When my mother died the blocks were split between my sister and I but have laid untouched for some years. I had recently unpacked them and felt that it would be a shame for them to lay unused therefore had been planning on how to use them. Hand sewing had, through my life, been my preference until now and in my formative years I used to make soft toys to sell as a sideline, clothed in hand sewn and knitted/crocheted items. An entire soft toy was undertaken with hand sewing and wool crafts, thus small appliqué wool blocks will utilise some of the techniques and stitchery that I had previously enjoyed. Being a country dweller, nature and home are the themes I will encompass and I have spent a number of hours trawling the electrical devise for inspiration. Dear reader, there is a smorgasbord at one's fingertips and one really did have to restrict one's viewing time. 

"So much to do, so little time to do it" is the adage that comes to mind however there is much enjoyment in each of my crafting hobbies. I do find that they are a perfect release from the mental and physical stresses from the work being slowly undertaken in one's home and of one's professional toil. These, along with music, art and literature never fail, along with the joy of my small home and my family. Simple pleasures, dear souls, simple pleasures. 

Happy Easter

Happy Easter, dear souls. Oh, how I do adore Easter. The end of winter, the beginning of spring, rejoicing in the life cycle, lambs, new growth and more. The "and more" is clearly those naughty but quite delectable little extras such as the most delicious of Hot Cross Buns, and, my personal favourite, Moores Easter Biscuits. Why even the smell of them evokes thoughts of many an Easter past. How I do so enjoy their crisp, spicy taste over Easter. I have yet to discover any other quite so delectable and will not compromise, Moores it has to be. The male guardian, however, is not a fan, being staunchly a chocolate lover (particularly those rather moreish speckled eggs);  such a very sad thing, do you not agree, that we differ in our preferences for one must, of course, ensure there is no waste. 

The next woollen garment pattern for my seamstress friend has been decided upon, the colour and weight of yarn pondered and a decision finally made. This morning has seen an order of yarn duly made and thus, we await delivery. Such was the choice of colour in the particular yarn that 'twas really quite difficult to choose, why, my dear friend and I spent last Sunday deliberating over the many colours. We were girlishly amused to note that she could have said garment in forty eight colour ways should she so desire and I would be knitting for many a year to come. The choice of colour really was delightful and, in all seriousness, I do feel that I will be producing a number of said garments for my friend, much to my satisfaction. 

In the meantime I have nigh finished a garment for myself with just a sleeve and a half to complete which will keep the fingers nimble whilst I await delivery of the afore mentioned woolly parcel. This is being knit from wool I have had in my little stash, keen as I am not to hoard too much for either of my crafting hobbies, for one is aware that a crafters stash can be known to get out of hand. My dear seamstress friend confesses to many a tantalising bolt of fabric, a length of binding or interfacing material that waits her attention and, as a member of a knitting family, one is all too aware of the size a stash can reach. My dear late Mother's stash was legendary with all manner of yarn in rather plentiful supply; from those suitable for regular mechanical washing for children to those requiring gentle hand washing.  One of my sister's and I had the pleasure of sorting this out after she had died and found many scraps from past projects to remember such as a knitted coat for an elder sister that took many hours to complete but was a thing of beauty;  ends of balls of wool from the many a beautiful arran items she knitted, including an arran dress passed down through a family which included five girls, that I remember wearing at primary school. There was also those little woolly treats she had bought herself in a delectable colour and weight that most knitters will confess to; a seriously upmarket yarn that one cannot resist, stashed for just the right pattern. I, too, confess to such little treats in both my yarn and fabric stashes, but only the one in each for it could become an expensive habit,  could it not. I fully intend to make the most of this short Easter  break to complete my woollen garment and hope that you too have an equally enjoyable time, dear souls. Happy Easter.

A stitch in time...

It has, my dears, been a most interesting time of late in many ways. Firstly, my two seamstress friends and I have enjoyed another of our sewing days, much to our collective delight. A day spent in stitching that resulted in another completed garment in a most becoming soft olive green. It has to be said that I am most proud of the achievement, for I have long remembered the comments of my sewing teacher at school and, it has to be said, dear souls, they were not glowing endorsements. 'Tis but for the patience and excellent teaching skills of my dear friend and colleague that I have achieved so much and for this I am most grateful. Thoughts have now turned to the next garment I can produce in return for my excellent tutor and thus much discussion has ensued over yarn weight, colour and pattern. Oh, the very joy in contemplating the next woollen and indeed, material garments really is quite palpable. 

I have also had the fascinating opportunity to undertake people watching at its finest, the interaction and interplay of characters and their personalities, in detail. Human beings really are fascinating and the minutiae of life really is quite something to behold and is something that will always interest me, having worked in this field for some years, in my early career.  There is, my dears, something to be said for being able to leave it all behind and shut one's door at the end of each day, dealing as one does with people on a daily basis. Some of life's simple pleasures are those of gaining one's sanctuary at the end of one's day and having one's close family and dear friends with which to throw off the professional mantle and be carefree. Oh, the joy of peace, quiet and sanctuary, with the sure fire love of one's near and dear one's,  however difficult the day job may seem. All part of life's rich tapestry, do you not agree. 

On a more exciting note, I have been the delighted recipient of a small parcel of a length of fabric that really is rather lovely. I am so excited at the prospect of producing another garment made with such a gorgeous fabric but, my dears, shall take the wise counsel of my learned seamstress friend before I finalise my pattern choice - one does not wish to attempt anything beyond one's fledgling experience, before advice and guidance is duly considered. Less haste, dear souls, less haste.

Spring snow

Well, my dears, dear old Blighty is at the mercy of its weather with a blast from the east dropping temperatures once more. Snow flurries have abound since Saturday morning, with a wind chill reported at -8. Needless to say dear souls, the trusty log burner has been keeping our little home toasty and warm. Doth seem fair strange that on Friday evening, the walk to my carriage from my professional toil was undertaken in a long sleeved inner garment, minus one's coat and the weekend has seen the return of a hat, scarf and gloves if any length of time were to be spent out doors. Where would we British be without our favourite topic of conversation.

This morn, we woke to that ethereal light and calm that belies a fresh coating of snow. There to behold set out before our eyes was some three inches of fine powdery snow. Thankfully our small country lane appeared readily traversable, thus ensuring our Sunday routine unchanged. We have spent a quiet day pottering about and this afternoon I did venture forth, clad in my winter garments and a fine sturdy pair of Wellington boots, to take the air. My dears it was most refreshing, with the snow prettily falling around me as I trod most happily through the lanes with ne'er another soul to see. 'Twas calm and quiet affording one the opportunity to drink in the beauty of the scenery, admire the wildlife, and watch the sheep as they did gather about their food troughs. Such resilient creatures, clad so warmly in their fleeces. Such sound endorsements for the use of pure wool, my dears, one cannot stress.

Much to our delight we were visited this afternoon by a delightful creature, tempted by the large, bright orange rose hips of the rose upon the terrace. One had commented to the male guardian that a little furry creature had whisked across the back hedge line, and we rose from the chairs in which we sat all the better to espy it when, there, not six feet from patio doors, sat a squirrel, balancing upon the  rose trellis and munching upon a large orange rose hip. My dears, he was most unfazed by our gaze, and sat there until he had completed his snack, his large furry tail lay up on his back. Once his repast was completed, he clambered down and dove in to the snow head first, his furry tail aloft, not once but twice, to retrieve  a morsel of some sort and then dashed off into the orchard, leaping from tree to tree. What a spectacular sight he did make. Later, we were visited by Cedric once more to ensure no morsel was left undiscovered before he retired for the night. We have ensured the feeders are well replenished before we battened down the hatches for the night, for the birds and wildlife we are fortunate to receive on our small estate give us great joy.

Compliments

Well, dear souls, it has been a most interesting week with minus temperatures to start the week and double figures today. Still, 'tis all part of the joyous seasons we are privileged to experience in dear old Blighty and long may it reign. As I glance out upon the estate gardens, the delightful tête-à-tête daffodils have once more raised their glowing heads skyward and are bobbing in the wind as I write. After last week's heavy but brief snowfall I was afeared that we had lost them crushed as they were by the weight of their frozen burden, but no, much like the British themselves, they are sturdy, hardy creatures and have bounced back once more. Staunchly soldiering on whatever life throws at them. I am inordinately fond of these flowers for they lift the spirits so. Why, I do not know anyone that does not extract a smile when seeing them. As one writes, it never fails to amaze me how nature and the seasons mimic life for this could easily describe the trials and tribulations of life in general. How delightful and amusing a comparison.

I was most delighted to receive my first compliment for my dressmaking skills this morning whilst out undertaking the necessary restocking of one's provisions, for the larder, whilst not bare, required replenishing. It has to be said, dear reader, that one is not inordinately fond of this task and go about it with as much military precision as possible to ensure it is as brief a sojourn in to the local town as humanely possible. One does make the effort to be clean and tidy therefore 'twas most delightful to receive not one, but two, compliments on the particular garment I was wearing and enquiries as to the establishment from which it has been purchased. My dears, I was quite pink with delight for my seamstress friend is a most diligent tutor and I do believe this to be a compliment of the highest order and testament to her tutoring skills. The finish of the garment was much admired and one fair glowed with delight for my friend. Once home, I utilised the technological device to inform her for 'tis most important to afford the compliments whence they are due, do you not agree.

Beauty

Whilst it has been a stark few days of freezing temperatures, one has ensured the birds are well cared for with extra helpings of winter fuel and water readily available to help them through the coldest days. One has had the joy of all manner of birds feasting upon the food supplied, from pheasants in their glorious finery, to Robins, blackbirds and many more. It has been a delight to see so many at one time. As I drove my carriage homeward bound this very evening, there at the top of the lane, sat atop the hedgerow was a beautiful gleaming barn owl intent on its prey. My dears, the utter delight of espying one so close to home was quite scintillating. As I drew nearer, up it rose in flight so effortlessley, affording me a delighted glimpse of its feathery finery in full span as it caught the breeze and flew over the carriage, an ethereal being in the dusk. Why, it fair made my heart sing.

As the snow slowly thaws the rivers are flowing fast and are now at the top of their banks.  The hills surrounding us still wear a patchy white covering much like a frothy white petticoat peeping forth. It is all so very pretty but a telling reminder of the force of nature when she decides to afford us a glimpse of her might. As I ensure the estate entrance gates are open in preparation for the male guardians return, there is a nip in the air. I can only hope not enough to cause a frost for this could prove treacherous. This morning, after alighting from one's carriage I unwittingly found a patch of ice, falling flat upon my back in no time. Dear reader, thankfully I was unhurt and very much had my humour intact for the thought of my very wet derrière on show after a dip in the snow and ice afforded me much cheer as I made my way to my professional toil. Clearly, one bounces well, dear souls.

Travel safe, however long or short the journey, dear friends.