Day by day

The seasons have been reflective of my heart, these past months.

There have been such highs and lows, which my wise friend told me to prepare myself for.
We arrived towards the end of summer,

then there was Autumn, drawing me from my contemplation to enjoy the simple 

things like the golden trees and quiet service

and then winter - which was a grace as it was mild and almost inviting us to stay

and now spring, which has been gorgeous!  

The sea of daffodils, tulips and budding trees... and my heart has slowly acclimatized to this new place and people. The kindness of neighbours, church friends and strangers has been bewildering and more beautiful than all the blooms.

Grateful for the journey 2018

Many reflections this fine night... and I come up grateful.

"I am forced outside myself to
mount the light and ride joined with Hope."   ~ Maya Angelou

Long walk and a small piece of cake

It's raining today. We therefore decided it was cake day as the raindrops hit the windows and the thought of a warm stove beckoned.  Mary Berry's cakes are a doodle. Flop-proof and delish.  Now it's time to button up and attempt a walk (to walk off the cake - but will probably just end up having another slice later ha) as its starting to clear.

Yes, she is sunshine on a rainy day

I went to see Fantastic Beasts 2 with this one... which I really enjoyed, especially swooning over the sets of 1920's Paris, cobblestones, antiques and Newt amazing basement. Sublime.

Christmas shopping, without a mall

For the first time we are Christmas shopping and getting cheerful and comforting things ready for our new nest, in the cold!! This is very different from our southern hemisphere sun-blistered Christmas.

Shopping outdoors in the freezing cold didn't sound appealing to me but when we got to the nearby town is was so lovely and festive.  Carol singers and the brightly decorated stalls of pastries, brutwurst rolls, roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate and on and on, line the squares and streets.

And our favourite - 'Churrrrrros', I exclaimed through chattering teeth.

It might be blustery but its also merry and carnivalesque.

Exiting the Art School

Happiness is...

a pretty nook for a bit of contemplation.