Snowy walk and fantastic views

RSPB St Aidan's is still a relatively new site for the RSPB and for me as well. This is the second time I have visited. The first, being back in the summer. And what a contrast this visit has been!

Snow gently hugs the surrounding hills and is like a fine layer of icing sugar on a cake.
The weather was fair and the sun broke through low lying cloud and mist, creating the most perfect winter picture portrait.

It was cold, but it was bliss.

A chilly sunny Old Moor

Being the first day for awhile, the sun was out, with wall to wall blue skies. It was glorious!
Grabbing the opportunity with both hands... I know! I don't have hands... I went out for the day with a couple of friends. But where better than RSPB Dearne Valley Old Moor.

Upon arrival, we briskly walked round the nearest hides then ran for lunch before the cafe became too full. Golly I love panini's.

After delicious nom nom's, we explored the reserve and the nature which delighted us so.
The water's reflected the sky perfectly and though there wasn't much wild fowl on this particular body of water, there was more beauty to the eye than most people give credit for.

After peaceful encounters with the resident wildlife, we ventured on towards a small area called Broomhill Flash. Owned by the RSPB, this small site offers a remarkable view...

...and a HUMONGOUS hide!

A 2 story building built to last, this hide could almost be a house rather than a hide!

An exhausting Christmas Day

Once again it was Christmas Day. A day of festive tradition, family gatherings and stuffing yourself silly! After a much needed relaxing day Christmas Eve, Yesterday was the complete opposite. Exhaustion, very mild stress and a household filled with adults can be far too much on a regular basis. Christmas however, is the one exception.

The tree was in full decoration and the ocean of presents dominated the spectacular view.

By late morning, the food preparation was well underway and for the first time, we bought chestnuts for the most festive sprout recipe I have ever seen.

Whilst the food was cooking, I indulged myself in the unlimited supply of chocolate...

Drank wine...

And made a new sloth friend.

A spectacular table was set. Far too much food but surprisingly, all was eaten!

And wow was I full after!

Of course, Christmas isn't all about the presents, decorations and food. It is however, about family and reliving old traditions and creating new ones to cherish.

A Christmas Eve picnic

Just like last year, we spent a lovely relaxing day at Grass Wood Nature Reserve.
Unlike last year, it was a rather pleasant day. The wind was down to a minimum and not once did it rain!

I love coming here. The atmosphere is so tranquil and undisturbed. Well, besides the odd dog walker anyway! The paths wind through the trees; an intricate dance everyone should walk every now and then during their life.

There are area's of this enchanted woodland shrouded in bright green moss. A healthy sight for any keen wildlife eye. A spongy covering dresses the rocky hillside, creating a lush vegetated landscape.

After a good couple of hours walking, observing and simply losing yourself within the finely tuned circle of life, we headed back to the car for our festive picnic.
A picnic, in the middle of winter?! I know, a far cry from the typical warm summer days but folding the back seats down and pushing the 2 front seats forward, the inside of a car is a very spacious place!

A classic picnic rug thrown on the floor and a traditional basket can be quite the sight for any passing stranger. Christmas shaped party food creates the perfect ambience.

This Christmas Eve couldn't be more perfect!

Christmas Preparations

It is the 19th December and yet the house still stands fairly bare!
How to rectify this, easy, decorate with a flood of Christmas with added extra sparkle.

But where to start...
The stairs seemed like a logical place to start. Nearly the centre of the house, I will be able to spiral out from there.

Mmm pinecones. I love a good pinecone.
This year however, I adorned the stairs and hallway with lights. Shoddy little fairy lights which are incredibly old but hey, they still work and look quite good!

Lights went up everywhere. It was spectacularly dazzling.

The preparation for Christmas isn't all about the decorations. It is also the activities which coincide with that festive tradition.
Simple activities such as Christmas tree shaped crumpets for breakfast...

Or making gingerbread decorations. It is incredibly satisfying creating gingerbread. Not entirely why. From the rolling out, through to the baking.

Or making gifts. In this case, I helped make 2 Christmas tree candles for Hogmanay (Scottish New Year).

Best of all though, are the tiny Christmas puddings served with brandy infused raspberry jam.
YUM!