Blogging very little at the moment, as the deadline for final Disney artworks is looming and I am up to my neck. But today was reserved for a day out. Winter has stamped his authority on the land and we wake to thick frost.
The woodburner is kept going 24 hours now. There was another powercut today - so our breakfast was gently warmed through on the stovetop. A true Scot would scorn my porridge recipe, which includes milk, flaked almonds, sultanas and cinnamon. Oh, and dark brown sugar to top.
First a quick trip to Burford Garden Center, who always have a splendid range of Christmas decorations, including my favourite Gisela Graham collection. If I had a dream job - apart from working for Disney - it would be designing baubles and gee-gaws.
On to nearby Foxbury Farmshop. Foxbury Farm produces and butchers its own meat - so you know exactly where your Gloucestershire Old Spot sausages came from and how the 'ingredients' were reared. They also sell a great range of fresh baked bread, local vegetables, regional cheeses and in season game meats. It's a valuable local employer and a small 'refusnik' against the encroaching dreary might of the supermarkets. And value for money too.
Finally, with the week's groceries sorted out, a quick half at The Fox at Barrington, before heading for home and the warmth of the fire. I managed a couple of scenic mini-movies but the good folks at Google are still approving them before publication...