Hibernating

In the Northern Hemisphere, it is mid-winter, with the Winter Solstice and the shortest day tomorrow.

A triumph of hope over experience is playing out in our garden. The small birds do not come to feed here. We have an abundance of squirrels, that are becoming more tame by the day, pigeons, rooks and magpies. No little ones. We have tried various treats, food, positions around the garden and feeders. Still no little ones. With this season's weariness, I ordered some soap mix, which went to my mum, and bird feeders which went to good friends of ours on top of The Wirral. Note to self, pay attention to the delivery address! I took a breath and re-ordered the bird feeders and they are now hanging, optimistically, in the middle of the garden from a tall obelisk. May the little ones find them.

A lovely friend and I shared our self-imposed creative projects and how we are nearing the end of them, as we prepare for Christmas. I often wonder if creative people feel additional pressure to make handmade gifts or if we can't help ourselves. My desire to always make gifts is certainly a work in progress in this house and a constant re-drawing of boundaries. Tim is my editor and all my good ideas are now run past him before I make promises!

As the New Year approaches, we are asked to make resolutions and plans for new projects. If you are making them, may there be an absence of pressure and 'shoulds' in your preparations? May there be a sense of exploration and discovery, and may there be many pauses as you assess how your time and energy are best spent?

'Still round the corner there may wait

A new road or a secret gate

And though I oft have passed them by

A day will come at last when I

Shall take the hidden paths that run

West of the Moon, East of the Sun.'

J R R Tolkien

May you all have time to hibernate and rest over the next fortnight. To spend time together, share food and laugh. May we all ensure love flows.

Tim and I are hibernating.

Our love to you all over the holiday season, and we wish you a loving 2025.❤️