From the Downs to the Isle of Wight

We went up into the Downs for our walk this morning. It was cool and breezy and quite overcast. But in the distance we could see the sea glistening, the cliffs of the Isle of Wight and big ships queuing to enter the docks in Southampton - they seemed a world away from the flint and chalk downs and beech woodland we were walking in. The winter landscape was truly sensational - the purple hue of the woodlands in the distance, the sound of the wind blowing in the tree tops and the quiet stillness when it eased, the cool clear air in our heads - I’m so grateful to have had those few hours of escapism.

We returned home, warmed up with a mug of tea and had crab sandwiches using the dressed crab we’d bought yesterday. Delicious.

This afternoon I made some aromatherapy products including some muscle rub. I need to practice some more - to adjust the proportions of the bees wax and oils in the rub as it was marginally too solid.

We’ve also of course had our afternoon dog walk and done other seasonal activities involving Christmas cards, arranging presents (although we are cutting right back this year) and putting in place a plan to see some of Andy’s family for a dog walk between Christmas and New Year.

We’ve had a quick tea this evening. Andy had the remains of yesterday’s Indian enhanced with a homemade naan and I’ve had pancakes!

Hoping you’ve had a good Sunday doing things you’ve wanted to do.