Chris and her dogs

I felt like a Dickensian character (minus the candle) in the night. I was cold in bed but what was worse? getting colder to get up and find socks and a hat or staying in bed feeling cold? In the end the decision was made for me as I needed to go to the loo anyway. I’m sure these weather warning about over 65s being at risk from heart attack and stroke from cold weather are apt as my body no longer adapts to extreme cold or heat.

We enjoyed Conclave last night. I’d read the book when it came out so there were no surprises but nevertheless it kept me gripped. The sound wasn’t right though in this little cinema. It was too base and loud. Mr C had to turn off his hearing aids.

I baked some blueberry muffins and used up 4 egg whites I had left from a pudding I made earlier. I made a gooseberry pavlova for Ella and Nathaniel coming to stay. Their mum is off to a 50th birthday for the weekend and dad works nights at weekends. It’ll be great to have them. I just hope there’s enough to keep them busy as Cragside is closed due to the snow and ice.

Chris asked me over for a bowl of broth at lunchtime. I walked over and then we had a walk with her dogs by the river. It was 1 degree but we are forecast between minus 15-20c tonight. It was nice to catch up. We have a plan for a day in Edinburgh in March and will book trains once the cheap deals come out next week. Apparently it’s possible to get a return to London for £25. You’ll have to be quick to get that. It’s a shame we have already booked ours for next month.