Midwinter in an Irish Cottage

Rain is falling, softly, silently, onto a warm land.

The air is still.

Birds sing out loud.

A touch of Spring is in the air as Midwinter approaches.

It often happens this way, birds singing in the still air near Solstice.

The cold is saved for January…the biting winds that bring the snow.

I have spent much time indoors, making cards and packaging seeds.

This is a quiet, yet productive time, a chance to reflect as work proceeds.

Yesterday was the last day for posting abroad in time for Christmas.

I am already thinking of the New Year, as I make these cards and planning out a few lovely walks to enjoy over Midwinter.

Walking at this time of year really clears the head and clarifies life in general.

There is a silence around Solstice that creates harmony in all things.

The chimney in the kitchen remains blocked.

Armed with a borrowed crowbar, I shall attempt excavation of resin like tar this morning…something I’m not looking forward to!

Still, once cleared, the stove will heat the cool air and a sense of Yuletide be conjured up in a less smoky kitchen!

The air is so still that even the Rocket Stove smokes and billows!

After harvesting the seed from the Lunaria, translucent seed heads decorate the window ledge in the Lodge, and…

Outdoors, in sheltered spots, the empty seed heads create interest and beauty…

Despite the delicate beauty, the little flowers that produced these seed-heads are strong and enduring!

Sheltered in the Laurel Archway…