For the last week or so, I’ve been sewing into the night; but for a change, I’ve been having a wander online, instead of resorting to the rubbish that we generally watch on the tele. Most nights see me settling in with a big pile of hand sewing, a steaming mug of tea and some kind of sweet treat, and exploring ABC’s iview - and Oh my goodness me! – I’ve discovered the gorgeous, wholesome, homemade world of River Cottage.
Have you watched it before? If not, go for a look here – it was this breakfast episode that had me sewing too slowly for my own good, and salivating at how seriously good and nourishing something as simple as oats can be (and sure, I’ll admit it: I marched off to the shops the next day, stocked up, and I’ll be giving that muesli with orange juice and fresh sliced apple a go this week).
Still blue-sky days, cool, crisp mornings, and socks to bed – what a lovely week!
Today I’m grateful for:
Silence. This week, our youngest managed to smash the television screen. I’m still not exactly sure how she managed it; I ran into the room after the crash/bang to a crying Lou toddling towards me, and Judah, arm outstretched finger pointed towards his little sister in revelation, saying ‘Um-ahhh, Lou-Lou...’
I was relieved that Lou was unharmed, of course; but I was surprised to not be more upset about losing the tele. But, as it’s turned out, it’s been a bit of a blessing in disguise, as it’s enabled us to do lovely things as a family - like pottering about in the garden (and having long discussions about what crops to plant next), making pasta together, and reading five or more stories before bed instead of two. It’s allowed impromptu concerts, more guitar playing, new games, more cuddles, less rush and some very welcome silence.
I don’t think we’ll be hurrying to replace it.
But, in a complete and utter contradiction, this week I’m also grateful for:
The BBC (and their adoption of the period drama genre). Before the death of said television, I’d been watching the most gorgeous BBC series, ‘Lark Rise to Candleford,’ based on the stories and novels of Flora Thompson. It’s full of kind-hearted, wholesome characters, meddling neighbours, beautiful countryside, growing rural hamlets, and sweetly simple lessons on morals and principles.
I’m totally, utterly and hopelessly hooked.
I tucked myself up in bed twice during the week, with a cup of tea and my laptop, and watched until well after while the house slept – bliss! So thank you, BBC, for introducing a new generation to simpler, kinder times, and for bringing my favourite stories to life; it’s the most wonderful form of escapism.
Nat
Ps. Want to play too? Link your list back to the lovely Maxabella, or you can leave your grateful list in the comment section below x
