Friday 5 June 2020

Holiday at Home










I don't know about anyone else, but the longer I leave between posts, the more difficult I find it trying to get into the swing of it again. It's been a strange sort of week here, for various reasons the last few days have been a bit of a struggle and I've finally run out of steam.
This week much of my time has been spent at home and I'm sure that my lethargy is in part down to not getting out and about as often as usual. With so much confusion regarding the restrictions I'm still quite anxious about what I can and can't do, added to the fact that I'm no longer working I feel as though I'm lacking some purpose to my days. Having said all that, I continue to be safe and well, and for that I am truly grateful.

I have also been very grateful for the recent sunny weather. It's been glorious here. I admit, I am a little concerned that this could have been our summer, but I really hope that won't be the case and in Lily's words we've enjoyed a 'holiday at home'.
With several days of high temperatures forecast it didn't take long to decide to put up the paddling pool and I've spent so much time outdoors, making the most of the sunshine, home schooling definitely pushed aside for the time being 😊 It felt so wonderful to be finally wearing my summer clothes and flip flops.

The garden produce is growing fast, strawberries are beginning to ripen (and I can confirm they are delicious), the sunflowers are getting taller and even the Sweet Peas have reached the top of their canes. Everything appears to be much further along than this time last year. I've replaced the bolted spinach with some more of the tomato seedlings and, as they've done so well this year, I had enough to be able to answer a request for some on a local giving site.

Mog has been enjoying this warm weather too. Usually, if she's not asleep in the house she will be out in the field looking for mice, but for some reason she will spend much more of her time in the garden if Lily is out there, although I've been careful to keep her away from the pool. An old tree stump is her favourite place to lie down but even she eventually had to search for a shaded spot beneath the leaves.

This afternoon I am heading out for a walk. I need to blow away the cobwebs and take some much needed exercise. I am also hoping to gather some elderflowers so that I can make cordial.

Stay well.
J. X

76 comments:

  1. Lovely, hazy days of summer, sunshine, garden and paddling around. Enjoy.

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    1. It was lovely while it lasted, Faith. X

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  2. It's probably a matter of age. You are still young and have everything still to do. As of yesterday I am demonstrably figuratively nearer 80 than 70 and, realistically, I know most of my 'doing' is already done. So instead of all the travelling and visitors I was going to have this year I have accepted that I shall largely be at home (for a good while yet anyway). Everything else will still be there to be done next year.

    I hope that the gales don't blow your pool away! On the other hand I hope that they do blow your lethargy away.

    I've got a strange feeling that I started 'One Man and His Bike' when I was in hospital one time but hadn't read enough to take it with me from the ward reading room so left it behind, hopefully for a future visit. He cycled around Britain didn't he?

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    1. We've been fortunate, Graham, it's been blustery here but no gales. However, the pool is down for the time being, now that the temperatures down in the teens once again. I was actually hoping for some more inclement weather to be able to test out the recent roof repairs.
      I could never wish for you to return to hospital but I would recommend you finish that book. It's an interesting read, although it hasn't helped with my wanderlust. X

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  3. Hi Jules! I hope you do make cordial! Oh, your kitty is beautiful! Our kitty wants to go outside, but we fear coyotes.
    You make me want to fill the paddling pool and have a float. Yes, walking and biking do clear the cobwebs. God bless you!

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    1. Yikes! Thankfully we don't have coyotes here, Mog would not be happy to be kept indoors.
      The cordial has since been bottled, although I've yet to try it.
      I hope you can get the pool out soon. X

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  4. Looks like a very nice holiday at home, sunny and warm, gorgeous food and a pleasant place to walk.. all rather nice.

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    1. I wouldn't class it as 5 star, Christine but it was lovely all the same :)

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  5. Great photos. I was seriously worried that I was I'll as the lethargy was all consuming. It's a little better but not brilliant. I know exactly what you mean about posting and the tiredness. I think lockdown would have been unbearable had we not had sunshine.

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    1. I'm glad you're feeling better, Tania. I think there are many of us feeling a little flat at the moment, although it's only to be expected I suppose. X

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  6. It looks like you've set up camp in your garden, and why not? A holiday at home is fabulous when we've got the weather for it. Sadly, it's broken here and we've had two days of rain, much cooler temperatures too. Typical that the dog groomer has just started working again and we managed to get Archie a trim yesterday, the warmer days seem to have passed by for the time being.

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    1. It was lovely while it lasted wasn't it. It's meant to be down to 15 degrees here today but at least it's not raining. X

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  7. Yes, I hear you on the longer you leave it the harder it gets to get into the swing of writing a blog post. I only managed two posts last month, I just wanted to be outside all the time.

    It is so hard when our circumstances change isn't it, it leaves us feeling slightly lost, adrift and not knowing where our anchors are anymore. I do hope you can, in time, find different anchors for you days.

    I also hope that you enjoyed your walk and found some elderflowers.

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    1. Thank you for your kind words. I'm finding it strange being at home full time and I'm also missing the social side of being at work. I'm sure I'll settle into it before long, then no doubt the situation will change once again.
      I found plenty of elderflowers but I would like to know why all the best ones are out of reach, behind nettles or brambles :)

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  8. Your photos really do conjour up the image of a lovely holiday at home. It's chilly here today , typical when having a socially distanced meet up with friends in the park tonight. X

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    1. Thanks, Shazza. I hope you enjoyed your meet up and didn't get too chilly. X

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  9. It has gone cold here with strong winds and quite a lot of heavy showers - but we do need the rain in the garden so mustn't complain. As a retired teacher I amof the opionion that by this time next year nobody will notice these weeks of no school. Bright children learn by osmosis and you sound to be doing all the right things.

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    1. The garden has definitely been glad of some rain, I can't remember when I last mowed the grass and it is looking quite parched.
      Lily is at least gaining an extensive knowledge of wildflowers :)

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  10. I'm the same with blogging, either on a roll or struggling to know what to write about. These are such worrying times on so many levels for so many people. You always post such delightful photos and Lily is right it's OK to have a holiday at home. Hope you enjoyed your walk and look forward to seeing photos of your elderflower cordial.
    Take care x

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    1. Thank you, Eileen. I hope everything has gone smoothly for you and I will be over for a catch up later.
      The cordial is now bottled and I'm looking forward to tasting some. X

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  11. It looks like you have the perfect spot for a holiday right there in your garden! Those flowers are just gorgeous and I loved the photo of Mog asleep on the old tree stump! Enjoy your holiday at home!

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    1. Thank you, Bless. I didn't even need to pack a suitcase. X

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  12. Your Sweet Peas are HOW TALL? I am hugely impressed and envious - mine are still in pots playing the “in & out of the greenhouse” game. And is that a dahlia in flower on the right of the same photo - it’s beautiful (more envy 🤢 )

    But seriously, it is completely OK to feel strange at the moment, and yes - blogging can feel very difficult at present. We have all been expected to accept massive changes to our lives, with little or no warning, and zero choice in the matter, that’s stressful. But it is also OK to say things are feeling hard and difficult. That’s when you’ll see who your friends are. {{sending hugs}}. 💚 🤗 💚

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    1. The Sweet Peas are past the top of the canes now. I hope they provide plenty of flowers. A lovely surprise from one of my girls, the dahlias are giving the garden a much needed splash of colour, which is much needed in the absence of any bedding plants. There is also a small purple flower hiding behind the chiminea but I'm not sure what it is :)
      I completely agree, Jayne. I think many of us have been feeling rather flat this week and (as with any trying situation) it is when you find out who your real friends are. Xx

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  13. I agree, I've found blogging so much easier now I'm posting more frequently.
    What a lovely time you've been having, the weather certainly makes a huge difference. Look how happy Mog looks! xxx

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    1. It is always lovely to read your colourful and uplifting posts, Vix, I look forward to them, although I'm a little behind with my reading this week. Fingers crossed the weather picks up again soon. X

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  14. I think everyone is feeling the same these are very strange times we are living in, we have been lucky to have had such lovely weather and to get out into our gardens but I have said all along I bet the weather will change and it has! hopefully the warmer weather will return. As for blog posts I find that once you stop it's hard to start again hence the long year break I've just had, I'm just starting to get back into the swing of blogging again but knowing me I'm not sure how long it will last. Have a lovely weekend. xx

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    1. The good weather has made a huge difference, Linda and I hope we see a return to some sunny days. It's good to know you've started blogging again. I'll be over for a catch up later. X

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  15. I also hope summer isn't over yet. The wind and rain have returned in force here and we're very thankful for the rain that's filled the waterbutts and watered the flowers and lawns. Your garden is looking lovely and Mog looks such a sweetie. I'm glad Lily has been able to enjoy her pool :) Let's hope the sunny weather returns soon. Best, Jane x

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    1. Lily wasn't the only one enjoying the pool, Jane ;)

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    2. I did wonder if you might have enjoyed a dip :)

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  16. I hope you enjoyed your walk and that you found plenty of elderflowers. We still have some of last year's cordial and I might skip a year although the pleasure of foraging and then prepare the cordial is ever so tempting. It sounds like you had a bit of a rough week and I hope you find the next few days easier and that you find some purpose to your days again. I am not surprised you feel confused and anxious about what you can and cannot do, the boundaries are bit blurred... I am glad that the Scottish lockdown guidelines are clear, there is not much room for interpretation and I think this helps not feeling so anxious. A holiday at home sounds just like what we all need. Fingers crossed the weather stays good (it is windy and cold here in Glasgow today). Have a good weekend. x

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    1. I'm happy to say we found plenty of elderflowers, Christina. The cordial is now bottled and ready for drinking :)
      The restrictions are much more open to interpretation here and you're right, I felt a lot less anxious initially when the boundaries were clearer. X

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  17. Every picture you posted says pure summer to me. What lovely weather you are having. The sky is so pretty and blue. My cosmos and zinnias are up and I hope to have flowers in the next few weeks. We continue to enjoy weekly salads from my potted lettuce.

    Your cat, Mog, is just darling. We are picking up our new puppy in two weeks and we can hardly wait! I'll be sure to post pics of her, as she is darling. Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

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    1. I will be catching up with some blog reading later today but I saw the photograph of your new puppy on Instagram. She's gorgeous, you must be so excited. X

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  18. Quite a lot of people seem to have struggled this week. The new regulations have flummoxed a lot of people. The sunshine has been wonderful and nice for the children to enjoy during this strange time. Lovely pictures you have captured to share showing your week.
    I hope the walk did the trick and you can enjoy a lovely weekend.
    Take care

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    1. The restrictions are all rather confusing, Julie, I'm just grateful I can get out for some lovely walks from here, so I'm going to try and make sure I get out each day from now on. X

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  19. When it's hot I find I don't have the energy for a walk, but that is definitely a good way to get rid of the summer lethargy. Hope you find some elderflowers.

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    1. The heat is why I didn't get out, Chris. Not for myself but for Lily.
      I do think I need to ensure I get out at some point during each day, however, even if I wait until the evening when it's cooler. X

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  20. It all sounds really lovely. Long may it continue. xx

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    1. It's turned much cooler now, Joy, but I hope we see a return to some sunny days very soon. X

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  21. Glad you’ve been enjoying the sunshine. Just as well to as I dare say it won’t last. I know what you mean about blogging, I’m finding it a little strange too as I’m sure many others are. Odd times indeed. Hopefully things improve for you soon. Enjoy the strawberries. B x

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    1. It never lasts :) That's why I always make the most of the sunshine while it's here. X

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  22. I know what you mean about putting up a post. The things is, because of current restraints, we’re quite curtailed in what we’re doing and writing about. For me, there is a lethargy which come along in waves. One day I’m quite busy and the next I find I need a kick up the derrière to get motivated.
    I love that the inflatable is wearing his trilby! :)

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    1. I've had days when I've been quite productive there have been others in which I've done hardly anything at all. I think today will be the latter. X

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  23. I hope your walk has perked you up. Your pool looks fab, and so inviting!
    We won't be going camping this year, and our tent is too large for the space available in the garden, so I'm going to get a pop up tent and camp out there. I may be 55 and have various ailments, but I'm going to have some fun, despite everything that's going on.

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    1. I don't blame you, Scarlet. I have two tents. My faithful little Vango for occasional overnight stays, which does fit in the garden and a larger four man tent with standing room, for if more space is needed. Have fun! X

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  24. I always go for a walk when I need to blow out cobwebs too. It sounds like perfect weather for walking there with warmer Summery days. Much outside to enjoy. MegXx

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    1. The temperatures have dropped now, Meg, but at least it makes for more comfortable walking. X

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  25. I hope you enjoyed your walk, I always find it can help clear the mind and is good for our wellbeing.

    The pool look fabulous and I love the hat on the inflatable.

    Enjoy your weekend.

    All the best Jan

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    1. Walking makes a huge difference to my sense of wellbeing, but I hadn't been getting out during the recent hot weather. I'm going to make sure that I do from now on, even if it means going in an evening when it's cooler. X

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  26. Your photos are amazing! Yes, it's a difficult time. It's zapped my energy, too. It's hard not to get down when you are sensitive.

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    1. Thank you, Stephenie. You are such a positive person, I hope you feel brighter soon. X

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  27. A holiday at home sounds like a great idea, I could just do with the same here. But it is now Winter in New Zealand and temperatures are getting cooler. It has averaged at 15 C for a week here in Auckland. I think I may treat myself to a home spa day (bubble bath with candles, foot spa, a good book to read).

    I hope your elderflower hunt was successful. I love elderflower cordial. I had a look at your previous posts on elderflower cordial, so lovely and summery. Looking forward to your next post. I hope you feel better soon. Hugs, Rose x

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    1. The temperatures have dropped again here, that's why we always make the most of any sunshine when we get it :) Your spa day sounds like a wonderful idea.
      The cordial is bottled up and ready for drinking. I'm looking forward to tasting it later. X

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  28. I'm glad Lily has been able to use the pool, it looks so inviting - I could have done with one of those myself during the recent hot weather :) Your photos are lovely as usual though you can probably guess my favourite - Mog, she looks adorable :)

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    1. I even enjoyed a dip in the pool myself, Eunice, although it's now safely packed away until the next spell of hot weather. X

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  29. I'm clutching a hot-water-bottle as I write and had the heating on earlier today - and am feeling nostalgic for summer (May!) sunshine as I look at your photos. It's good that we have rain but it would be nice to have blue skies in between the showers.
    As for going out - I think we will all have to work out for ourselves what is safe rather than just relying on rules. I've been wondering if I'd like a big badge to wear which would show that I am exceptionally 'vulnerable' so people will know to keep their distance if I go for a walk locally.

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    1. The last few days have been much cooler here as well, although it turned lovely and warm this afternoon. I hope we see a return to the higher temperatures very soon.
      I can understand your concerns about going out. I hope you find a way which works for you and you are able to distance yourself safely. X

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  30. Holidays at home simply make you slow down a bit and reach for all the beauty you overlook every day. Heehee...says the person who is mourning the fact that several trips have been delayed by a year or cancelled permanently. I had pretty much given up blogging (which I had done for about 10 years religiously and built up a lovely virtual community) when life and new photography hobby got in the way. This stay-at-home gave me the opportunity to blog on a new platform, make new friends, and continue to plod gently through life, just closer to home. It took me awhile to find this silver lining!! So happy to have stumbled into your space.

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    1. Thank you for your comment, Steph. I'll be sure to stop by your blog to have a read later.
      It had been a difficult week for various reasons, so although I tried to make the most of the good weather and keep things fun for Lily, I discovered I really benefitted from our little 'holiday' as well. X

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  31. That's quite the pool, lovely photos of some gorgeous summer days. It's been so nice we've even (badly) painted some of our rusty of furniture so we can pretend we're going to sit out when the sun returns!

    I have been feeling a bit like I'm in treacle, and just so dull I'm boring myself, these times are tough on the emotions. I've started my blog afresh if you're interested - https://oneaveragewoman.blogspot.com/

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    1. I do hope we get some hot sunny days again soon, if only that you get to enjoy your freshly painted garden furniture :)
      Thank you for the link. I'll be over shortly to have a read. Xx

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  32. June 9th

    On blogging "Umphhh". And lack of it.

    Funny thing. Since Putting "My Blog To Sleep" for awhile. And "living in my own garden", so-to-speak... I am happy, and calm, and enjoying my little Private Posting. -smile- Just pics of around here, and little words, of around home... Just for me.... Not out there, on the World Wide Web. Somehow, it feels so relaxing...

    I do hope to return to Pretty Blog Land, at some point.

    But right now, this way, is my Happy Place. -smile-

    I am not suggesting that you do this! Just saying, how this, is working for me, for the First Time Ever.

    And I am happy and calm, and able to make gentle comments, in the blogs of others.

    ✨🌸✨🌷✨🌼✨

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    1. I hadn't realised you had closed your blog, although now I notice it is no longer showing on my side bar. I'm glad you are relaxed and happy and I look forward to reading when you feel ready to post again. X

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  33. Loving the pics,that rice dish looks nice.Love Mog she is so pretty.I too am struggling with the Lockdown and do get a bit down.My mum is poorly and it's all a bit stressful.I am trying to get back into blogging again but fear I have been forgotten lol.Take care and stay safe.xx

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    1. Thank you, Lee. I'm sorry to read about your mum. It is stressful at any time when a family member is unwell but it is especially so just now. X

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  34. Blogging and me....summed up in your first sentence! I also identify with the feelings of lethargy as we no longer go about our daily business - the less we do, the less we are motivated to do. It's a vicious circle.

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    1. I do love blogging but it's easy to let it slip when I've a lot going on. X

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  35. Summer has started kind of cool around here. Such a pretty shade of yellow on the garment in that first photo. The cat got the right idea, Summer is to rest and nap.

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    1. I love that shade of yellow too, Angela. It's a new summer dress, which I hope I might get to wear again soon if the weather picks up :) X

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  36. Its an interesting topic this blogging thing - I blogged for a number of years and then for various reasons stopped for 3 or 4. Have started again since the pandemic and loving the interaction. But it does make a difference that I'm home all day now and also that it's winter here!! I'm sure in summer I'll be doing more outdoorsy things and have less time or inclination to sit by the computer!
    I do hope you are feeling a little better today - life has those up's and downs and there is always an up after we've experienced a low time. xxx

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    1. Blogland does seem to become a little quieter during the summer months. X

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  37. It is wonderful when there is a cozy house and garden where you can always relax.

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    1. Recently, I've appreciated it even more :)

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