Thursday 1 December 2022

December

 


Here we are again. It is the beginning of a new month and what is, in this house at least, the official start of our countdown to Christmas. If you have been reading here for a while now, you will know I have, for the last couple of years at least, posted a little something each day during December, and I would really like to continue this tradition if I can. I love having this reminder of my days throughout the month. The reassuring comfort in the familiar, and also the joy in discovering new ways of celebrating the festive season.

It is still a little too early for us to put up our tree, but this evening I added a few decorations to the mantel and some bright fairy lights now surround our new wooden advent calendar. I had originally intended to buy one of those candles, which can burn down a short amount each day.. However, with very limited choice, I decided this would be a far more suitable option instead, especially what with Boo running around and wreaking havoc :) It is a lovely, simple design and the little star on top gets moved along each morning right up until Christmas Eve. The chocolate filled stockings are hung below the ledge, just above the fireplace.

It has been a gentle start to the month. This afternoon I was helping out at the village Warm Space initiative, where my home made sticky ginger cake was much appreciated, and where I enjoyed plating several games of dominoes. I won best out of three, although I have been challenged to another match next week. How could I refuse! I think this time I'll bake mince pies.

J. X


21 comments:

  1. I love your star advent calendar and it’s great your helping in the warm space initiative. I look forward to seeing your daily December posts. B x

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    1. I thought it was cute! And a far more sensible choice than a candle, for this year at least :)

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  2. I really like your new advent calendar! It's something you can use year after year, isn't it? I am looking forward to reading your December daily posts. Helping out at the village Warm Space initiative sounds like a lovely way of giving to the community. I am assuming it is something like our cooling centers that we have during the summer for people without air conditioning, except, in this instance, it's a warm place for people to be in because of the energy crisis?

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    1. Thank you, Bless. I was rather taken with the calendar, and it should hopefully be with us for many years to come.
      There are Warm Spaces registered all over the country. |The main idea is to provide warmth for those who are struggling to heat their own homes during the energy crisis. But also, it can be a place where people can come together and enjoy a chat and some companionship. X

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  3. What a lovely advent calendar and the idea of a place for villagers to go sounds a brilliant one.

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    1. The calendar is such a simple design, and I love it.
      Sadly the Warm Spaces are essential for many people at this time, but they also provide a place of community for those who would otherwise be alone. Xx

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  4. I love that advent calendar. I have never seen one like that. The days will fly by quickly and I have to get busy so I will be ready in time. Happy Holidays!

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    1. I am really happy with the calendar. Perhaps I will get a candle next year. Xx

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  5. I love the advent count down, it's simple and perfect for the season. I've always been firm about not decorating too early...I see so many shops carrying Christmas items in October, it just doesn't feel right to me. This year however; I broke my own rule...I put decorations up before my son came home for Thanksgiving. I just felt with exams and the pressures of first year college, some sparkle and sentimental reminders might be something to lift his spirits.

    Tell us a little more about the Warm Space initiative - is it a shelter during the cold winter? And I see your sticky ginger cake recipe is here as well, it sounds like something I need to bake this weekend...thanks for sharing! Mary

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    1. I don't like to decorate too early either, although I have noticed more people than usual have put up their trees already this year.
      The Warm Spaces are just that. Places where people can go for some warmth and community at this time of year. And especially now during the energy crisis, as often they are struggling to heat their own homes.
      The ginger cake is delicious, I hope you enjoy it. X

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  6. That is a simply lovely Advent Calendar. :-) Perfect, in fact! My woodworking husband would appreciate it.

    Sad to say, his woodworking is mostly over, as he is now legally blind. But we have many items of furniture, decorations, and carved ducks, which he made, "back in the day."

    Looking forward to your daily posts!!!!

    Gentle hugs,
    🎄🔔🎄

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    1. I'm sorry your husband is no longer able to enjoy his woodworking. I imagine the furniture and other items he produced must be beautiful, and no doubt will be in use for many years to come. Xx

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  7. I absolutely love your Advent Calendar!!! I am looking forward to your December posts. Have a cozy evening, my friend.

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    1. Thank you, Billie Jo. I'm presently keeping cosy with Boo sat right on top of me! :)

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  8. I do like that advent calendar ... have a wonderful December.

    All the best Jan

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    1. Thank you, Jan.
      I have a feeling this month will go by much too quickly. X

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  9. Happy December! I love your Advent calendar and the fairy lights add such a cozy, festive touch! Looking forward to your December posts.

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    1. Happy December, Julia! I hope your preparations are well underway. X

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  10. Your advent calendar is so lovely. The warm space you have in your village sounds wonderful too.

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    1. Thank you. I am rather pleased with it.
      The Warm Space gives people the opportunity to meet together, and enjoy a cup of tea and a chat. X

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  11. I love the wooden Advent calendar with the moving star to count down the days.
    Hopefully the warm space will be a really good way of bringing the community together.

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