Normal Days

So - all back to normal then.  I took down all the decorations this morning and then spent a very long time dusting and hovering.  Usually I'm quite energised by getting everything back to normal but this year I found it a bit depressing.  Anyway, reviewing my gifts I spotted some more home-mades

Truffles made by Victoria

and Basil Olive Oil and Chive Flower vinegar made by my sister Belinda

The pink of the vinegar from the chive flowers is so pretty.

Reuben got very bored and naughty while I was so busy and is in the dog house

because he took his frustration out on the knitted head

I was very cross.

I used the last of the Christmas food to make Devils on Horsebacks in the Hole

And finally, just to prove Christmas is well and truly over and the new year has begun, my orchids are coming into bloom, as they do every year

So pretty.

Over Christmas I received a lovely letter from Silke Herrmann and her husband who stayed on the CL this summer.  They sent us lots of lovely photos and these are my favourites

It all looks so lush and green - be a few months till we see this out the window again.

Finally, I gave my mother a book of this blog for Christmas.  She enjoyed it very much but said there were too many pictures of quilts other people had made.  I said, "that's because I never finish anything" to which she replied "so you keep reminding us...".

New Year's resolution Number 2 - only talk about finish in the positive.