around here . . .

there's a chill in the air. misty mountain mornings. arms full of kindling. a fire to feed. breathtaking light in the late afternoon. extra blankets at night. there's are a trip to the nursery. holes to dig. trees to plant (chinese tallow, liquid amber, silver birch). renovations to the chook yard. a pile of bush poles to work with. there are fruit trees to prune. a worm farm being built. there's some kombucha brewing. a bucket of kalamatas pickling. there are mid-winter celebrations. wild and wet lantern walks. a baby who can walk (but chooses not to). there's end of term tiredness and tears. talk of plans for the school holidays. dear friends coming to stay. plus a little trip away.