Hygge

I've always taken comfort in the small things and everything that has come to mean hygge. I treasure it even more in Winter and while it was important to me before Christmas it means even more in January and February. In these months I really can't get along with the grey days and that's before the winter colds have struck!

So according to the people that know me well, I've always been a little hygge. Maybe a lot. It has become a bit of a trend and I don't think that is a bad thing if it means people are looking after themselves and each other.

So here's to cosy evenings in clutching a hot drink, tucking in to cake, biscuits and good conversation with our favourite people, and seeking the sun on chilly days!

Happy Hygge!

Katie

A Christmas Visit to Waddesdon Manor

 

On Sunday evening I went to Waddesdon Manor; a National Trust property between Aylesbury and Bicester. For the past couple of years I have gone with my family to soak up the atmosphere and this time was no different!

Wrapped up against the cold, we braved the wind and made our way to the little Christmas Fair behind the manor. We tucked into roasted chestnuts and clutched cups of mulled cider while we took in all there was to see - the manor was bathed in blue light at the back and the trees were adorned with warm yellow lights. With Christmas music in the background, there was nothing the rain could do to dampen my spirit!

One of the draws of Waddesdon is the light installations of Bruce Munro who has had a three year residency there. In each of his pieces he incorporates light, sound and colour to various effects.  For his final year, Bruce used pulsing illuminated tents, radio snippets, sections of songs and morse code to create a fun yet intriguing installation. An immersive experience my sister and I danced our way around parts of the path and I definitely sang along to some of the songs!

Later on I was very happy to sit, sipping hot coffee and eating mince pies in the gorgeous outside seating area which was all dressed up for Christmas with rugs and fairy lights.

I’ll take any excuse to immerse myself in Christmas. I’ve managed to do this a lot at the Christmas fairs where I have had a table but it’s also been nice to enjoy the festivities as a spectator too. On Wednesday I went to a late night shopping event in a local village. Windows were adorned with snowy scenes for a competition, and shops were brimming with people seeking the perfect decorations. There were even donkeys wearing Santa hats! So much Christmas and advent has only just begun!

I hope you’re enjoying the lead up to Christmas!

Katie