It’s hard to believe that Christmas is fast approaching.  After having a very mild November it will be interesting to see if we do actually get a white Christmas.  I really took advantage of the sunny days and had many a walk in the park.  It also allowed me to do more garden maintenance than I would normally do at this time of the year.

Captured Moments in Fintry Provincial Park http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/fintry/

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The garden still looks quite vibrant more from varied foliage than flowers blooming.  A few mornings the rockery garden was slightly tinged with frost.  This year though I have made sure, in preparation for winter, that there is plenty of mulch on the garden beds.  In particular around the base of my rose bushes.  I am determined this year to try and save my arbor rose which was so heavily damaged last winter.  

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As we progress into the month of December I turn my attention to both outdoor and indoor festive decorations.  Again because of the recent sunny days it was easy for me this year to collect fresh greenery for making wreaths, garlands and enhancing my outdoor containers.  (I did cheat a little on one of my outdoor wreaths which was purchased from Costco).  

Meanwhile apart from the fresh Christmas tree we buy every year the decorations are complete.  I enjoy unpacking treasured ornaments saved over the years.  In particular I love the snow globes and the warm cozy feel that the candles provide.  

Last but not least is the Christmas baking which I already started in November.  In particular the Christmas pudding, shortbread and mince pies, some of which are great given as gifts.  Traditions I remember when growing up in the UK.  

Christmas Baking

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This will be my last post of the year so all that remains to be said is my wish to family and friends for a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year.