As we approach Christmas I always find this is a time of reflection. As I write this post our garden is snow laden, in fact Winter arrived early. The snow started to fall in early November and decided to stick around. Even though I struggle with the cold I still appreciate the different seasons, each one having its own beauty. Going through my recent winter posts on Instagram and Facebook, my followers seem to like the following winter scenes. In some of the photos you will see the leaves had not even fallen from the trees and are snow covered.

As much as I love gardening I do appreciate a break in the Winter so that I can concentrate on some of my other hobbies.  Of course this is a perfect time to decorate the house for Christmas and in recent years I have discovered the benefits of visiting thrift stores.   As they say someone else’s giveaway is another person’s treasure.  I am very traditional when it comes to Christmas decorating going with the red and green theme.  My Christmas tree ornaments I have kept for years and each time I bring them out there is a rush of past Christmas memories.  I love to do fresh outdoor greenery as well preferably on a mild winter’s day.

Outdoor Fresh Greenery

Indoor Christmas Decor

I also enjoy baking at this time of the year.  Again I am very traditional with my British background making Christmas cake, Christmas pudding, mince pies and shortbread.

My tender plants are doing well in the garage and I have started bringing in my bulbs for forcing including paper whites and hyacinths.   

We will be spending Christmas with our immediate family down in North Vancouver BC. All that remains to be said from our house to yours Wishing you All a Very Merry Christmas and Happy, Healthy New Year. As ever in the New Year I will be looking forward to seeing the early Spring bulbs and flowers.