It's beginning to feel a bit like Christmas

So, all meetings done for this year, and now on the home stretch to Christmas. I have lists of things to buy, to do, to cook and lists of lists still to be made. I know it's not vital to know at this point what we will eat for tea a week on Wednesday, but for some reason (supermarket delivery order) I would feel happier if I'd at least got something in mind. In the meantime, what do I do? Get Paddington and Aunt Lucy into their Nikolaus outfits, of course, just a few days late. I have to get some priorities straight!

We've just brought the Christmas tree inside and as we did, I noticed a small squirrel in one of the old trees in the lane - we live high on a hill and that particular window looks out amongst the branches as you can see. The little squirrel seems to be quite happy there and didn't mind my taking his photograph, normally they squeal and shout at us if we deign to disturb their business! He's hanging on for life though - laid flat out on that branch with his tail over his head. Maybe he's enjoying a short nap?! (I'd forgotten that the photo will be even smaller when blogged, so if you can't see him in the pic, you'll simply have to enjoy a view of a Cotswold tree trunk!)

Teeny Tiny Totes

The Teeny Tiny Totes I began making in June were finished over the weekend, a pompom attached as fastening, made with the pink Clover Pompom maker (my new favourite toy!) and felted by washing twice at 60C in the machine. I love the way the pompoms felted and think the little "nose" finishes them off nicely. I made a total of thirteen for my colleagues, who were suitably appreciative.

I also made a batch of these paper balls from the Martha Stewart Holiday craft magazine which seems to be a particularly good collection of ideas this year. Might have to do a few more of these for Edward to take back to his flat at the weekend. I think they look good just sitting around, never mind hanging on a tree.

Gorgeous sky

As I left Waitrose at around 4.30pm yesterday, my spirits were lifted by the most stunning sky. Fortunately, I had my camera in my bag.

Knitting a poem

My Grumpy chum alerted me to this series which is on Radio 4 several days this week - really great and worth a listen.

Advent Sunday

Getting myself together having spent most of yesterday driving to and from London, taking Edward to his new home. It's an exciting time for him, starting out in the world with so many possibilities opening up and we are happy that he's sorted out such a comfortable place to live.

Today we've put out our Advent plate and will light the first candle later. No good for the willpower, because those lebkuchen, dominostein and other yummy sweeties are amongst my favourites. Shall have to balance the chocolate with a satsuma from time to time!