January always feels like a long month, but we've finally got to the end of it, if not the miserable weather. So what have I been up to? Well, I've been kept fairly busy with some new designs, as well as making pieces to order for you lovely people.

I've managed to get back to weekly walking, after missing several weeks from October through to December, mostly due to bad weather. I've decided I need to head out regardless, so I buffed up my boots, and I've been out in rain, mist, fine weather, and snow. The landscape around here is always beautiful though.

There are some early signs that spring is within sight now. My hyacinth has been filling the kitchen with scent for a couple of weeks, and I've seen snowdrops and vibernum flowering. The birds are becoming more active too, including this robin, which I lured with some cake crumbs.

Speaking of cake, we still have some of our Christmas cake left, which is pretty good going, and I've enjoyed some fine refreshments whilst out and about. I think top prize has to go to the tipsy cake at NT Wallington, but Howick Hall re-opens for the season next month, so they'll need to look to their laurels. 

Howick is known for its collection of snowdrops, so I'll no doubt have some pictures of those, and other spring bulbs, next month, as well as more new designs. Don't forget that it's Valentine's Day in February, so it's not a spoiler to say that there will be some hearts.