Shortest day

Foxglove was looking picture postcard perfect this morning. The snow fall last night and early this morning was covering everything in a thick blanket. The shortest day has come and gone and today it felt like Nature was asleep under the snow awaiting the coming of Spring. The air was still and so quiet that you could hear every rustle of the birds foraging around in the undergrowth.

You could hardly see the cattle in the thick fog this morning. Thanks to Gillian and Tom they will be kept fed with bales of hay over this festive time. Their shaggy coats are well adapted to this kind of weather. The boys (and Bobbie the sheep) are doing well.

However you enjoy your Christmas, - whether inside snug and warm or going out in the snow, whether on your own or as part of a big gathering, have a lovely time. Merry Christmas.

As a PS to the above, from one fortunate enough to know the code to this almost daily journal, it takes only a flick of the mouse to re-wind the entries and peruse/marvel at what has been achieved on our little nature reserve over the past 12 months. It is the result of commitment, hard work, determination and selflessness from a wide range of people without whom it just would not happen. It also reflects the quality and personal contribution of the two ladies who keep the reserve functioning on a daily basis and maintain this record. It is a remarkable collaborative effort, so a huge 'thank you' to you all. I hope you have a happy and peaceful Christmas/New Year period and that 2010 is every bit as rewarding.