I find time stalls when it’s this cold and I just grow an undefined fear inside me. How you guys who live your lives in Alaska, Scandinavia, Vermont, or even Scotland get through the winter is something I admire greatly – and you remain, invariably, positive about the whole situation: what a lesson for everyone.
The cats are properly dis-chuffed about the weather too. The kittens have taken to staying inside to go to the toilet, usually on our beds. I’m pretty sure Deidre went on Joel’s bed yesterday, and Maddie’s was moistened by a mystery feline (too small for Alan and I think Fatima is still going outside). Pam thinks it might be their mother, the fearsome Pansy, who routinely comes into the garden to scrap her daughters and who I’ve caught inside the house growling and hissing at the dog. Anyway, looks like cat litter trays are making an unscheduled return.
The upside, for the cats at least, is the woodburner. I cleaned the doors of it yesterday so we can see the fire better. All afternoon Fatima sat warming herself, watching the flames with playful intrigue and occassionally attempting to catch them.
They say it will continue like this for another week at least though the medium range forecast doesn’t see when the weather will break. I can hear the Scandinavians and New Englanders laughing, but I’m not sure my nerves will last as long as the frost!
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November 29, 2010 at 1:42 pm
windyhillx
15 degrees F this AM in northern NH. Trace of snow. I prefer snow over mud.
November 29, 2010 at 9:30 pm
SilverTiger
It gives me the shivers just reading this. I’m sure the countryside is very beautiful but in this weather I would rather be in town. Even with a tube strike 😉
The wood-burning stove sounds nice, though. Much nicer than a blank-faced radiator.
I could possibly envy you all those cats too!
November 30, 2010 at 6:34 pm
WOL
A word to the wise — layering! — as in long sleeved shirt, jumper, coat. Insist children wear hats, and you too — ears are vulnerable to frostbite. Mittens over gloves. Vests. If Mrs. YtC doesn’t knit, maybe she should learn. See: http://grundlepod.blogspot.com/2010/02/loop-scarf.html
November 30, 2010 at 10:02 pm
thewestisyettocome
Hey, thanks all. Although I posted this at about 9am I wrote it on the train at 6.30 so i was probably feeling a bit sorry for myself. Sorry if it’s a bit maudlin.
Layers are a great piece of advice, though getting the children to layer up is a challenge. They’ve got wise to the game of wear as many clothes as you can. I’ll pop in to somerset seasons, always happy to talk chicken!!
Tiger, I do miss London sometimes and Christmas is definitely one…it is just so beautiful in all the lights.
December 1, 2010 at 5:43 pm
Denise Nesbitt
We are on the North York Moors, just outside Whitby – coming to the end of an entire week spent indoors – yes the snow has really picked us out for special treatment!! We have fuel, warmth & supplies – hubby has 4×4 for work so I am quite happy at home When I can I get outside to take photos of the wonderful area – but it has been snowing again today! Oh and did I mention there is more snow on its way! Oh the joy!
Nice to meet you.