The Quiet Life

Well, when I decided to go rural I knew it was going to be a quieter existence, less complicated, less stressful and more relaxing. But this is ridiculous! It is the onset of winter and I have started that habitual animal tendency - hibernating. Not just staying home more but, actually, moving less.

Most days I wake up early because my body clock is refusing to accept that daylight saving is over. Invariably the sunrises are breathtaking- like this one this morning. It's rare that I would take a photo because my mind is focussed on a hot cup of coffee and the morning paper, online of course. All enjoyed in the warmth and cosiness of my bed. After the mandatory puzzles and horoscopes I fling myself out of bed, throw some clothes on and prepare breakfast. I try to make a list of tasks to do everyday - sometimes they are abysmally pathetic and, to make matters worse, I don't even get through them. Let me give you an example - wash windows, weed garden, empty compost bin. Of course there's other 'office based' tasks but I try to give myself reasons to go outside. So, those three external jobs haven't been completed yet. I did buy myself a ladder so that I could wash the windows but it's still hanging in the garage.

Now that's what I call commitment to hibernation!

Doesn't make matters any easier when the night seems to fall so much earlier these days. All the more reason to draw the curtains and shut out the world. And there's the temptation of the glass of pinot noir within reach.

Honestly - if this is the start of winter I am really going to need some counselling to get through. I think a good dose of winter visits will help - or maybe I should chase the sun. Must find that winning Lotto ticket.

THE BEST.........that glass of quality Hawke's Bay red wine

THE WORST.....those windows are still smudgy and look even worse when the sun shines. Best to keep the curtains drawn.

I'M LEARNING.....winter in the countryside is about nesting and playing like a bear.