Winter doesn't feel so bleak and dissonant amongst the rhododendron and ferns- that's why this is one of my favourite places to be in January. We sat upon a moss-covered bench next to the walled pond as Pippin scouted for ducks. We ate soup that I made from leftover risotto with celeriac and wild mushroom, before walking a while through the tall trees and low shrubs. The morning was slow as Jon spent much time sorting through paperwork and a deep, evolutionary feeling of hibernation came over us both. Shortly into the walk I admitted "I just want to go home and watch a film", to which Jon replied, "Oh, thank god!". We swiftly abandoned our usual circle walk and returned the car, following the lanes back home and to warmth.
