HOME IN THE HILLS.

Yes folks we are back in sheep country  where the guys have been chasing the girls, having a tupping good time!

It's hard to believe that we have been back over a week already and what a lovely warm welcome we got after being away so long and how things have changed in the garden here which is now very overgrown and in bad need of a man with strong hedge-cutter!

However there was planting going on as the village Christmas tree was put into place for the carol singing and the guys were busy getting all the lights put around our little green

It was a great night, well attended and we all sang along cheerfully with the brass band.

Afterwards most went to the community centre for hot soup and rolls and to warm up.

It's the first time in years we have done it and now hopefully it will be an annual event.

Next day I managed to get the mad mutt up on the mountain where he bounced all over the place catching up on all the new scents and diving into thick piles of autumnal leaves.

We also went to visit "The Singing Gate" but the wind wasn't quite in the right direction

Standing cold  in the wintry wind but the skies were clear and visibility good for miles.

It was nice to hear the news that the red grouse population is increasing and spreading.

Even better to hear that someone else has spotted a black grouse up on the moor too.

All the ewes are in off the commons land at the moment and will be until after lambing.

The rams, having done their job are looking somewhat tired out and just resting for a bit.

Of course the nights draw in all too soon now we are well into December so early sunsets and the need to get in out of the windiness and get warmed up with hot soup and toast

but it has been good to catch up with all the various news, and sights of our area.

I've been very tired and resting a lot and yes the jackdaws are as nattery-chattery as ever in the evenings, boasting about all their acrobatic antics as they've circled over the farms.

I've been wondering what the skies have been like in the Fens, good ones I hope.

My sincere thanks to all the many kind folk who helped me through such a tough time

and also showed me such warmth of friendship and the healing of laughter.

Bless you all.