December Monthly Round Up

So, that was December. One day we were opening the first door of the advent calendar and next thing we know it’s New Years Eve. Despite the fact it’s been a days-fly-by, always-things-to-so sort of a month there were still plenty of good things happening. Here’s what my December looked like…

Watching

Elves, a Danish horror/drama that draws inspiration from Nordic folklore to create a reinvented Christmas tale. With just six half hour episodes, it’s perfect for binge watching. The story centres around a Danish family who, seeking an escape from their busy city lives, decide to celebrate Christmas on a remote Danish island. They encounter a frosty welcome, some strange locals in human form and a secret community that lives deep in the forest, behind an electrified fence.

The youngest of the family Josefine, played to perfection by Sonja Steen, disrupts the carefully managed balance of life on the island when she rescues a tiny creature from the woods. A decision that will change everything and throw the islanders and visitors alike into a battle for survival. Despite the fact she causes problems galore, you can’t help but like Josefine. She’s a warm hearted rebel.

On a side note, I’ve also fallen in love with the whole look of this show. The cabins, the knitwear, the Christmas decorations… all of it, gorgeous. I’m taking some serious inspiration. Think hanging paper stars, rustic inspirations, forest greenery and clove studded oranges. If you want a visual take a look at The Danes and Sostrene Grene. My shopping list is endless and I’m adding Denmark to the destination to do list.

Walking

Lots and lots of walking. Across Salisbury Plain, skirting the soldiers on exercise. Across forest and field in the Wiltshire countryside, spotting the pheasant and deer as I go.

I also made it back to one of my favourite places I’ve found since moving South, Richmond Park. We spent a day wandering and deer spotting and then walked into Richmond itself for coffee and cake at the Hollyhock Cafe. Perfection.

Countryfile Live

I like watching Country File, so when Mr THL mentioned he could get us tickets to Countryfile Live via Tickets for Troops, I was all over that idea. The day didn’t disappoint. There was food, foraging, woodland walking, live music and the chance to meet some very interesting and exciting independent creators and producers.

We also sat in on a very interesting chat between some of the Country File presenters and a rep. from The Woodland Trust about the importance of planting and the Plant Britain campaign. They talked about the importance of planting native trees, the impact of tree loss and how lots of people taking small actions can make a big difference. Intriguing, inspiring stuff.

Christmas at Longleat

Rounded off the year with a post Christmas trip to Longleat Safari Park. I’ve watched Animal Park on the BBC for years ( slightly influenced by the fact that Ben Fogle presents it. He is lovely, isn’t he?) so it was a bit exciting to go along and see what it was all about.

We couldn’t have picked a better way to end the year. Longleat House and grounds are beautiful, the Safari Drive is an amazing experience. Skip Monkey Island if you are precious about your car. They will car surf, jump on your roof, do gymnastics on roof bars and make off with windscreen wipers. It’s hilarious.

Elsewhere on the drive we spotted a slumbering tiger, hand fed deer and were approached by a curious grey wolf. That made my day. I mean, my own Little Wolf is always going to be my absolute favourite but this one captured my heart also.

After dark the park comes to life with music and magic, twinkling lights, a laser and light show and a giant singing Christmas tree. What more can you ask. Thank you Longleat, you were fabulous.

Leaving Me Just to Say…

Happy New Year and all the best to you all. I know for some people, this past year has brought losses and difficult times. I am thinking of you.

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read my rambling blog and chat with me in the comments. I’ve no idea where my little corner of the internet will go in the year ahead because I literally don’t know where I’ll be living next. Or if Mr THL will deploy this year or be more home based. I do have faith that it’ll all work out if I just walk it out a day at a time. And I thank everyone who comes along with me, I really appreciate it.

I wish you all a happy and healthy 2022 and all good things in the coming year.

Helen x