diary

_______

Each month I reflect on what’s been happening for 1O 1O 1O, sharing what I am grateful for and looking to the month ahead.

Welcome to Autumn. The leaves are turning golden brown and there’s a chill in the air. September - the month of changes.

This month certainly makes summer feel like a distant memory. Plenty of rainy days and a noticeable change in the temperature! It’s important for all of us to remember this is what autumn should be like after such a long and dry summer - we were spoilt!

In terms of gardening, autumn is a very busy time of year and I, for one, am grateful for it.

Autumn - in the Garden?!

In most people’s eyes, September marks the end to many outdoor activities in the UK. Generally the weather gets much wetter, windier and cooler and this September was no different. We see children go back to school and the lead up to Christmas begins in earnest. That seems a shame to me - what can be such a beautiful time of the year is glossed over in the pursuit of one day in December??

Autumn 2020 is a bit different with a pandemic backdrop. I have found it helpful to focus longer term rather than on the immediate to give hope that we will get through this and there is life beyond. Gardening is a great tool to force you to think this way. Seeds you sew now are for next year, the pruning and clearing you do now will yield results next harvest. I find gardening in the summer heat uncomfortable at times, so putting off those heavier jobs to when the temperatures are a little lower makes total sense. Wrapped up warm (thermal trousers from Uniqlo are a must by the way) I wage war on the brambles. Something very satisfying comes from clearing a space out in the fresh air, knowing it will be full of colour again in a few months’ time.

Maple Tree House

The design and concept work is well and truly underway for this beauty. With planning permission delayed at the local authority, we’ve used the extra time (a luxury in this industry) to hone the design earlier than usual. The proportions and layout came together very early and we’re hopeful of a positive response when it does go in to planning. We can’t share the details just yet, but you can take a sneaky preview of the kitchen design on our latest post guiding you on designing your own dream kitchen.

Life By Design*

This month’s newness we can’t be without is the paint Green Smoke by Farrow and Ball. featured in our post about paint colours of the moment, it’s one I keep coming back to, especially for kitchens. Although we’re not ready to break ground on the Courtyard House yet, this colour will certainly feature somewhere!

It’s All is Good

As the virus surges again, it’s important for all of us to play our part. We’re trying to stay well both physically and mentally - mine is through gardening, where as Scott is learning the piano amongst other things. With our 10th anniversary in October we have much to be grateful for. We still have our health, jobs and a roof over our heads. The colder months also provide a great opportunity to spruce up your wardrobe with latering and textures! Check out our Pinterst Women’s Style board for some ideas!

_______