I discovered later in my life that it was change that others thrust upon me that I didn't like and was resistant to, so when I changed my approach and started making changes that I chose, it was much much easier! Even in the current crisis, I'm trying to keep making choices that make me feel like I'm still moving forward, even just a little! Thanks for what you do Vivi! Cheerio and Virtual Hugs! 🤗
What was it called during our training in psychology and education: "Positive inversion!" - I myself have no problems with the changing of the seasons. I like autumn and winter because I am sufficiently busy even during these darker seasons: I sew, knit, listen to my beloved operas, cook, bake lots of Christmas cookies for my family (although I don't eat any myself) ..... Over the years I've also learned to sometimes just do nothing. You have to accept changes, even if it takes time, of course. If you resist it, you rob yourself a lot of your own energy. We could all deal with this topic a bit here, and support each other and keep each other happy. In this sense big hug Claudia
I love autumn, always have. The colours, the harvest, crunchy leaves swirling in the wind, bonfires, that first "excuse" to light a fire indoors.... mmmmm Autumn is the best
Month 41!!!! I’ve watched you all along and month 41!! Ups and downs, you push along!! I know It’s been hard, you’ve been so open to show us that. To be vulnerable to strangers. No candy coating, be aware, hard stuff people!!
Thank you so much lovely......I would never want to candy coat this life......it is beautiful, glorious and hugely fulfilling.....etc....but is definitely not for the faint hearted or the work shy! ;-)
A few things that I look forward for in the winter (living in Southern Finland) are warm strews and soups, taking long hot baths, lighting candles (and this year we will have the fireplace we've been dreaming about for years, hooray!), having the time to sew and knit, cuddling up with a good book and a cup of hot tea or cocoa and wearing all those cute socks I've knitted. What helps me is that I make sure to go out during the light hours if possible, might be just a 10 minute stroll but that helps. The worst winter I've had was when doing my masters thesis, it was dark outside when I got to work and dark when I left and I spent the whole workday in a darkroom. Getting cold is also a big no no, if I get cold, I get miserable. It's a bit funny, many think we here in Finland are used to it being cold inside during the winter but that is so not true! Our houses are well insulated and we do crank up the thermostat so that it's a toasty 20-21 degree C inside even if it's -20 degrees C outside.
Oh I hadn't realised you were in Finland......it's really interesting to get your perspective on this! I hear you re the dark starts and ends to work.......I had that for so long as a nurse....and then days off in the library studying for my Masters........ These days I make sure to try to get out in the light every day! :-)
Resilience - a word I have thought about a lot about this year..... living with out a wage and relying on my garden for sustenance and peace of mind. Finding ways to reduce my expenses has been wonderful experience. Of all the years to begin living with out a wage, this year has been an absolute nerve racking, nail biter, adrenaline filled year (understatement). I lament about all of the what if’s...... what if the garden fails, what if something breaks etc..... regardless of what life throws at me I am resilient! If I have a moment of doubt, I look at my garden, I look at my pantry, or I watch a What Vivi did next video and everything feels so much better. I am resilient!!! I am soooooooo completely looking forward to slowing down for the winter. There is a stack of books and some knitting calling my name and Pricilla certainly wants her lap made more available. CHEERS!!
Right there with you on the 'there must be a better way to winter.' After 4 days of wind, rain, mist, showers, and dullness, I realize I am not prepared. I see the cozy appeal and that's my target. Safe, cozy and warm at home, I need to appreciate that and make the most of it. Keep us updated.
I agree with you Vivi. Always change a negative thought into a positive one. It makes all the difference to general well being. Sometimes it does take a bit of effort to think about things in a different way but in the long run, truly worth it!
I get it. For years I had dreadful winters. When I became aware of the vitamin D connection, I came up with a plan. In addition to the Vitamin D, I get outdoors. I find a place in the sun and walk or sit and read. I find a concrete stoop that's in the sun for hours, sit on the warm stone and read. And greet neighbors. Get's me out of the house and interacting with other beings. Helps lift my mood and create community at the same time. One winter I went to the coast and walked near the surf for a few hours every Saturday Morning. Taking action that I plan is the plan, And it works. Thanks so much for reminding me of this.🌈⭐️💖
I think part of our mindset begins in childhood. We learn from those around us, just watch a 3-year-old sometime, they mimic their parents' behaviors. I've watched you for a long while now, even before you stopped nursing. You have grown. And yes it was Norway, the article. I guess that old saying, you can't miss what you've never had is true. I read that article too and enjoyed it very much. This was fun. Thanks for sharing. Stay safe.
Ch... ch... ch... ch... changes.... Bean attack!! Oh that is interesting about Tromso, as I know someone there who is always cheery. "Latitude love" Richard is saying... 😊 I do love dry, crisp winter days and am so looking forward to picking up my reading and writing again. 👍👍👍 Yay for your tennis! 😃 Lovely month 41 update. 😊😊😊
Hahaha, of course it was latitude.......my poor tired brain......it needs a big clear out! Ooooh, I look forward to you writing again........I love winter for that.....less time needed in the garden, more time for creative expression in other ways..... :-)
This reminds me of one of your 'Thoughts On...' vids last year (or the year before?) where you talked about Hygge and challenging yourself to embrace the coming winter. I think more than ever this year we all need to focus on that in case we face a repeat of our lockdowns. Not knowing how it would be and the toll it would take on our collective mental health was a blessing, I think. Facing the potential of it again makes me both fearful and also determined not to let it get as bad as the last time. Planning projects and pastimes to keep busy and stimulated reminds me to get my sewing machine serviced! Hoping we'll hear you've gotten yours back in an upcoming video soon.
Yay, good on you lovely....yes, get that service done......mine is ready to collect......just need to find the right time to do it........I can't wait to play on it again! Woohooo for winter days spent sewing and daydreaming. :-)
Dear vivi, I live to be outside in the woods with the trees, the wild life and walking! I walk for miles and even if I’m not able to walk for miles I take making equipment with me, my trusty kelly kettle and make a little tea, I sit and listen, even in the rain if it’s not too much. The changing weather, I look forward to, it’s constant sunshine and heat or constant grey nothing weather, that can pull me down, I do like the way it makes the colours pop though, and I love to see the trees bare I love the opportunity sit and knit, I am very curious and this feeds evenings of education, I only wish it stayed in my head longer. I can totally understand why winter would get you down, if you are not seeing things grow in your wonderful garden, it’s plain to see your resilience, and your natural curiosity and practicality, which goes in your favour for getting through the winter In one piece. Im glad to hear you have a good support system, must be a great comfort. I have not been able to find roland garros, I just haven’t been watching tv much, it’s not prime videos or even tennis channel, might be but I think they wanted me to pay, I’d rather be in the woods. If the weather is hot, then I can stand to be indoors and watching or listening, but as soon as the weather cools a little I’m off out for the whole day. My heart bursts sometimes with the beauty of it all, especially if I’m driving with the lark ascending, I cry buckets, cleansing the the old eye holes. Sending you hugs and warmth for the coming of winter 🤗🤗🤗 So,
I so love that you said your heart bursts with the beauty of it all........I completely feel that way too........and it is a real mental life saver during the darker days! Good on you lovely........enjoy your forest bathing. :-)
Yay Vivi, you're doing an awesome job with the no wage years. I don't think I could do what you are doing so big thumbs up to you. I couldn't help but hearing the word hygge over and over again in my head. If you don't know that word, please google it. It's being cozy, embracing the autumn and winter. I'm a winter gall through and through, I was born in January so that's how I roll and indeed I like to make and eat soup but I also like to snuggle on the couch with a book and some tea and light candles. I enjoy watching dvd's in the winter but I also have taken all my seeds from the shed on the allotment and I'm going to go through all of them, sorting out their dates and make a plan, a month by month plan for them and so on. I'll store them and that will be a lovely job to do during a rainy day. I will listen to audiobooks while doing some knitting and/or crochet, I'll clear up cupboards that I didn't have time to do so during the early spring until now. I'll read magazines I didn't came around to. I'll take more time to watch youtube and respond to the ones I love to respond to. I'll reconnect with my friends that I didn't came around to lately and so on. There is always something to do, I'm never bored and if I am it's by my own doing. Take care dear Vivi, hope you'll be able to keep the glass half full during the wintertime. Change is good indeed but it's also good because of what you make from it. Big hugs xoxo Vleer.
Ahhh, hygge.....such a lovely concept.......I had meant to mention it today but as usual got distracted and went off at a tangent. Take care lovely.....and welcome the hygge time. :-)
I also thought I was resistant to change but lately I realise that I have always being told that I am resistant to change by employers when I've questioned a change occurring, which I think is helpful. However, if the change is generated by me, I'm amazingly resilient!
I am with you Viv. I intend to make the best of winter and building into my life things to celebrate about the season, things to look forward to. Looking for the beauty and appreciating what is, not lamenting what isn't.
Funny how change can be frightening, thrilling, and everything in between.. I love fall and winter, definitely my best time for everything really, I adore the darkness and closed in cozy feels, which is handy when living in Canada 😁 I could easily live in Sweden or other socked in countries, I'm the reverse of you Vivi, I can grind to a sickening halt during summer, weird hey.. Have a good week, enjoy the tennis ❤🍁
Yayyy a minute at a time a day at a time and 41 months later who would have thunk 🌹💞looking forward to winter, books embroidery crocheting and especially planning the spring sowing and planting GRATEFUL😍💋Thank You for sharing your journey!!
You have been building confidence with in yourself that helps you with change and a support from your friends to help you with change,it has to come within
i was born in 1949,,so i've been thru change,,,some good things come with change,,,am glad to see you in such a good mood viv,cause i know you've been working hard preserving and preparing the harvest,,,xx
Being a science person, I accessed the local weather for this area for the last 50 years, and calculated average rainfall, temperature highs and lows and frequency of rain. This altered my expectations enormously
I do agree being at home and doing something that I love .i.e. my garden has brought me a great deal of joy. Every ones beans is finishing mine is still in full production even the blight is keeping away fingers cross.
Thank you Vivi for these musings. I used to love Autumn and Winter but the storms and floods we’ve had in West Yorkshire since Boxing Day 2015 frighten me and I struggle with the dark days now. I’m determined to make things better this year, so many people say how cosy the dark nights can be. Trying for hygge this year xx
Hi Viv :-) i think we can all try and turn a situation around and look for the positive .It is hard to do at times but things always work out .My mum has a hard time in the winter .I was thinking of getting her a SAD lamp to help give her the day light she needs .May be a idea if you feel down .Everything is so messed up this year we just need to find something good to hold onto .Deb xx
I don't hate Winter per se, but dread it because of the cold and I can't afford to have the heating on, and I find the cold makes me miserable and depressed. Having to live in your outdoor clothes indoors, make life difficult. Even getting your hands/arms out from sleeves/gloves or throws to read a book or do some crafting is impossible because of the cold, no cosy times for me, so I feel I'm just marking time during the Winter months, which is a waste of life. Food has to be restricted to things that dont need cooking, or not much cooking because my kitchen is so cold and I just shiver so much to do the smallest thing. I have taken to bringing the kettle and teamaking stuff on a tray into the living room so I don't have to go in there.
Oh my goodness lovely.....I'm worried for you that things are so bad you cannot have heat.......please look into getting some help for that....benefits, charitable grants etc.......please look after yourself. :-(
Bats, I wasn’t finished lol. Congrats Vivi!! You’ve truly shown myself, and I’m sure others. Just do it!! A completely different way of life could be waiting for anyone.
I think there's a difference between choosing to make big changes in our life and having them foisted upon us. And also the reason for those changes - working in the civil service I changed roles every few years, and I was always happier moving to a job that I wanted to do rather than moving out of one I'd grown to hate. Like you I'm a summer lass, and this year the change of seasons seemed to happen almost overnight. I think, oddly, that's made it easier for me to accept, especially as we knew it was coming. I sorted out my seed box today, a job I love, and so I'm already looking forward to next spring.
Yay for the seed box sort.....that's on my list to do soon too. You're absolutely right that there's a difference when change is imposed on us.........the change in my knees feels like an imposition (!) and harder to deal with than all the other changes combined. :-)
Hello Vivi, Congratulations on 3.5! We are actually getting some night cooler temps, thank God. No rain still, but I am grateful for the cool temps. I’m glad you are enjoying you tennis 🎾. Until next time take good care of yourself.😉💗💗💗
Any little flicker of sunshine in winter and I am on it! Either outside or sitting in the sunniest room in the house which is actually the back bedroom! I have my winter sunshine chair there and sit and sew, crochet or read! A walk each day is a must unless the weather is bad in which case its a cosy up by the fire with a good book! Its a time of year when I am glad I am retired and don't have to go out if I don't want to! Take care lovely! x
Just consider winter as a time for you to plan something new for the garden and researching something totally different than you would have ever thought.
Hi again Vivi, Just think, if you hadn't made those changes 41 months ago, you would have missed out on all the amazing experiences you have had. By the way, when you were talking about the tennis and we got interrupted by the beans in the window, I had this vivid image of you rushing into the kitchen with a fish slice ready to bat those beans back in. Love - all.
Like you Vivi, I much prefer summer than winter, and have never got over the fact that I wasn't born in Oz, haha! I have found though, that if I give myself a talking to and get off my backside, even on cold dank days, once I don my wellies and warm gardening clothes, I thoroughly enjoy myself pottering in my garden. Especially when I go back into the warm and have a lovely hot cuppa. Take care and stay positive 😘
I think we all need hugs and freedom of choices... It's been poo this year, we were planning to have loads of road trips this year and that went right out of the window... Nil Despirandom!!! At least we have VIVI to cheer us all up. x ATB Namaste!!! ~Guuuruuuu Murphinda!!!~
What a bonkers year! I've managed OK with most of it....just trying to go with the flow......but I hope it doesn't go on tooooooo much longer! I really feel for you guys with kids.....home schooling, keeping them occupied, trying to explain why the world turned upside down this year......hats off to all of you. :-)
Over the last few years, I've tried to change my attitude about the seasons as I used to start to get a bit depressed as soon as we hit the Summer solstice, oh no all downhill from here lol ridiculous thinking about it now. I focus on looking forward to long clear nights to watch the stars and reject this whole idea of putting the garden to bed. It increasingly means the allotment as well, there's no reason to stop doing something you enjoy that's a recipe for feeling down.
I wonder if you find some winter sports that you can get engaged in, if that'll make your heart a bit more full in the cold season. Is there a place you can go watch ice skating competitions, curling, hockey (ice) and on TV skiing competitions etc. You are sports driven and directed so time to expand your seasonal sports love. If I were there I'd drag you to watch some skating comps and watch some skiing with you. I love the ones that they do huge jumps and flips. Sorta like high diving only on skis. lol. I'm just getting caught up, a month late but cheering you on as we enter the end of October.
Oh I love my winter sports too......not much on at the moment though....I could do with a winter Olympics right now for all the curling (so addictive!)......the ski shows on TV won't start here for a while yet..... :-)
Not all change is good. But the change of seasons is normal and ads variety to our routines and is welcome here. But disasters and unrest,pandemics are disruptions and bring dangers that are not welcome.
Looking good and positive Viv. With you on the moody winter. Just been looking at vitamin d sun lamps, but yes I think it could be a mental thing. Bob Marley said "some feel the rain and some get wet. Uk is a bit a different to the Carribbean. I get wet cold and my injuries play up. Funny how I never noticed these things in childhood, I'm six and tricking myself 🤔😁😟
Have you heard of the saying the only constant in life is change? I often wonder if that is more true for those who thrive on change compared to the rest of us who prefer lest frequent upheavals to our day to day lives. Living in Canada we either embrace the cold or travel south...but thanks to the border closure not this year. Brrrrrrr. ☃️ How is the shed looking this week?
I always thought I didn't like upheaval......but maybe it turns out that it's good for me. ;-) The shed is still ram packed with lavender and other seeds etc drying.......I really need to get it all home to make way for some more bug harvests to come! :-)
Of course, every season has its good traits. Fall and winter have always been my favs. Though we don't like having to deal with snow on our paths and driveways, it does reflect light, and even on darker days, there is a certain brightness from it that is good for the spirit. As you mentioned.... Soup. A favourite meal in the winter. Blankies and reading. And more time for crafting and hobbies that you sort of abandon once the weather is nice enough to be outside in. It is a respite from all the hard work you do in the garden, and in the harvest season. A long sigh of relief.
Ahhhh, yes....the long sigh of relief......I'm actually really looking forward to it this year......this spring and summer in the garden have been the hardest ever! ;-)
@@WhatVivididnext Yes please, we were in England in May to end of June 2018, damn hot too. !!! Can't wait to come back over. Just wonderful, we fell in love with your beautiful country.
Your hair looks lovely, Vivi. I bought myself a Lush shampoo bar and it’s great. Question, do you also use a conditioner bar, or your diy Rosemary rinse instead?
Yay for a lush shampoo bar! No, I don't use a conditioner anymore....not since going over to my lush shampoo bars a few years ago.......I do occasionally do a rosemary or calendula rinse......but very infrequently these days (no more than once in a couple of months!). :-)
I haven't used it, no, because I would have to buy it......but one of my neighbours does (also firmly an organic gardener) and she swears by it......and I've seen her get great results! :-)
Cheers lovely. I actually get masses of sun exposure but unfortunately my body is a bit wonky and doesn't convert it very well so it looks like a life of supplements for me. ;-)
I discovered later in my life that it was change that others thrust upon me that I didn't like and was resistant to, so when I changed my approach and started making changes that I chose, it was much much easier! Even in the current crisis, I'm trying to keep making choices that make me feel like I'm still moving forward, even just a little! Thanks for what you do Vivi! Cheerio and Virtual Hugs! 🤗
Good on you lovely, I quite agree......and huge virtual hugs back! :-)
What was it called during our training in psychology and education: "Positive inversion!"
- I myself have no problems with the changing of the seasons. I like autumn and winter because I am sufficiently busy even during these darker seasons: I sew, knit, listen to my beloved operas, cook, bake lots of Christmas cookies for my family (although I don't eat any myself) ..... Over the years I've also learned to sometimes just do nothing.
You have to accept changes, even if it takes time, of course. If you resist it, you rob yourself a lot of your own energy.
We could all deal with this topic a bit here, and support each other and keep each other happy.
In this sense
big hug
Claudia
Ahhh, yes, sometimes doing nothing!!!! The perfect winter pursuit! I aim to do some of the nothing this winter. :-)
I love autumn, always have. The colours, the harvest, crunchy leaves swirling in the wind, bonfires, that first "excuse" to light a fire indoors.... mmmmm Autumn is the best
Absolutely!!!! I think it's my favourite season after summer...... :-)
Month 41!!!! I’ve watched you all along and month 41!! Ups and downs, you push along!! I know It’s been hard, you’ve been so open to show us that. To be vulnerable to strangers. No candy coating, be aware, hard stuff people!!
Thank you so much lovely......I would never want to candy coat this life......it is beautiful, glorious and hugely fulfilling.....etc....but is definitely not for the faint hearted or the work shy! ;-)
Change is not something I like but as I get older change is something that I fear less
I think that's how I feel too. :-)
A few things that I look forward for in the winter (living in Southern Finland) are warm strews and soups, taking long hot baths, lighting candles (and this year we will have the fireplace we've been dreaming about for years, hooray!), having the time to sew and knit, cuddling up with a good book and a cup of hot tea or cocoa and wearing all those cute socks I've knitted.
What helps me is that I make sure to go out during the light hours if possible, might be just a 10 minute stroll but that helps. The worst winter I've had was when doing my masters thesis, it was dark outside when I got to work and dark when I left and I spent the whole workday in a darkroom. Getting cold is also a big no no, if I get cold, I get miserable. It's a bit funny, many think we here in Finland are used to it being cold inside during the winter but that is so not true! Our houses are well insulated and we do crank up the thermostat so that it's a toasty 20-21 degree C inside even if it's -20 degrees C outside.
Oh I hadn't realised you were in Finland......it's really interesting to get your perspective on this! I hear you re the dark starts and ends to work.......I had that for so long as a nurse....and then days off in the library studying for my Masters........ These days I make sure to try to get out in the light every day! :-)
Resilience - a word I have thought about a lot about this year..... living with out a wage and relying on my garden for sustenance and peace of mind. Finding ways to reduce my expenses has been wonderful experience. Of all the years to begin living with out a wage, this year has been an absolute nerve racking, nail biter, adrenaline filled year (understatement). I lament about all of the what if’s...... what if the garden fails, what if something breaks etc..... regardless of what life throws at me I am resilient! If I have a moment of doubt, I look at my garden, I look at my pantry, or I watch a What Vivi did next video and everything feels so much better. I am resilient!!! I am soooooooo completely looking forward to slowing down for the winter. There is a stack of books and some knitting calling my name and Pricilla certainly wants her lap made more available. CHEERS!!
A huge hats off and cheers to you lovely.....I think you have done brilliantly in probably the hardest year!!!! Good on you lovely. :-)
Right there with you on the 'there must be a better way to winter.' After 4 days of wind, rain, mist, showers, and dullness, I realize I am not prepared. I see the cozy appeal and that's my target. Safe, cozy and warm at home, I need to appreciate that and make the most of it. Keep us updated.
Exactly......let us all keep the cosy target in the front of our minds! :-)
I agree with you Vivi. Always change a negative thought into a positive one. It makes all the difference to general well being. Sometimes it does take a bit of effort to think about things in a different way but in the long run, truly worth it!
OH gosh, yes, it really is worth the effort.......I'm a long way from perfecting it but my baby steps are reaping rewards already! :-)
I get it.
For years I had dreadful winters. When I became aware of the vitamin D connection, I came up with a plan. In addition to the Vitamin D, I get outdoors. I find a place in the sun and walk or sit and read. I find a concrete stoop that's in the sun for hours, sit on the warm stone and read. And greet neighbors. Get's me out of the house and interacting with other beings. Helps lift my mood and create community at the same time. One winter I went to the coast and walked near the surf for a few hours every Saturday Morning. Taking action that I plan is the plan,
And it works.
Thanks so much for reminding me of this.🌈⭐️💖
Good on you lovely......soak up those gorgeous rays and warmth when you can! And when we can't......a good vit D supplement! ;-)
I think part of our mindset begins in childhood. We learn from those around us, just watch a 3-year-old sometime, they mimic their parents' behaviors.
I've watched you for a long while now, even before you stopped nursing. You have grown. And yes it was Norway, the article. I guess that old saying, you can't miss what you've never had is true. I read that article too and enjoyed it very much.
This was fun. Thanks for sharing. Stay safe.
Thank you lovely. :-)
Ch... ch... ch... ch... changes.... Bean attack!! Oh that is interesting about Tromso, as I know someone there who is always cheery. "Latitude love" Richard is saying... 😊 I do love dry, crisp winter days and am so looking forward to picking up my reading and writing again. 👍👍👍 Yay for your tennis! 😃 Lovely month 41 update. 😊😊😊
Hahaha, of course it was latitude.......my poor tired brain......it needs a big clear out! Ooooh, I look forward to you writing again........I love winter for that.....less time needed in the garden, more time for creative expression in other ways..... :-)
Awesome update thank you for sharing Vivi
Thank you lovely. :-)
This reminds me of one of your 'Thoughts On...' vids last year (or the year before?) where you talked about Hygge and challenging yourself to embrace the coming winter. I think more than ever this year we all need to focus on that in case we face a repeat of our lockdowns. Not knowing how it would be and the toll it would take on our collective mental health was a blessing, I think. Facing the potential of it again makes me both fearful and also determined not to let it get as bad as the last time. Planning projects and pastimes to keep busy and stimulated reminds me to get my sewing machine serviced! Hoping we'll hear you've gotten yours back in an upcoming video soon.
Yay, good on you lovely....yes, get that service done......mine is ready to collect......just need to find the right time to do it........I can't wait to play on it again! Woohooo for winter days spent sewing and daydreaming. :-)
I remember month 1.... I think I remember saying to you that it would be fine... somehow one always manages...
Yay! Thanks for having faith in me. :-)
Dear vivi, I live to be outside in the woods with the trees, the wild life and walking! I walk for miles and even if I’m not able to walk for miles I take making equipment with me, my trusty kelly kettle and make a little tea, I sit and listen, even in the rain if it’s not too much. The changing weather, I look forward to, it’s constant sunshine and heat or constant grey nothing weather, that can pull me down, I do like the way it makes the colours pop though, and I love to see the trees bare I love the opportunity sit and knit, I am very curious and this feeds evenings of education, I only wish it stayed in my head longer.
I can totally understand why winter would get you down, if you are not seeing things grow in your wonderful garden, it’s plain to see your resilience, and your natural curiosity and practicality, which goes in your favour for getting through the winter In one piece. Im glad to hear you have a good support system, must be a great comfort.
I have not been able to find roland garros, I just haven’t been watching tv much, it’s not prime videos or even tennis channel, might be but I think they wanted me to pay, I’d rather be in the woods. If the weather is hot, then I can stand to be indoors and watching or listening, but as soon as the weather cools a little I’m off out for the whole day. My heart bursts sometimes with the beauty of it all, especially if I’m driving with the lark ascending, I cry buckets, cleansing the the old eye holes. Sending you hugs and warmth for the coming of winter 🤗🤗🤗
So,
I so love that you said your heart bursts with the beauty of it all........I completely feel that way too........and it is a real mental life saver during the darker days! Good on you lovely........enjoy your forest bathing. :-)
Yay Vivi, you're doing an awesome job with the no wage years. I don't think I could do what you are doing so big thumbs up to you. I couldn't help but hearing the word hygge over and over again in my head. If you don't know that word, please google it. It's being cozy, embracing the autumn and winter. I'm a winter gall through and through, I was born in January so that's how I roll and indeed I like to make and eat soup but I also like to snuggle on the couch with a book and some tea and light candles. I enjoy watching dvd's in the winter but I also have taken all my seeds from the shed on the allotment and I'm going to go through all of them, sorting out their dates and make a plan, a month by month plan for them and so on. I'll store them and that will be a lovely job to do during a rainy day. I will listen to audiobooks while doing some knitting and/or crochet, I'll clear up cupboards that I didn't have time to do so during the early spring until now. I'll read magazines I didn't came around to. I'll take more time to watch youtube and respond to the ones I love to respond to. I'll reconnect with my friends that I didn't came around to lately and so on. There is always something to do, I'm never bored and if I am it's by my own doing. Take care dear Vivi, hope you'll be able to keep the glass half full during the wintertime. Change is good indeed but it's also good because of what you make from it. Big hugs xoxo Vleer.
Ahhh, hygge.....such a lovely concept.......I had meant to mention it today but as usual got distracted and went off at a tangent. Take care lovely.....and welcome the hygge time. :-)
Change can be very difficult,I feel sadness because of what’s happened in our family
It can be so hard. Hugs to you lovely. ❤
I also thought I was resistant to change but lately I realise that I have always being told that I am resistant to change by employers when I've questioned a change occurring, which I think is helpful. However, if the change is generated by me, I'm amazingly resilient!
Hear, hear! :-)
I am with you Viv. I intend to make the best of winter and building into my life things to celebrate about the season, things to look forward to. Looking for the beauty and appreciating what is, not lamenting what isn't.
Abso-blooming-lutely! I'm right with you on that lovely. :-)
Funny how change can be frightening, thrilling, and everything in between..
I love fall and winter, definitely my best time for everything really, I adore the darkness and closed in cozy feels, which is handy when living in Canada 😁 I could easily live in Sweden or other socked in countries, I'm the reverse of you Vivi, I can grind to a sickening halt during summer, weird hey..
Have a good week, enjoy the tennis ❤🍁
Yu make winter sound lovely! I am certainly going to try to embrace the cosy this year.....and not think about summer and moan all the time! ;-)
Yayyy a minute at a time a day at a time and 41 months later who would have thunk 🌹💞looking forward to winter, books embroidery crocheting and especially planning the spring sowing and planting GRATEFUL😍💋Thank You for sharing your journey!!
Oooh, yes, wonderful cosy times ahead. Enjoy! :-)
You have been building confidence with in yourself that helps you with change and a support from your friends to help you with change,it has to come within
Absolutely. Thank you Caroline. :-)
So proud of you.
Thank you lovely. :-)
i was born in 1949,,so i've been thru change,,,some good things come with change,,,am glad to see you in such a good mood viv,cause i know you've been working hard preserving and preparing the harvest,,,xx
Thank you lovely....yes, hard work at the moment but it's all very satisfying. :-)
I think change is easier when it’s not imposed upon us by someone else 😉
Absolutely. :-)
Being a science person, I accessed the local weather for this area for the last 50 years, and calculated average rainfall, temperature highs and lows and frequency of rain. This altered my expectations enormously
Oooooh, I could do with you here, by my side, advising me for the next few years! ;-)
I do admire you Vivi,,the way what ever you say can be taken wrong 😕Never never change your a ray of sunshine ☀️🥰🌸
Oh thank you so much Diana, I really appreciate this. :-)
FIRSTLY!! You are looking Younger by the day... Bright eyed and bushy tailed Vivi... The 41 month experiment is truly working out well my lovely!! XXX
Awww, cheers lovely! :-)
I do agree being at home and doing something that I love .i.e. my garden has brought me a great deal of joy. Every ones beans is finishing mine is still in full production even the blight is keeping away fingers cross.
Ooooh, yay and hurray for your beans still producing, that's great. Enjoy! :-)
Thank you Vivi for these musings. I used to love Autumn and Winter but the storms and floods we’ve had in West Yorkshire since Boxing Day 2015 frighten me and I struggle with the dark days now. I’m determined to make things better this year, so many people say how cosy the dark nights can be. Trying for hygge this year xx
Oh, lovely, I'm not surprised those memories have left you feeling uneasy.....horrid. I do so hope you can have a better winter this year. X
Hi Viv :-) i think we can all try and turn a situation around and look for the positive .It is hard to do at times but things always work out .My mum has a hard time in the winter .I was thinking of getting her a SAD lamp to help give her the day light she needs .May be a idea if you feel down .Everything is so messed up this year we just need to find something good to hold onto .Deb xx
Cheers lovely....if you do get your mum the amp please keep us posted how she does with it.....I think many of us will be interested to know! :-)
@@WhatVivididnext I will do and i hope it helps her ;-) Her birthday is 5th November so it should come in time .xx
Thank you vivi for your comment
My pleasure lovely. 😊
Hello Vivi, I don't like changes but I have to accept them because there are things that are out of our control.
Exactly. :-)
I don't hate Winter per se, but dread it because of the cold and I can't afford to have the heating on, and I find the cold makes me miserable and depressed. Having to live in your outdoor clothes indoors, make life difficult. Even getting your hands/arms out from sleeves/gloves or throws to read a book or do some crafting is impossible because of the cold, no cosy times for me, so I feel I'm just marking time during the Winter months, which is a waste of life.
Food has to be restricted to things that dont need cooking, or not much cooking because my kitchen is so cold and I just shiver so much to do the smallest thing. I have taken to bringing the kettle and teamaking stuff on a tray into the living room so I don't have to go in there.
Oh my goodness lovely.....I'm worried for you that things are so bad you cannot have heat.......please look into getting some help for that....benefits, charitable grants etc.......please look after yourself. :-(
Bats, I wasn’t finished lol. Congrats Vivi!! You’ve truly shown myself, and I’m sure others. Just do it!! A completely different way of life could be waiting for anyone.
Yay!!!!! Abso-blooming-lutely! :-)
I think there's a difference between choosing to make big changes in our life and having them foisted upon us. And also the reason for those changes - working in the civil service I changed roles every few years, and I was always happier moving to a job that I wanted to do rather than moving out of one I'd grown to hate. Like you I'm a summer lass, and this year the change of seasons seemed to happen almost overnight. I think, oddly, that's made it easier for me to accept, especially as we knew it was coming. I sorted out my seed box today, a job I love, and so I'm already looking forward to next spring.
Yay for the seed box sort.....that's on my list to do soon too. You're absolutely right that there's a difference when change is imposed on us.........the change in my knees feels like an imposition (!) and harder to deal with than all the other changes combined. :-)
Hello Vivi, Congratulations on 3.5! We are actually getting some night cooler temps, thank God. No rain still, but I am grateful for the cool temps. I’m glad you are enjoying you tennis 🎾. Until next time take good care of yourself.😉💗💗💗
Hurrah for your cooling temps! Enjoy! :-)
I am watching again
Thank you lovely. 😊
Any little flicker of sunshine in winter and I am on it! Either outside or sitting in the sunniest room in the house which is actually the back bedroom! I have my winter sunshine chair there and sit and sew, crochet or read! A walk each day is a must unless the weather is bad in which case its a cosy up by the fire with a good book! Its a time of year when I am glad I am retired and don't have to go out if I don't want to! Take care lovely! x
Hear Hear! I'm right with you on this. :-)
You look well... Good colour for you...orange
Thank you. :-)
Just consider winter as a time for you to plan something new for the garden and researching something totally different than you would have ever thought.
Exactly. :-)
Intrestingly Tromso as a Scandinavian city people traditionally take vitamin D from October through until Easter, just a thought
Hmmm....smart cookies! :-)
CHANGE IS GOOD XXX
Yes! :-)
Hi again Vivi, Just think, if you hadn't made those changes 41 months ago, you would have missed out on all the amazing experiences you have had.
By the way, when you were talking about the tennis and we got interrupted by the beans in the window, I had this vivid image of you rushing into the kitchen with a fish slice ready to bat those beans back in. Love - all.
Hahaha - and now I have an image in my head of me batting the beans back over a net with a tennis racket. Brilliant! Thank you lovely. :-)
Like you Vivi, I much prefer summer than winter, and have never got over the fact that I wasn't born in Oz, haha! I have found though, that if I give myself a talking to and get off my backside, even on cold dank days, once I don my wellies and warm gardening clothes, I thoroughly enjoy myself pottering in my garden. Especially when I go back into the warm and have a lovely hot cuppa. Take care and stay positive 😘
Oh I couldn't agree more......I love my winter days in the garden followed by cosiness at home! :-)
I think we all need hugs and freedom of choices... It's been poo this year, we were planning to have loads of road trips this year and that went right out of the window...
Nil Despirandom!!! At least we have VIVI to cheer us all up. x
ATB
Namaste!!!
~Guuuruuuu Murphinda!!!~
What a bonkers year! I've managed OK with most of it....just trying to go with the flow......but I hope it doesn't go on tooooooo much longer! I really feel for you guys with kids.....home schooling, keeping them occupied, trying to explain why the world turned upside down this year......hats off to all of you. :-)
Over the last few years, I've tried to change my attitude about the seasons as I used to start to get a bit depressed as soon as we hit the Summer solstice, oh no all downhill from here lol ridiculous thinking about it now. I focus on looking forward to long clear nights to watch the stars and reject this whole idea of putting the garden to bed. It increasingly means the allotment as well, there's no reason to stop doing something you enjoy that's a recipe for feeling down.
Oh I couldn't agree more! I've never put my garden away for winter.....,winter in the garden can be utterly lovely and magical! :-)
I wonder if you find some winter sports that you can get engaged in, if that'll make your heart a bit more full in the cold season. Is there a place you can go watch ice skating competitions, curling, hockey (ice) and on TV skiing competitions etc. You are sports driven and directed so time to expand your seasonal sports love. If I were there I'd drag you to watch some skating comps and watch some skiing with you. I love the ones that they do huge jumps and flips. Sorta like high diving only on skis. lol. I'm just getting caught up, a month late but cheering you on as we enter the end of October.
Oh I love my winter sports too......not much on at the moment though....I could do with a winter Olympics right now for all the curling (so addictive!)......the ski shows on TV won't start here for a while yet..... :-)
I love Autumn but not so keen on Winter if it lasts too long x
Ach, me too lovely......but I am really going to try to change my mindset this year and cope with it better. Happy hygge to you both. :-)
Not all change is good. But the change of seasons is normal and ads variety to our routines and is welcome here. But disasters and unrest,pandemics are disruptions and bring dangers that are not welcome.
Of ocurse......and we need to ride it out as best we can. Take care lovely. :-)
You look lovely in your red top. Very pretty, did you add the buttons? My mom loved buttons, she collected them. She had such beautiful buttons.
I didn't sew these buttons on, no......but they're what attracted me to the jumper......I do love buttons. :-)
Vivi you may have heard of Hygge . If not look it up it may be the reason those northerners don’t get SAD ✌️💕
Ahhh, yes, the lovely concept of hygge......I was going to talk about it but got distracted. Happy hygge to you lovely. :-)
Looking good and positive Viv. With you on the moody winter. Just been looking at vitamin d sun lamps, but yes I think it could be a mental thing. Bob Marley said "some feel the rain and some get wet. Uk is a bit a different to the Carribbean. I get wet cold and my injuries play up. Funny how I never noticed these things in childhood, I'm six and tricking myself 🤔😁😟
Hahaha, way to go tricking ourselves we're still six.......anyone for some puddle jumping? :-)
Have you heard of the saying the only constant in life is change?
I often wonder if that is more true for those who thrive on change compared to the rest of us who prefer lest frequent upheavals to our day to day lives. Living in Canada we either embrace the cold or travel south...but thanks to the border closure not this year. Brrrrrrr. ☃️ How is the shed looking this week?
I always thought I didn't like upheaval......but maybe it turns out that it's good for me. ;-) The shed is still ram packed with lavender and other seeds etc drying.......I really need to get it all home to make way for some more bug harvests to come! :-)
Postive self talk about winter
Definitely. :-)
You look nice,nice to have a treat,no one likes change,you have done well
Thank you lovely ;-)
Of course, every season has its good traits. Fall and winter have always been my favs. Though we don't like having to deal with snow on our paths and driveways, it does reflect light, and even on darker days, there is a certain brightness from it that is good for the spirit. As you mentioned.... Soup. A favourite meal in the winter. Blankies and reading. And more time for crafting and hobbies that you sort of abandon once the weather is nice enough to be outside in. It is a respite from all the hard work you do in the garden, and in the harvest season. A long sigh of relief.
Ahhhh, yes....the long sigh of relief......I'm actually really looking forward to it this year......this spring and summer in the garden have been the hardest ever! ;-)
nice chat vivi i dont like the winter and the short nights give me summer any time
Ditto! But I'm determined to make the most of it this year. ;-)
Ok ❤️
Cheers. :-)
There are lots of changes like what you are talking about
Exactly. 😊
I've been taking liquid magnesium, Mega Mag. It's said to be very good for mood among tons of other things.
Oh I hope that works well for you through this winter - do let us know. :-)
Hello, mind over matter, is my mantra, seems to help me. I have the opposite, dislike extreme heat, funny that, living in Australia. X
Hahaha, we need to swap! ;-)
@@WhatVivididnext Yes please, we were in England in May to end of June 2018, damn hot too. !!! Can't wait to come back over. Just wonderful, we fell in love with your beautiful country.
Your hair looks lovely, Vivi. I bought myself a Lush shampoo bar and it’s great. Question, do you also use a conditioner bar, or your diy Rosemary rinse instead?
Yay for a lush shampoo bar! No, I don't use a conditioner anymore....not since going over to my lush shampoo bars a few years ago.......I do occasionally do a rosemary or calendula rinse......but very infrequently these days (no more than once in a couple of months!). :-)
Oooh I need to get one again - I used to use Karma shampoo bar and loved it!
How about starting your pond.
I can't wait to!.......but I'm still looking for a receptacle......out of a skip, of course. ;-)
How ya vivi how r u good I hope have u ever used seaweed on your beds cause I'm thinking about using it and I was wondering if it's any good
I haven't used it, no, because I would have to buy it......but one of my neighbours does (also firmly an organic gardener) and she swears by it......and I've seen her get great results! :-)
Thank u vivi I'm after doing what u r doing growing enough food to last the year I love watching your videos keep up the great work u r doing
Look at 'Home Grown Veg' he lives near a coast and uses it successfully...
Stuff your self with CHESTNUT MUSHROOMS for the Vitamin D plus, get as much sunlight on your skin as possible.
Take Care Love. x
Cheers lovely. I actually get masses of sun exposure but unfortunately my body is a bit wonky and doesn't convert it very well so it looks like a life of supplements for me. ;-)
What kind of nurse were you, Vivi?
Paediatric.......a combination of Bone Marrow Transplant & infectious diseases. :-)
Conkers
Love 'em! :-)