This was the start of the year. Remember the low, low temperatures, the deep, deep snow? (Now we are complaining its too mild, and the flora is confused.)
After having our house for sale for some time it suddenly sold. So we moved from Greenbrae, 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, sitting room, dining room, library, snug, office and half an acre of land....
To our wee hoosie, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, dining room, sitting room , study, and summer house and about third of an acre, probably less....
Where we removed the monstrous Leylandii
and created a view.
The Dawn Patroller came into existence and after doing his patrol and purchasing this bike has lost an awful lot of weight and become fit.
We have been fortunate to retain old friends.
Friends who followed us from England.
Our friends who also do bed and breakfast, which we retired from.
And along came new friends.
There were weddings.
Funerals,
And births.
And then, to round the year off, we were invited to -
Cairness House. 5.30 til 7, for drinks and mince pies. With other neighbours, the owners colleagues and friends.
The entrance hall. Where we were greeted.
Now we have known the owners of Cairness for some years, but not on a regular basis. Us being tied down to changing beds and catering for paying guests and them doing a bit of the same. But it was just like being with the lot from the Best of Banffshire and Buchan Bed and Breakfast, hugs and kisses all round. Such a warm welcome. And real, not the superficial air kissing, in fact I really felt good will to all men, which the owners both are.
Though they are much more upmarket than we were. They also do weddings, corporate functions, self catering. Plus they are into art in a big way, the house contains many superb works of art. In such a house you wonder if you should be pulling your forelock and curtseying ! But no. (Although there was a Lady something or other in the party and I did wonder whether I should. But being a socialist decided I wouldnt.)
The door to the left of the fireplace, which was filled with burning wood last night, leads to the library. Which is where we all gathered.
The fireplace here was also burning wood, such a lovely smell. The room was decorated with Christmas a la Victoriana. The tree was quite vulgar! But absolutely stunning - oh and the Victoriana was the real stuff. Probably wrestled it off Prince Albert.
Despite being a stately home, it really is homely.
Well it was certainly an experience.
BUT there was NO red wine. It was either "Bubbly or Elderflower Cordial." Neither of which I can stand.
Cheers and a very Happy 2012 to you all.
6 comments:
A lot of changes for you in 2011 Jill, let's hope 2012 brings good things to you and your family.................what a fantastic place to gather for mince pies and bubbly.
Happy New Year dear bloggy friend. x
So much happens in a year, doesn't it. We've had our fair share of ups and downs. All the best to you and yours for the new year.
Love from Mum
xx
Will I be inviting you to my house? No I won't! you're too critical, no red wine, vulgar tree etc.
Also why do you have that ridiculous piece of hair hanging over your face in most photos? Rather affected I think.
Ooooo what a shame when one does not have a sense of humour.
I shall have my hair cut off immediately.
(I will ignore Anonymous's grinchy remark!) You have had a full year, and so many changes. The visit to the Homely Stately Home sounds wonderful. Thank you for your kind comments on my blog over the past months, and I wish you and yours every happiness in 2012!
On the contrary we have a fantastic sense of humour here - your piece of hair causes great hilarity everytime we see you. Oops better not give the game away. You'll know us by our barely contained laughter when you shop here!!!!!!
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