October

I can't believe it's mid October already. Lots of little things going on at the moment: Joe's becoming quite the accomplished walker. I spend much of my time watching him. An extra pair of eyes (in the back of my head) would be useful.

I've seen lots of vivid autumnal colour in the form of berries but also leaves - on my way to collect Joe from his grandparent's today (after a window-dressing session) I saw a spectacular Japanese maple. It lit up someone's garden on a gloomy, wet day.

I'm not tired of treacle toffee yet. Latest incarnation: lollies.

Two lemon polenta cakes. One to take to our friend's house (we were there for an autumn barbecue on Sunday) and one to keep at home. Jay insisted. He has a very sweet tooth and, fortunately for him, a very fast metabolism.

We've been out walking (in between rain showers) and spotting little seasonal details.

Like frilly funghi...

And more substantial-looking examples. In fact we also spotted a forager with a bag full of various funghi. I hope he knew what he was doing.

I'm excited about this one: we're going to the private view of Angie Lewin's upcoming exhibition at Yorkshire Sculpture Park in November. I totally 'get' why people keep invitations on their mantelpieces. Not to impress others (I just emailed to request two places for the private view) but to enjoy the anticipation every time you notice them. Nice picture, too.

I'm still knitting. This one's for a Christmas present. Rowan's 'Cocoon' again, shade: Seascape. I couldn't resist anything with that name.

I've been wrapping up in tartan. I love it, both to wear and as upholstery and furnishing fabric. In fact there's a very large piece upstairs in my fabric trunk. The colours are a bit blah but maybe I'll try dyeing it.

I hope you're enjoying the autumn. The only thing I'm not too keen on is the dark mornings. The evenings are fine though - the perfect excuse to hibernate. Warm clothes, hearty food, hot drinks... and very occasionally something decent to watch on the TV.