As we move into October I note from search engine traffic Christmas considerations are rekindling anew … and so too here.

Husband is considering which Christmas ales to brew for the festivities … always having several barrels bubbling away quietly to be sure guests are fully supplied with a range of frothy ales, or exploding bottles of Ebulon (an uber fizzy, ruby red ancient beer made from sloes, elderberries and cinnamon, I will post the recipe).

The labradors are considering left over goose. These are being fattened on the farm a few villages away.

I am considering Christmas decorations. I love country classic Christmas decorations … evergreens, holly berries, candles and a real tree. Also homespun additions, although I am grateful my mother houses and displays my 70’s insider loo roll snowman every year. Alongside the country Christmas theme, the shabby chic and Nordic / Scandinavian decorations are beautiful. My favourite designers … Gisela Graham and Birchcraft.

Here are a selection to muse over … and a link to the Country NikNaks Shabby Chic Christmas section.