Clover Yard

A trip to Edinburgh and a snowy Sunday

Last weekend we took an overnight trip to Edinburgh, staying in the Edinburgh Residence in one of the grand Georgian terraces in the New Town.  A lovely treat it was - just hubby and me, wandering around the city enjoying the shops and cafes.  Bliss!

George Street was looking particularly festive.  It has established itself as probably the best shopping street in the city with great little boutiques along with some of the better High Street names - White Company, Laura Ashley, Penhaligons and of course the Cath Kidston shop!!!  My first time in one of her shops and boy was it worth it.

Couldn't resist a sneaky photo of the changing room...

 

And loved this montage pinned up by the fabric counter...

The skyline of Edinburgh has a wonderful picture book quality about it with all its spires and chimneys.

 

Even the Gardener's cottage at the east end of Princes Street Gardens looked like a little gingerbread house, straight out of Hansel & Gretel.

Beautifully illustrated in this book by Emma Chichester Clark.

   

Overnight, to our surprise, winter officially arrived in Scotland and little boy made the most of the rare snow.  Indoors, the radiators have been lined with dripping gloves and socks and the kettle has been on a constant vigil.

Hope he doesn't become too attached to his snowman friend.  We all know how that story ends...

Still leaves a lump in the throat.

Have a cosy, snowy Sunday evening x

Wise words

 

Amen

Sunset Sunday

 

Do not be deceived by the blue sky, it certainly wasn't a day for ice cream.  With coats firmly buttoned up we braved the arctic temperatures and headed for Montrose beach to let off some steam.  Luckily for us there weren't many others around so we were able to make full use of the amenities! 

     

 

The sky was putting on a good show.  Big sweeping Turner-esque wisps of cloud, turning pinker by the minute.

 

The setting sun beginning to cast golden shafts of light over the dunes.

 

 

We chased the sunset home, stopping at Montrose railway station to take a photo from the footbridge.  It must be one of the most stunning views from any train station - a tidal basin home to almost 200 species of migratory and resident birds.  My picture doesn't quite capture it, but it was incredibly beautiful and still.

 

Safely back home and with military execution, a fire was lit, steak pie put in the oven and tatties on to boil.

And on a little footstool set before the hearth, the glossy front cover of a Christmassy magazine waited patiently to be peeled back to reveal the delicious festive glory inside. 

A scene that would be much repeated in the Clover Yard household over the cold dark weeks to come.

Have a happy, cosy Sunday. x