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Thursday 13 December 2012

A frosty road trip


A lovely new magazine called LandScape contacted me out of the blue a few months ago, and asked me to write something for them. As I am feeling very much better these days, I leapt at the chance, and my first piece for them is out now. It's all about the conservators at a stately home called Burghley House, which is just down the road from where I live. This was a lovely piece to write.


   
I love the honesty seed decoration on this cover

Last week, the same magazine asked if I'd like to do another article for them, this time in Cumbria. So, early yesterday morning, I was motoring along the A1 with photographer Richard on the way to Penrith. We arrived by 11am, and stepped out of the car into an enchanted spot.



There were ponies and deer grazing in the fields and the sunshine was dancing on the white frost. I had very little time to take any shots, as I was doing a long interview, but I just managed to capture a few photos. I had not been to the Lake District for about 20 years and I had forgotten just how beautiful it is.




The weather could not have been more spectacular



This is the 'stumpery' in the gardens of the house.Very Hobbit-y, as a friend pointed out.




I can't be too specific about what I was doing as magazines don't like to give away their future articles, but I had such a lovely day, meeting some brilliant people. I got the train home from Penrith, as Richard was driving north for some more work. I had an hour to look around the town as the sun was setting. It's a busy little market town, with some very old fashioned shops, all looking very Christmassy.
The castle is opposite the station, and so atmospheric. 



I was shattered by the time I arrived home at 10pm, but I'd enjoyed every minute of the day. It sounds corny, I know, but I do give thanks for my better health every single day that it lasts. 
Now, it's time to write up my interview, and then slow right down again. Christmas is calling!


6 comments:

  1. How lovely ... I've seen the magazine, but now I'll definitely buy it! I live in Cumbria but in the South and absolutely love it, so looking forward to your next article too. Glad you're feeling a bit better, onwards and upwards as they say!

    Love, Claire xxx

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    1. Hi Claire
      I was completely bowled over by the area, you are lucky to live in such glorious countryside. My next article will be in the March/April issue I think and it should be a good one, if all goes according to plan!
      As for the mag, I think it's getting better and better and the new issue is gorgeous. Such amazing photography.
      Fiona x

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  2. What a lovely day you had. We have spent lots of holidays in the Lakes - its my youngest son's favourite place. I will look out for your article - its always nice to have an excuse to buy another magazine! I am so pleased you are feeling much better and hope you have a wonderful Christmas. Karen xx

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    Replies
    1. Hi Karen,
      Thanks for your support and comments this year. I hope you and your family have a lovely Christmas, too. We'll be looking for a tree this weekend, and my youngest son and I have a Christmas shopping trip planned.

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  3. What a great job you have! I'll look out for that article! :)

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  4. Congratulations on this assignment. Your photos are wonderful :)
    Come on over and enter my Give-away.
    Your blogging sister, Connie :)

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