January Days

Following the constant activity of autumn and the holidays, January is a treasured time for renewal, nesting and nurturing and dreaming. We hunker down into warmth and engrossing books, seek inspiration in gardening and home books or photography on places like Pinterest and ease back into routines.

So far this month, we've been assisting Alex's parents with some decisions on their home after a break-in (on Boxing Day) left some kitchen pipes exposed to the cold, which led to flooding in their downstairs. The mess and headache they have been dealing with is stressful, and we're helping however we can. Although, we have been getting a few more visits in, so that's been positive. Adam recently spent the good part of a day in the garage with Papa, rebuilding a bulkhead.




During these visits, we've been discussing the homestead a great deal and Alex and I have been doing some research on the land and Bradstreet history as a result. As a family, we decided to blog our research and thoughts, and one day we may share that work with you. For now it's a private pursuit, and one that is requiring a good deal of time, so if you wonder where I've been, now you know. In my research, I did stumble on this photo of the homestead. I'm not certain what the date is (if that's a date written along the bottom at all). It looks like 1820 to me, but as my brother-in-law reminded me, that wouldn't be possible, photographically (and the house wasn't built until 1864). More research!



With time to reflect and partake in the comforts of home, we've found ourselves enjoying ever more, the guinea pigs. Beatrice and Annabelle each have distinct personalities (Beatrice loves Alex and happily accepts a long cuddle and pat on his lap and Annablle snuggles into Adam's neck, and according to Olivia, uses her teeth like a multi-tool). When we put them in their exercise pen each day, they love being near the fire (don't worry, we make sure they don't overheat), chattering to Max the cat, and eating three salads a day. Frozen Maine wild blueberries continue to be their favorite treat. They are sweet, funny and very easy to love.






And yesterday, we finally got a real winter snowfall.





January is a good month for pausing, catching our breath and allowing days to simply unfold. While the snow comes and the cold settles in, we'll renew our energies, passions and dream good dreams.