LandLove Magazine November-December 2013 Edizione posteriore

Although it’s coming to the end of the year, there is always a sense of anticipation in the air in November and December. Of course there is Christmas to look forward to, but also nature enters a new phase and takes on an ethereal beauty when it’s dusted in a glistening layer of frost or snow. On page 22 we look more closely at those plants which come into their own after a visit by Jack Frost. While on page 36 we celebrate those fantastic evergreens that provide shape, colour and structure to our gardens all year round. Winter isn’t as eagerly awaited by our garden wildlife, so on page 32 you’ll discover how you can give them a helping hand to get through the cold months ahead. Of course at this time of year, most of us will be planning our Yuletide meals and we’ve got some delicious festive cake recipes for you to bake (p.46), as well as a new twist on the traditional Christmas dinner (p.52). And if you’re looking for seasonal decorating ideas for your home, try your hand at making our simple felt decorations (p.66) or gather up some fir branches and make our natural displays on page 16. If you’re feeling even more creative, consider giving homemade gifts this Christmas. We have some clever ideas for making candles on page 82, and there’s a simple lantern project on page 78 that’s perfect for keeping the kids busy. Reindeer are synonymous with Christmas and on page 96 we meet some of Britain’s very own herds. We also meet someone else who comes into their own at Christmas - traditional toymaker David Plagerson (p.92), whose beautifully crafted arks and nativity sets delight old and young alike. Dickens and his Christmas Carol spring to mind at this time of year too, so in this issue we visit his beloved Medway (p.116) and discover there’s a lot more to the area than just its connection to the great author. Finally, whether you decide to brave the outdoors or curl up in front of the fire LandLove this winter, I wish you all a very happy Christmas!