Editorial | January 2012

Written by Nell Merionwen

So, Christmas and Yule are over, and the New Year has made its soggy and windy appearance.

Here at Downsizer we try not to become too down hearted, or despondent with the bleak weather. Better we try to see it as a chance to dig out those unfinished winter projects, or start a fresh new idea. Maybe learn a new skill or take up a challenging hobby that will help towards achieving a more sustainable home.

You can often find many of our members warming their hand knitted sock encased toes next to the wood burner. Perhaps you will consider installing one yourself? Have a look here for the wood burner installation instructions and regulations; or simply find inspiration in the bountiful pictures of our members' own hearths.

Whilst toasting our tootsies we find time to reflect upon last year's harvests, and consider what needs doing on the plot, to bring promise of bountiful seasons to come. Imagine, and plan what we will load our incubators with to fulfill the necessity of a family's low impact egg needs. Dreaming of multi coloured egg boxes and making this a viable reality. You can find all the information you need here.

We begin to stock up on household essentials, such as making our own soap. Perhaps you could visit the article upon soap making, and make this a goal for your own year?

While taking a break from the planting and growing season, now can be a good time to catch up with maintenence around your own patch of land. From scrubbing out the window boxes to building your own livestock enclosure. You will find a wealth of wisdom and experience offered by our members on the friendly and helpful forum.

When venturing outside, why not make the most of the pause in the rain? Try your hand at foraging. There are a few young shoots poking tentative heads above ground during this mild winter. There are many articles to help with both inspiration and identification. Perhaps you may even catch the last of the edible fungi.

Pull up a chair and settle in. Perhaps even consider sharing a few tales and advice yourself? You may even be tempted to sign up to our Summer skill share?

Knowledge and wisdom is there for the sharing.

With this promising look to 2012 we bid a sunny welcome to any new members and good luck to all.