It's not as grim as it could be

In general I am very vocal about my dislike of winter - no gardening and no sunlight makes Liza a dull girl. And December and January really are the pits as far as I am concerned. But here are some reasons why it's not as grim just now as it could be.

Look at this cat - what an utter fool and pleasure he is. Right after this he spent 10 minutes playing hide and seek with Jamie in the bed.

This Astilbe is still looking remarkably good,might get another next as it's grown on me and gives good value even when out of season.

This Zebra Grass is still elegant and tall - I'm glad I persevered with grasses because this one has repaid me in dividends.

Rampant Winter Jasmine is having a whale of a time right now.

And this combo of Hebe, Thyme, Convulvulus and Black Grass has happened almost completely by accident but doesn't it look amazing? My aesthetic of small leaves, herbs and silvery and green tones has actually worked here.