December Musings—Cold Noses, Warm Hearts & a Very Opinionated Cat

December is almost here, cloaked in frost and sparkling with twinkling lights, inviting cosy nights and that delicious sense that Christmas is tiptoeing closer. The air bites a little sharper, mornings linger in darkness, and the world hushes—unless you count Molly, my cat, who is certain the holidays exist solely for her comfort and endless snacks.

The weather has taken a proper turn now. There’s that damp cold that sneaks straight through your coat and into your bones, which means central heating, fluffy socks, and hot drinks have become essential daily survival tools. And, of course, winter skincare has gone into full emergency mode. My skin seems to think it’s made of parchment the minute the temperature drops, so I’m slathered in moisturiser like a well-buttered crumpet at this point.

The Christmas holidays are on the horizon, and I love the feeling of this time of year — the slowing down, the reflection, and the permission to stay in pyjamas a little longer than usual. It’s also that magical season when I start writing with a blanket on my knees, a candle flickering nearby, and Molly firmly planted on my keyboard, insisting on “helping.”

Writing news: my new book, Crimson Place: A Secret Love, which will be released on the 27th of August, is up for preorder now. There’s something lovely about winter that makes you dream forward to new beginnings, new stories, and new adventures. This book has lived in my heart for a long time, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

I can’t help but feel excited as December rolls in. 

Molly, meanwhile, has thrown herself into winter with gusto. She claims the toastiest corner of the house, offers silent judgment as I work, and occasionally bats at stray tinsel. Christmas films bore her, skincare mystifies her, and deadlines mean nothing, but she excels at emotional support—mostly by parking herself on my most important papers.

So here’s to cold mornings, cozy evenings, festive anticipation, good books, soft blankets, glowing skin (or at least heavily moisturised skin), and cats who believe they are the true stars of the season.

Bring on the mince pies… and the hand cream.