We’re approaching Halloween.
Here in Lush Places, the trees and shrubs are full of red berries, and crunchy leaves are piled high along pavements.
Woodsmoke coils out of chimney pots and the light – oh, the light – can be just sublime.
I like autumn. It’s a real punctuation point in the seasons, a promise of things to come.
It’s half term and up at Mapperton House, there’s a Halloween trail where children and accompanying adults can wander around the gorgeous garden, looking for clues.
It’s a beautiful spot – my manor from heaven and one of the loveliest places around.
Once upon a time, Mr Grigg and I lived in a farm cottage on the estate. And, more recently, I worked there one day a week to give me some sanity and open space when I was freelancing and chained to a laptop.
It’s inspiring.
Today, I’m picking up boxes and boxes of books – copies of my book, which has been published as part of an oral history and art project called Born & Bred.
It’s very exciting.
I’m launching the book in the community pub this coming Saturday.
Maddie Grigg 