In the depths of winter, we need to be gentle on ourselves and what we can achieve.

In the wise words of Kenneth Grahame,

"No animal , according to the rules of animal-etiquette, is ever expected to do anything strenuous , or heroic, or even moderately active during the off-season of winter. All are sleepy - some actually asleep. All are weather-bound, more or less; and all are resting from arduous days and nights."

This, I think, sums up how most of us feel in January.

I try to go out every day.

When it's frosty like this, it's no hardship, as it is so beautiful.

But we live in the north-west of England so it's mostly dark & dreary & damp.

That's when returning home takes on a whole new level of cosiness...see who's waiting at the upstairs window?

But if you can muster up the motivation, January is a great time to try out new ideas, and develop techniques.

This is a new larger version of the original sliding clasp, which will allow a heavier chain to be used.

I'm quite excited about this, as I think it will offer a slightly chunkier look.

And this shows the development of some new packaging.

Each bracelet has a it's own wee cushion to live on when it's not being worn.

January is the perfect time to look at the jewellery together and consider what should be developed next.

I will...

...after I've finished this cake...

...and had a nap...

...then I'll do it.

I will.