December 17th – A long sleep, then an early run to Rugeley, on a traditional pre-Christmas shopping trip. I had errand there, at Gentleshaw, Litchfield and Whittington, so I did a loop around all of them, returning just after dark.

It was a lovely day, and I enjoyed the riding and Rugeley very much. Lichfield was crowded and difficult, but I was rewarded with peace and quiet at Whittington. 

Now quiet and awaiting decommissioning, Rugeley Power Station is like a sleeping giant. I’ll miss the old place when it goes.

I was intrigued by the witness on the doorway to the passed life of a creeper, which I spotted in Lichfield, and Heron house looks like a fun old place.

The sight of Ivy Cottage, looking beautiful in the dark, was gorgeous at Lower Stonnall. 

That cottage is like a beacon to my soul.