Staying In In is the new Going Out Out!

I took this photo of blocks of flats overlooking the river Thames at night. They look cosy and warm because most of the lights are on due to most people staying in.

Staying in will take on new meaning this winter with everyone I talk to busy planning enjoyable projects to work on, ways to decorate their home more attractively and comfy clothing to lounge in.

This festive season is likely to be one of staying in in instead of going out out!

I did suffer a slump in mood a couple of weeks ago when I saw the rising infection rates and heard about the new restrictions but I fairly quickly came to acceptance. I’m in a very good position in that my photography, in whatever form I can follow it in the current circumstances, keeps me constantly busy and motivated, we’re already planning extended Christmas lights at home this year and I’m happy lounging around in woolly jumpers.

I’m even following the Japanese practice of kotatsu in my own way. The modern take on this ancient tradition is a heated table with blankets covering your legs. Apparently, it’s not common to have central heating in all Japanese homes so this piece of furniture keeps people warm now that they can’t get into the office as much and are facing up to having to work from home in the winter. My personal take on it is to cover my legs with a wool blanket if I feel cold when sitting at my desk. It feels nice and saves on putting on the heating unnecessarily. Great for the environment!

Google kotatsu and you’ll see what I mean!

The night lights of the Surrey Quays area seen from across the river Thames