Blackberry And Apple Pie

The cosiness of autumn brings Fiona a more mellow mood

- PATSY COLLINS

We had our first frost last night. I could see it when I looked out first thing, although there were still no traces left on cars and in gardens by the time I was up and out. Even so I wore my thick, red winter coat.

If my sister Marie and I were on speaking terms she'd have teased, "Bet it was aired and ready before summer was even over, Fiona." I'd have denied it, or pretended to be amazed she knew about anything as grown-up as having suitable clothes for the time of year, but she wouldn't have been far wrong. I bought it in a sale last spring, and have been looking forward to wearing it ever since. That's partly because it's exactly the deep, rich shade which suits my hair and complexion best.

Mostly it's because I like winter. Spring and summer have their good points, but I always find myself looking forward to shorter, colder days.

Seeing the street lights begin to flicker on as I walk home from work triggers a host of happy memories. Birthday treats to a pantomime or the ice rink. Snowball fights and sledging with Marie. Getting ready for Christmas. Making and breaking New Year's resolutions. The log fire in the pub where I met my husband, Brandon, six years ago.