I think we can all agree that the last couple of weeks have felt very autumnal. With the night drawing in, the leaves changing colour and the temperature dropping I have very much felt the urge to cosy up at home.

Scandinavians call this feeling Hygge, defined as ‘a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being’. With the Hygge strong at the moment, I’ve dusted off the crochet hooks as there’s nothing better than sitting in front of the telly with a crafty project on the go. Those with long memories, may remember that I’m relatively new to crochet having decided to teach myself during last year’s lockdown. Those with even longer memories may remember that I took up crochet due to being royally rubbish at knitting (it’s a tension problem). It appears that my crochet suffers from some of the same problems as my knitting; as long as I stick to blankets and scarves we’re ok, but if I ever offer to knit or crochet you a hat… I’d suggest you decline.

The eagle-eyed amongst us will have spotted that there are some really talented knitters and crocheters in our midst here in Exmouth; it has been a delight to wander around Exmouth spotting post-box toppers as part of the Hospiscare Mail Trail. The trail was devised and completed by a team of Hospiscare fundraisers who are also expert yarn bombers.

The team wanted to “create beautiful themed toppers to bring joy to local residents and raise as much as we can for the incredible Hospiscare” and I think we can all agree they do just that. The trail is out for the whole of October and to support this fundraising initiative fully, you can pick up a map for £1 so you can find all 24 decorated boxes. Check out the Exmouth and Lympstone Hospiscare Facebook group for details of where to pick up the maps and also how to donate.

Alternatively, on 31st October- the last day of the trail, the Tri-Hards are organising a Mail Trail group event starting at Ocean at 9.30am. For a sum of £5 (which goes entirely to Exmouth and Lympstone Hospiscare), you can pick up a trail map and make your way running, walking, in groups or alone around the post-boxes. I know many people who have been supported locally by Hospiscare and for those families that are living with a loved one that needs end-of-life care, their services are invaluable.

The team behind this event have obviously put a lot of hard work into creating something for all to enjoy. Let’s make this fundraising campaign one of their best and get out to enjoy some autumn sunshine while it still lasts - Hygge can wait!