'I love to watch the fine mist of the night come on, The windows and the stars illumined, one by one, The rivers of dark smoke pour upward lazily, And the moon rise and turn them silver. I shall see The springs, the summers, and the autumns slowly pass; And when old Winter puts his blank face to the glass, I shall close all my shutters, pull the curtains tight, And build me stately palaces by candlelight.' (Charles Baudelaire, d, 31st August, 1867) Have you noticed a certain subtle shift in the season? Here in Scotland lamps are lit just after supper now, there's an extra layer on the bed, the swallows have gathered in their squadrons and departed, and the trees are looking not quite so verdant. My summer sojourn is drawing to a close. I've got so much to share with you. Lots to tell, changes afoot, at home and at work, exciting projects in the offing, advice needed, suggestions wanted. I'm back on Instagram with a vengeance and looking forward to catching up. Just off to my son's cottage along the lane, he's cooking dinner - queenies, risotto, and raspberries for pud. Charles is off to Sicily on Friday with his girlfriend, for a week of R&R, any tips most welcome. See you tomorrow. Missed you. x The perfect Florentine Palazzo to pull the curtains tight... Via @markbroch