Snowy Walks & Cottage Baking | cottage diaries

This video is a little bit of a mish-mash of snowy footage I took from a few weeks ago with a vlog thrown in between - hope you don't mind the randomness and enjoy the video! Much love to you all and hope you're doing ok.
The recipe is Granny's Gingerbread by Mary Berry - www.bbc.co.uk/...
Athena, Harvey & Oslo x
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↟ Links ↟
Instagram: / athenamellor
Blog: athenamellor.com/
Harvey's Instagram: / harvey123go
Walking guides: ramble-guides....
↟ Filming Gear ↟
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Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro
Music: Music Bed
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Feel free to ask me any questions in the comments, or let me know what kind of videos you would like to see! ❂

[@rachaelmellor3737]

My darling Athena your spoken words are the thoughts in my head. I am always here and you know how much I love you, Mama xxx

[@mojobumbles474]

Newly subscribed on here and enjoying the easy watching. I had unanswered questions floating in my head and this video answers some. My heart goes out to you and your lovely family. Wishing you strength and plenty of love in your life.

[@thylacinenv]

It's difficult not to take beautiful pictures of winter landscapes but yours are on a different level, you have the eye of a poet.

[@snowflakemelter1172]

Give it back.

[@cheche2174]

@@snowflakemelter1172 LOL!

[@cheche2174]

You really do Athena - it’s really beautiful x

[@MrRennieFrumpkin]

Just wanted to send deepest sympathy’s for the loss of your brother. And thank you for making these amazing films, I really look forward to them even during normal times but even more so during lockdown 👍 All the best!

[@melissacrewes-hartland4896]

Yes! Thank you Athena for your honesty. I feel the same - one day I’m positive, the next I feel tearful and down. It’s a tough time and no mistake! It helps to know others struggle with it too 😊

[@flygirllucy]

You more than anyone else on KZbin bring me so much peace watching these tiny films you make. Thank you for sharing these parts of you 💖

[@jacquis-j9606]

Hi Athena, I was so sorry to hear of your brother and can understand how you feel. I hope you are feeling more yourself this week, but please don't beat yourself up for being so up and down. I, too, lost my younger brother at this time of year 2 years ago and exactly a year after him I lost my mum. Covid and lockdown have been really hard this year so far and I think you pinpointed for me why I was struggling so much and feeling up one day and down the next. I haven't been able to visit their graves or lay any flowers, or see my sisters who all live in Scotland - family are so important! Here is to spring and seeing the sun and getting to meet up with family and friends.

[@1Thedairy]

This is such a lovely video to do especially for people who are really alone, isolated and unable to take exercise at this time. It must feel as if they could be on the walk with you. I was moved to tears on hearing about your dear brother as it’s such a very young age to lose your life. I’m so very sorry. But you spoke with such honesty and unforced grief yet I can only imagine how heartbreaking it must be. But I do understand that walking your dog and being close to nature is a tremendous healer.

[@RambleFamily]

Thank you so much for these kind words 🙏🏼

[@tahliabarnard8180]

Thank you Athena for a brave video this week. Grief is a deep down part of us and yet still you are a shining light x

[@immiwarren2633]

Deepest sympathy for your family and the loss of your brother. Oslo has a great mum and wonderful home in you ❤ Beautiful video as always. My dog does exactly the same in the snow, I guess that the wildlife smells stick to the snow that covers up everything else...

[@colinmaceachern9]

I love how open and honest you are. I suffer from mental health issues, your videos help lift my spirits. We are kind of kindred spirits, I love the outdoors and have a love of cooking I'm a chef who has a horticultural qualifications as well. I lost my dad when I was 25, I'm now 54 , I truly believe that a loved one never passes as well keep them alive and in our hearts and memories. I have a strange recipe that I created many years ago in college. If you feel adventurous and would like to give it a try let me know and I'll send you the recipe. It's a dessert.

[@sarahjones8608]

Thanks for the lovely calming video. When anniversaries of certain events come around it can be tough and with everything that's going on can make emotions heightened. It's wonderful that you look after Oslo especially with the connection and dogs are great therapists for humans. Be kind to yourself and have a good week. ❤

[@jomcd2073]

Look after yourself Athena. I lost my brother suddenly 4 years ago. The pain is still there when his birthday arrives. Double that with another lock down and your swinging emotions are perfectly understandable. Can l say that nature is a great healer and your filming in this video is superb:)

[@tinamcloughlin2710]

All I can say is you are an inspiration and It's such a pleasure and honour to watch your beautiful vlogs. Take care stay strong. xx

[@garyshuttleworth3459]

great to watch as always, these are hard times for all of us, hopefully the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter, take care

[@moyamac3921]

This video was such good relaxation. Watching it made me feel like I reset my mind! Thank you!

[@Sara-em4vr]

Bless your heart, anniversaries of loved ones lost are so tough. Sending you big warm hugs x

[@philippa230493]

I've discovered your videos in lockdown and they've been so helpful in helping me get the most out of my local walks. I can't wait to get up to the peaks when we can now! I know you mentioned a while back that you were worried about talking about the gear you're wearing because you don't want to give the impression that you need expensive stuff to enjoy walking but honestly seeing what you wear in certain conditions and listening to your experiences has been so helpful for me to work out what kit is likely to work for me. Especially with the UK weather being so changeable! I've been getting so cold on my walks and only lasting about 45mins before wanting to go home but after finding your videos I've bought a few pieces of gear second hand and tried it all out on a 10k walk yesterday and was toasty warm for the whole thing, I could have walked all day! I'm so thrilled and I can't wait to get out again.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

OMG those frosty trees!!!! perfection

[@meganabbott839]

Those beautiful snowy shots have me aching for my home in Canada! I've been on the south coast of Englad for nearly two years now and I've missed the snow so much. If it weren't for this lockdown I'd be driving striaght up to Yorkshire to have a play in it. My deepest sympathies to you for the loss of your brother, I can't even begin to imagine such heartbreak. Much love ❤

[@philippa230493]

Deepest sympathies to you and your family on the loss of your dad and brother. Anniversaries are so tough, thank you for sharing.

[@MissKriekentaart]

Emotional rollercoaster sounds very familiar! I’m so sorry to hear about your brother, best wishes to you and your family😔

[@emilysylviegray]

Your videos are always so relaxing and calming to watch. It's so refreshing to watch content that puts my mind at ease and allows me to switch off, especially during these times. Can't wait to explore the beautiful areas you show when we are allowed to travel again. I recently purchased your Peak District book and i'm so eager to go!! 💛

[@aatmaa85]

It's amazing how snow makes everything look calm and peaceful. I love both your videos about hiking and baking. Also, thanks for sharing your tboughts on lockdown. I feel the same. Although my job hasn't been affected, I feel like being on a roller-coaster. One day I'm desperately longing for travelling, the other I'm super motivated to study, work out etc. All we can do is try to stay positive and hope for the best.

[@mattandabbie]

Sending love and am so very sorry to hear about your brother. Can imagine those Oslo cuddles were extra special

[@nickbenfell4327]

Ah treacle. I remember treacle in my mum's kitchen. And the smell of ginger bread. Lovely, lovely video treasure all your emotions.

[@helorighetto]

Magical... Your videos are so great, such a feel good treat!

[@williammcdonald4922]

this video takes your art to an entirely new level! you portrayed beauty, emotion, and serenity perfectly in a twenty minute film. the outdoor sequences were absolutely stunning. the way that you film the indoor scenes makes me feel "involved", i can almost smell the gingerbread

[@mapleleafer74]

Cute, I like the way you replaced the little crumb that dislodged whilst cutting the cake, not to tempted to just eat it!

[@PaulLauter]

So sorry to hear of your loss. It must have been such a horrible time to go through. Thank you for another relaxing video to help us all through the pressures of lock down. Hope the year ahead is good to you both.

[@teeagle79]

Wow, those trees! I can totally identify with the emotional rollercoaster! And very sorry to hear about your family's loss, I didn't realise that. Best wishes x

[@bethanygreenwood8259]

It looks like something from another planet! How amazing, such fantastic shots 😍

[@TheDeterminedRunner]

Ginger is kind of essential, glad you found some Athena & I now fancy some Gingerbread myself! Sorry to hear of your loss, my thought's are with you & your family.

[@roysimpson9711]

Hi Athena Two years ago I was taken to ICU I was in a coma for 4 weeks with flu and pneumonia At the same time my brother passed away . I tell you this not to expect sympathy but to illustrate the need to embrace every day with optimism and fortune . Now I know that opening your eyes to the beauty we are surrounded by is a bonus . The loss of your brother is immense but he is with you sunshine

[@cheche2174]

This is beautiful Roy...well said!

[@heathershand9083]

Such a beautifully crafted video Athena. I felt so relaxed after watching it. I loved the mix of the wintry scenes with some domestic cottage vibes in there too. It worked really well.

[@adrianwatkins9629]

Beautiful vlog Athena, tremendous bravery sharing your thoughts with us around the time of personal anniversarys. Stay safe and take care....

[@zoeforlife22]

The cinematography in the first part in the snow is insane!! those drone shots 😍😍😍 Sending love for what would've been a very tough anniversary. your work is beautiful and cherished by so many! Can relate to the emotional roller coaster. Never know how I'll wake up and no matter how many things I do to try and improve my mood on those down days I just have to wait it out and eventually I return to my normal self. The uncertainty and inability to make plans is really getting to me and I'm many others. Anyways thank you for another video- always look forward to them!

[@richardhaynes5398]

Every one of your video’s is fantastic, and once again you have produced another brilliant film. A perfect watch during these horrible times. Look forward to the next thank you

[@Twowheeledturbofan]

Another beautiful video thank you for sharing Athena ❤️

[@marcellejosephine9119]

Very beautiful and touching video. My deepest condolences that must be so hard. Happy to see Oslo found such a loving home! Much love from the Netherlands 💚🌿🌷

[@suebrown436]

Oh, I loved this Athena! The lovely frozen landscape, the little chat, and the gorgeous looking gingerbread. I'm so sorry you've had a rough day or two remembering the loss of your brother - now I can see why the bond between you and Oslo is so special. Take care, lovely one, and let us know soon how the accommodation search is going. X

[@TheWindyBurrow]

Thank you for the beautiful sights, and the heartfelt chat. This is one of the most touching videos you've ever made and we loved every second of it. A big hug from our snow-covered mountains to yours. ~francesca

[@RambleFamily]

Thanks so much x

[@Autumn1988]

Winter wonderland! We haven’t had as much snow but have enjoyed some beautiful cold walks. Sorry to hear that you’ve been struggling. I knew of your bereavements and it still must be so raw sometimes. Hugs to Oslo x

[@kimberlyshalaby1134]

The scenery is beautiful around you & Oslo. Dinner looked delicious. The gingerbread I could almost smell it. I have to get some molasses in so I can make a loaf of gingerbread too.

[@NinjaTheEwok]

This lockdown is so much more difficult for me! My anxiety is definitely worse this time but your videos are so soothing and they really help ❤️ I am so sorry about your brother, remembering him and looking after Oslo are beautiful ways to keep him close to your heart x

[@livquarrelle6618]

Athena, I'm so sorry for the loss of your brother - as so many have said before me Oslo is so lucky to have you both by his side. Thank you for these videos; they are a true nectar for the soul during this third lockdown which really has been by far the worst! Today has been a miserable day but this 20 mins of escapism has really lifted my spirits. Sending hugs xx

[@amyamy1507]

Gosh the snow is so beautiful! Thank you for another relaxing video 😊 🌲

[@hoboesque_]

I'm sorry for your loss. I agree with you strongly how a morning walk out in nature really helps , I don't know how this lockdown might have been for me without the dog walk in the crisp 6am air watching nature unfold from another night . I give thanks that the much missed Peak District spots I know so well will be back in my life when it can be and I'm lucky enough to have a beautiful park close to home where the dogs can run and I can keep by thoughts in the moment. I also feel that the clarity of the morning walk can , as its free of the noise of the day and its activity be when I feel loss more keenly and can understand why thru hikers say that time spent on the trail can 'bring up ' unresolved ' emotions . Your videos both comfort , entertain and inspire . Please keep them up . Peace to you , Harvey and Oslo .

[@mojobumbles474]

Just newly subscribed and enjoying your vlogs. KZbin bounces around so much that following a timeline can be difficult sometimes. Your strong love of Oslo is obvious and wondered if he was always your dog. This vlog answered my question today. I am so sorry. What an awful family tragedy and i am so sorry for your loss. Its a joy that you and Harvey have found each other and are now building a family 🫶. Hoping you go from strength to strength.

[@yanavintr4369]

Truly wonderful! Thank you, you provided the perfect break from work for me today. Enjoy this weekend, hope you, Osloand Harvey have a lovely Valentine’s Day.

[@jessicahallam3626]

Such beautiful footage Athena! Your videos bring me such joy in a time where I'm not lucky enough to escape back into the Peaks whilst in lockdown. Living in the middle of a city can be so tough and almost suffocating in a way but your videos bring me a sense of peace and tranquility. I look forward to when I can begin my rambles back in the countryside. Hope yourself, Harvey and Oslo are doing well x

[@HawthornCottageCraft]

Beautiful footage....the snow is so magical! The ginger bread looked quite magical too...yum yum!

[@lukewhitehouse4683]

Just watched this with my 5 year old daughter, we both enjoyed it...... looks like we’re baking ginger bread tomorrow!

[@elleneagles3379]

Such beautiful filming and drone shots. Your videography has come on so much

[@carolinesaunders6656]

So sorry for your loss Athena. Truly beautiful filming. Your videos brighten my life, thank you.

[@adamwhittingham86]

I'm not even 5 minutes in and had to comment. It's absolutely phenomenal! Makes me miss the UK. I went travelling from home in the Midlands over 5 years ago now and find myself with permanent resident status in Canada. With a dog and a partner living in the mountains of Revelstoke, BC. You have inspired me for the past few years and had me wanting to create similar vlogs to yours. My notebooks have your name in numerous times to the effect of "create vlogs with a similar feel and style to Athena Mellor". You have an effortless way of sharing natural beauty and a wholesome life. Thanks again for the inspiration. Maybe one day you'll stumble across a video of mine....If I stop procrastinating. All the best.

[@catkincomo]

Hi Athena, we love watching your videos and this one was especially beautiful. The footage of the snowy landscape was absolutely stunning. We especially enjoyed it because it is very hot and humid here at the moment. We have been following you for a while, but we were not aware of the tragic deaths of your brother and father. We are so sorry for your loss. Oslo is fortunate to have such a loving home. Hang in there- anniversaries are always hard, plus moving house is an extra stress. It's so important to have things you enjoy doing, and it's great that your book is doing so well. Take care, Mike and Jo , Australia

[@RambleFamily]

Thank you so much xx

[@Speedkillseal]

We missed your cooking! Great video as always! Thanks!

[@SimonOutdoors]

Lovey scenic video Athena, good amount of snow up where you are 👍🏻

[@chloejlambert]

Lockdown in the UK definitely feels tougher this time around. I found your channel during the first lockdown and it really helped me to get through then and continues to do so now. The Peak District is my favourite place in this country and it is great seeing glimpses of the hills I love so much even if I cannot explore them myself at this time. I have to keep reminding myself that the hills will still be there for us to enjoy once we are allowed to again. I want to thank you for everything you are doing and the snippets of your life that you share to inspire people to feel a little calmer ❤️ ps. Your bakes always look super delicious!!

[@adriankenward9371]

Enchanting Winter footage. Oslo's such a lovely link to your brother, especially at this hard time of a sad anniversary.

[@ralphraffles1394]

Gosh, your photography is simply gorgeous. By the way, your fav candle you featured sold out so fast. Sending a big hug, having lost my brother and mother not so long ago, I feel you.

[@DesGreene]

Beautiful scenes, Athena. Hope you are OK after such a sad anniversary. All the best & look after yourselves!👍

[@EllenMelon99]

As I'm watching this I'm baking some strawberry & clotted cream shortcake cupcakes for Valentine's Day! We don't really celebrate it, but I agree with you I need some comfort food right now! I'm sure your brother is so proud of what you're doing, and for taking such wonderful care of Oslo xxx

[@lynnfinney2611]

Beautiful video Athena , so relaxing 😀 frozen hair hey , you'll start a new trend 😆 love Oslo didn't realise he was your Brother's Dog 🥰 sorry to hear of your loss , I know what your going through ,I lost my Brother two weeks ago he was a lot older than your Brother , he was 67 but it's still just as hard . So pleased your books doing so well , I don't do online buying I'm a bit old fashioned ,but I'm a regular visitor to the peaks I only live the other side of Sheffield 😀 so if it's ever in the shops up there I'll definitely buy it . Take care and you three Stay Safe ,lots love xxx

[@Anita-rq9ev]

A very beautiful video, the landscape is beautiful. I'm so sorry for your loss🥰 have a good weekend

[@jwscherpenzeel1607]

Hey Athena just received your book. First impression is great, even the feel of the sleeve. Just scanning it is already inspiring! We decided to do some of the trails as soon as it’s a bit normal again. My wife and i share your feeling about the lockdown, we try to enjoy the outdoor things that are still possible in Holland but we miss our trips to the other parts of Europe. We enjoy your video’s and we’re also impressed with the music that comes with it. Wish you both the best in these times.

[@indimehmi47]

I am so sorry to hear about your father and brother, know that they are watching over you despite no longer being. Lockdown has definitely effected the human psyche, your vlogs are a welcome form of escapism and you are no doubt helping a lot of people through the content that you put out! ❤️

[@louisethompson2861]

Athena the way you photograph nature makes me feel as if you must have a passport into a magical world . Thank you for sharing it

[@aspasiabibas1819]

Dear Athena, All your episodes on your KZbin channel are exceptional - but this one is just a little bit more because you’ve captured the beauty of the fields … magnificently. I almost stopped the video to give you a thumbs up way before the episode ended and to add a comment - which I sometimes do. Then to hear you tell us about the early death of your brother and father and that Oslo was your brother’s pet I suddenly felt a loss for words. I’m so sorry for your pain. God bless you, Harvey and Oslo always. Me agape, Aspasia

[@catherinewalks1207]

Especially love the use of the drone - reveals a winter wonderland! Take care. x

[@ashleighfraser7814]

Such a beautifully filmed video Athena

[@ianwillett4009]

We´ve had it really cold in Bergen , Norway, It was -17 on the way to work on Friday. Beautiful blue skies though and lots of snow on the ground. Pretty awesome really.

[@daveprice8005]

Heart felt sympathy for your loss. I hope that you’re coping ok. My wife and I have loved watching your videos over the last few months and we’re currently working our way through your back-catalogue! I got your book as a Valentines present this morning; the little card is a lovely touch. Thank you. X

[@markwatson5701]

Your content is amazing! Thank you. Enjoy the snowy landscapes. I really liked your earlier vlog staying in the bothy near Oban- what a place. Best wishes

[@gdavew63]

A beautiful winter wonderland to see. The view behind you at the 8:35 mark is amazing. We’ve had an ice storm here in Tennessee the last 2 days. Yes these are emotionally trying times, but keep looking up. Getting out and enjoying God’s creation helps a lot. Thanks so much for sharing this with us. I always have a sense of peace watching your videos. I can almost smell the ginger bread from here!

[@linnea5618]

I feel the same about the emotional rollercoaster even though I am not in lockdown. The last year has really had an impact on my mental health, perhaps more than I want to admit. Wishing you a lot of good days up ahead.

[@helendaw2891]

I can't wait to get my book, Athena! I ordered it yesterday! I spent my early years in Hartington so it's going to be extra special for me. Sending hugs and thinking of you during your sad time.

[@jenhanlon3840]

Beautiful video, as ever and I can relate so much. This lockdown is so much harder. But I was reminded about an old saying this week...”the darkest hour is before dawn” ....here’s to getting up soon! 😂

[@danwright1692]

A very touching video this time. Also the winter wonderland was incredible. As for that gingerbread - I'd have eaten it all in one go! Once again, thanks for posting this at a time when we are all struggling with the lockdown etc.

[@mntolee3626]

The ending is so peaceful.

[@riversbrink8764]

I am so so new to your channel! I am watching all your videos for the first Time like catching up. Loving every moment! Definitely going to make this ginger bread!

[@alicesophia2708]

the imagery in this video is absolutely unreal 😍

[@mimirfinn1560]

Sending you and your family much love, losing loved ones is so incredibly hard. I’m really sorry about your brother 💖 Definitely agree on the emotions all over the place thing - this lockdown in particular has been much harder for me mentally & emotionally (and I was heavily pregnant/ with a newborn for the others!) All the hugs! Xoxo

[@andypeake4492]

You continue to amaze me with your amazing candor, resolve, fortitude and above all openness to your heartfelt thoughts! Love to you all. stay true and strong, give Oslo a hug from me. Luv Andy exUkpat in VA.

[@masjaprinsen8051]

Sorry to hear about your brother and also about your worries. Hope they will be over soon. Wish you and Harvey all the best.

[@sofiesteenberger6806]

Thank you for sharing your life with us. I came here for your adventure stuff but I love getting to just hang out with you. :D

[@iamthehoy]

Hey Athena, just settling down to a morning brew with this on. All The best!

[@Adventures_with_Sog]

This video truly touches the soul. 💚💜

[@efrench1520]

Gorgeous video! That gingerbread looks great, I'll have to give it a try x

[@mjsensi]

Athena, I just love those evenings when I am during my baking/ cooking and I am finding out that you posted some new videos

[@sarahk5724]

Thanks for sharing beautiful footage of frosted trees and hills. Oh that gingerbread cakes looks yummy! I'm really sorry to hear of your loss. Fingers crossed we'll all be back to some sort of a normal life soon🤞 Greetings from a frigid -12C in Munich.

[@charlottedocherty2862]

Such a wonderful video thank you!

[@summerb917]

Sorry for your loss, beautiful video really enjoyed, looking forward to lockdown being over with! it’s a real struggle

[@michaelatkinson8291]

Hi mate. I've known you long enough to know the back story to your loss. I too have experienced loss & know how you are feeling. It is important to reflect, sure, but also to balance with remembering good times with those who are gone. Walking/hiking has been & still is a total escape from life's issues for me too. Lovely touching video & sending you a virtual hug. Take care mate xxx

[@toffiecrisp123]

Hi Athena firstly so sorry for your loss it must be very difficult. I am always in amazement with the cinematography in your videos its amazing and also somehow relaxing honestly every video blows me away with how good they are. Also its my birthday this week and im getting your book as a present so cant wait to read it and then try some of the walks when this lockdown is over :)

[@zaftra]

Tip, always warm your spoon up either over a flame or boiling water, makes for transferring syrup much easier.

[@saraboytcheva]

These videos are incredible! My favourite ❤️

[@bennyswales8245]

Great video Athena lovely artic snow scenes good to see superstar Oslo back in your videos keep up this excellent work and keep warm and safe all three of you .....all the best.....stewart

[@clairedennis6697]

Enjoy every video you make, always touching and honest and real and beautiful.

[@aliceinreality2815]

Stunning, thank you so much for sharing :)