My one weakness

It seems I’ve quite fallen for a little show called Lark Rise to Candleford.

It’s my one weakness.

Sure, BBC cancelled it a couple years ago. So in theory, we should be discussing something more current–like the latest intrigues of Downton Abbey. While I do like Downton, I can only take so much. The cattiness and otherwise evil schemes of certain wily characters raise my blood pressure to unhealthy heights. It can’t be good for a person. Lark Rise to Candleford, on the other hand, I could watch, quite happily, every evening, for the rest of my life, and be perfectly content.

Which is funny, because I wasn’t at all sure after the first episode. I thought it fine; I thought it deserved a chance–that’s the only reason I kept watching. But by the second series I was smitten. So what is it that stole my heart? So glad you asked . . .

• Let’s be honest, BBC can do period pieces like  no other. Lark Rise to Candleford is certainly no exception.
• It’s an adaptation of Flora Thompson’s autobiographical trilogy–Lark Rise, Over to Candleford, Candleford Green; set in the late 19th century, it follows a young Laura Timmins as she moves from the small hamlet of Lark Rise to the wealthier, market town of Candleford.
• See those characters up there? Love every one. Not a one perfect, not a one wholly evil or bumbling. Perfectly cast, they have you laughing one minute, crying the next, and cheering them on throughout.
• It’s an entertaining look at life. And while more than a century separates our lives, you can’t help but see all we share.

So, if ever you tire of the current menagerie on television, and find yourself in the mood for a bit of charm, I highly recommend Lark Rise to Candleford.

Also, for the record, it pairs quite nicely with a warm blanket, hot tea, and cake (cake is my one weakness). Wouldn’t want you to miss out on the full effect,  you know . . .