My weekend

Swans and ducks a plenty

 My weekend was really wonderful. It was so lovely to spend a whole weekend with Kitty. Slimbridge was great - still don't know enough names. We had lunch with Kit's friends Ruth, Matt and Becks who work there. They are very knowledgeable and I would have loved to have had a conducted tour with them. Passion for anything is very attractive and encourages you to join in. I WILL LEARN more names before I go again! 
We had the privilege of seeing the Somerset Cranes who have returned to Slimbridge possibly to nest. Everyone is very excited about this.

Berwick swans

 These 2 Berwick swans should have flown to warmer places by now but this pair are still here. Ruth thought it was because one is poorly and the mate is staying with it.
The flamingos are brilliant. They are like joke birds! I am not at all sure how they manage to stand up on their tiny, tiny legs.
We came home to the yummiest slow cooker casserole ever.

Flamingo

 Saturday was spent quietly - enjoying the peace and quiet of Kit and Shauns' house. It is so so peaceful - perfect for a resting day with a duvet and my knitting. I did venture out to see Kit's new allotment - which is coming along nicely. I did take photos but they don't want to download! I did have allotment jealousy and wished I could have one. I know Paul before you tell me - I would be a fair weather allotment gardener! But I love the idea.

Flamingos

 On Sunday we went to visit Mark and the girls. I hadn't been to his house for over 5 years and it was really lovely to see all the progress they have made. It is in an idyllic spot and they have a house built around their needs, all settled into the hillside overlooking Stroud. 

The girls introduced me to Moshi monsters and we caught up on all their news - relayed at 100 miles an hour as only children can.

Avocet and Stilt

 Nell made the most yummy rolls from scratch - all by herself. Only needing reminding to watch them in the oven. Paul Hollywood would be very proud of her - she is 11.

The train journey yesterday afternoon was PACKED - every space full of suitcases, bags, backpacks etc..... Thankfully I got a seat and the guard jiggled the bags to find me a space for my suitcase.

Lovely little stilt

 Today I am chilling -  I am very tired, understandably after such a busy weekend. I was also very sick this morning - ho hum! But I loved my time with Kitty.

Cranes

 This week - still trying to get my blood tested - I have lost my blood forms now! Oh dear! Lots of flower related activities, throwing away Easter flowers (which have lasted nearly a month), buying new ones and then flower arranging. Lots of seed related activities, I have planted first lots which are in the propagator, new ones to plant and some potting on this week. Hoping we see some sunshine to cheer us all up. Bible study restarting and Chloe and Ed home for weekend.

 This Wednesday Chloe hears where she will be for the next 2 years. I am excited to hear what that brings - just praying it is not to far away and not too far for Ed to travel to London. This is her last full week as a medical student. She starts revision time in the middle of next week.The end is so near! 

Josh and Debs move house next weekend. They are moving flats to Archway  - not far from where they are now but in a quieter area. I am looking forward to visiting soon to see where they are.

Smews - great name

Kitty and Shauns view

The garden

Mark's view