A breath of fresh air

We had a visitor come to stay over the weekend, just for the two days mind and not sure if and when it'll be back. Yes, summer popped in and said hello and what a difference it made! The girls were able to get out - one was off down the beach and one lazed around the garden. I did some gardening (much needed) and was able to finish my new tea cosy which had been on my to do list for too long. It does look very bright and summery and reminds me of bunting at a summer fete! I've put it in my Etsy shop as I really can't justify having so many teacosies!!!


On Sunday we went on one of our favourite walks up to Ditchling Beacon on the South Downs. If we could pick one place to spend the day without travelling too far it would be here. Away from the crowds on the beach this is where we come throughout the year and never fail to have a good time.


In autumn we pick blackberries and sloes for sloe gin, in winter on a clear, chilly day it's perfect for blowing those cobwebs away, in spring and summer it's the place for picnics and long rambles. Lovely just to hear the birds singing, church bells ringing and tractors in the distance. It is also the only place I've ever seen a flying elephant and seal!!! (look closely at those clouds)...


The girls wanted to make a day of it and suggested we walked down into the village of Ditchling for a pub lunch. So off we walked - it was lovely, Away from the distractions of home the age gap between the girls seems to narrow and it was great seeing them climbing trees, dodging the mud, singing songs and generally having a laugh.


Ditchling is a wonderful little village to visit full of wonderful old houses and buildings and there are pubs and tearooms too! After lunch we went to the local museum to see an Eric Gill exhibition which was great.

The museum is housed in the old schoolhouse and is full of interesting things - both Frank Brangwyn and Eric Gill had lived in Ditchling as well as a thriving community of artists and craftspeople. We had to drag the girls out as they were so busy, but we knew we had a long walk uphill to get back to the car and the promise of an icecream when we got to the top.


Back home in time for a much needed cup of tea and some time in the still sunny garden. So thank you Summer, please come and visit us more often - you're always welcome.