We have all returned from a relaxing week in the New Forest. We stayed in a  lovely little cottage, with low beams. By about the middle of the week I had finally started to learn to duck when walking through the doorways, so that I did not smack my head on a beam. The first day there I hit my head three times, and was cursing the cottage, but I did eventually cotton onto the idea of ducking.

The weather however continued to be of frustration, with plenty of rain and cloud, and only the odd patch of sun. We managed plenty of walks in the forest and had some trips out, but wouldn’t you just know it, the sun started to shine the day we came back, and it has been lovely since.

This is of Ellie and Robbie when we were on a forest walk. Whilst we were away we bought Robbie an electric shaver – he wasn’t going to get away with the facial hair that has started sprouting recently when he is back at school. So, he has had his first shave. As you can see, he will need a good haircut before he goes back as well.

Back home, Tricia and I have managed to get all the unpacking, washing and ironing done, and straightened out the garden. Tomorrow is a public holiday, so I can have a relaxing day before going back to work.

We planted a Gingko Biloba tree in the garden today, which will be known as Tiggers tree. We lost Tigger last year, and we put his ashes under the tree. Tyson’s are under the cherry tree, and Muttley under the mulberry bush. I know this sounds macabre, but the kids like the fact the pets are remembered in the garden.