Half Term Day Trip

February Half Term.
As usual, the only day I get to spend with my little Bee is Wednesday so despite the horrible weather, we donned our waterproofs and went out for some fresh air.

Struggling for ideas of where to visit, Pappy suggested going North so we could visit him afterwards so we decided to visit Hardwick Hall so that we could have a wander around the big (and warm!!) house!

Our first stop was of course, the restaurant. We are always driven by our tummies! Then we made a bee-line for the Old Hall. Even though it was so completely soggy, we had fun climbing to the top of the hall so that we could see the view. It was beautiful even through the rain and fog.

We spent a good while in the house as it was lovely and warm. In the kitchen, Mr Bee made a stick man which joined our party for the rest of the day.

After our visit to the house we made our way around the very squelchy gardens before the rain got so heavy that we ran to the shelter of the cafe again. I taught Louie how to play draughts to kill some time before Pappy finished work and then we went to meet him at Ikea for a cheeky tea and wander!

Above the Clouds

This morning Mr Bee and I drove over to Beacon Hill for a brisk early morning walk. The whole of the countryside was covered with a blanket of fog and the views from the top of the hill were spectacular, as if we were above the clouds. We had to keep moving to keep warm, as the early temperatures weren't much above freezing but it was well worth the trip.

I just couldn't resist sharing the rest of my photos from our visit to Packwood House on Tuesday.

24

 This weekend has marked my 24th birthday. Spent with family, we have eaten out far too often, gotten frozen to the bone on more than one occasion. I was spoiled with some more lovely gifts (all opened by Mr Bee!) and recieved countless cards.
For the day, we visited Upton House, a beautiful estate encapsulated in 1930s glamour. Decidedly less colourful than our last visit, we walked the gardens, playing in the snow. Nana and Grandad were very taken with the house, enjoying the paintings and relatively mod cons!

  

We hurried home, ready for my big surprise (as outlined in the crossword!). Dinner for two, at seven, followed by a good nights sleep and breakfast at our favourite haunt, Mai Yango (which you may remember from our anniversary last year).
Compliments to the chef for the most fantastic meal we have ever tasted, followed by a bottle of bubbly and a film back in our huge bed.
A perfect birthday.

Joules

Recogonise the little hare? If you know me well, then I am sure that you do!  
 

Joules have been a favourite in our household for as long as I can remember, from my horse riding days of wearing Joules polos (of which I still have a vast collection!) to my day in day out Joules wellies. So when we were contacted by them, I knew we had to be involved! We were asked to choose an item from the Joules range, but being a Joulesaholic, I decided the best idea was to go for something that we haven’t had before – the  Junior Milford Quilted Jacket.

With this cold, wintery weather not giving us any respite, a nice warm coat seemed like a sensible option, as I am sure it will get its use! The age 4 jacket has plenty of room without looking too big on our little bee. Nicely padded with a lovely and soft tartan lining, it is very comfortable and great quality.

Now down to the important bit!

Louie’s Thoughts

Mummy:  Do you like your coat Louie?

Louie: Yes, it is very nice.

Mummy: Did it keep you warm?

Louie: Yes, toasty!

Mummy: What is your favourite thing about the coat?

Louie: *points to the elbow patches* These bits here.