West Somerset cottages

Yesterday we went to Selworthy on the Holnicote Estate (Somerset), the land is owned by the National Trust. Alan had been there several years ago and knew that I would like it so suggested that we go there. He was right, I loved it!

It was sunny and the sky was hazy rather than a clear blue which was shame in terms of photography but that certainly did not stop us from enjoying the day.






As soon as we arrived there which was mid afternoon, we had lunch and cake in the tea room. I can confirm that the lemon meringue pie was delicious!!! We brought back a pot of honey for Miss P as she loves honey.


I bought some postcards (In a couple of weeks time I think that Selworthy will be more colourful, not all the flowers were out yet...)


We walked around admiring the cottages & gardens


We sat down, took in the sweeping views and enjoyed the peace and quiet...

Just before leaving we walk to the church







Stunning views from Selworthy Church

As we arrived quite late in the day, I didn't get a chance to visit this shop. It was closed by the time we reached Watchet.

I did have a peak through the window...

I look forward to having a good look around next time I go there. The inside looks lovely!

We headed towards home but as it was still light, we decided to take a turning in to a small narrow lane and see where it would take us. We ended up in this very pretty little village which had sweeping views towards the sea. We saw the West Somerset steam train go by in the distance.



We walked around the village and then went to see if the church was open. Unfortunately it was locked so we walked around the graveyard looking at the tombstones and views around. I usually look at the tombstones when I visit churches, I find them interesting. I wonder who the person was, what they looked like and find some of the words chosen by loved ones very moving at times.




As I approached the white blossomed cherry tree on the right hand side of this photo, I spotted a lady holding a camera. She was taking a picture of the tree. I smiled at her and commented on how beautiful the tree looked. She smiled back and told me that she had planted the tree with her friend to honour the friend's Mother whose grave was there.

When it was planted, the tree was very small. It has grown substantially over the years. It is a very beautiful tree which bears edible cherries in the summer.

On this day, the lady was there to visit her friend's grave (the one she planted the tree with). Her friend had very recently passed away and was buried along side her Mother and the tree that she had planted for her. The lady went on to say that her friend loved the view from there as it overlooks the sea in the distance. We both agreed that it was a beautiful place to be buried.



We had a really good day

I hope you have a wonderful time this weekend!

A bientôt!

Isabelle X

Playful cats & An evening stroll

Sunset in Somerset

At the end of a lovely sunny day, we all spent some time outside. We watched Larry and the farm cat play together

Farm cat (Left) and Larry (right)




Larry feeling brave...

My 2 cats gets on quite well with the farm cat and it's fun to watch them interacting. The farm cat has found a way of letting himself in to our house to get food... He headbutts the cat flap and manages to force it open even when it's locked! Strong cat...
My two cats are OK with him being in their garden but look rather put out when he finds his way in to our house and eats their food!

After the two cats got bored of playing together, Miss P suggested that we go off for a walk.


Scooter ride in Miss P's case. Alan and I took our cameras with us, we rarely go out without them..


We headed towards the woods










Daffodils that Miss P picked for me on the way.








The sun setting over the fields and village in the distance.

I really like the photos below which Alan took of the Somerset sky.
The floral photos were taken by him too.






It was the perfect end to a lovely day.

I wish you all a lovely weekend!

A bientôt!

Isabelle X

Making the most of bugs

Over the past 10 days I have had yet another cold virus. I don't usually get them often but it's my second one in just 3 months! Last time I had laryngitis thrown in with it. I thought I was getting better towards the end of last week but at the weekend I moved on to a different bug...




Occasionally I did feel a bit like this ;-(


I longed to go out to enjoy the warm sunny weather....


I couldn't wait to get back in to a normal routine again, walking, fresh air and feeling bright and energetic again!


I imagined how I would love to be sailing around the River Helford in Cornwall...


and around Frenchman's Creek



Despite not feeling on top form, I decided to turn it in to an opportunity to catch up with some things I have been wanting to do but haven't always had the time for.
I still had to work (as I am self employed, if I don't do the work it doesn't get done and no sick pay of course ) But I caught up on some reading, blogging, going through healthy recipe books to get ideas on healthier meals which will boost my immune system etc...

I also took delivery of some parcels...

Vintage eiderdown


Discontinued Laura Ashley Wallpaper (The same as in my display cupboard)




Little vintage leather bag


Yes more supplies of Neal's Yard products.

I spotted this lovely outfit in one of the magazines I was looking at. I really like it, right down to the beret! It's now on my wish list...


At last today, I feel so much better! I have just been in the garden and have enjoyed some of that the sunny weather... ;-))



I hope that you are all enjoying your week. However, if you have been struck down by a virus try not to let it get you down, catch up with a few things..such as letter writing, reading, watch an old film, crochet, what ever will make you feel a bit happier....not housework though...

Ooh, I mustn't go without thanking you all for your lovely comments about my cupboard makeover. I enjoyed reading them all and am overwhelmed by the number of comments!

A bientôt!

Isabelle X