It has been rather warm this week, not very helpful for getting things done, but good for sitting outside and enjoying a slower pace of life. Let’s have a look at this week’s top five:

One

With temperatures soaring this week it has been uncomfortable warm in the cottage, luckily we have a beautiful garden to relax in. Some ice water, a pile of magazines and our new deckchairs to recline in. The best way to beat the heat!

Two

The cut flower patch is having some successes, we had the first of the Dahlias, looking lovely in a little posy with some dill flowers. Dahlias had a old fashioned reputation for a long time but have come roaring back into fashion in the last few years. We love them!

Three

As previously mentioned Rich’s mum and dad keep doves in their garden. They can be a bit of a nuisance at times, but watching them going about their everyday lives can be very entertaining. And there is no denying they are beautiful animals!

Four

Our summer of Picnicking continues! On Saturday we met us with some friends and enjoyed lunch al fresco. Calum cooked one of his legendary quiches and there was plenty more food and drink to keep us fed and watered. What better way to spend a summer’s afternoon?

Five

After four years of living just down the road we finally visited Strawberry Hill house.  Built from 1749 by Horace Warpole Strawberry Hill House, it is one of the earliest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the country.  It is a wonderful house to look around (and you get a discount if you are a National Trust Member) although I can’t help but think that Strawberry Hill House sounds like it should be the setting for a children’s TV show!