Petworth & New Stuff

Before the weather turned a bit yuk we spent an afternoon at Petworth which was gorgeous.  The rhododendrons were beautiful and their scent floated everywhere.

Sadly didn't see any of the deer so had to settle for the swans ~ this one just loved having his picture taken. The collection of paintings here is well worth seeing and some great old kitchens.

Haven't had much time for crafts, but have started on some new projects ~ loads of things half completed; as usual. 

I've started making some cosmetic bags and zip purses; these are cut out and ready to go.

My first effort:

Really enjoyed making this ~ in the past I've always been pants at sewing, but it was a lot easier than I thought. I've had some tags made up and started a fabric stash!

And now I'm making resin pendants too!

Sunshine & Holidays

My blogging has been very sporadic for the last few weeks ~ I've been rather pre-occupied with my forthcoming trip to India. I leave on Saturday! I've never been before, but after watching Masterchef last night I can't wait.  It's a totally different holiday to anything I've done previously.  I've one more shopping trip to make on Thursday and then we're all set to go.  My OH has already packed!

After our trip to the South Pacific last August I had a few problems with one of my legs swelling up after flying. I've had to buy some rather hideous sock things to wear on the plane and with a bit of walking about during the flight I should be ok.

After joining the National Trust we had one of our 'how many places can you visit in one day' days ~ we managed three.  We visited Ightham Mote, Knole and Scotney Castle.  All great places to visit if you're ever in Kent.

Just love soaking up all that history!

Bodiam Castle & brass monkeys!

Sunday we decided to take a trip to Bodiam Castle ~ we go there quite often as it's not far away; we usually walk, but not this time ~ far too cold!

It's one of my favourite places ~ I have a 'thing' about castles and this one has a great feeling about it. Don't let the blue skies and sunshine fool you ~ it was freezing!

We didn't have our usual cream tea this time ~ it's a National Trust property and while the fresh cream and scones are all very nice, they are a bit pricey.

We'll be rejoining the National Trust and English Heritage as it's well worth it ~ with free entry or discounts to loads of places; we have a great time trying to see how many places we can cram into one day!