A cultural holiday in Cheshire!

I went on a cultural trip with my Fine Arts group. There were about 30 of us - mostly women. I did know most of them from previous holidays and there were a few new members We all got on well and enjoyed the visits we made very much. The people who organise these trips are really superb. They plan everything to perfection and also make sure that our hotel is excellent. The whole atmosphere is relaxed. By the end of the few days there was a continual hum of people chatting and lots of laughter. The picture on the left is one I took of some of the members at a wonderful old house with beautiful gardens. We visited an art gallery, several old houses and gardens, 2 churches and Chester Cathedral. The cathedral is really impressive and the guide, who took us around, was very interesting and had a great way of explaining its history to us.

The summer seems to have come at last and the weather is now quite warm. I have spent a lot of time in the garden planting the bedding plants I bought a few weeks ago and, with the bluebells that grow wild every year, the garden looks great. I get great enjoyment from my garden. I am a lousy gardener and I have had many failures - but the plants that survive do look good.

I am home now for 3 days and will then go back to Suffolk (I went there Easter time - and I think I described it then), In my next blog I will print some pictures of the countryside and the old house that I am staying in. I am looking forward to being in the country, relaxing, walking and reading. I will also see one or two old friends while I am there. I will be away for a week.

At the moment I am feeling quite relaxed and less stressed. Life at home can be stressful - just with everyday problems. I know I should be more laid back about things - but I worry about my situation eg. ageing, being on my own, and I also worry about my family. I don't think anyone ever stops worrying about one's children and grandchildren.

This blog is supposed to be about me getting irritating things out - but this edition has been quite mild and relaxed. But I will make one complaint.

I have an account with Debenhams and pay it off each time I get a statement. However, somehow 9 pence was still owing. I went to the Store because there was a sale on and I would also get another 20% because of having a card. However, when I handed in my card I was told it was not accepted. I found out it was because I owed the 9p!!! If it was for £100 outstanding it is understandable - but for for 9p!!! There - that's my grumble for now.