The path ahead

I woke before Marion and enjoyed a mug of tea in her back garden. It was drizzling but warm and a kite circled above. The garden is beautiful and it was such a relaxing way to start the day.

Marion has a parkrun practically in her 'Essex' back garden but doesn't run and didn't know you didn't have to. She does now.

We arrived in plenty of time and the car park Marshal told us to look out for buzzards and kites.

We used 'camouflaged' toilets. There were deer, baby moorhens, dragon flies, geese and so much more in abundance. The course is beautiful and we got great views of the estate and the Hall as we walked round. The wildflowers were spectacular.

Afterwards we enjoyed the cafe and made our way to the walled garden. Huge lemons hung

from lemon trees that had been grown as standards in pots, presumably moved indoors over winter. There is lots of restoration going on and the succulents, peaches and fig tree were particular favourites today, along with a gorgeous cream and brown dog called Otto.

Afterwards a ginger ice cream. Perfect morning.

Headed home and went straight out again to the Ferryboat Inn for a fish finger sandwich with chips with Mr RIU.

Headed home again for a G&T and then bed.