Up at the crack of dawn to drop hubby off at the train station before making our way to David Marshall Lodge at Aberfoyle. We arrived before most of the staff and had a little moment while we took in the rising sun and the hazy landscape. Really beautiful.

We were there to see if they'd replaced their playpark which was ripped up and carted off some time ago. Unfortunately, but actually quite fortunately, it hadn't been replaced. Instead there are 'activities' throughout the woods. Including some excellent hobbit holes, scene of the blip (you'd love these Elf - well, S would), a rocky dam thing, some sculptures, some stick dens, a hammock and a wildlife hide. We spent ages in the hide, me watching the birdies, the boys amusing themselves. There was a 'twitcher' there who was able to tell us me exactly what each bird was. Nice man, very knowledgeable.

Anyway, home now and just about to go to Argos for a birthday money spending spree. Youngest has calculated exactly what he's getting, down to the penny. Apparently the spree will leave him with £1 to spend for which we will make a trip to Home Bargains. I absolutely guarantee we will spend more than £1 in Home Bargains. I find it impossible to leave that shop without having spent at least a tenner on stuff I really, really don't need. I love it in there!