Focusing

After an excellent Grandad brunch, based on waffles, we set out for the afternoon. The 12 year old and I were dropped off in Caldbeck where we wandered round the village and by the river, had discussions about everything, sat in the café . . . and took lots of photos. She is learning fast and has decided she wants a career in photography. She is a delight to be with - a lovely afternoon in the sunshine. 

Meanwhile the younger ones, together with Mum and Grandad, went on to the Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve at Eycott Hill for an afternoon of searching for wildlife and mini-beasts, learning fun wildlife facts and playing lots of games (see extra). Enjoyed by all. 

This evening we took them for the first time to the Ashiana Asian Restaurant in Appleby, a place we know well and like very much, which is saying a lot for us Bradfordians who certainly know our Asian Restaurants. Although the children have eaten in many different restaurants in and around London, strangely this was their first Asian one and the youngest were not at all sure that they liked spicy food. But it is such a wonderful, friendly place, with staff who made many suggestions for the children, that it was a huge success, with them all trying everything and finding some instant favourites. On the way out the youngest declared to the manager that this was now her favourite restaurant - she was rewarded with a big smile and another lollipop. 

We have had a few full-on, but wonderful days. They go home tomorrow. Catch up with everyone then.