Reward

Feeling emotionally battered and bruised after a fairly (for me) tumultuous week, I popped up to see the parents first thing for a cup of tea and to talk through a couple of things.

They were great, provided some reassurance, guiding words, hugs and a bloody good brew.

I returned to my work, but staring out of the window at a warm, cloudless sky and knowing that temperature was only going to climb, I called my boss and requested the afternoon off.

The paddle board and associated equipment was lobbed in the back of the van and I headed off to Coniston with the strains of my Classic FM relaxing playlist blasting from the open window. 

My time and journey on the lake was similar to what I had done with the children earlier in the week. The main difference this time was the wind blowing directly into my face! However, I was determined not to be defeated and paddled hard into the wind, knowing that my reward would be a gentle float back down the lake to the launch site.

It is so beautiful there. When I have tired of the view (extras), I think - in the words of the great Willie Nelson - it is time to roll me and smoke me.

I had dinner with The Eldest planned and drinks with my father and brother in law to attend to, so I couldn’t linger too long, but did find time for a stop at the ice cream parlour at Greenodd and this Eton Mess beauty, which was every bit as good as it looks.

Dinner with The Eldest was amazing (we’re all good now) and it was lovely to have a bit of male bonding time with the chaps (see extra).

Ready for the weekend!