Foxglove Cottage, Swinton Estate, and a Summer Birthday

A great day out with Jill who has just returned from Oz.  She has been staying in our apartment in Allambie.  So relieved that she loved her visit to Sydney.  She walked from Allambie to Manly, Mermaid Pool, Manly Dam, visited the Opera House, did some whale watching and visited the Christmas markets at the Rocks. Much more I'm sure because her energy is amazing.  

Thanks Lynn for giving her such a lovely welcome and to Lori and David for inviting her to dinner at your place... she loved meeting your guests and your generous hospitality

House swapping is such a fun thing to do. We  love her little cottage 'Foxglove' here in Middleham.  In front of us is Middleham Castle and behind us Simon Kent's stables.  We are surrounded by friendly people, abbeys, pubs, sheep and creameries!  What could be better.?

Couldn't resist adding this photo of the cottage shrouded by winter snow.

Jill took us to lunch at the fabulous Swinton Estate. Oh my goodness it was grand.  A woollen merchant built the 'home' in 17th Century on over 20,000 acres.  Through all those times it has only been owned by two families. It is now a hotel and spa and of course has this fabulous restaurant.

I am trying to find a slot in our timetable to have a relaxing spa before we set off for Sheffield and Manchester.

 

My birthday today... first summer birthday for a while. Very exciting!