Morning walks filled with dreamy sights

Harvey just wanted to fish!

Aaah the symmetry 🙌

Dolsen Palace

Another flat ...

So much love for Guinness

Too cool waiting for the bus 😎

Music section of the Diana Memorial Gardens

Kensington Palace

Walking ...

Walking ....

We found it 🙌💦🙌

More walking ...

Paddington Station

From there we walked down the mall and past Big Ben and over the bridge to the London Eye. \240Noah was unsure about the height of the ride but like many things for him over analysed and then totally enjoyed it. \240Was a great way to see the city and get our bearings.

After the Eye we enjoyed soaking up the glorious weather while the kids played on the playground. \240Just loving the atmosphere, the energy and the SUN.

We headed home for a BBQ dinner and off to bed ... another jammed pack fun day!

🙏 For the sun

🙏 For the stunning hostorical buildings and architecture

🙏 For family adventures

From there we bussed to the Hard Rock Cafe for lunch ... a trip down memory lane and the most amazing surprise to see Gurdy, Katerina and James (the snob) all still working there. \240They gave us 50% off which was a nice added surprise. \240It was really special to be back and triggered lots of memories from those days.

Noah and I left Jay and Harvey to find somewhere for Harvey to sleep as he was a grumpy tired mess and we headed to the Lyceum Theatre to see The Lion King. \240Another “pinch me” moment for sure. \240Taking my son to a production in the West End ... I thought of Granny and how incredibly grateful I am for this experience. \240The show was amazing and Noah enjoyed it. \240He is so alert always wanting to hold my hand when we are amongst the crowds, concerned if we have enough time to go to the toilet before the show starts, are we going the right way - reminds me of myself and I worry that he worries too much.

After the show Noah and I made our way back to Acton to meet Jay, Harvey, Bryce, Tessa, Flynn and Guinness at the pub for dinner.

What an amazing day 🙌❤️🙏

🙏 It was all pinch me moments today! \240So incredibly grateful for this trip.

🙏 the random acts of kindness and chats with people on our way - tube chats and conductors going out of there way to engage ... Noah was invited to say “please mind the gap” over the loud speaker at Embankment Station on the way home from the theatre ... is this London?!? \240Are we being watched over? \240Either way so so grateful 🙏🙏🙏

The start of the melt down - it followed loud explosions of shit and fuck 😬🙄

The lining up!

I tried for about 30 min to lock the door - desperate to get out for an afternoon run in the park I ended up leaving the door unlocked 🤯. It was one of those days!!!

We headed home for Harvey to have a nap only to realise we left a bag of shopping where we had lunch so Noah and I went back for about her adventure and a quick look at some more shops.

It amazes me how different Noah is one on one and how much more relaxed he is - looking for opportunities to create this peace for him when Harvey is around.

We heaed home and met the others at Brads pub before I went for a much needed wax!

Bra

d made cabanara for dinner which was a lovely treat and we had Bday cake for desert that Lisa sent him.

🦋 Reminder today that not all days go to plan, not all days feel a flow.

🙏 For one on one time with my big boy

hen it was time to head back to Brads to join in woth his bday bbq. \240It was nice to meet some more of his friends and theor kids.

Despite the kids being so tired we head out again at 5:30pm and went to join Kylie, Dave and the kids in Hyde Park to listen to the overflow of the Rolling Stones concert ... it was a great night - just so much joy watching the kids run and play and release some built up tension.

We taxi’d home at 10pm ... late night but worth it. \240First time seeing a sunset since being here!

Home for breakfast and a workout. \240Then Kylie picked Jay and the boys up to head to theirs to watch the State of Origin and I headed off SOLO to Portobello Rd and Notting Hill. \240I strolled blissfully down the entire length of Portobello Rd - browsing peacefully in shops, taking photos and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere ... it was buzzing and so was I. \240I was ready for time alone and this was such a luxurious treat.

I relunctantly came to the end of the road and made my way to Kylie and Dave’s to join everyone else for BBQ. \240It was another fun filled night - the kids have such a great time together and Kylie really goes to town with her hosting.

Denise and G joined us - who are moving to NZ next year

It was Dave’s brother Mikey’s Bday who was visiting from Texas

After an early lunch Brad dropped us out to our Campervan “Indi”!

We got ourselves sorted and headed off! \240Jay did so well navigating it all and takes it all in his stride. \240The boys were so excited and happily sat in the bag chatting (and fighting and whinging) as we took the 2 hour drive to Meadowbank Holiday Park in Christchurch just out of Bournemouth.

We arrived early evening, parked up and took a 20 min walk through a field (so many fields around here) to a local pub for dinner. \240Harvey was tired and a little loose but we made our way through and even walked home in one piece when we realised that Ubers aren’t as frequent in these parts ... def not in London anymore 😂

🙏 We are doing it! \240We are in a Campervan and doing it ... so proud of us 🙏🙏❤️❤️

We drove through Bournemouth with the intention of stopping but realised one of the downsides to a camper isn’t here UK towns is parking doesn’t come easy. \240We settled for a quick shop and lunch stop at an M&S ... driving in the wrong way and causing a little congestion and stress from Noah and me however Jay cool as a cucumber manouvered is out of everyone’s way.

From there we headed in search of a dinosaur fossil on the Jurassic Coast ... however it ended up on a wild goose chase with tired boys and challenging times in the camper ... the narrow roads on top of it all almost took us over the edge but luckily a broken side mirror from some innocent locals car was the extent of the damage and once again Jay remained calm and not bothered.

We gave up on the fossil - we did find a cute little pub with \240a fossil mueseum but energies were low at that point and so we didn’t stop for a cuppa or a pint ... it was straight on to the next campsite -Corfe Castle. \240A gorgeous quaint little campsite out of the village.

Mueseum at Worth Matraves

A much needed cup of tea after a long day!

Jays office

We had a home cooked meal - thank is to prepackaged heaven at M&S ... it amazes me - I don’t think anyone chops Veges in this country - everything chopped and pre packaged - convenient sure, but holy heck the waste and plastic 🤯😢

🙏 Grateful for Jays unwavering ability to not sweat the small stuff

🦋 Reminder to keep on laughing and that there is always tea around the corner (or wine!)

Back in the camper we had breakfast and head off to Haldon Forest. \240We stopped on the way in Honiton and had a yummy morning tea - our first Cornish Cream Tea.

When we got to Haldon Forest Noah and I headed off on the Gruffalo course to spot some of our favourite Julia Donaldsons characters. \240The course was set up beautifully with a map but somehow I got us lost and we ended up taking an extra long walk compete with a rain shower. \240Jay and Harvey waited patiently at the end and I explained to Noah that “sometimes getting lost is the real adventure in life”. \240We had a quick lunch at the cafe and I wished we had longer time explore the bike trails and soak up the amazing forest.

We \240then headed to our next campground for the night Ten Creek just outside of a gorgeous fishing town called Looe.

We arrived in time for a swim in the indoor pool before cooked sausages and showers.

Back to the van and we got packed up and headed to Liskeard for Jay to have an appt with a customer. \240The boys and I found a cute little cafe for breakfast. \240The staff were so friendly and we had a beautiful breakfast - the boys were definitely on form smoozing the staff ❤️. I found a local paper with a bunch of articles relating to the pandemic that were up our alley which started a move chat with the waitress discovering that we were on the same page ... was refreshing. \240The whole cafe experience was so lovely and Jay joined us at the end too.

We left Liskeard and headed to The Lost Garden of Heligan. \240An amazing garden and property compete with a farm, multiple gorgeous gardens, forest walk, adventure playground and delicious cafe with wholesome food all garden to table. \240The kids had a great time exploring.

From there it was off to our next camp ground Pentewan Sands. \240Right on the beach and complete with an indoor pool and slide. \240We hit that first and I was able to get some laps on which was an added bonus. \240For dinner we ventured across a little footbridge into the village and ate at the pub. \240A beautiful pub meal right on the canal. \240A gorgeous spot.

Back to camper and tired boys to bed! \240We stayed up watched beautiful sunset and did some planning for our trip.

Jay had another appt with a customer so we packed up and headed to St Austell. \240The village wasn’t as quaint as some of the others and we are finding that nothing opens before 9am. \240We still found ourselves a cafe and had breakfast whilst Jay was in the meeting. \240The boys chose some new sticker books and that \240kept them busy.

Once Jay was finished and had eaten off we headed to Marazion to visit the Castle at St Michael’s Mount.

On arrival we had a quick lunch in the van then headed off. \240What an amazing castle to visit - depending on the tide will dictate how you enter the castle along the causeway. \240The tide was out so we walked over. \240The Castle grounds had a beautiful garden to explore on the cliffs edge that was beautifully maintained. \240It was a steep climb up to the Castle itself and the kids were given a scavenger hunt on arrival to complete during the tour. \240This kept them engaged and happy throughout the tour which Kay and I both were so grateful for. \240They then received little tags for their completed work ... it’s the little touches that go along way.

Walking back we almost missed the tide and ended up having to take our shoes off to avoid needing to get a boat back. \240This only added to the overall adventure. \240First Castle and it was a great success.

We drove up to our campsite - the smallest so far. \240Almost felt like someone’s front lawn. \240It was everything we needed but def no added extras which we had been accustomed to.

We found another Monty

Penzance

We caught an Uber intoPenzance and had a pub meal at a pub right on the harbour. \240It was bustling and a ferry arrived just as we were leaving which made the Uber line long for our return.

❤️ Castle - history you can quite comprehend

🙏 kids activities along the way

Then we noticed a path and thought may as well check out the beach down below. \240

It lead to a beautiful cove ... Sennen Beach. \240We played on the rocks, considered the water for a potential swim later and then found a little cafe that was heaving (mainly because it was the only one) but beautiful happy staff and the usual English breakfast with a bit of a twist. \240

The sun found its way out and it warmed up. \240With full tummy’s and satisfied with our find we set off back up the hill and back in the van destined for Lands End.

Quite a run down tourist “attraction” was Lands End - eerie in a way. \240Still - it had to be done to say we went down the very bottom of the UK. \240So photos ticked off we headed north to St Ives.

St Ives is like other costal towns that don’t allow tourist traffic to park in town. \240So we parked up top and caught a bus in. \240It was a visual delight coming down into the beautiful village with clear torquiouse water and sandy beaches. \240I didn’t expect it and Noah exclaimed “this is what I’m talking about”!

We enjoyed a walk around the old village and along the water front and found a great place for lunch right in front of an arcade. \240The boys were in dopamine heaven as they burned through £2 each. \240Harvey found it hard to leave (ie meltdown)! \240

We were keen to get back in the van and move on to our next stop so we pushed on and headed for Holywell Bay.

Arriving at Trevornick Caravan Park we were overwhelmed with the facilities and all on offer. \240We instantly felt good about the fact that this was going to be home for 3 days. \240We were all looking forward to settling in to one place and having some quiet days.

We arrived in time for a quick swim, I got a load of laundry done and then we enjoyed an yummy Mexican dinner and cocktail from the food trucks on site! \240

I found my way to the beach and back up th road past the village. \240Found a cute pub for lunch.

Back at the camper we had breakfast and then headed off to explore th campground. \240It has a cute little Forest Trail with adventure playground that the kids zoomed through.

Despite the kids wanting to just fish fish fish we convinced them that a walk down to the village first for lunch was the way to go.

This is th “best Sunday roast” in Cornwall - according to the sign! \240However it was fully booked and they squeezed us in. \240It was huge and not a green in sight - not sure I can give it the best - but certainly an experience.

Right ... now we fish! \240The boys were blessed with Jeff and the lovely Judy who spoilt them with tips and plenty of patience. \240Judy showed them how to load the hook with maggots (live, wriggling maggots 🤮) and guided them through the process reminding them that patience is part of it! \240

The sun came out and it was dreamy sitting by the lake which was a 100m from our camper. \240

And of course they caught fish - multiple fish - so it was a huge success and the end of a very long dry spell and many attempts in Pauanui and on the Coast. \240So to very very happy boys. \240

Noah got a very impressive (according to Judy) perch.

Continuing with our mission to stay local and keenthe day simple - we had dinner at the restaurant on site. \240Average food but the boys were able to play mini putt whilst we sat and soaked up the stunning view.

Back to van via the pond! \240Such a beautiful day and the first where we didn’t drive anywhere ... Jay appreciated a break! \240

🙏 These campsites continue to amaze me with their facilities

🙏 morning walks

🙏 Judy for her patience and for making the boys day

After breakfast we convinced the kids to head into Newquay to check out the potentials of a surf. \240We parked up on the hill and were met with a very cold wind which lowered the excitement for a surf. \240

Fistral Beach - a very popular surf beach. \240Jay checked it out to rent boards but it was cold and I inviting - plus the boys were whinging about going back to do some more fishing!!! \240We put a maybe one the plan and decided some morning tea might warm us all up (and our moods).

We found this cute little tea room (thanks Google) that served gluten free scones and had our first Cornish Tea ... oh my the clotted cream 🙌🥰

When we came out of the tea room the sun had come out and so it was jumpers off and surfing was back on the cards. \240We had an over tired boy to sea with so decided to go for a drive to allow him to sleep and then after some lunch at a lookout we headed back to Fistral beach only to find the surf wasn’t as good as it was in the morning so the boys won - we headed back to camp to FISH again!!!

Newquay harbour

I managed my first workout since being away - I did it in the van using my weights. \240Felt so good! \240Then it was steak night - complete with garlic butter - the prepackaged meals are doing me well in Campervan life - so much so I can almost look past the disgusting overuse of packaging! \240

First glimpses of a sunset since being in the UK!

🙏 gluten free scones!

🙏 sun

🙏 workouts back! \240

It was our last morning in Trevornick so we packed up and waved goodbyes and headed to “work” for Jay. \240The craft shop was out of the town Truroin a village called Perranarworthal and was in a little collection of buildings including a cafe - so the boys and I headed for breakfast. \240Both boys on the touchy side this morning and me in reactive mode is not the best combination! \240I managed to get Noah to do some journal work over their French toast which they forgot to dip in egg so was fried toast with maple syrup 🙄. Harvey had a meltdown at the end and I let him lead me into the cafes shop filled with arts and crafts and he happily (and painfully for me) examined everything!!!

Back on the toad and next stop Padstow. \240Jay had read about a place to hire bikes and a good flat ride that we could do so I was excited (the boys not so much!). As we were driving and looking at the map we decided to rework the next couple of days. \240We were meant to go on to Bude tonight but felt that would be too rushed and Padstow seemed to have a bit to offer. \240We pulled into a campsite at the top of the hill outside of the village and managed to get a night. \240So with this in mind we settled into the afternoon without the feeling of rush rush. \240

We had a delicious takeaway Fish and Chips from Rick Steins down at the port. \240He has a monopoly here by the looks.

This lovely guy at Rick Steins Fishmongers was so kind to Harvey and got him a live lobster and crab from the tank for the boys to explore up close. \240I’m true Harvey style he wanted to hold them both - no fear - whereas Noah was apprehensive. \240Harvey then wanted to stay and touch all the fish in the cabinet and see more lobsters ... minor Mel to down on the way out! \240

After lunch we hired bikes to do the Camle Trail. \240It is an 18 mile trail that goes from Padstow to Bodmin. \240We rode from Padstow to Wadebridge which was about 5 mile return. \240We took no chances with Harvey this time after our experience at New Forest and both kids are still resisting biking for some reason. \240Anyway there was no resistance or whinging today as Harvey was happy as Larry on \240the back with Jay and Noah tends to step up and ride happily despite saying he doesn’t like it. \240

It was a wonderful ride and mostly flat. \240Loads of people on the path too. \240We got to Wadebridge and had a little look around but had already decided afternoon tea was coming from a little food truck on the side of the path half way along. \240

This cute little “food truck” and an impressive menu and even offered dinners some nights. \240The staff were so friendly and the boys loved the iceblock to fill up the mercy tank and my tea and brownie were certainly made with love. \240

It’s all about the dogs here in the UK! \240❤️🥰❤️

Back to Padstow and we made our way to our campsite via tesco to stock up on supplies. \240As we settled into our site we were so grateful we decided to stay. \240Another beautiful campsite with gorgeous facilities and the best staff so far - so genuine and friendly.

Cheers to another great day ❤️

🙏 Bike rides (especially when we are moving and without whinging)!!!

🌈 Follow your gut and be happy to change plans

❤️ Continue to be overwhelmed by the beautiful people we are meeting

“Aunty Sam, Lauren and Jeanie”

We parked and headed into town. \240Most villages we find you park and then walk in. \240We didn’t come to this part of Padstow yesterday so coming down into the village and harbour we were delighted with such a gorgeous little village. \240

We got our bacon and settled in to find the best crabbing position. \240Lucky, like our fishing experience we had success and the boys were delighted woth the haul. \240Harvey again more happy to hold and inspect the crab up close ... Noah warmed up to it eventually after a thorough risk \240assessment! \240

Not sure! \240

After a quick look around - definitely could soak up a whole day in these villages and I found it hard to leave with so much exploring yet to be done ... but just not the time with kids in tow! \240

Next stop was Bude. \240Google took as the scenic way down the narrowest of all roads only to have to turn around due to another RV that had broken down in the middle of the road! \240

When we finally got to abide we were hungry and ready for some outside time! \240We took awhile to find the a place to eat but found a perfect place right on the beach and the kids got to run around on the sand.

After lunch the boys insisted on a swim at the sea pool so I hiked back to the van and got all the swim gear only for them to put them on and barely get their feet wet ... don’t blame them it was chilly as amd Kay and I despite them begging us, we’re not going to join them!

Gorgeous sea pool though that on a nice day without wind would be pretty amazing place to have a dip.

After their “swim” we headed back in the van and up the hill out of town to our next campsite ... Wooda Farm. \240Another amazing campsite with exceptional facilities. \240Playground, forest trails, farm animals and “Pixi hunt” ... oh and a gym which I’m excited about. \240We went for a walk to explore and then the kids had a play on the playgroundnd before dnner in the van. \240

Back for breakfast and then we packed some snacks because Jay was heading into Bude with the van to see a customer and the boys and I wanted to do the Nature Trail and the Pixi hunt here at the campsite.

Once again blown away by what these camp grounds have on offer. \240The kids had little passports to complete the different nature questions and along the way we had to count how many pixie’s we found.

We completed our trail and had a cupcake and tea/baby chino as our reward and then headed up to reception to stamp the passports. \240We found 117 little pixies along the way but apparently there are 200 so we missed a few. \240

By the time we were done - Jay had returned from seeing his customer and also getting a surf in which was great seeing that was yet to happen. \240

Harvey was ready for a nap so we headed off in the van for a drive to a nearby beach and parked up in the car park. \240There we found a food truck that we decided to try for lunch and were not disappointed. \240Delicious steak Mexican salad bowl and Noah’s “best burger” so far! \240We are impressed with the food trucks and learning that often that’s the best food! \240

After lunch it was time to find a new crabbing spot for the boys. \240We headed back into Bude and explored around the castle - the nicer and more quaint part of town. \240Unfortunately the lock means the canal is fresh water and no crabs to be found and the tide was low meaning they couldn’t crab off the stairs on the sea wall. \240

We are learning to move through disappointments - sometimes more gracefully then others. \240We settled on a paddle boa ride up the canal. \240

After afternoon tea Noah insisted we check out a bait and tackle shop that also ended up selling guns. \240He had a nice chat with the owner about hunting and crabbing. \240He gifted the boys some bait and told us of a town north of Bude we should stop by tomorrow for some more successful crabbing. \240The boys felt happy to have some hope for tomorrow (and Jay and I relieved too!)

We headed back to the campsite and I went to the gym - it wasn’t the most amazing experience but it felt great to be able to do a workout with all the weights and a private space.

❤️ Nature trail time with the boys

🙏 Friendly and generous locals with tips

🙏 workouts! \240

Regardless the walk did the trick - stretched my legs and cleared the cobwebs and then it was back for a cuppa and kids had some cereal and we headed off.

First stop - Clovelly Village. \240OMG. \240Only way to enter is walking a steep cobbled stone path. \240The houses are nestled together on top of the cliff and right up against the path. Quaint and quirky. \240The path leads you down to the harbour where there is a pub overlooking the line of fishing boats.

The reason we found our way is because of the generous Rob at the tackle and gun shop in Bude. \240He told us this is where the boys could crab and so with bait and nets ready to go we set up along the sea wall. \240The drop was immense though and after 20 min of me holding my heart in my throat and allowing my own anxieties to spill over everyone else’s mood we moved to some stairs. \240There I was able to calm and let the boys do their thing in peace. \240Crabs and fish were hail along with some tears and tantrums - both boys seemed particularly sensitive this morning.

After a decent crabbing session we made our way back up the hill I point at the tea room for a delicious quiche and a Devon Tea with the most amazing view. \240I finally clarified the difference between a Devon Tea and a Cornish Tea ... cream first for the Devon and Jam first for the Cornish. \240I’m Devon by heart!

With tummy’s full and soaking up some decent warmth we finished the climb \240back to the very top and back in the van for Harvey to pass out instantly.

Next stop was Woolacombe. We arrived at our next campsite (more like resort) and had some lunch in the van then headed to check out the facilities. \240Pool, outdoor slide, indoor pool, indoor slide, arcade, playground, mini golf ... you name it. \240We ticked off the must do’s and then we packed some drinks and headed to the beach. \240Another gorgeous walk through a little forest and field and down to the most beautiful beach and stunning sun. \240We were recommended to go to a little cove that a food truck sells Sri Lankan curry and wow what a piece of paradise ... the food was amazing and the scenery just stunning. \240Felt like something in Europe. \240After a few G&T’s and a delicious prawn salad we did the hike home.

Lots of hiking today, lots of WOW moments and very grateful for it all.

🙏 Sun ☀️

🙏 Stunning sights

❤️ Jay’s ability to plan and map things out - he has a wonderful way of seeing what will work best in our day and as I get myself out of the way and trust I see this more than ever

❤️ Harvey loving the pool

We arrived to a sweltering day in London and had a cruisey afternoon at Brads doing washing and repacking for the next adventure. \240

We met Bruce, Tessa and Flynn at the pub (and Guinness of course) for dinner and a drink. \240Tessa and I stayed in whilst all the boys went home. \240It was lovely to have a chat with her one on one. \240

A little more packing when we got home and then off to bed. \240

Hello and Goodbyes to Guinness and then back home for breakfast and pack up. \240We got an Uber to the train station - Harvey was irritable and tired 😓

We got on the train and realised we didn’t have a seat for Harvey and the train was absolutely packed. Jay went off and found a spare seat somewhere else and the boys and I piled in. \240My mission was to get my overtired boy to sleep. \240

After stopping for over 40 min due to a signal error down the track finally he fell asleep not far out of Newcastle. \240Aaah relief for all!!!

Darren picked us up for Newcastle and took us to South Shields. \240First stop to check out Nutex UK headquarters and meet his dog Xander. \240

After settling in at Darren and Kayes we went out for one of the famous curries in town and then went for a lovely walk Wong their beach . I didn’t expect such a pretty coastline. \240

Of course Harvey found a crab (even though it was dead) and was determined to keep it! \240

Off home and into bed after a big travel day. \240

After breakfast we headed off to pick up the rental car and then we dropped Jay off at Nutex for the day.

The boys needed a hair cut so we went off to see Darren’s hairdresser. \240Lovely guy who had plenty of toys in the waiting area - the boys could have stayed there all day. \240

Noah was very keen on getting a mullet but I managed to the barber to make other suggestions. \240They still came away with the most shortest do’s they have ever had - Noah loves it! \240

After haircuts we headed to a shopping centre to look for some shoes and jackets. \240It was a bit of a disaster in the fact that Harvey was so tired and didn’t sleep on the way. \240The mall was massive and as I should know shopping with the boys is painful!

We ended up getting a little car/trolley for Harvey and that helped but we still came away with only having lunch and picking up some sticker books. \240Felt frustrated and really wiped out after it all and my phone battery dying on the way back made for an interesting adventure finding Darren and Kaye’s again!

We made it and enjoyed soaking up some sun in the backyard and a lovely dinner. \240The boys went for a walk at the beach after dinner and I called Inga and Barand to make a plan about staying in their house whilst we are in Amsterdam. \240

🌈Reminder - shopping centres are energy suckers! \240

We packed up and headed off bound for the Lake District. \240We stopped for breakfast at an awesome farm shop which had camels, cows and little farm tractors for kids to drive. \240The food selection was amazing also and I stocked up for our days ahead. \240

Back on the road destined for Lake Windermere. \240Stu and Darren met us at the “caravan” to show us how it all works. \240What they call a caravan we call a tiny home - we are delighted to see what we have been gifted to stay in for the next week. \240Not to mention it’s a 4 min walk to the lake edge and fully stocked with kayak and SUP! \240

Once settled we headed to a pub for lunch I n land a little bit that had a gorgeous garden area. \240

After a delicious lunch it was back to the caravan and the boys were keen to check out the kayaks so we headed down to the lake.

We had a beautiful afternoon playing in the water - I didn’t swim though - it was chilly and hadn’t worked my way up to that yet! \240

We had dinner in the caravan and I tried hard to figure out a weird smell that is present - we can’t tell if it’s mould or something that’s gone off? \240 Essential oil collection is coming in handy because it is quite strong. \240

🙏 Generousity from Stu to gift us this place

🌈 Once again it has exceeded my expectations. \240The lake is stunning and I’m looking forward to exploring the surrounding areas. \240

❤️ Lakes have a certain feeling for me - it moves me quite emotionally actually. \240

After breakfast we headed off to explore Brockhole which consists of a high ropes playground, mini golf, go karts, archery and shooting. \240Unfortunately many of the activities were not in the boys age groups.

We still had a lovely explore, the boys played mini putt and Noah went on the go karts.

From there we decided to head further north to another lake and it’s town Keswick. We past through gorgeous Ambleside and Grasmere which in hindsight is where we should have stopped for lunch. \240

Keswick was fine but not quite the charm. \240We had a walk around and got lunch and then headed back. \240

The kids had a fun afternoon playing a swinging on the swing. \240I got a workout in and cooked dinner. \240It’s nice to have so much space to ourselves. \240

Like so many of the Forestry of England sites I’m continue to be most impressed with the activities that they have for the kids. \240We got our Superworm Trail pack with map, checklist, superhero mask! \240

We did a small 2km loop and the kids had a great time checking off their list and answer the questions along the way.

There was this gorgeous art exhibit where they had keys in tree that you turned and music would start playing. \240There was also hidden keys in trees to spot. \240

Despite the drizzle it was still a lovely walk.

From there we looked around the top end of the lake and stopped in Ambleside for lunch. \240We did some jacket and shoe shopping to complete yesterday’s efforts. \240

Then it was on to the Beatrix Potter mueseum. \240It was so so as far as the experience. \240Jay I think was into more than any of us! \240

Afternoon and a walk down by the lake where the sun came out and it was gorgeous. \240The boys found some friends to play with which kept a very grumpy Harvey at bay for a little bit.

Back to the caravan - dinner and bed!

I headed for a walk up the same road as the other day but determined to get high enough up to see lake views. \240I followed my nose and and the trusty “public footpath” sign and after a nice climb I was rewarded with stunning views. \240I’m definitely more adventurous then I used to be and my morning walks continue to be my daily dose of this. \240

Back home for breakfast and to the boys in their favourite place - the swing. \240We let Noah lead the day today and is request is kayak, stay home and kayak some more! \240

Before heading off we got a load of washing done and made use of the sunshine in the garden area to avoid the dryer which we have had to use more than we like.

Then it we marched off to the lake!

We kayaked around the to the cafe which is a part of the campsite and enjoyed morning tea of scones and tea. \240The boys fed the ducks and played with the SUP and kayak.

We then headed back and had our first swim in the lake. \240Refreshing and not quite as cold as Cornwall! \240

Back to the caravan and we Noah chose to have lunch at home and rather than driving to get ice cream in a cone he chose an iceblock from the shop on sight. \240Whilst the boys did that I put my feet up and read for the first time in ages and felt like I truly had a moment of relaxation. \240

In the arvo we headed back down to the lake. \240We started chatting to another couple and their kids were playing with ours. \240Lovely and very friendly - they have a Campervan here and love just an hour south. \240Noah was stoked to play with another boy his age - Arthur. \240He said to me “Mum now I know I can find a friend anywhere” ❤️

As we headed back home they invited us out on their boat tomorrow for a little tour around ... Jay really hit it off with Danny - golf and rugby talk and Carrie was so easy to talk to - very bubbly. \240So lovely to meet people and hit it off ... that is what it’s all about. \240

Th last thing on Noah’s list was dinner from the food truck at the campsite over the road. \240Unfortunately for the first time the food truck let us down with bland and boring noodles and standard chicken n chips for the kids.

The setting was nice and we got talking to a beautiful couple (once again because Harvey lattes their dogs)! \240

Home for one last swing and one very happy and satisfied boy! 🥰

❤️ Morning walk and finding new places

❤️ Watching Noah take lead and love that he planned a day that slowed us all down

❤️ No driving today

🙏 New friendships and creating memories

🙏 Sun and swims in the lake

We headed to the top end of the lake to eat lunch at a pub at Ambleside. \240The kids played on the lakes edge and we had a few drinks in the sun. \240Loved chatting and realising how much we have in common and continued to feel so grateful for all they were doing for us. \240

Back in the bit and we headed to park up and have a play at a playground and a swim off the boat. \240The day was warming up and I was wishing I had my togs.

Back in the boat and we crossed to the opposite side of the lake for ice cream and ice coffee.

Heading back home and Harvey had a little sleep after a big day.

Once back at the campsite we all grabbed togs, kayaks and SUPs and had a play in the water before realising that dinner and packing needed to be done and as much fun as we will all having it was time to say goodbye and go our seperate ways. \240

It was such a magical day and we feel blessed to have met them. \240Judging by Jay and Danny’s chat about future golf games we may see them again still! \240

❤️ New friends

🙏 Generousity

💧 Boat days on the lake

We arrived to a sweltering day for Edinburgh and a very busy Waverley train station. \240Our luggage proving a challenge and especially when Harvey needed/wanted to be carried as well. \240We finally made our way out of the station after 30 min and then waited for 15 min for a cab. \240Finally we got dropped off at \240the Air BNB and then realised we were at the wrong house so dragged all the luggage and two tired boys and one period pain filled Mumma around the corner to finally find the right place 😩🙌.

What followed was an hour and half attempt to grab a cab back up to town to meet Shayne and get a well deserved ice cream \240but instead ended up waiting endlessly for a cab that didn’t come and then roaming the streets for ice cream on a cone to finally settle for store bought and meeting Shayne at the local pub (poor Shayne who wasn’t feeling the best ping ponged around us while we finally figured out where she should come to us opposed to us coming to her). \240

What are the chances that the air BnB we rented is right around the corner from the Scotland Chiropratic College ... and right next to the pub we met Shayne at. \240Can’t help but feel like D Russ is looking down on us 😍😍😍

Aaah the whole day worth it now 🥰🥰🥰

After a breath of fresh air seeing Shayne we set our for an easy dinner but were met with challenge after challenge and long story short ended up with free takeaway pizza. \240

What a crazy jumbled day where nothing seemed to flow but somehow we got through and so so happy to be in Edinburgh with Shayne!

Here is to a more connected day tomorrow 🙏❤️

Shayne held down the fort and I popped out for a walk in my old hood - finding my way - some parts familiar and others vague. \240I found Lisa’s old flat on Royal Crescent ❤️

After my walk we enjoyed a slow breakfast and then got ourselves ready to head out to venture. \240No real plan but an intention for it to be smooth! \240

At the bus stop to town a tourist Hop on Hop Off arrived and we decided perfect way to see the sights with the kids in tow. \240

Well timed as Harvey was starting to yawn and wouldn’t have made it far on foot. \240So he cuddled up for a sleep whilst Noah listened to the history overview of Edinburgh and Shayne and I chatted away ❤️

We got off at Grassmarjet after Harvey had napped and headed to find some lunch. \240Found our way to Japanese followed by award winning ice cream. \240

We wandered with our ice cream around the Royal Mike and down the Miund into the Gardens for a rest. \240

The boys had sheer delight jumping on the trampoline and a hard time accepting we wouldn’t have another one! \240It was hot again and energy was running low. \240We wanted to get back on the bus to head back down towards the water in the hope of a swim or at least some yummy fish and chips.

We found our way after a bit of a mission and then ticked into some yummy dinner before heading back to our flat - the Hop on Hop off bus dropped us right around the corner from our place 🙏🙌

Beautiful and fun day that was filed with flow and fairies around every corner. \240

Thank you Edinburgh

❤️🙏🙌

Took a bit of remembering to think of the name of the street but I knew where it was ... so many memories here - mostly hazy!

Headed back to meet the boys and found little Harvey to be feeling very low and ready to nap. \240He was complaining of a sore tummy so I was half expecting some vomiting to follow but instead he just fevered through his torso and lay on the couch in and out of sleep.

We surrendered the days plans and just hung which Noah seemed to settle into happily. \240He played Lego and talked all things Star Wars to Shayne. \240Shayne slept and pottered, snuggled with Harvey and caught up on a few journal and admin.

Harvey came back to life in the late afternoon and we had a nibbles picnic in the garden which was lovely.

For dinner we had missed our reservation for the local pub and so we thought we would grab something light over at the food market behind where the College is.

It was short and sweet as Harvey was hitting the wall again and Shayne and I weren’t overly hungry.

Home to bed and hoping little man is better tomorrow. \240

🙏 Space to do some testing and healing

🌈 Reminder for me to be ok with doing nothing!!

Al packed and showered and all a bit perkier than first up this morning we headed to a cafe around the corner with Ali and baby Patrick ❤️

After goodbyes and sending Shayne to sit in a movie theatre for the day to wait for her 9pm flight we headed to pick up our Campervan and start the next leg of our Scottish adventure. \240

After a long handover we finally in the van headed north to St Andrews.

Getting used to a new layout - somethings better somethings not as great as our Go Indi. \240But overall happy and kids excited to be in van again. \240

We popped in to see how Jays chances were going to get on for a round tomorrow but he is left with the almighty mission of getting up at 1am and going to join the que.

We got settled at our campsite and had dinner then realised that we were only given one round of bedding so I walked into town (which I was more than happy to do because kids were grumpy and irritated so an evening solo walk was heaven). \240I picked up a sleeping bag and some other \240campvan essentials. \240When I got back Brad had arrived so we all piled into bed and they prepared for their short sleep and long wait ahead!

🙏 to be back altogether again

❤️ Campervan time

The boys knew I was nervous and as we drove off said “you’ve got this Mum” 😍

It was focus and intense concentration but when we pulled over half way for a break I was grateful for the lack of narrow roads so far! \240

Noah said when we stopped “you’re doing great Mum, you haven’t run into a car once”! \240

With my cheersquad egging me on we hit the road again to Lisa’s house. \240As the roads narrowed Noah said “keep looking straight ahead Mum”.

When made it all in one piece and it was screams and tears to see Lisa again. \240We settled in and met her gorgeous kids Issac (14) and Naomi (9). \240The kids were in heaven - other children, toys, dogs, horses, pool and hot tub!!!

We heard the good news from Jay that he had Brad had secured a round on the Old Course. \240Their waiting since 1am paid off and at 3:40pm they tee’d off having not slept. \240Still bucket list item made it all worth it and Jay was so happy it happened.

In the course of the afternoon the did a bit of everything and Lisa and I got to chat chat chat over tea. \240We went to a local pub for dinner with her partner Gary and the kids and then tucked ourselves into the Campervan for the night.

Noah said as we were going to sleep “I’m proud of you Mum, I know you were scared. \240You should drive again now you know you can”

😍 Noah’s supportive and encouraging ways

🙌 Jay getting to play the Old Course at St Andrews - so happy for him that all the waiting paid off and that he had a chance to do all that with Brad. \240

❤️ Seeing Lisa again and meeting her gorgeous family. \240She hasn’t changed, talks 100 miles per hour, \240is so generous and knows exactly what you want without you having to ask!

💪 Driving the van! \240

The boys were keen to hit the hot tub to start the day followed by some breakfast and then we headed off to meet Vicky and her son Jack at the beach to go see the seals. \240

We had a lovely time hanging out at the beach and the kids played in the dunes (Harvey did a poo in the dunes) and we all continued to chat and catch up. \240There was seals in the water which the kids found exciting to see. \240

Jay and Brad drove up from St Andrews and heading straight to play the Trump course. \240

Back at Lisa’s we had some lunch then the boys all snuggled up in bed with Issac and the dogs (Betsy and Perry). \240Lisa and I had a wonderful uninterrupted catch up. \240She has been through a lot in the years and is such an inspiring and strong woman ❤️

The weather had cooled down but it didn’t stop the kids getting in the pool (or was heated but still). \240Lisa and I sipped on tea on the sidelines! \240

We walked across to Naomi’s school and the kids played soccer and Harvey flew a kite. \240

We headed out for dinner and Brad and Jay met us at the pub when they were finished. \240Another impressive golf course to add to the list. \240

Back at Lisa’s we had a little fire and the kids toasted marshmallows ❤️

What a wonderful day hanging out with my dear friend from the last.

🙏 So grateful watching our kids play and have fun together

🙌 Yay Jay is back

We all had breakfast and then Brad headed off to drive back to London. \240

Vicki came back over with Jack and the kids jumped back into the pool. \240We had a lovely morning just hanging out and soaking up our precious time together. \240

We finally said our goodbyes around lunch time and headed off back on the road and bound towards Inverness. \240

We stopped at a castle for a yummy lunch. \240A headache was looming for me and I was starting to feel very average. No napped on the way up to Inverness. \240Gathered some energy to do a big shop at a Tesco before we settled into our campsite for the night. \240

We headed into town around 10am so Jay could visit a customer. \240Harvey asleep before we even left so we let him go.

Jay and I did some sticker books and Harvey snoozed whilst Jay went to work.

Still asleep \240and back on the road bound for Lochness.

Noah desperate to figure out if the Lovhness Monster is real! \240We went to the Mueseum in Drumnadrochit. \240It was quite well done info wise but still left Noah questioning!!!

Back in the van and we thought we would grab lunch at a castle just out of town but the car park was full and so we kept driving. \240We finally found a cafe 20 minutes on but they were so busy and understaffed that they were turning people away. \240

So it was lunch on the side of the road with the Hairy Coos. \240I would almost prefer this as think we end up eating better and look at the view!

Back on the toad and entering the highlands and it’s stunning vista. \240Just love the landscape fo Scotland.

We made it to Eilean Donan castle. \240We had a good explore and got plenty of pictures. \240We had a late afternoon tea and then ventured another 5 min up the road to our campsite.

The campsites are so much more rustic up here opposed to the ones with all the trimmings in the UK. \240

We enjoyed a drink in the sun and home cooked dinner. \240The kids were on edge because they wanted to play with some kids on the site but wasn’t sure omhow to go about it. \240After 30 min of whinging and nagging the my finally built up the courage and went and played. \240They stayed out for hours - getting eaten by midges and wet from the misty rain but were in heaven. \240It is these moments that I feel so grateful for these experiences for them - this is the stuff I want them to learn 🙏❤️

❤️ Castles

🙏 Kids finding their confidence and making new friends

After breakfast we packed up and headed to the Isle of Skye. \240Instantly the vibe on this island was one like no other. \240Aspects of it could have been New Zealand, some it looking like how I would imagine Iceland to be but overall the mood and mystery of this place is truly unique.

Our first stop was the Fairy Pools. \240It consisted of a 5km hike alongside a river and pools nestled in between the mountains. \240The water was crystal clear and the kids loved playing amongst the rocks. \240

It was chilly when we set out - I felt so grateful to Lisa for lending (giving) me her jacket. \240

After the Fairy Pools we drove and had lunch at another castle. \240The whole experience could have been missed and afterwards Noah quite rightly stated “I think we can tick Castles off our list”!!! \240

Love that peacock printed chair

We got to our campsite late afternoon, put some washing on and then headed into town of Portree for dinner. \240There were a number of good restaurants but a similar story that if you don’t have a booking you don’t have a chance. \240The combination of understaffed and busy post Covid travel. \240

We still managed to find a yummy pizza restaurant and had a reasonably relaxing dinner (thanks to sticker books and YouTube 😬)

😍 Isle of Skye - wow wow wow

❤️ Rustic campsites

❤️ mountains, inlets, magic

The clouds came over when we got to the Fairy Glen and we set out in some misty rain. \240This just added to the mood of this most spectator place. \240They don’t know how this land was formed but some believe fairies had something to do with it. \240

Like a set of something out Lord of the Rings. \240Curious mound formations, stone rings and rock hills - it was so wonderfully cool exploring our way around it.

Back on the road our next stop was another hike I had read about and was keen to do. \240However we had a big one to end the day so we decided I would do a portion of this hike while Jay and the boys stayed in the van.

A tiny narrow track wedged on the side of the hill looking out over the top of a range. \240It was so amazing. \240One portion had loads of midgies which almost had me considering turning around but they seemed to disappear.

The entire hike would have taken me up wrapping around the top of the mountain and back along the cliff tops ... next time! \240

Back in the van and navigating narrow winding roads back down the valley. \240

We stopped for lunch in the van at this waterfall and cliff tops that are so dramatically positioned over the sea. \240

Noah was far from impressed and was wanting to watch a show!

Then we arrived at The Old Man of Stor. \240We didn’t really know what we were getting into and perhaps that was best as it turned out to be quite the hike.

Harvey did so well on the way up. \240We carried him a couple of times but mostly the promise of a piece of fudge at the top was motivation enough. \240

Noah bounded up happily enough. \240

Amazing views along the way and breathtaking sights with the rock formations and cliff tops. \240

We made it! \240Had the fudge and took some snaps then was ready for the journey back! \240

Honestly just stunning! \240

Harvey and Jay led the way and Harvey didn’t stop talking the whole way down .., mostly about Star Wars and he could be heard despite their generous lead!

Wow what a day of adventure - I feel like in one day we saw a year full of wow moments. \240Body tired and ready for sleep! \240

😍 Isle of Skye you have my heart

🙏 For our courageous boys willing to hike and explore

❤️ These family adventures