Autumn

Much of our time has been taken up with the new arrivals to the household who are both doing well and growing rapidly. Harvey seems to change daily and Sarah and Joe are thriving as parents.

Poppy and Rhema get on well although I think Rhema sometimes misses her peaceful evenings with us since Poppy's favourite toys seem to be different parts of Rhema!

Another burst of visitors kept us busy for a few weeks - Joe's Mum, Dad and brother who came to meet the newest member of the Francis family. Kaye left having bought a house up here! She will be moving up towards the end of November and we are looking forward to seeing more of her. Elodie also came and won 'guest of the year' award by not only spending several hours helping me in the garden and stoking an enormous bonfire but then cooked us a delicious meal afterwards - 'haste ye back' as they say up here! They were quickly followed by Richards two brothers and sister-in-law who came primarily to see Gran and Grandad but who were also pressed into service to help collect some logs donated by a friend - many hands make light work and now all I have to do is cut them up and split them.

Despite the snowfall on the hills we have been enjoying some mild weather which has been a real boon and has allowed me to get on with some of the garden jobs that have been neglected somewhat over the last few months including a little pruning!

There is still plenty of colour in the garden and it is hard to believe that we will soon be snowbound.
Before that happens we are making what will probably be our last trip down South this year for a concert given by friends from our old church and Leo's dedication, both events that we are very much looking forward to. Sarah and Harvey are joining us on the trip and as we can't really leave the dogs with Gran and Grandad the car will be pretty packed and it should be an interesting trip!