On Friday we drove north to Manchester to see Charlotte’s sister Sara, husband John and their son James. We hadn’t seen them since their trip to Western Australia in 2012. The drive up the M5 and M6 was horrible – traffic Jams and rain! We were very glad to get there and sample some of Sara’s cakes, flapjacks, cakes, scones, more cakes… splendid!
With Sara, John and James at Dovestones
Saturday morning was blustery but dry so we drove up to Dovestone reservoir for a walk. The weather stayed mostly dry and it was well worth the effort – the views from the top were grand.
Oliver with uncle John
We had lunch back at the house then spent the afternoon in front of the fire watching the Rugby on TV. Sara ensured that we didn’t starve by serving more cakes, scones, flapjacks, cakes etc.
The evening was dominated by “Strictly Come Dancing” – Sara is as addicted to it as Emily and Oliver! James was not impressed. Still, he perked up after the Indian Takeaway.
Dad, will I grow as big as these two? Ollie with his big cousins, Matthew and James
On Sunday Matthew, Sara and John’s eldest son, drove over from Sheffield where he is studying at the University. It was great to see him and, to Emily and Oliver’s delight, he brought his two Dachshunds, Duke and Marmy. They took them for a walk along the Canal towpath. Well, for Duke it was more of a walk and swim… he fell into the Canal!
Sara and John prepared an excellent Sunday lunch – four Michelin Stars! Then it was time to play Cluedo before Matt had to head back over the Pennines to Sheffield. It was a lovely relaxing weekend and great to see everyone again.