Early (and short lived) summer at Gwithian

To follow on from the Slaying Dragon post, I'd like to report back that having to drive to Polperro and back (not far, I know, but still), was a cinch after my trek across Dartmoor last month. So anyone who's frightened of something - do have a go. Gently. It's done my confidence the world of good.

We were so lucky to have a few days at a chalet at Gwithian while the weather suddenly got hot - and being on the north coast we escaped most of the easterly winds. So we had a few days of sunbathing on the decking, walking miles and just relaxing. Just as well, as work has been very busy since we got back.

And what with the last Poldark last night, I’m exhausted….

But here are a few reminders of the lovely Gwithian, my mum’s favourite beach as a child.

And the incredibly talented sand artist we spotted.

Spring!

Like most of the country, Cornwall has been enjoying wonderful sunshine - though as I speak, we are surrounded in a thick sea mist.

For the first time in months, I took the camera out yesterday (my fingers suffer terribly in winter, despite gloves, so taking pictures is not easy), so it was lovely to go out and have a few hours enjoying and recording the sunshine.

I’ve been busy working on a piece about Western Australia (would love to go there, by the sound of it!) and on Thursday we are off to do a review of dog friendly accommodation in Duloe, leaving dear Joe in charge of the house. And cat.

I’m leaving you with some of the pictures from Carwinnion. I couldn’t think of anywhere else I’d rather be.

Slaying Dragons

Thanks to all those who sent comments about driving after last week’s post. It’s interesting that this appears to be mainly a female problem, though I have come across one man who dislikes driving.

In fact, I met my dear friend Av in Tavistock which was a great help, and we had a bite to eat in the market cafe (OAP special of quiche, salad and chips plus a cuppa for £3.95 so she was well pleased!), and headed on to Chagford and the Sandy Park Inn.

I’d come across this pub about 3 years ago when reviewing another place just down the road, and Viv and I had eaten there, and loved the laid back atmosphere, the gathering of dogs that roamed round happily, and the fact that we were welcomed like part of the family. Despite different owners, we had a great time - the food was amazing and very reasonable, the wine ditto, and we had some fantastic walks along by the river, up towards Castle Drogo, Fingle Bridge, etc. Admittedly several of the walks were in the rain, but hey, you can’t have everything and it was lovely to catch up with Av again.

The journey home on Sunday was horrendous,but I managed it. Driving across Dartmoor in gales, with driving rain and fog was a test of anyone’s driving abilities, let alone mine, and being the only van on the road (no surprise there) and with no mobile reception, I just prayed I wouldn't break down. The end of Desert Island Discs and Just a Minute saw me through to Tavistock where I breathed a sigh of relief, stopped for something to eat and then continued my journey.

By the time I got home I was so shattered I went to bed for a couple of hours, but at least I did it, and feel better for it. As I said to Mr B, it’s like slaying dragons. You just have to keep at it, or they will rule your life. And I really don’t want to go through that again.