Spring in Windermere

We went to the Linthwaite House Hotel for dinner last night with some friends. We had a great night. The food was lovely. Great company. Lovely wine. I had Goosnargh duck confit with tiny little fruits and brioche, turbot and fennel cooked in orange, and rhubard with baked egg custard. Divine eh? We have some great hotels here in the Lakes,and lots of them are within a couple of miles of our house. It is very tempting! If you like pottering, eating and relaxing the lakes is a great place to come. Never mind hiking up hill and dale, let's hear it for those of us who just love the scenery and the coffee shops.

We have been happily very busy in our business which is coming along from strength to strength. Never complacent, we keep working away on it steadily building the reputation and the range of services. It is very exciting.

Teenager is now fifteen. His birthday was on Wednesday. He got lots of lovely cards and gifts, and hopes to go paintballing with his friends and dads in the summer as his celebration. He is doing really well all round- we are so proud of him. He is becoming ever more independent. Out with friends as I write, and off to the cinema. He would like picking up after the event. He still needs us! And like so many mums and dads we find ourselves as a bed and breakast, laundrette and taxi service. We love it really though. Great to see him blooming.

I now have my orthotics- tailor made inserts in my shoes. I collected them today. They are very light and comfortable. I wear them about half an hour a day and increase gradually. I hope they will make a big difference to my back. It is much better and the sports therapy and exercise programme seems to be working well. One thing I have found out- my back hates driving. I always feel it the next day. Will have to keep an eye on that one!

I have started gym sessions again. Yesterday saw number two session. I did bike, cross trainer, boxing, steps, light weights and some abdominal work. It all sounds impressive doesn't it, but it was at the most basic level, and very slow paced. I am soooooooooooooooooooooooooo unfit. It will take a lot of time to build my core strength up again- once I do that- my back will get better and better I hope.

I hope you like my daffodil picture. It is from last year. They aren't quite here yet, but I am optimistic. The weather during the last week has been fabulous.