Anniversary outings

This is the view from my afternoon lunch spot. It's a wondeful slice of tranquility in my work day.

Last week it was props; this week it is set. This is the prototype design of the set for Dead Man's Cell Phone, by the amazing set designer, Cate Clelland. 

And speaking of beutiful design, here is Melantho. Look at those pretty cheeks. 

For our anniversary we went out to Gang Gang cafe for breakfast, 

...cocktails at Beirut Bar...

Blood Orange Negroni

Blood and sand cocktail

... and dinner at Italian and Sons.

When we got home we celebrated with this great bottle of wine that we'd kept since New Zealand...

...and these two beauties.

Reasons to be cheerful: 1, 2, 3

Happy Anniversary to Him Outdoors and Me. It is our 15th year of marriage, and that is traditionally celebrated with crystal. Hence I got a cut crystal sugar bowl from the Salvation Army shop, filled it with crystallised ginger and made a card featuring a picture of Crystal Tipps and Alistair. 

Happy Crystal Anniversary

The yeast was plopping away merrily in the beer on Easter Sunday, which seems appropriate. 

He is Risen

And the sky was blue and the weather pleasant for my morning jog.

Drake Brockman Drive

Wedding Anniversary Weekend

For our wedding anniversary, we went out for a delicious brunch at Lerida Estate. We both enjoyed the food and wine, as you can see.

 

 

 We brought a takeaway home...

...but not everyone was impressed.

Family Stuff

Marlow is a beautiful town. It is particularly beautiful early in the morning when the air is calm and clear. Whenever I'm back I take a cup of coffee down to the lock and watch the river folk wake up.

The obligatory shot

My wonderful parents have been married for fifty years; that deserves a party. So they had one. It was a good excuse for a big family gathering, with all of us arriving from around the globe to help celebrate.

Us lot

Mum and Dad with the grandkids

Cake-cutting duties



Another favourite spot to visit is Marlow Common. I took photos of the light filtering through the trees in this gorgeous green-lit world, while the children (and their parents) played hide and seek among the trenches.

These earthworks are training trenches, dug during the First World War, which now provide an entertaining play area. We used to play here when we were children - it's nice to see the next generation doing the same.

Branchosaurus

The Seeker

Hiding, or an excuse for a nap?

And then it was time for hurtling through the woods on the rope swing.

 

Nephew Adam

Nephew Olaf

Nephew Aidan

Niece Rachel

Niece Niamh

The super-in-law

Tonton Tweet and Dad play Pete and Dud