Fun and games

I'd arranged to have coffee with a friend. We set off for a garden centre that has a very nice café, shop and gardens but on arrival found it was closed for a private celebration. Plan B (always have a Plan B!) saw us over on the outskirts of Leeds at Golden Acre Park. I'd never been before but it has some beautiful mature woodland and attractive planting. It's possible to take a circular walk around the lake though the woods, very pleasant. We arrived at the tea rooms for coffee and cake just as the sun came out so it was most enjoyable to sit on the outdoor terrace and chat.

On the way home we stopped at a huge shop called 'Hobbycraft' which sells arts and crafts supplies - all manner of exciting things: embroidery threads, patchwork pieces, artists materials, floristry supplies and decorations for cakes and parties. There's also a large section for children's toys and activities so I stocked up on felt, big buttons, pompoms and other fun stuff. Bliss, if you like that kind of thing! (Stationers and art shops come close to bookshop heaven for me). Now my granddaughter is almost three she's able to concentrate on simple games and activities, so I'm going to make a few things to mail that will occupy her. Her mum deserves a few minutes respite every now and again as she awaits the birth of her second daughter. I may live a long way away but I do my best to support!