On the eve of a new year - 2014 and a Happy New year to you all

Just over 2 years ago, my life changed quite dramatically in that I became single again.... and, in some respects, I'm still adjusting to that change... takes a while I 'spose.

However, I have had, in the main & various not-so-good issues apart, a great 2013 (which really started towards the end of 2012) when I started going on holidays abroad again.  I've been to some amazing cities - all with different personalities so not easy to pick a favourite.. although I do love Italy....

And what's on the cards this year?  Well, hopefully a close family member's health will improve dramatically.

And I'm off to foreign parts again with Pete... First on the cards is Seville in March, then Verona in the Spring,  where we'll be exploring the local areas by train (including a day in Venice) and then in July a trip to Munich.... there may even be a UK holiday as well... lots of cake messages if so!!

So I'm keeping everything crossed that 2014 will be uneventful other than the fun bits :D.

So a very Happy New Year to all who visit here and my gratitude to all of those who leave me a comment... it's always good to hear from you :D

The sky was blue, the sun was golden.. at Anglesey Abbey & Audley End

What a wonderful day today - a very heavy frost greeted us (thanks Pete for de-icing the car :) ), we set off for Anglesey Abbey.  The Winter Garden was fab in the brilliant sunshine set against a back drop of a very blue sky.

A notice advised us that in Spring next year, new rooms will be open - so a return visit is definitely on the cards.

A few Blackbirds and a small flock of Redwings enjoyed a meal of berries..

as did the Blue Tits..

No idea what type of pheasant this is..

 Hunger then overtook us but the cafe was soooo busy and no tables were available so we headed off to Audley End which, by contrast had about 10 people in the cafe.  A very nice Spicy Parsnip & apple soup, followed by a fruit scone.. which wasn't particularly exciting ..

A wander round the gardens..

A glorious day in the winter sunshine and a welcome break from the gales, heavy rains and power cuts!