How has your summer been? Ok, Ok, I know. Summer isn't really over yet, but as it starts to fade and thoughts turn to 'back to school' and autumn, I thought I'd write a post sharing what we have been up to this summer at the Cotton Rose household.
There has been bouncing ..
Lots of eating ..
pesto and red pepper bread with lemon olive oil and balsamic vinegar, yum.
A toasted cheese, ham, tomato and herb sandwich, topped with a poached egg. Too tasty for words.
I have embraced the art of bribery to ensure good behaviour from my daughter. Lucky Dip. She's allowed one a day as long as she has been good. Works a treat. What's the saying? You catch more flies with honey than vinegar? Something like that. Whatever the actual saying, the meaning behind it is spot on!
When the weather has allowed, I've found lots of rather lovely cosy places out in the garden to sit and enjoy the warm air.
And when the rain fell, I've enjoyed being inside just as much, with a candle .. 
.. and new books to read... 
... snuggled against the cushions on the sofa.
The husband took some time off work, so we packed our bags and toodled off for a family mini break. I took this photo of our bags all packed ready to come home again, and realised something. The Girl and I do NOT travel light. This is just our stuff. The husband had his own bag (yep, just the one!), which I should add, was teeny compared with our stash. At least they looked pretty.
We didn't go far away, to the home of decent British beer. 
Oh so pretty, it made me proud to be British. 
Proof that the sun does indeed shine here in the summer. 
I don't do sunbathing and splashing about in the sea. Forget sun cream and swimming costumes, this is my Essential Beach Kit. 
Wine and a book, what more do you need?! I got the shoes from Primark for just £3 (reduced).
Upon our return we found that our internet connection had left us. So annoying. After a week and a half and a new router, we were finally back online.
Which meant I was able to do a little bit of shopping. I am thrilled to have got my paws on this frock, which I've had my beady eye on since early spring. I'm delighted I didn't buy it then, as it is now reduced to half price.
Girly girl has had lots of parties to go to, and I've had family birthdays which demanded more cakes. We've been out and about, eaten out, played in the garden, decluttered the garage. Lots has been achieved.
It might still be summer, but the sunflowers are past their best and drooping.
And I have taken down the bunting, washed and ironed it, and put it away until next year.
It has been a busy and lovely summer. But I am looking forward to the colder weather. I'm ready for it.
The girl and I have spent time this week working on Papier-mâché pumpkins. I'll show you the 'how to' next time I post. This one has been long enough already!
