A weekend in Shakespeare country

As daddy's big 30th celebration, we spent a weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. This house was where he was born, back in the year 1564.

There was a really pretty shop just opposite, NutCracker Christmas Shop. The Christmas decorations were simply enchanting.

New Place & Nash House

Hall's Croft - The house behind was where John Hall and Susanna, Shakespeare's daughter lived. He was a successful doctor, and they had a lovely big garden.

Studley Castle - As part of the historic weekend, daddy booked us in here.

We had arrived at our castle, where we spent the night. It was built in 1833. The lounge and dining halls were finely decorated with chandliers and high plaster ceilings.

A verse for daddy:

Psalm 4:6b-7,

Let the light of your face shine upon us, O LORD. You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound.

Breakfast was good, although I just had my favourite Cheerios. Mom and dad enjoyed a full english breakfast. Thankfully, the rain stopped by then, so we managed to stroll around the castle grounds.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage - Shakespeare's wife lived here, before and after they were married. It's the prettiest cottage I had ever seen. I sat on the steps, which seemed to fit my height perfectly.

The thatched roof made the cottage felt extra inviting.

There was a beautiful garden, with all the fallen autumn leaves, providing me an entertaining, crunchy walk.

We then stopped for scones with strawberry jam and cream, toasted tea cakes and a cup-pa of warm coffee.

Our last stop was Mary Arden's House and Palmer's Farm. Mary was Shakespeare's mama. There were people living there as how it would have been like in the 16th century.

The man sitting at the edge of the table was the village's butcher; coming in to butcher the pig. They made their own candles from wax, and showed how they made butter in those days.

Our guide disappeared in the middle, when someone wanted to adopt a piglet. I don't blame them, cute little things, aren't they?

By the end of our trip, I was completely exhausted. Had a good sleep all the way home after that, just like a little piglet would.

Fireworks and friends

Guy Fawkes celebration sees many bonfires and fireworks displays the last few weeks.
The Ripley Bonfire was absolutely jam packed, and parking was a real challenge. I slept through most of it.

Aunty Cheryl came along with us, and they had a great time. They didn't bring my pushchair along, so dad was carrying me, my baby bag and taking this photo. Not bad, huh?

I was awaken by Bye Cherona, sung by the local band. The bonfire was right behind us. Just as well, because it was turning quite cold.

There were lots of floats too, and a charming little crooked cottage.

Today, we met up with Elmery. She brought us to a dim sum place. Although my appetite wasn't great, I enjoyed me breadsticks and mandarins. Think I will be going through some re-education for food appreciation soon.