Starting the week by writing the Happy List is something I’ve been doing for a while over the last few years. It is my chance to sit down and reflect on the things that made me happy in the previous week, as well as to record some of the adventures we have as a family.

Five Happy Things {Week 487}

Last week just flew by because we were all looking forward to half term! The kids were only back at school for 5 weeks but it felt like a long time as the weather has been so cold and miserable. Today the sun is shining and, although it may not last, at least my kids have a well deserved week off of school.

My niece is getting married later this year and I’ve been on the look out for a suitable dress to wear to the wedding. I bought one last week but actually found another one this weekend! I no I don’t need two dresses but I’m glad to have the choice and can pick up shoes and a handbag at some point.

Over the weekend we visited the beautiful Basildon Park which is a National Trust property outside Reading. My daughter enjoyed taking part in the Lights, Camera, Action! children’s trail around the grounds, before we explored the lovely house. We stopped off for some lunch too. We got our NT Pooch Passport stamped but I don’t think we’re going to get enough stamps to claim our treat before it runs out later this month.

I’ve been reading Miss Austen by Gill Hornby and really enjoying it. My mum read it too (and finished it already!) but I’m only managing to read a chapter or two a day. Still, it’s good to have a decent book to read and we are off to Bath this week which has strong Jane Austen connections. Perhaps I shall be able to read more chapters.

Since the success of finishing a sweet Valentine themed embroidery I picked up my sashiko table runner last week. I spent a few hours hemming it by hand which was strangely satisfying. The fabric frays easily so I was glad to have tucked it all away so I can concentrate on embroidering the bows. I’ve been stitching it whilst we’ve been watching The Traitors Australia which is so good and fills the gap left by The Traitors UK.

Have a great week.