M.I.A.

Like a sleeping beauty, awakening after 100 years of sleep here I am again. Refreshed, relaxed and ready for some blog action.The above work of art is  Danish-born artist Jeppe Hein and has the didactic value I have been following the past few months. I haven't exactly been missing in action, I've been busier than ever, enjoying life more fully and without many of the self-imposed obligations and meaningless responsibilities. I have changed continents, homes, habits and priorities. Taking a break to stand back and absorb is always good idea.

Family Zoo

Because as my husband said: "everybody wants a monkey on their car"...

Claydon House

We went we saw we loved. Claydon House is a seriously stunning home that financially broke its ambitious owner (hidden message here?) Visitors can see the model of the initial structure but today only the west wing remains. It's magnificent and lavish enough to wow guests like my eldest  daughter who kept exclaiming upon entering every room.

Out & About in London Town

I know you'll think 'she goes out a lot' but it's just London and for London standards it is not a lot. We're still nowhere near the B.C. (before children) glory days and the truth is that I stay in an equal amount of time as going out - it's balance. But kiddo, life is short and it's got to be enjoyed, preferably with food. Here are just a few of our recent outings in case you're looking for new spots to hit.

Ember Yard - great small dishes prepared on charcoal. Note: no high chairs for kids.

Plum & Spilt Milk

I am not the strictest reviewer out there but I am not one easy to please either and Plum & Spilt Milk definitely hit the spot with me.

Northern Soul

We recently visited family up north and took the train which is always lovely. It is incredible how different the pace (and cost) of life is the minute you step outside of London.

GoldFinch

This is all about the redemptive power of art  for both the character and the reader of this book. I finally finished the beast.

Finishing it gave me a great sense of achievement - I won't repeat how having a busy life with two kids and a house renovation makes everything difficult and that much more of an effort. But it did make me feel I had accomplished something despite time limitations and above all, it reminded me how the pleasure of art and books cannot be matched. This book combined both.

Stately Homes

Inspiration everywhere on our regular Sunday visits.

A lot of people find visiting stately homes a rather 'old' habit but we really enjoy it whatever the associations. I cannot picture a month going by without at least one visit to a National Trust home and feel particularly lucky we live so near Kenwood House and get to enjoy it often. Photos from Keats House and Kenwood House in Hampstead.