Psycho-rambling

Well, the spring walk through the Sussex countryside to the sea started well. We caught the train.

Arrived at the start. Remembered to close the gates. Admired the abandoned cogs and local blacksmiths.

Then we found the lovely cosy pub, enjoyed a long lunch and assured the pub landlord that having lunch first wasn't cheating. Then we saw the advert for the Spring Show.

Lured by visions of bric-a-brac piled high, we made a slight detour. To be greeted by this amazing sight...

So of course we stayed. Chatted. Admired the eggs. Had tea and cake.

Wandered around the village. And met a lovely man who had grown up in the village, with tales of scrumping apples from Virginia Woolf. We caught the train to the sea instead, full of stories and memories of past village life.

And to celebrate all things sprung, I made a little treasurey.

Birthday bunting and bobbins

How fabulous is this cake, made by a lovely niece who knows what brings a smile to my face. Thank you!

My birthday weekend coincided with the monthly opening of the wonderful Sewing Machine Museum. Behind an industrial facade on a busy south London street, up the steps to the first floor...

There are over 600 sewing machines, from the earliest, in all shapes and sizes, including Queen Victoria's and and cute kids versions.

The museum is open the first Sunday of the month between 2pm and 4pm. Particularly satisfying is that this collection belongs to the business owner and his industrial machine business is still going strong after many years.

Birthday treats also included buttons to wear, seeds, vintage tins and jangley jewellery and homemade handcream. Very treated. And of course a trip to the pub, adorned with teacups and bowls club memorabilia. Treated.