Cheshire

During our journey it's been interesting to travel through different regions, all with their own characteristics.  The landscape, industries and architecture have all been distinctive and as we called in the shops we noticed the changing local accents.   Tattenhall Marina is situated in rural Cheshire overlooked by Beeston and Peckforton Castles which are perched on the Cheshire Sandstone Ridge.  The local architecture reflects the prosperity of the county.  Ornate red brick buildings, some with barley sugar chimneys, are typical of the towns and villages we've visited. 

On a bright sunny day we went for a walk along part of the Sandstone Trail footpath.  The steep walk through the woodland up to the ridge was very different to the flat towpaths.  We soon had to stop to admire the view and catch our breath!  The view from the top over the Cheshire Plains was stunning and worth the climb. 

Bess looking a bit apprehensive about posing on the edge.

This undemanding lifestyle gives me time to pursue my interests, one of which is drawing and painting.   For several years now Mum, Sarah and I have been regularly setting ourselves a topic for an artwork and set a date to reveal the finished pieces.  On the day of showing we usually send each other an email with a photo of the picture and so Mum gave our challenges a name - OLAs (On Line Art).   

The topic for the picture below is 'Four Squares' which I've interpreted as 4 coloured ink squares in a pencil drawing of Castle Coombe.    

Mum had a special birthday this week, her 80th.  Sarah came over and we all stayed at Mum and Dad's to enjoy a family weekend which included an excellent lunch at the Red Lion in Dodleston.