Tuesday 14th June: We treated ourselves to a day out with Harry, since the weather was forecast to be fine. First I had to see the doctor to check that all was well after the operation three weeks ago on the soft palate; still inflamed, he said, but healing OK. It’s certainly feeling better.

Then we picknicked at Legburthwaite (Southern end of St. John’s) and drove on to Coniston, intending to ride – or sail – on the Gondola, the restored steam yacht, which Carol had never done. We nearly boarded one of the ‘ordinary’ launches by mistake, which really would not have been the same experience!  (See further pictures, especially the interior, here: http://www.visitcumbria.com/amb/coniston-steam-yacht-gondola.htm  )      

The sky and the lake were beautifully blue, at least to begin with, as we chugged past Coniston Hall, where Rachel and I first experienced camping, and then across to Brantwood, the one-time home of John Ruskin.

There were several smaller steamboats out on the lake, making the most of the weather.

Fly the flag!

After the excursion we allowed ourselves ‘Kaffee und Kuchen’ at the Bluebird Cafe (as you do – at least it wasn’t Sk*****th!)

Thursday 16th June: At last the welcome news that the purchase of 14 Murton View had been completed. (Of course, an offer to buy Garth View would be even better news!) Into Penrith to collect the keys, and then to Appleby to inspect. It’s been left nicely clean and fresh, and we celebrated our possession with a few ‘bubbles’, sitting on picnic furniture in the conservatory and still wondering where Murton is!            

 A6 SKT occupies the allocated parking space.    

The large sycamore tree is just outside our property; apparently, it’s listed so must be treated with respect, but potentially threatening branches have been removed.  

Carol makes some notes in the empty living room.   

The kitchen units – make do or complete re-fit?