A few weeks ago was the annual Richards holiday and as always, it already feels like a long time ago. After a wedding at St Giles on the Saturday, we set off to find the others who had already set up camp for the week.

A large old farm house, a big garden with lots of toys over on the East Coast… what could be better?

Despite it being bedtime when we arrived, the kids set to exploring the different rooms and some of the delights of the garden. Early on, the Wendy house was a favourite with Sophia and the ride on tractor made Aidan’s eyes light up.

We were based on a farm near the village of Skipsea, not too far from Scarborough. We’ve never stayed anywhere so remote before, but it was really great to be so far away from the hustle and bustle of busy lives.

At the end of our first full day, Nathan suggested he and I wander into the village for a drink, which we did. The pub was lovely but Nathan managed to order me two ciders instead of one, so I had great fun singing hymns walking down the lane on the way back to the cottage!

The weather was just right, that cooler week between the two hot ones. It meant we didn’t need to be too cautious about the children being in the sun and could enjoy lots of time outside. Highlights include watching a parade of tractors in the village, flying Dad’s kite, paddling in the sea, fish and chips on the front in Scarborough, hunting for an iron age village and, of course, many many hours in the garden!

In the middle of the week, we had a day trip into York for a Betty’s breakfast, which came highly recommended by my sister who lived there for 4 years. I have to say, I’ve never had such a tasty hash brown! While we were there, Nathan, Grandpa and Aidan went to the train museum and the rest of us went shopping.

Overall, we had a very lovely time away. The house was beautiful with such comfy beds! The garden was idyllic and I now have a yearning for a hammock.

Did we take Sophia oit of school? Yes, she isn’t 5 yet. Was I very worried and guilty about this beforehand? Yes. Was it worth it? Yes.

There were so many precious moments. Nathan teaching Sophia to play pool. Aidan taking everybody and anybody hand to lead them into the garden to play. Sophia watching the match with Grandpa, and him teaching her to say ‘just kick the ball mate!’. Prepping the BBQ with Mum, Granny and Isabelle for half time. Us four Thorpes sharing a room, which to be honest I was dreading, but was really lovely and worked well. Sophia and Aidan chatting to each other first thing in the morning, her on the top bunk, he and I on the bottom.

But the best bit? Feeling my new nephling give me a good kick! Can’t wait to meet you, little one! You belong to a wonderful clan. X