In the Country

I realize that the horrible volcanic ash from Iceland caused really bad experiences for many international travelers, but for us it was a blessing in disguise. Our friend Andrew was scheduled to leave for his new job in Australia a week ago, but due to the ash, his trip was postponed until yesterday. He generously invited us up to his parents' house in Rutland (the house where he grew up from age 9) to spend his last weekend and we're so grateful he did. We had a great time.

We took the train from Kings Cross station up to Grantham (about an hour's ride) where Andrew picked us up, then took us to a place called Belvoir Castle to meet up with his parents, Catherine & Les. Unfortunately, it was closed, but the Wilsons had a wonderful plan B, and we all went to Burghley House in Stamford instead. Burghley House was the home of William Cecil, who was Elizabeth I's Lord High Treasurer and Chief Minister. Quite an impressive place, outside and in. http://www.burghley.co.uk

Then we drove back to Andrew's parents' house in Wissendine, which is lovely - their garden backs to a pasture where loads of sheep leisurely graze. We recouped a bit then went out to an absolutely wonderful dinner, start to finish; unfortunately I can't remember the name of the restaurant! It also happened to be Andrew's mum's birthday, which made it all the more special. We then went back to the house (after stopping for a pint at the pub of course) and stayed up talking (and the guys drank scotch) until the wee hours.

Sunday started out rainy, and we took our time getting up and around. We had a nice breakfast, then Andrew took Chris, Kyle & I for a walk around the community just as the weather cleared up. Really, really lovely. I observed to Andrew that people pay money to go on vacations to spots like that. Then the group of us (minus Catherine unfortunately) went to a spot in Linconshire called "Chequers" for a terrific Sunday lunch, after which we were able to sit out in the garden and watch a local cricket match. Great fun!

We then were reluctantly driven back to the Grantham train station where we said our really, truly final goodbye to Andrew and were on our way. The Wilsons were the most gracious of hosts and we had such a nice time. And it was nice to get out of the city environment for a bit of a break as well. Link to photos below.

http://picasaweb.google.com/swronsky/WeekendInTheCountry#