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In A Deep, Dark Wood

Like my last post of 2017, my first post of 2018 is about a birthday present and a holiday. In Rome, I open my cards to discover that my gift from Lily and Russ, Rose and Si is a four night family break in a fabulous treehouse in the Forest of Dean booked for the end of January.

I love New Year and the idea of starting afresh but this year nothing seems to have gone according to plan; at Christmas, I’m struck down with what feels like a never-ending cold and cough, my beloved iMac seizes up and has to go to the MacHospital which in turn sets back the edits I’m working through for a new novella. After a deep, dark wood of a January and a few more trials and tribulations, I can’t wait to set off for our treehouse holiday!

And my goodness, it’s brilliant! There’s a luxury cabin large enough to accommodate the little families, and, across a wooden bridge, there’s another small cabin for me and Tom.


Oh, and there’s a hot tub! (No photos, you'll be pleased to know.) Two-year-old Bee - who knows her Gruffalo and Gruffalo’s Child - is ever so slightly apprehensive about seeing the Big Bad Mouse but quickly discovers the fun of hiding in dens in the forest and baby Joy is simply thrilled to bits to have Bee there all the time. It’s not only a magical setting, but it’s a magical holiday. I come home full of happy memories, a new cold (of course), but with a real sense that the grotty start to the year is behind me.


Comments

Angela Britnell said…
What a priceless gift!
4 February 2018 at 08:13
Chris Stovell said…
It was, Angela. Lots of precious memories to store away. x
4 February 2018 at 08:59
Elizabeth Musgrave said…
Now there's a great present! We have had all sorts of illness too. Can't wait for sunshine and warmth.
5 February 2018 at 00:14
Chris Stovell said…
It was absolutely brilliant. I can't think of many folks who've got away lurgy-free. Like you, can't wait for some warmth!
5 February 2018 at 03:44
Jean said…
A wonderful present. I love making family memories too Chris. Xx
5 February 2018 at 05:46
Clare Chase said…
How wonderful! That sounds so lovely. I do hope you're properly better soon. Roll on spring! xx
5 February 2018 at 06:33
Chris Stovell said…
It was a lovely gift, Jean and as Angela says, priceless. xx
5 February 2018 at 08:52
Chris Stovell said…
It was magical, Clare, I can recommend it. Oh yes, I can't wait for some warmth and sunshine! xx
5 February 2018 at 08:53
Irish Eyes said…
What a marvellous treat, and from the photo's it was a very special place. Lovely.
19 February 2018 at 10:47
Chris Stovell said…
I loved it, Oonagh. It was a very special time. xx
22 February 2018 at 06:31
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