dig a little deeper

The Christmas break is over, and I'm back to work and reality with a bang. Like, a really loud obtrusive one. Ugh. In an attempt to overshadow the stresses of work with fun stuff (see: resolutions!) I have been seeing friends, family and generally eating and drinking more than I should for January. Gym membership is next on my list...

Last Friday night I met all my girls in a local pub - this is fairly rare, we're a tricky bunch to pin down - for wine, dinner and a jolly good catch up. For those interested and in the Hampshire area, it was The White Horse in Otterbourne; perfect for a cosy catch up with good food and atmopshere. Three of us ate at the pub, and coincidentally all went for the same thing - breaded brie wedges to share, followed roasted pumpkin and sage macaroni cheese. A complete cheese-fest! We left feeling suitably stuffed and in a lovely contented, cheese induced daze. 

Before the pub, I had spent the afternoon at Chewton Glen hotel with my Mum getting massaged and pampered. A birthday treat for my Mum, and a lovely little pre-work treat for me - perfect! On Saturday we had the family round for birthday celebrations and I got to see my gorgeous little nephew. I'm still smitten; look at his little smile!

And finally, this weekend we have been celebrating our whopping seven year 'anniversary' (!!) and yet more birthdays with friends - I cooked up a storm with a Camembert and cured meat starter, then my spinach, trout and pesto parcels, followed by Sophie's divine chocolate mousses. I need that recipe! Yesterday, Kat came to visit - but that's a whole post in itself!