LAST DAYS OF SUMMER FREEDOM.....

There is a distinct nip in the air here in Norfolk, both morning and evening. That nip reminds us that Autumn is not very far away. These are the last few days of summer, as the new school year begins next Wednesday and the shortening days of Autumn creep up on our long summer days of fun and freedom in the big outdoors. We have just returned home from our two week break in Pickering; the first week being shared with our family, the second Mr S, Oscar and myself.

The above photo was taken on Thursday in Dalby Forest, near Pickering In North Yorkshire. We spent many a happy few hours there, dog walking and meandering through endless miles of beautiful woodland walks. It's peaceful, calming  and beautiful. I just love it. It's one of my most favourite places.

You never quite know what you might spot...............

Oscar certainly didn't expect to spot .......................... sheep!!!!! The sheep took one look at him and ran.

Neither did he expect to meet some goats!

The Yorkshire skies are just magnificent......

... as are the beautiful coastal views. My favourite just has to be Robin Hood's Bay.

I mustn't forget the obligatory seagull...

We spent a lovely day at Castle Howard, which has been home to the Howard family for over 300 years. It is a magnificent 18th-century residence set within 1,000 acres of breathtaking landscape. We didn't go inside the house this time, as we had Oscar with us, but we still managed to while away several hours enjoying the beautiful gardens ....

and the magnificent views of the lakes.....

and the fountain.

Oscar wasn't intelligently admiring the fountain. He was after the ducks....

In fact, just a couple of seconds after that last photo was taken, he was up on the edge of the fountain, with one front paw in! Maybe he was just wanting a quick swim, to cool down. Hmmm!

Last, but definitely not least, here is the magnificent house itself.

It's a wonderful way to spend a day!

Not a great deal of knitting got done this week. My sock projects remain untouched, but I have pressed on with the 'Artist' sweater. It's predominantly stocking stitch, so it's been perfect 'in car' knitting.  I thought I might have a finished sweater to show you tonight, but I've not quite managed it. I've finished the knitting , but need to block , before sewing up (my least favourite job).

I've joined the shoulders by saving the stitches on holders and then casting off, using a third needle, to cast off front and back together (three needle bind off).  It leaves a really neat shoulder seam.

With that, I need to take my leave. It's getting late and I need my beauty sleep. Hopefully I will find my 'sewing up' mojo during the week and will be able to show you the finished sweater next weekeend.

Have a great week, whatever you are doing................... :)