Beautiful springtime ..

I've been a bit lapse in my blogging of late .. a planned weekend trip to Milan a few weeks ago was abruptly cancelled thanks to an Italian air traffic controllers strike. Although it was last minute, all was not lost and we quickly changed our travel plans and replaced our girly shopping weekend for one in London.. with the addition of the theatre, cinema and galleries. There's a never ending supply of things to see and do. Alitalia were quick to refund my air fare and the Star Rosa hotel in Milan transferred our already paid for booking to August when we usually go shopping for the new season's winter collection.

Now spring is in full swing, beautiful bulbs, blossoms and blooms are bursting out everywhere. I love cherry and apple blossom, and the gorgeous camellia, but my absolute spring favourite is the purple magnolia flower.  There are a few varieties and all supremely spectacular when they are out in full flourish.

On another note .. HQ has a new travel companion .. a puppy! He will bring a whole new world of travel options with him as he grows up. It will be all about exploring more of the British countryside and road trips to the continent for him. I look forward to sharing our impending adventures with you!