And from Tess

Hi Emma
How are you settling back into Leeds? We have kept very busy since leaving you – walking the streets of Bath and Oxford and wending our way through the Cotswolds which lived up to all my expectations. The weather has been glorious. I think we may have even been a little sun burnt yesterday. The skies are blue, the blossom is out, and the crispness in the air is to be found in the shade. The nights are so warm we are only sleeping under a bed cover Dad having thrown the quilt to the top of the wardrobe. Yesterday was spent exploring Oxford. We must have walked for at least six hours, I only allowed Dad a brief stop for a coffee and then later for cider. He complains that this another no lunch holiday but the breakfasts have been so filling we really need nothing during the day. I'm afraid my cholesterol free diet has gone out the window. Christ Church and College were most impressive. We actually returned in the evening for evening song and prayer which seemed most appropriate. It was lovely to hear the space filled with the choir. Everyone has been surprising friendly and chatty with us - I think it's Dad's braces, they instantly recognise him as a fellow eccentric. Dad has been dipping into the family history, trying to find information on his grandfather at Rhodes House and Worcester College. As a consequence we were given considerable freedom to wander through both. Worster has expansive grounds with its own gardens and lakes. The foliage of the trees formed shaded paths and reached down to the water in an array of colours. Of course swans and ducks abound. Secure in their sense of safety they rarely move to allow you to pass. We are very close to the head of the river and yesterday managed to get out on the Thames for a short jaunt. Ratty was right there is nothing better than messing about in boats. The pubs have been great to stop at for meals and I am enjoying the cider. Today we are going to daytrip again into the Cotswold. I have yet to plan the route so that will delay our departure somewhat. We will be leaving for Leeds in a few days and should see a considerable amount of Emma then. She sounded interested in day tripping with us, in the Lakes District week and may even come to Scotland with us which would be lovely. She seemed well, a little travel jaded but fine.
Bye for now
Lots of love
Mum