Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate

Just before Easter I went to a chocolate fair in London with my sister and niece. We were excited about all the possible chocolate creations we’d see and we weren’t disappointed! There was was a big range of beautiful and clever designs which were a treat for all our senses.

Ticket

Our favourite stall was one that had chocolate in various shapes and forms that we thought were really fun.

I think what I really like about these are that they have been dusted with cocoa to make them look rusty.

We also saw a collection of other chocolates in interesting (and slightly strange) shapes, from chocolate samosas to face prints.

Some of the chocolate looked so artistic and beautiful and just too good to eat. I especially love these colourful blocks

Chocolate

We came across other clever and pretty ideas too; chocolates named after Shakespeare’s leading ladies, elegant balls and textured cubes.

Aside from chocolate there were so many other delicious looking and sweet smelling treats; definitely something for everyone.

One of the best things was that we were able to have a taste of most of the products before buying, and we didn’t hold back!

We all really enjoyed the day, taking photos of all the lovely things to buy and taste. We bought home a range of goodies for ourselves and for family whilst trying to not to be tempted to buy one of everything! I still have lots more photos but I’ll have to post about them another time.

I would definitely recommend going to a chocolate festival for those with a sweet tooth and a love of eye candy. I’m currently thinking of going to the one that’s being held towards Christmas to see what other fun ideas that might be presented.

Trip to the garden centre

Every year in early Spring my mum visits our local garden centre to buy a range of plants for our garden, this year I happened to have a few days of work so decided to tag along. There was a wide range of flower and vegetable plants to choose from.

There were also some interesting garden ornaments; I love the giant chess pieces and the elephants and cheeky gnomes would make a nice addition to any garden too. I was also intrigued to see the old fashioned styled brooms made of straw.

We got a little carried away and it was hard to not buy at least one of everything, but in the end we chose some strawberry and pepper plants and and variety of flowers so we have a range of treats for the eyes and tastebuds to look forward to.

Fun at the fair

With Spring in full swing here in the UK, my sister and I have already been making the most of the warmer weather. We decided to take her kids to visit the fair as it was in town during half term holidays. The weather was sunny and warm, the kids excited and energetic.

Carousel

I wasn’t able to take many pictures as I was having too much fun, but it was great to spend the day with the kids and take in the colours and thrill of the rides and the enticing aromas of nearby snacks

Dodgems

We didn’t get to win any teddies such as these but we did go home with balloons and ice cream, and the kids happy but exhausted.

Teddy bears

I’m looking forward to going to other funfairs over the coming months, with I hope, more thrills and treats to be had

A walk in Manchester

I recently went to Manchester for work and stayed in a stunning hotel and although I had a few super, busy days I did managed to disappear for a while and go for a walk. I came across some old buildings and a courtyard that looked beautiful in the bright, sunny afternoon. I would’ve liked to explore further but sadly, I ran out of time. I hope that next time I’m in the city I will have more time to explore and find the many other places that I’m sure are worth seeing. I’ll also need to remember to take my camera so I can take some better pictures of my discoveries (and maybe of the fancy hotel too)

Visit to the local park

We’ve had some warmer weather recently so I decided to go to one of the local parks for a walk and see if nature is showing any sign of waking up. There were some signs and as well as managing to take some good photographs I got some much welcomed fresh air too.

My favourite picture of the day is this one

Duck

I love how the water of the lake reflecting overhanging branches and the bright blue sky seems to appear like a waterpainting with soft brushstrokes. The mandrake in comparison is in sharpe focus, creating an almost surreal image.

I plan to come back soon and capture more of changing nature as the days get longer, brighter and warmer.

WPC: Orange

I thought I’d have a go at the weekly photo challenge for this week – the theme ‘orange‘.

My photos showing pops of ‘orange’ are: baby oranges for my baby niece; a pretty flower with a bokeh background; and sparkly beads from a gorgeous necklace – I’d be interested to know what you think