This has been an unusual summer and, as we reach the end of August, it's time to reflect on the more memorable aspects - the highs and the lows.
The extreme weather was with us throughout this summer. May was lovely but by June we were all experiencing drought and heatwave. We cut short our holiday in northern France to avoid the expected temperatures nearing 40 degrees. Having returned home to marginally cooler weather, the heatwave - and drought - continued through June, July and much of August. By mid-August, large parts of the country were brown and tinder-dry.
Music has been big this summer. We’ve been to numerous performances, particularly early music, across the north-west and they have all been fantastic. We particularly enjoyed the live music at Yewfield Vegetarian Guest House near Hawkshead, where we treated to a delicious meal alongside the live music.
Aside from music, we loved the one-man performance of Under Milk Wood. The music of the Welsh language was the star of the show but the sheer energy on show was amazing.
The Biba exhibition in Edinburgh was definitely a highlight of the summer. We loved seeing so many iconic designs in Dovecot Studio
Two real icons died this summer. David Hockney, the Yorkshire artist celebrated at Salts Mill, died in June and the amazing Dolly Parton died in August.
We both love coffee and a highlight this summer was expanding our coffee experience. First, we sampled coffees from different roasters, and discovered that we are third-wave coffee consumers. We also experimented with different brewing methods, adding a new dimension to our coffee experience.
Highlights of our days out include Acorn Bank garden in Cumbria and East Riddlesden Hall in Yorkshire. The two could not be more different but they are both unique and offer a fascinating day out, especially in summer.
Our final highlight has been celestial. Thanks to the exceptionally clear skies we have been able to study a number of full moons and clear stars, as well as a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse. Not bad for one summer!
So, definitely a summer of highs and lows. Let’s hope the autumn is as interesting!