Local traditions
L's birthday started with a cooked breakfast provided by Ann - delicious as always and slightly naughty. L opened cards and presents. Next was a swim at Monk Coniston - a beautiful sunny morning and flat calm water, what could be better. The water was 14° and very clean and clear. The associated tradition was picking up conkers from the tree right in the car park, for deterring spiders in our garage and bedroom. Then into Coniston to visit the Honesty Shop which was very well stocked with all sorts. L bought some earrings and a bunch of flowers. Followed by the Vintage market, which closes for the winter in a few days; N bought a book, a murder mystery set around Windermere, and a 1960s green glass vase to go with our collection, L chose more earrings and an old-fashioned cotton teatowel - N paid for the lot because it's L's birthday. Finally in Coniston, the 'soup cafe' or Green Housekeeper to use the proper name. The portions are huge - we haven't walked eno...
