Once In A Land Far Far Away...

Thank you Andrea for reminding me about posting more pictures from our time at Peaks Manor. I was just trying to describe to a friend that when we were in England this summer, there was this feeling of being a world away. You can imagine the raised eyebrow I got! I know, I know, we literally were a world away, that's true, but between the castles, the sea side, the open fields where you could just lounge and play, and the Jane Austen-esq manor that we stayed in, sometimes I just felt swept away by it all. I had posted some pictures of Peaks Manor, but with the craziness that comes with the end of summer, forgot to post some really fun ones of the FAMILY at the manor. Hope it brings back fun memories.

On the count of three, kiss the one you love: one, two...

THREE!

Doesn't this make you want to start singing, "Someday my prince will come..."

Okay not so storybook: I mean really how many times did Buzz and Helen have to save Kat from hurling herself out this window??! Yikes!

How picturesque is this?! Sweet Cousin Helen enjoying a quiet moment. Well, until I came along and started taking pictures.

Okay, I'm sorry, I know she's my daughter and all, so what else could I think; but seriously how cute is she??!

Only the Pro's could appreciate this. But Baden is engaged in a little known ping pong relaxation technique that helps before a big game...

Watch out, Lewis!! (Seen here sporting the "Family Sweatshirt")

Again with the bias, but I make no apologies, how cute is he?!?

I think Kat's face says it all as Katherine wows us with her mad card skills. Oh, and those vinegar chips - horrible!


Here are Alex and Alice finally getting to "use" the bounce house that the Little Chinns kept hogging all day!


It's been told that if you love someone, bury them in rocks on the beach.

If it's meant to be, they will be trapped and yours forever. I think that's how the proverb goes...
Or maybe it means that you are just a really fun cousin!

GQ magazine called, and they want their cover model back...


Albert and Kitty share a hug and sweet moment with Cousin Helen in one of those fantastic open fields I was talking about.




Love this mom and daughter picture on the beach.

No children or animals were hurt in the taking of this picture! It really was good fun!

Little Batman enjoying his cookie triumph when generous "Uncle" John saved a suffering Baden from another meal of bread and ketchup. I mean, how could he resist, look at that face?!


John and Biff were determined to be the best badminton players, and put in as many extra hours as they could to sharpening their skills.

You know you are in a really cool place when someone points to a castle and says, "this is where Anne Boleyn grew up." Amazing.

Albert: Hey Daddy, I dare you to jump in.
Chris: Not going to happen.
Kat: I double dog dare you!
Chris: Hmm....double dog dare eh? Throw in 10 quid and I'm in..

The Inseparable Cousins!


No seriously John Harrison (aka Quinton, heehee), relax, I didn't take your Jaffa Cake! (Psst! I think it was Marney!)


I looked for a sign that specified an age limit for the zip line. Upon not seeing one, I took my opportunity!

Me looking somewhat more dignified, with two of my favorite people.

While John seemed shocked and engaged at Marney's tale, Katherine and Alice were a bit more skeptical about her encounter with the Loch Ness Monster.

The Chinns don't mess around when the recipe calls for cheese!!

I must say our Dinner Team was the absolute, hands down, most fun! Oh, and by far the easiest clean up - if I do say so myself.

Marney...what to say about never-a-dull-moment Marney?? Well, she absolutely MADE game night - and not just the questions! What a hoot! And thanks girlie's for wrapping those fantastic prizes (of which I'm bitter for not winning).



Let's not forget the King's Important Papers!

Well I don't have a picture of it, but this is close enough - I just loved sitting around outside with everyone at night. You guys are really fabulous!

Tim and Peter didn't seem convinced when family members were saying that siblings tend to have similar mannerisms.

Tim: "Do you know what they're talking about?"

Peter: "Nope, they're crazy, I don't see it."

I'd be chummy with the guy carrying the big spear fork looking thing too.

Plus - how handsome are these two??

I feel truly blessed to be part of such an amazing family full of fun, interesting and engaging people. Our kids have wonderful memories and talk about the trip often. Thank you again for your warmth and hospitality and we look forward to seeing you again!