journeys and arrivals

So, last Thursday, John and I popped our packed bags in the car boot, said goodbye to Babycat, and headed to the Mansion Hotel and Spa at Werribee Park for a wonderful two day get-away. We were both super excited; we've been to the Mansion a couple of times before but not stayed the night, and it's so beautiful there! We were also exhaaaauuuusted by the endless heatwave and couldn't wait to enjoy a break together. Knowing I was going to be traveling in a hot car for an hour or so, I wore a very comfortable vintage sun dress.

You can see how excited I was! Babycat, however, was not so concerned. First things first, we needed a hearty breakfast for the journey – it's not actually long, but it was a very hot day and our car has no air con so we need to be properly prepared. John had a yummy omlette. And I had muesli, my summer favourite. I just had such a craving for strawberries. Then it was car time. We took a flask of icy water for the trip. And whizzed down the road past the big bridge that reminds me of Clint Eastwood films and cowboys. There is Melbourne city, that tiny blue smudge in the distance. It always amazes me, after growing up in London and traveling in and out of the city, how quickly you are in the countryside here. This is what the landscape looks like at this time of year. Golden yellow and very flat. So familiar to me now. Because we were driving so fast (on the freeway!) it was actually not too hot; the wind kept us cooler. And the traffic was nice and light, and sometimes very cool too. Obligatory car window shot. We were there already! And greeted by some geese – I think! They said hello. I think Babycat might have cheered up for them! We were pretty happy to get out of the car. But even happier about the 24 hours ahead! And in very serious moods, of course..! We walked up the huge, sweeping driveway to the Mansion. And settled in to our room. John face-photobombed me! Checking the beds. Comfortable. We needed a bit if a rest after all that. It was so, so nice to lay down in a cool room, sink into soft pillows and get ourselves ready for the afternoon... which I'll share soon!