Southbound...

Last week we took our annual trip south, towards Portsmouth, to visit my Mum.
We arrived at lunchtime, on the Wednesday, after a catch-up and some food, before heading off to the local beach. With hubby's knee still not functioning properly we weren't able to explore too much, so it was about getting out and enjoying the fresh air and sunshine as much as possible.

It was so refreshing to take in the sea breeze,  when I don't normally see much daylight, and to be able to doze or read or crochet to start to relax and unwind.

Of course I had to take my hook and yarn with me, no pressure just when I fancied a little go...
Unfortunately the clouds decided to roll in...

The following day we paid a visit to some 'open' gardens (someone's own personal garden they open to the public in aid of charity), we chose a Hanging Hostas garden.

I have to say I've never seen such a jam packed garden! Hidden in the depths of the greenery is a waterfall, 

and tucked away at the back is an Islamic relaxation spot.

I didn't think it was possible to squeeze so much into a small patch!

We stopped for a much needed coffee before making our to Frensham ponds.

This is a beautiful and unexpected area. It is a green common, with woodland and large ponds, and then a man made sandy beach!

 As it was a gloriously hot, sunny day of course this little retreat was a hive of activity! We tucked ourselves away in a bit of shade to have our picnic, and chilled out watching the sights around us. We took a stroll on the beach.

 Very surreal being on a beach in the middle of nowhere, and swans wandering in between the sunbathers and paddlers. Of course we treated ourselves to a nice cream at the day, just to cool us down of course!

A massive thunder and lightening storm happened in the night. We sat up watching it as hubby loves a good storm. I have to say I've not seen such a continuous succession of lightening, the sky stayed permanently lit. Unfortunately I didn't think to try to capture any of the beauty.

The following day we took a short trip to Whitely shopping centre,  and after lunch we made our way to Emsworth mill pond.

After a stroll all around we found a bench to sit back and take in the warmth of the sun and the views around.

The next days weather forecast was for bad weather so we strolled in to Fareham town centre for a look about the shops, stopped back for lunch, then on to Dunelm mill ( I was searching for a 12" round insert for my #cal cushion) and then on to a big garden centre. Of course the predictions were completely wrong and it turned outto be a glorious day! So once we returned back I sat in the garden for a bit of relaxed hooky time...

For our last full day, we had another trip to the beach, this time in Gosport. We settled into the pebbles, and soaked up some rays. I didn't get round to much crochet as it was so hot and bright.
It was pretty busy, and lots of activity on the beach, and plenty of brave soles in the sea...

We had our picnic, and some drinks from the cafe. We watched the swimmers, and boat races and there was a rescue display too. I so love being by the sea, whatever the weather, I find it so soothing.

On our last day, we took a trip to Porchester.

We walked around the castle perimeter,

had tea at the church cafe (the church where I was christened).

So for my mood square for the week, i've chosen hot sunny colours.

As I was on holiday, I thought I would get a few extra squares to pad out the mood blanket a bit more

I also used this opportunity to try out some new techniques too

Firstly, I tried the V stitch, as this is doing the rounds in the crochet community

And secondly, I newly heard of something called Entrelec crochet. Just the blue section of this square is using this technique, but after giving it a go I definitely fancy giving the multiple squares together a go.

The yarn I took on holiday with me, I found at my local charity store,

and I believe could be drops yarn, I do really love the interchanging colours. It makes such pretty squares, and not one is identical...