Reflections on a Summer Well Spent: Family, Fun, and Cherished Memories
As the summer comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on all the incredible experiences and adventures we managed to enjoy this year. In a world that often moves too fast, we made the unprecedented decision to slow down and savour the moments that truly matter. With our youngest daughter now 12—an age where we can still enjoy her company before the teenage years fully take hold—we chose to only open our business three days a week. This gave us the freedom to spend more time together as a family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
A Nostalgic Start in Chester
We kicked off the summer holidays with a four-day getaway to Chester, my beloved hometown. It was a trip filled with both nostalgia and new discoveries. Along with meeting up with old friends and family, we found time for some quintessentially Chester excursions.
One of our first outings was a walk along the ancient Roman City walls. There's something magical about treading the same paths that have stood for centuries. We even had a fascinating chat with a centurion, who brought the city’s Roman history to life in a way that captivated all of us, especially our daughter. Chester, once known as DEVA, is steeped in history, and it was wonderful to share this part of my heritage with my family.
Another highlight was our leisurely river cruise along the River Dee, something I’d never done in all the years I lived in the area. As we floated up and down the river, the gentle pace allowed us to take in the stunning scenery and enjoy each other’s company without the rush of daily life.
Rediscovering Chester Zoo
But the pinnacle of our Chester trip had to be our visit to Chester Zoo. It had been over 30 years since I last set foot there, and the transformation was astounding. The zoo has grown into a world-class conservation hub, with incredible work being done in animal breeding programs and wildlife preservation. We spent the day marvelling at the vast selection of animals, from Orangutans to Sun Bears, Lions to Giraffes. We particularly loved entering the Bat Cave – a darkened indoor Fruit Bat Forest that you walk through with a colony of free-flying bats. It was heartening to see how much effort has gone into ensuring the zoo is not just a place to view animals, but a sanctuary for endangered species.
Watching our daughter’s eyes light up at the sight of exotic creatures was a reminder of the pure joy that such simple experiences can bring. It was a day that felt both nostalgic and new, bridging my childhood memories with the present moment.
A Circus Adventure
Just when we thought our summer couldn't get any more exciting, the circus came to town, well Gates Garden Centre! A fun-filled visit to the (animal-free) circus was the perfect holiday treat. As we stepped in to the Big Top and found our seats, we were captivated by the acrobats' daring feats, the jugglers' incredible coordination, and the sheer energy of the performers. The atmosphere was electric, with the air full of the sweet, nostalgic smells of popcorn and candy floss. It was a delightful evening that added a touch of magic to our summer, leaving us all with smiles that lasted long after the circus left town.
Thrills at Southwell Races
One of our most exciting outings this summer was a fun-filled family day at Southwell Races. The weather was perfect—a clear blue sky that seemed to promise good fortune. A group of us took our children to experience the thrills of watching the horses thunder down the track and we even had a little flutter on the races, and to our delight, we even won a bit of money! We had such a fun day together sharing laughter and cheers. It was an experience that combined the excitement of the races with the warmth of family fun.
Relaxation at Picturesque Rutland Water
Rutland Water is a family favourite, so we always try to visit at least once during the summer holidays. From bike rides along the dam wall and the usual Boules competition and Frisbee catching challenges there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Once we’d used up all our excess energy it was time to sit down and relax. There’s something so soothing about being by the water's edge, and we made the most of it with a barbecue right by the beach area at Sykes’s Lane. As we grilled our food, we watched the anglers patiently waiting for their catch, and even caught sight of trout breaching out of the water. The serene setting, coupled with the simple pleasure of a meal cooked outdoors, made for a perfect, lazy summer day.
A Traditional Seaside Day at Skegness
Our final summer adventure was a long, but worthwhile, day trip to Skegness. It’s quite a drive from our Leicestershire home (1hr 30mins), but the journey was more than worth it. We spent a traditional seaside day paddling in the sea, hunting for shells, and soaking up the sun which made a welcome appearance! Of course, no trip to the British seaside would be complete without indulging in some scrumptious fish and chips – I’m sure they don’t contain any calories at the beach! We ended the day with a visit to the arcades with their flashing lights and bright colours, where we emptied our purses into the penny slots, reliving childhood memories and creating new ones. It was a day of simple pleasures, thoroughly enjoyed by all.
The Importance of Time Together
This summer wasn’t just about the places we visited or the things we did—it was about the time we spent together. It was a conscious choice to prioritize family, and it paid off in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Whether we were exploring new places or simply relaxing at home, every moment felt like a gift.
As we move on into the autumn it won’t be long until we’re readying ourselves for the Festive season so I’m holding onto these memories with a full heart. I’m grateful for the opportunity to slow down, to connect with my family, and to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
We’ll look back on this summer as a time when we truly embraced what matters most. I hope these reflections inspire you to take stock of your own summer and cherish the moments that brought you joy.
