Once we returned from a refreshing sojourn in Wales we had some visitors come and stay at Coundon Tower for a few days. Two extra people and two lively young dogs make for a vaguely chaotic time.. but it was really lovely to have guests and spend some time walking around the local area.. a pleasant walk on an almost empty Crimdon beach and then a walk down the old railway line to Bishop Auckland through the deer park for lunch at a local cafe before retracing our steps back home for yet more cake. The dogs loved the garden - racing round through all the bushes - poor Vita in her excitement actually ended up in the pond - no harm done to dog, frogs or newts.... Time always seems to go so quick when friends stay and the house always feels very quiet when they've gone.