English at heart.

I think I'm English at heart. I've always had a love for the great English classics: Austen, Dickens, and even J.K. Rowling. Ok, I know she's not exactly a classic, but you get the idea. I have an inordinate passion for a good cup of Earl Grey, and I also have a vast appreciation for formalities like black tie affairs, good manners, and a traditional hymn.

So, when I checked in with Brent at our home for the last week, the Firehouse Inn Bed and Breakfast, I was delighted to meet our host for the week, Mr. David Robinson, a retired English/Australian butler. Actually, he's pretty much the butler of all butlers, as he's the current Vice President of the International Institute of Modern Butlers. Well, all that aside, he was a "delightful chap" and made me feel right at home. Brent was away much of the day during our visit, and so I spent many afternoons upstairs in the lovely dining room/parlor. The hospitality at this particular B&B was really impeccable. In addition to our small efficiency apartment on the ground floor, we were treated to a delicious breakfast (I really loved the little melon balls every morning!), Italian linens, and our own Keurig coffeemaker. I love those things. I tried every kind of decaf available, and then moved on to all the teas. Anne-Kelly and Mr. Robinson really hit it off as well. He called her "Chatty Cathy" all week long because of her friendly, babbling nature, and she loved his sing-song accent.

Anyway, after staying at the Firehouse Inn, I have realized that I should have been English. I was really born in the wrong country....and perhaps the wrong century. :)

Aside from that epiphany, Anne-Kelly and I had a delightful week. I am going to post some precious photos I took of her in the lovely parlor. Hope you enjoy them.

After getting home on Thursday, we unpacked (well, almost.) and relaxed for a few hours. Then we went out to eat at Ruby Tuesday - we had a buy one get one free entree coupon! Then today Anne-Kelly and I went to a friend down the street's second birthday party. It was train themed and his mom, Jennifer, did an awesome job making a train cake all by herself! I hope I can be that cool when the time comes for my kids' parties. Also, our friend Cameron who is a few months younger than Anne-Kelly but a few pounds heavier (he's a precious little chunk!) was in attendance. :) I took some amazingly adorable photos of Cam and Annie-K!