Awww, thank you everyone. I have three days off (not planned that way, it just happened!) and am just about to head off for a little holiday in Jane Austen Country, i.e. around Chawton. I've visited her house museum several times, but it's always worth it and the weather is so lovely that it'll be a real treat. I'm sure I'll find other places to see and some nice walks in the area too. Also just had a lovely Skype call with my mum and dad (and Harry the new dog) in Australia — they're having a holiday too, on the Mornington Peninsula (south-east of Melbourne).
Society Member
It was a nuisance. An adventure was one thing - but an adventure without anything to eat was quite another thing. That wouldn't do at all. (The Valley of Adventure)
Thanks again, everyone. I've had a lovely afternoon visiting Jane Austen's House (coming away with even more books... it happens everywhere I go ) and am looking forward to another happy day tomorrow — still deciding on what I might see and do.
Society Member
It was a nuisance. An adventure was one thing - but an adventure without anything to eat was quite another thing. That wouldn't do at all. (The Valley of Adventure)
Belated best wishes and many happy returns, Courtenay, hope you had a stunning day and hugely enjoyed Jane Austen's house at Chawton, what a lovely place to spend your birthday!
I did hugely enjoy it, thanks, Number 6 and Floragord. Will have to go back later this year, though, as they'll be doing an exhibition on Persuasion (for the 200th anniversary of its publication), and that's my favourite... well, maybe equal with P&P. Also just been having a lovely time in peaceful Hampshire in (mostly) good weather!
Society Member
It was a nuisance. An adventure was one thing - but an adventure without anything to eat was quite another thing. That wouldn't do at all. (The Valley of Adventure)
Francis wrote:A very Happy Birthday dear Courtenay and I have been to Jane Austen's house many times and I still expect to see her there every time!
So do I! No, really — I often feel, when I'm there, that it's almost as if Jane herself might suddenly step into the room. I wish she could. I'd love to meet her.
Thanks again to everyone for your kind birthday wishes — I've had a very happy time!
Society Member
It was a nuisance. An adventure was one thing - but an adventure without anything to eat was quite another thing. That wouldn't do at all. (The Valley of Adventure)
It was a nuisance. An adventure was one thing - but an adventure without anything to eat was quite another thing. That wouldn't do at all. (The Valley of Adventure)
) and am looking forward to another happy day tomorrow — still deciding on what I might see and do. 
So do I! No, really — I often feel, when I'm there, that it's almost as if Jane herself might suddenly step into the room. I wish she could. I'd love to meet her.