It is the weekend before my birthday and to celebrate (or is that commiserate), a short excursion was penciled in my diary a few weeks ago. A weekend away was ruled out due to the timing of my bathroom repairs.
This time of year is always a little tricky for days out, because most places I enjoy visiting have shut down for the winter. A recent post by George and Tess about Arley Arboretum inspired me to investigate the visiting times. I found out that this weekend was the last chance to visit before it closed for the winter months.
It was too good an opportunity to miss, I arrived just in time to enjoy lunch (tea and cake) in the cafe. I resisted my usual favourite Coffee and Walnut cake in favour of Orange and Lemon cake, it was delicious. I was also rewarded with sunshine and shadows that highlighted the Autumn leaves at their best. A perfect moment in time 
Should have had Coffee & Walnut and Orange & Lemon together to see which was best
I think this one might have been a bit overpowered by the coffee and walnut flavour.
Great Autumnal photo, with a delicious cake. May you have as much delight on your Birthday.
Thank you so much
I will be going out for meal in a nice restaurant 
I can’t think of a nicer way to spend the weekend than with a stroll through the arboretum taking in all of the fall colours and finishing it off by enjoying a nice cup of tea and this delicious looking cake Cherie!
Have a Happy Birthday this week:)
….peter:)
Thank you for your good wishes, the walk was a lot of fun
A perfect Happy Birtjhday gift, it appears, Cherry! HAPPY BIRTHDAY.
Thank you Ginnie
That’s a lovely photo of the arboretum.
Have a very Happy Birthday this week, Cherie.
Thanks Rusty Duck
Thank you for stopping by my blog and leaving a comment it is always nice to have a new reader it also gives me a chance to find a new blog too. Love the beautiful autumn photo and the cake, to die for.
Thank you Elaine, I am glad you like the autumn photo. And yes the cake was delicious
Looks delish and the food looks nice too.
The food was delicious and the walk was just perfect with the sun shining.
Do have a wonderful birthday Cherie. A whole celebratory week would be good!
Thank you Suzie, I do like the idea of celebratory week
Tea and cake….It doesn’t get better… unless you have slug of whisky too
I do like a good Malt, but not at the same time ask cake…
You have shared your autumn excursion, and your tea and cake!! with us, Cherie – thank you so much
I am glad you enjoyed the virtual sharing of tea and cake
Happy birthday, C!
Would you save me a piece of cake please?
Mmmm lemon and orange would do. ;o)
I will invite you to the arboretum next time I go and tell them to have a piece ready for you