Bicycles, Rupert Bear, the seaside, and straw hats

Today has involved one of my most favourite mornings - a trip to the town where we used to live in order to explore my favourite second hand book shop, charity shops, and garden centre. My hair has just grown enough to allow me to get my fringe back, so I am happily wearing my new vintage-style hats at every opportunity. Something about this one makes people smile at me and small girls say hello.

I went all out in the feeling girly and young again fashion stakes with matching ankle socks, and the universe responded by unearthing two great childrens' books for me and a stripy, heart print jumper for £3. I had to have the Rupert bear book as soon as I saw the Victorian-style clothes on the bears - and all the talk of seaside and ice creams has made me very impatient for our trip to Cornwall!

As you can see, my cat was determined to take part in operations today! Meet Freckles - she's 12, and was adopted by me two years ago. She is a real sweetie!

Skirt and hat (£2!) from Primark, ankle socks and shoes from New Look, pearls from a charity shop.