Today we were at Belton House, a wonderful National Trust property we are fortunate enough to live very close to. Normally the adventure playground and tea rooms are more than enough to keep us occupied and justify our membership, but on top of that today there was a special Easter Egg trail around the gardens.
The Orangery at Belton House:
My wife was more than pleased to lead our quest, especially as she has once again given up choccies and crisps for the 40 days and nights of lent!
While we were there today, I spotted a leaflet on Volunteering, and it gave me a timely reminder that rather than simply use the blog to highlight good causes and raise funds, I also want to use it to encourage people out there to consider getting involved directly in the charities. Your time can make all the difference.
Back in the early 1990s I spent another life-changing 12 weeks on the Princes Trust Volunteers programme, a community volunteering scheme for 16-25 year olds here in the UK. When I get the chance I'll write an entire blog dedicated to the subject, but as it happens included in the course is a one week volunteering session with the National Trust. We went down to Cornwall, and built wooden fences to protect the local sand dunes, and for me it was a fantastic way to combine the benefits of being outdoors and learn some practical skills, so I would encourage anyone with a particular interest in nature or conservation to consider giving it a go.
For more details visit the website at http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/volunteering, or you can contact the Volunteer co-ordinator at your nearest regional office.
Just remains for me to wish you all a very Happy and peaceful Easter holidays - go easy on the chocolate!
A lovely venue for egg hunting! So glad you had a great day. Happy Easter from Cyprus.
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