Sitting on top of the world.

I love being 50. I haven't stopped!! On my birthday, hubby and I saw the kids off to school/college then went out for brunch to Bragazzi's on Abbeydale Road in Sheffield. Abbeydale Road is often compared to Notting Hill in London. It is home to a real ethnic mix, and subsequently the standards of diverse and authentic cuisine are brilliant. This is the real macoy. You won't find fancy places, but the food is superb. We made our way to Bragazzi's which is an Italian deli and cafe. We sat outside as it was baking hot and ate the best sandwich I have ever had - Gorganzola, walnut, rocket and sundried tomato.
Bragazzi's is famous for serving the best coffee in Sheffield. Did they know I was coming?

We then drove out to the edge of the Peak District to Castleton. Many of you will no doubt have been to Castleton on school trips and will know that it is an amazing little place. We drove through Winnats Pass .

And then walked to the top of Mam Tor. The walk up to the top of Mam Tor was really funny. We though that being mid week, we might be the only ones up there, but we were joined by loads of very sprightly (and some quite ancient looking) senior citizens. The path up was like a pensioners super highway!! Well done them! Once on top of Mam Tor, you really do feel that you are on top of the world.

Then hubby gave me my surprise - a parachuting experience.

Not really!! Although there are times I think he would gladly push me off the top of a steep hill I'm sure!! I can never make out whether these guys are brave or stupid - or both! There were around 30 of them flying around us.

This is more like it!! We sat and drank in the spectacular scenery along with a G&T that hubby had stashed into the rucksack.

We wandered back down the hillside via the old hairpin bend in the road that collapsed in 1979. The authority's finally gave in trying to rescue this road and now the only way up or down into Castleton is Winnats Pass which is very steep.

On our way home, we called in at Edale for National Trust coffee and cake,

And finally headed home past Ladybower resevoir - famous for its roll in the Dambusters story. On days like these, I realise that we do live in a truly beautiful part of the world.

We had to be home fairly earlyish as my sister was holding a small gathering at her home for a few family and friends in my honour.

I had the most wonderful day.

I'll be back shortly with the tale of 3 other parties(!!!!!) I think I am going to find being 50 exhausting!