Garden Glory

Thanks to the beautiful summer weather, Joe has been able to spend time working on the garden.

He's put in a lot of effort and the results are well worth it.

It looks beautiful.

I don't do gardening. I actually hate the feel of soil on my hands.

But I do do sitting in the garden and appreciating it!

Which is exactly what I've been doing today.

Come on England!

Calum and Laura fly the flag for the England team

Calum may be on holiday in the US but he's still supporting England in the World Cup.

The way they're playing, they'll need all the luck they can get!

Born in the USA

Calum and Laura - and a statue

Well, Calum wasn't actually born in the USA but he does have American blood coursing through his veins and he definitely loves all things American.

So he's currently enjoying a three week holiday in the States, staying near Chicago for two weeks followed by a week in Florida. He was invited by his friend Laura and her family - he and Laura used to go to school together. Needless to say, he's having a great time.

He's been to Peoria, Springfield (yes, the home of the Simpsons, as well as President Lincoln) and St Louis and is now in Destin, Florida. He's certainly making the most of his time and I don't blame him.

I'm really pleased he's taken this year out to travel. He's met loads of new people, made some fantastic new friendships and had amazing experiences - experiences that will last him a lifetime.

At the moment he's living the American dream - and loving every minute.

Enjoy it Calum. This is the time of your life.