A much needed mini-break with my man was all I was expecting... but as it turned out, Nial had been planning something for months and it was in Hobart, Tasmania...where I was born, that he popped the big question.

Our weekend away was just fabulous, everything was perfect even up until those magical few minutes….the weather was crisp and dry, cold but not unpleasant... and reminded us of England’s nicer winter days!  We stayed in a beautiful 4* hotel in historic Battery Point & the entire hotel had recently been renovated, so we were in the lap of luxury with a marble bathroom, beautiful cedar bed with crisp linen, fresh flowers, opulent curtains and a huge bay window made with sections of stained glass that offered amazing water views as far as the eye could see!  Hobart’s people were so welcoming and friendly wherever we went, we walked the Harbour/Constitution Docks and meandered our way through the now famous Henry Jones IXL Hotel, complete with Jam, Art & Teahouse Shops...stopped & watched a sea lion frolicking in the shallow waters of the harbour waiting for his next fish skeleton to be thrown from one of the platoon fish cafes, what a delight!   Had a look though the Tasmanian Art Museum and walked the streets as Friday came to a close.  That evening we dined at a lovely Italian Restaurant, lapping up the Seafood pasta...it's fantastic down there!  Saturday we spent wandering around Salamanca Markets savouring the local art/craft and food, which is always lovely.  Then Nial took it upon himself to hire us a car just for a day from about 2pm, I went along with it as you do, he wanted to drive around the countryside a bit and go to some of the good view points around Hobart.  So Saturday afternoon we ventured to Richmond and saw the oldest bridge & church in Australia and had Scones, Jam & Cream...as you must!  The valley was gorgeous and all lit up as the sun set on our drive back into the city.  That night we devoured more Seafood at a beaut little spot right on the harbour, topped off with some local wine. 

Sunday morning came around & it was the most glorious day when we woke up, quite early actually, Nial was up getting our continental breakfast all ready on our table by the window... keen as mustard to get going and explore.  So we got ready and headed out – he took control and just started driving, I had no idea where he planned to go... it was soon clear that we were heading in the direction of Mt. Wellington & I was excited because it had been 10 years since I’d been up. I remembered what an amazing view you were offered, if the clouds were in a good mood.  We checked out the viewing pavilion but alas the clouds were thick & we couldn’t see down at all.  So Nial grabbed me and walked me down a boardwalk to a big viewing platform which was cantilevered out over the mountain.  It was surreal, really crisp and we were in the clouds with nothing but us (no-one around), as he hugged me from behind (one of his many trademarks) he reminisced about when we met & uttered lots of lovely things in my ear, before bringing his arms around in front of me & presenting a box with a glittering stone inside... he asked me to marry him!  It was so amazing, I couldn’t believe it was happening... I was filled with joy and I replied quickly with “of course I will!” Then in that moment the clouds began to disappear, it was just beautiful, ethereal & real goose bump material – we watched in amazement as we took in the glorious views now visible below and all around us... kisses abounded and we soaked it all up!

That night Nial had booked a table for 2 with silver service, for our own little celebration at the Revolving Restaurant in Hobart - the food & views were amazing. World class scallops for entree, salmon for main and Crepes Flambé cooked at our table delighted & we toasted future happiness with 11yr old Champagne!  Just a fabulous way to top off a gorgeous weekend. 

Subsequently, on our return from Hobart, Nial had a custom-made round brilliant diamond ring made to match our chosen style & design, by a wonderful local jeweller we discovered here on the Coast. It's just absolutely stunning & I can hardly believe my eyes most of the time when I look down at my left hand... I feel so very blessed... I love you darling xx