Of all my close college friends, only Marcella is still garden-less (ie living in Amsterdam). Another old friend, Michael, has also opted for more space for his growing family by moving away from the city.

However nothing is very far in the Netherlands, so it only took Ruby and I 40mins driving to visit Michael, his partner Petra, and two of their three kids (Sanne, 6, was in school), namely curly little Lucas, 3, and newborn Tijs, 6 weeks.

Ruby enjoyed the sandbox (she did also take a swing in the hammock indoors), while we all sat around drinking tea and catching up on 10 years of news. Next time we visit it'll be in a different house and sandbox; good luck with the move Michael and Petra!