This is the sweetest view of their marriage. Louisa is the wise mom who has to manage her two little men. Grumpy Martin and eager James Henry.

Hey, Louisa's got Martin there. He DOES always preach exercise. And obviously the show takes a little artistic licence. if Martin really ate as he did on the show, he'd certainly be at least a stone lighter!

Martin is maddeningly himself. Hopefully he can find pleasure in seeing Louisa and James enjoying this. And then is there the remotest chance that he himself can find enjoyment and fulfillment in this move? He is doing this for his family's unity and happiness. Common participation can help build that unity. Enjoy the day, Martin. Enjoy the day!

A destination of discovery! Onward. Martin can be such a grump...

Great chapter. All characters, dialogue and action completely believable and in character. Just watching the interplay between all of the adults is hilarious. Thanks for writing.

Martin is obviously feeling trapped despite Louisa's assurances. At what point might he start listening to her?

Nice work.

Ruth is a true Ellingham. Louisa finds it easier to stand up to her than Martin does. He needs to shut Ruth up with a firm word. Then take James down do he can teach his dad how to catch crabs.

LOL! By all accounts, do not let him button that top button!

Louisa has fashion sense and sensibilty.

Nice chapter.

The devil or the deep blue sea... decisions, decisions. Now this would be quite a sight on the telly!

What a pain.

Poor Martin temporarily without his "armor."

Oh, dear, Louisa's continued reactions on Martin's clothes are understandably sending Martin's concern levels off the charts!

For years we let our young kids start the night in our bed. More than once I had to haul their sleeping bodies off to their own beds. The only thing missing in your chapter was the occasional flung out arm smacking a parent's nose!

If only all things could be solved as easily with a tickle and a cuddle.