I recently went to Jane Austen’s house in a village called Chawton. Just down the road from her house is Chawton House which is the estate where one of her brothers lived. Jane was one of eight children, six boys and two girls. One of her brothers apparently was so cute and special that he caught the attention of some wealthy relatives who did not have any children and who adopted him and named him their heir. I’m still waiting for that to happen to me.

Anyway, a great time was had by all as I went with a few girlfriends. Lots of conversations and laughs and, importantly, agreement that the Kiera Knightly and Matthew McFadyen Pride and Prejudice is the best version and I will die on this hill. Speaking of Kiera Knightly, she has been my first celebrity sighting since moving here. I’m not going to go so far as to say we made eye contact and I felt an instant connection but, we made eye contact and I felt an instant connection.

We live in a town just outside of London that sees a lot of film action because we’re near a large movie studio. There was even a Tom Holland and Zendaya spotting at our local Indian restaurant which got the youngest all excited. I’ve even heard rumor that Amal Clooney’s family is from our town so who knows? One day, when I’m out walking the dog and more than likely looking like a goblin, I may meet the gorgeous Amal and George Clooney.

Back to Jane. Like I said, she was one of eight children. Her father was a clergyman and at times a tutor to supplement his income. The family also had the patronage of wealthy kin to help make ends meet. All of the children received an education though of course the boys received a higher education. Interestingly, Jane’s mother could claim heritage to one of the founders of Oxford and, as such, all of the boys were entitled to go to Oxford for free.

It was Jane’s brother third oldest brother, Edward, who at the age of twelve caught the attention of a wealthy (and childless) aunt and uncle who asked if they could adopt the boy. I guess when you’re a clergyman of modest means and have a couple kids to spare you can happily hand one over. Upon the death of his aunt (preceded in death by her husband), Edward inherited three estates and later persuaded Jane and her mother to move to Chawton and live in a nearby cottage.

I guess that’s all I have to say at the moment. Here are some pics: