OH 60 Day 3

After a good night’s sleep Viv provided a great breakfast, and all too soon it was time to leave.

We made our way into Portsmouth, parked the car, making our way to the port office to ‘check in’. And the cat was out the bag, Kevin found out where we were going!

A boat took us out into the Solent to stay on one of the Solent forts overnight. The sea was not too choppy but the disembarking from the boat was a challenge!

Once I was on terra firma I was ok and a glass of champagne steadied the nerves.

We had a wander before our tour and there are so many nooks and crannies.

There were about another 10-12 people staying and the staff were so friendly and helpful.

Kyle, the manager, gave an informative and funny tour pointing out all the historical elements about the 150 year old forts.

Built to repel the French they never a shot fired in anger!

Lunch was served and was delicious and we enjoyed the company of other guests either celebrating as we were or enjoying a gift.

Our room was ready so we ventured in. Wow!

Kevin decided it would be a good idea to dangle his legs out the window!

We next circumnavigated the building by going through the ‘bolt hole’. It was dark and damp and we saw no evidence of the ‘ghost’ that was seen on the ghost hunters tv programme! Thank goodness.

A trip to the hot pool next and a relax before getting ready for dinner.

The foghorn signalled the call to the victory bar and an amuse bouche of cauliflower veloute followed

After pleasant conversation we made our way to the officers mess and dinner was served:

Ham hock terrine, scallop, fillet beef and creme brûlée.

Absolutely delicious and they replaced my mash with cabbage as requested!

We enjoyed further convivial chatter, then made our way to the fire pit for rum and marshmallow toasting.

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All too soon it was time to retire to our room to reflect on a fantastic day, in superb surroundings. Kevin loves all things nautical and yes he had an inkling of where he was going, and hopefully he has loved it!

OH 60 Day 2

A bit of a lazy Sunday with packing, and sibling squabbling to referee.

A no show from the bedroom man meant that we left after 3 to make our way with a post code in the satnav.

Our passports are packed and Kevin still has no clue.

We had a stop at Cobham services whereby I offered Kevin a choice of a Kate lunch: he wasn’t overly impressed so we carried on to our destination.

We arrived a little earlier than expected as unusually the M25 traffic was flowing!

We had arrived at my cousin Viv’s house, where with her husband Keith we enjoyed a wonderful meal, wine, conversation and laughter!

Still no clue, although he has hazarded a guess of a nautical theme.

OH 60 Day 1

A trip to London to see the Lieutenant of Inishmore, with Aidan Turner of Poldark fame!

Now, I’m not going to lie, this was as much a treat for me as it was for Kevin😉😉

A black comedy it certainly was with laugh out loud moments, and moments of 😱 initially from where we were seated! As someone who suffers vertigo getting to our seats proved a challenge.

We enjoyed the play immensely and good to hear Aidan in his native Irish tongue. The cast were all brilliant!

I’d booked a restaurant, a sister of the one we visited in late July, and we strolled through Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus to Mayfair on a balmy evening. We took in a few sights along the way.

We arrived early for our table and were seated at our table.

The food was really good, service fantastic and we spent time reminiscing, and reflecting on how we got together 37 years ago!

As always, we talk about our children, how much they have enriched our lives, how we delight in their company, their joys and support with any disappointment or heartache.

After a drink or 3, we walked up Regent Street and made our way home.

Kevin enjoyed the play and day 1 of his birthday celebrations.

Although I’m unable to convince him that ripped jeans are for him!

Term seven

I’ve been reading twitter and other blogs of school business managers/leaders and a few talk of term 7 as a reference to the summer break. A time for us to reflect on the last academic year and enjoy solitude and quiet to get to grips with outstanding jobs: although the fire alarm testing on Wednesday was indeed just that!

As we are four weeks in, the fencing project is well underway, one of my two priorities of a three year budget projection complete, GDPR work still in progress and A Level results day successfully celebrated, I am wearing my spouse hat to mark my husband’s 60th birthday.

Starting today I have a smorgasbord of things planned – and yes I will document these here.

Kevin hates fuss and has been reluctant to embrace any suggestions to celebrate that I have made: yes we had a family party in April but to reach 60 is a privilege that not everyone is granted.

So I will coerce and cajole him along these next few days and fingers crossed he loves what is planned!

A trip to Scotland

I try to visit my parents in Scotland in the summer, and this time I had some company, as Joseph came along on the trip.

This was a great chance for us all to spend time together.

The journey wasn’t great due to a delayed flight and having to purchase additional train tickets, but we arrived safely and mum missed Joseph walking up the stationary escalator next to her. I introduced him as the pleasant company I’d had on the journey!

We enjoyed a good meal and settled in for the few days.

Monday and a leisurely breakfast before meeting Olga for lunch.

A trip to a garden centre for a cuppa and cake rounded off the lunch as well as completing parts of a family tree.

We visited relatives in the evening and saw Auntie Mabel’s new abode. It seems so strange to think I’ll never go to Grahamston again, always a stalwart in my childhood.

Tuesday and the sun was shining and a trip to Montrose beckoned.

First stop a salvage yard for a mooch.

In a way I was saddened by the boxes and boxes of goods from house clearances, almost showing the futility of possessions and how transient life can be. Yet again I make a resolution to clear some of our/my hoarded possessions that are just not needed!

Next up lunch and then a stop off to try and source curling stones for Elaine.

The perfect pair were found, haggled for and purchased.

Another relative stop off, more cake and a catch up where Joseph entertained.

Wednesday saw Joseph to prepare to go home, and I went to a consultant appointment with Dad and Mum. My Dad has an aneurysm and his last visit provided minimal information, so it was good to be there.

Everything was clearly explained and the doctor emphasised that surgery wasn’t an option really, but shook Dad’s hand and congratulated him on reaching 85, and for him to carry on doing as he has done, and wished he had his genes!

Another lunch at a deli in Arbroath that had a varied selection of Gin!

We waved Joseph off on the train after another busy day!

Thursday and a trip to Dunkeld, another place visited as a child, but I never knew it had a Cathedral!

Another lunch, an amble by the Tay, and shops. I made my way to the Cathedral and it was quite magnificent.

We made our way back to the car and stopped off in Forfar for some lingerie shopping!

Dinner had been slow cooking so we heartily enjoyed the beef olives and Mum and I went to see Mamma Mia2. We laughed, we cried and we sang. A really feel good film which I’d happily see again!

Friday and a trip into Arbroath another lunch then the journey home: train, bus, plane and finally car.

Great to have time with Mum and Dad, but good to be home although the time spent in a sitting position has not had a positive effect on my back!

Love is patient, love is kind

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

The last few days have been a wonderful celebration for the nuptials of our niece Victoria and Andy.

We drove to where we would stay for two nights and then made our way to the rehearsal.

It all went smoothly and we were off to prepare for the first meal of the celebration.

We met some of Andy’s family and the evening was very enjoyable.

Thursday was the big day and Georgina, as a bridesmaid was delivered to Viv’s home for the bridal party prep: breakfast, fizz, hair and makeup!

We had a leisurely breakfast and made our way to the church on the hottest day of the year so far.

And so it began with Georgina leading in the bridal party, all looked amazing and Victoria looked stunning. Andy and the groomsmen all scrubbed up very well too!

The ceremony started and I had been given the privilege of doing a reading. I was extremely nervous and decided at the last minute to read it in my Scottish accent. I did falter but took a deep breath and even ad-libbed. Once finished my legs were like jelly as I returned to my seat.

The vicar read 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 and highlighted what love was about, it is patient, it is kind, not always hearts and flowers. A lovely touch was he gave the couple a written copy of his eulogy to read later.

The legal formalities were then carried out and we braved the heat once more.

Next was the short trip to Botleys mansion for the reception.

Music, fizz, pimms, canapés and photos.

We next were seated in the conservatory for the meal and greeted the new Mr and Mrs with rapturous applause.

The meal was delicious, the speeches heartfelt and funny in equal measure.

The dance floor was ready and the first dance underway.

The cake was cut and more food was consumed and I blistered my feet dancing far too much!

The evening drew to a close and we went back to our abode. We were to continue the celebrations on Friday with a BBQ at Viv and Don’s.

Before arriving we visited Kevin’s Nan on her 97th birthday, she was delighted to see us and in particular Kevin.

Viv and Don, as always, put on a great spread and the drink flowed and guests arrived aplenty.

Thunderstorms provided a welcome relief after the heat, although were less kind to us on our 3 hour journey home!

Congratulations to Victoria and Andy, May they be patient and kind with and to each other, work as a team and have a happy marriage full of love and laughter. 💕💕💕💕

Do you fancy an Indian?

Thursday saw Debbie and I leave Essex for a long drive to Cardiff. We arrived at our hotel, best described as functional, a bed for the next two nights.

A curry was consumed before a night in a room that had air conditioning , albeit not switched on!

The following morning and brunch was had at Insole Court. A delightful property and gardens.

Refreshed we made our way to Sophia Gardens after a stroll by the river and a Welsh cake and chat with fellow cricket fans.

India were playing the second in a series of 3 T20 matches and England were 1 down.

It was my first experience of ‘fans’ more interested in being on the television than the cricket. Hostile is possibly too strong a word , intimidated may be better to describe how I felt. Debbie is well versed in the Indian team’s personnel and there are a few who are very handsome, one being Shikhardawan ( I think)

Although, Jonny Bairstow is a favourite of mine and was delightful to all fans.

England won and all was to play for on Sunday in Bristol.

Saturday started with brunch or rather a cream tea 😱 at Tredegar House and an amble before the drive to Wells to find a pub to watch the World Cup match England v Sweden!

A great win and a semi final place after a walk round Wells, such a beautiful place and worth another trip.

After the match we completed our journey to Wookey Hole, another functional hotel, no air conditioning this time but the nearby pug Wookey Hope Inn made up for that with a great meal, wonderful service and the chance to find out who England would play on Wednesday .

This morning found us looking for the park and ride in sweltering heat, but not until breakfast in a supermarket, service poor but breakfast spot on.

The bus ride was hot and we had to queue in the sun to enter. Our seats were good but it was going to be hot, hot,hot!

England started well, but fell away leaving India to chase 199 runs.

Doughnuts and liquid consumed and there was respite from the sun, as it went behind the floodlight! India starred with Sharma hitting a lovely century, and won with balls to spare.

Another horrendous bus ride where we felt like we were melting finally ended and we were in the car, cool and collected.

We drove until we came across a pub for dinner, a couple of ciders were consumed and a lovely dinner that I could not finish.

The rest of our journey back to Wookey Hoke had stunning views which we had to photograph!

The sun was setting and we walked up the path to see the bunnies and just drink in the tranquility in a very pretty part of the UK.

Well worth a visit and further exploration and it has been another great trip.

Tomorrow we hope to squeeze in Bath, before our return home!

Anyone for tennis?

Way back in November I put into the ballot for Wimbledon and was lucky enough to get Court No 1 tickets for Day1.

I booked the car park and The Wingfield so that we could enjoy a leisurely lunch before play started.

The journey took longer than anticipated but we arrived and taken to our table, everything purple, green and white.

Our waitress came over, and had an aura of Mrs Overall about her, so Kevin and I didn’t opt for the soup!

Food was delightful washed down with wine and water.

So enjoyable to spend time with Kevin, plans a foot for the future and much laughter!

We made our way to our seats, four rows from the front and on the baseline.

First match was ladies singles Donna Kevic v Sloane Stephens with Donna the victor. Up next was Raonic v Brady. Having seen Raonic against Murray in the final 2 years ago, we knew he was a fierce opponent with a killer serve.

Fastest serve was 139 mph and he didn’t disappoint, although Liam put up a brave fight.

Next was Serena Williams v Rus and boy is Serena a powerhouse!

Some of the rallies were awesome and Serena had to work for her win. Her Mum was there which was great to see and Serena is very popular with the crowd.

There was a fourth match and we stayed for the first set, and the match was still being played when we got home!

All in all a day of gorgeous weather, great tennis, food and with the wonderful company of my husband.

Shame Andy Murray has pulled out this year, and I wish his continuing return to health and form.

I’ll definitely be in the ballot hater this year and see what 2019 will hold.

🎾🎾🎾🎾🍾🍾💕💕🎾🎾🎾🎾

Thirty years ago today

Thirty years ago today, Andrew John arrived safely into the world. A full head of black hair and a giant leap into the unknown.

He has made us laugh, cry, shout, beam with pride, laugh some more and cry more tears as we have said goodbyes at the school gates, Brunel University and off to and visiting Australia.

We’ve visited some great places, saw the 1999 total eclipse of the sun and share so many memories.

Andrew has built a life in Australia with Lis, carved out a career, they support and love each other and share a real ethical conscience.

As an extended family we speak often and enjoy precious times when we can.

The little boy, with a big brain is thirty. Enjoy today with your friends, Andrew, and look forward to what the next thirty brings 🤗🤗 ! I’ll be a sprightly 86! And Dad 89 xxxx fingers crossed !

It’s been amazing 😉

Flat out this weekend at a hen do, tyred out and treading very carefully!

Leaving work at 4pm was something of a treat on Friday, so I did my local farm shop jaunt then went home to get ready for a family meal.

La Toscana is an Italian eaterie close to home and we had a wonderful evening, Joe held court and there was plenty of laughter.

Our niece is getting married in under 6 weeks and the ‘family hen do’ was at Coworth Park: most recently in the news as where Prince Harry stayed as his last night as a single man.

Georgina and I got ready and off we went to pick up Kevin’s mum. What should be 1 1/4 hour journey was 1 1/2. Traffic wasn’t great but after a pit stop we were on our way for a half hour journey to Viv’s. Er no more traffic and a detour to the afternoon tea venue that took just over the hour.

We met up with the hen party and settled around our tables in elegant surroundings.

All the hens had a gift which was just so thoughtful.

The food was sublime, the LP bubbly , the tea replenished often and we shared some advice on marriage, funny wedding stories and first dance choons! Met some lovely new people, as well as reacquainting with established friendships, just a lovely afternoon!

All too soon some of the party had to leave so goodbyes were shared, kisses and cheery waves.

I drove my mother in law home and returned to Viv’s for a toilet stop then the drive home with Georgina.

Just before I arrived a got a notice in the car that my front right tyre had low pressure.

Georgina said she would fill with air, so after a tea we said more goodbyes and not long into the journey, quite clearly something was wrong with the tyre!

To cut a long story short it was bu****ed. Found out we had no assistance cover, and frustratingly unlikely to get any!

Don, my brother in law came to help, but to no avail, so we limped back to their home, after a call to Kevin to come and pick us up!

Two poached eggs, tea, wedding chat, rugby and two hours later Kevin arrived. The wheel had to be removed and we would try to get a new one tomorrow.

We got home after midnight.

A fitful sleep a FaceTime call to Oz and then an early start to pick up Georgina via kwikfit meant little time for breakfast. When they returned a bacon sarnie was duly made ( I only consumed bacon!)

So another trip half way round the M25, traffic was ok, but slow in places, due to s certain Mr Sheeran at Wembley?

I sat in the back with a wheel for company, it didn’t say much, but was well behaved!

We arrived safely, wheel was reattached, a quick call to Jonzo and we were off.

Another slow traffic extravaganza but we were home about 4:30.

As it was Father’s Day we had been invited over to Georgina and Jay’s for dinner, and as usual Kevin ensured we were fashionably late. Georgina even put my bolognaise in a pepper: so thoughtful and delicious!

After watching some World Cup footie, we returned home.

What a weekend full of joy, a bit of despair, resilience and kindness. Xx

In loving memory

Today, after over a year, we finally had the items purchased for Tony Ward brought outside for all to admire and enjoy!

It was Sports day so with a few students in school, mainly for exams, it was a great opportunity to have them in situ.

Martin Cook, an amazingly talented sculptor and his son Matt, had made the benches and provided the pedestal ( made for the Chelsea flower show a couple of years ago).

They returned today to set the armillary atop the pedestal.

I cannot wait for the sun to glint off the armillary and for students and staff alike find a place of reflection, and inspiration.

Tony gave his heart and soul to our school and may these wonderful pieces stand out to continue his legacy with inspiring outstanding students.

Half term and 5/12 of 2018

This week has been full of work and play in equal measure.

Monday was a lazy day, before a lovely roast dinner with Georgina and Jay.

Tuesday, and a trip to work, busy with lots of walking. A trip to Bill’s and the cinema provided a catch up and plans for July.

Wednesday and work again, frustrating and so much to do, with printers not working!

Thursday and a chance to catch up on housework, and then get ready to go up to London.

I met Georgina at Locale Southbank and after a lovely dinner, Kevin and I went to County Hall to see Witness for the prosecution. The surroundings were amazing and a play well worth seeing.

Today a leisurely morning, and a trip to Dandelion and Burdock in Stock, to meet a friend. We were there for over 2 1/2 hours, chatting, eating and laughing.

And with that half term is almost over, we are now in June, where has the last 5 months gone. There are 7 weeks until the summer break, although I will be working too!

It has been a pleasure to spend time with some of my favourite people over the last few months, with many more exciting things to come!

A weekend of cricket,sun and a Brucie Bonus!

Way back I put in to the ballot for the Lord’s test England v Pakistan and was successful for yesterday. The first two days went Pakistan’s way but we hoped to see England make a better fist of playing against the young, talented Pakistan side. Now that is as deep as I will probably be!

We arrived although the queue made us a little tardy.

I had also booked lunch and afternoon tea as a treat and just in case weather was poor.

Just before lunch for the teams we made our way to the Thomas Lord room and enjoyed a wonderful lunch.

What hit me was this is still a very male bastion, and as we sat down, we were ignored by a male only party already seated. The couple to Kevin’s right although were far more welcoming and I was joined on my left by a father and son who made the lunch convivial and enjoyable with tales of travel, work and family shared.

We made our way back to the Lower Compton stand, where I had struck up conversation with a Pakistan fan who had been at school with Mark Ramprakash, even sharing dancing feet.

Wickets fell and all too soon it was time for tea.

More loud postulation which was now amusing and mostly ignored!

Returning to our seats we enjoyed the partnership of Buttler and Bess.

Stumps and a good journey home, tired but having had a day to remember all round.

Today we were to visit Essex to watch the Eagles v Surrey and the sun shone and we were dropped off by Joe.

Thunderstorms were forecast so I had a brolly just in case. Essex were first to bat and the runs came, slowly at first.

Due to being out all day we hadn’t time to sort lunch, so a trip by the River Chelmer to the local M&S was called for. A few treats and a delightful Rhubarb, ginger beer hit the spot.

A steel band played after the Essex innings closed on 294 from their 50 overs. And families were on the pitch, so lovely to see

We were joined by Bruce who we met up with in Oz in November, and that was a bonus! He regaled us with his short and medium term plans culminating in Sri Lanka and WI!

Next we were joined by Debbie and heard about the Rugby they both attended yesterday.

Now, I don’t purport to be an expert on sport I watch, I am fairly shallow in as much I appreciate sport and also a good bottom and muscular thigh!

Now I took the first photo above of Snater, and Bruce took the fish eye one – which makes me think of ‘Does my bum look big in this?’

Surrey came out and although an early wicket, they plied their craft well.

Elgar batted with all the pomp and circumstance of his namesake!

A comfortable win by Surrey with wickets and balls in hand.

We said our goodbyes and got home with garden in need of a drink!

Astilbe, foxgloves and peonies blooming and a plant that I don’t recognise are a joy to behold.

What a start to half term!

Hard day’s night

What a week! I don’t feel that I have achieved very much at all. Everyday has brought a fresh challenge, some more daunting than others

I’ve retreated to the garden of an evening, watching for the little changes to the shapes and colours.

Changes to Data Protection come into force next Friday, and there is a mountain to climb, so far I’m in the quagmire of treacle, even before base camp!

Policies, procedures with daily requests for money, time and assistance just don’t mix. Interviews cancelled, resignations, which throw all balls in the air – where will they fall?

Tomorrow, is hopefully a joyous day as we have a Royal wedding. I’ve even been into the loft to find my veil and tiara from 36 years ago! I also found my bridal bouquet!

It’s also FA Cup final day and a win for Man United will provide even more joy, well for me at least.

I don’t want to think of work until Monday. I have made brownies, tomorrow I’ll make scones for our afternoon tea whilst enjoying all the pomp and ceremony!

Chinkle, chinkle everyone! Bottoms up!

🍾🍾💕💕👰🏻🤵