First week completed

So it was back to school on Monday, a new term, new academic year and a new Headteacher.

You could feel the buzz around school and INSET for the first two days there was real sense of doing things together.

I, after 13 years, had the opportunity to welcome support staff and also on day two to address the whole staff on GDPR! Who says my work isn’t glamorous!

Meetings galore, catch ups on holidays, sorting out things that hadn’t quite gone to plan, and even an occasional thank you did make for a feeling of involvement that I haven’t had before.

I travelled to Brighton, a journey of over 3 hours!, to pick up my parents to bring them to Essex for a few days.

I had Friday booked off so that they weren’t left alone and bored.

We enjoyed a late breakfast and did some shopping.

Saturday, Georgina picked up her new Fifi, and we enjoyed her company too.

We have family coming on Sunday so I prepared two desserts and got the house tidyish!

First week done, and I look forward to the next 37 school weeks of this academic year.

Rail Mail

A few weeks ago my cousin Jo put on Facebook about the Postal museum, a ride underground from Mount Pleasant in a train that transferred the post around London.

It seemed like fun so we booked and lunch at Madison’s arranged.

Kevin and I left our hotel and had breakfast and we met Shirley and later Jo.

I said goodbye to Kevin and we walked the 15 minutes to phoenix place.

Once inside we entered the tiny compartments, this is not for the claustrophobic. After a 15 minute loop we enjoyed the museum and gift shop.

Next we walked to St Paul’s for our lunch although the number plate on this car drew our attention and we dropped into a church!

Lunch was fantastic as were the cocktails.

We walked to Covent Garden did some shopping and stopped off for a bottle of wine to toast a great day!

Once home I settled down to review where we had been over the last few days and Kevin offered me a G&T, I said only a small one…

This mini tankard was duly deposited. 😂😂😂😂😂😂

OH 60 Day 7

Last treat for Kevin a meal with friends at Dalloway Terrace in London.

As I was also to be in London on Saturday morning, I booked a hotel for the night too!

We left Billericay at 3:00pm and we were on our way.

We checked in and got ready, although the precipitation was a slight concern as we had a walk to meet our friends!

The rain stopped and held off so that we could walk to meet up and enjoyed pre dinner drinks in the Edition.

Another walk to Dalloway Terrace and we settled at our table.

The surroundings are delightful and we enjoyed amazing food, great wine and conversation flowed.

We met Bev and Neil working at Libra Bank and have enjoyed many convivial evenings over the last 30+ years.

Whilst we enjoyed our food the heavens opened again, but didn’t dampen our evening at all.

We had a 2 minute walk back to our hotel which was perfect!

So that’s it – the week of celebrations complete.

Kevin is an amazing, humble, gentle man and deserves all the accolades and surprises that have come his way this week.

It has been a blast to share it all with him and family and friends.

Xxxxxx

OH 60 Day 6

Nothing planned by me today, as I had to go to work as it was GCSE results day.

Nail appointment later in the afternoon in readiness for tomorrow’s treat.

Kevin had arranged to play squash with his chum of over 33 years, the first person he played against when we moved to Essex.

I settled down to make up two nightstands for the spare room!

Georgina and Jay popped round, and Joseph had Ellen and Ralph over, so there was the usual hubbub.

Georgina also sent a photo of me taking a photo last night!

Have a good day!

OH 60 Day 5

Back at work this morning for me, leaving the new sexagenarian at home.

I had to visit the graphic designer/branding consultant and enjoyed the amble through the little gardens in Chelmsford.

Getting home early afternoon there was an unknown car on our drive and I wondered who Kevin had round. He was entertaining 3 ladies! I’d forgotten one his treats was getting the house cleaned! 😂😂 He’d also had an impromptu visit from Jay with some beer from the Billericay Brewing Company.

Next up was a visit from the hairdresser-long overdue at 8 weeks since our last appointment!

I’d booked a table for 5 at a nearby restaurant Vita Bella, I’d been on a couple of occasions, and felt it would be perfect for our celebration, so we gathered there for 7:30.

We had a great time, the food delicious and plentiful. The staff were incredible, when Georgina went to the bathroom a waitress placed a cover over her food and on her return just seemed to come out of thin air to remove it!

Kevin didn’t want any fuss, but was ok with a candle in his dessert! No singing – phew!

It was lovely to talk about favourite holiday memories, places and laughter and tears were never far away, as is customary for us!

I can’t believe how quickly this week has gone, but it was another moment to savour.

OH 60 Day 4

So the 21st of August was upon us, Kevin’s 60th birthday. I asked him what time he was born and he didn’t know.

I was up at 7:15, to find there was no water. After much twiddling with taps I managed to squeeze a dribble to wash my hair. After that whilst drying my hair the power went off. For those that know me this was a nightmare for me!

We were called to breakfast, but that was slightly delayed by the power failure. A great choice of cold and hot items with great coffee.

We packed and Kevin opened the cards that we took with us. We read messages on Facebook, with a couple making us both teary! (You know who you are)!

It was time to disembark, not looking forward to it, but it was easier than our arrival.

Kevin was unaware of where or what we would do next, as I put in the post code for his next surprise.

We arrived at the Anchor pub by Pyrford Lock, an hour earlier than expected so we ambled along the lockside path.

I got a message and made our way back to the pub, where Kevin recognised his Mum and Viv sitting at a table-his next surprise!

Don returned from the bar and we made our way to our table.

We raised our glasses to toast his birthday and also his Mum knew the time of birth 6:15 in the morning -so he was 60!

We ordered food and talked about the past, the future, retirement plans, hopes and dreams, trips and so much more.

Delightful!

We sat outside in the sun for a bit enjoying the warmth and nature at its best, with the occasional canal boat chugging along.

Goodbyes all round and more good wishes, with hugs and kisses, we left to return home.

It felt like we’d been away for a week, not just two days!

Once home we waited for Georgina to come over. More cards and presents were opened, a few tears and lots of laughter. Georgina made chocolate chip cookies and Joseph returned from work and they sang happy birthday.

Kevin was very appreciative of all the cards, gifts, messages and time family and friends had given, and that have been sent; with a few more treats still to come, he is quite overwhelmed by it all.

Happy Birthday to my husband, friend, and soulmate! 😘😘💕💕💕💕🍾🎁

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.

Error
This video doesn’t exist

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.

🎾🎾🎾🎾🍾🍾💕💕🎾🎾🎾🎾