Almost a year ago today Georgina and River baked a rainbow cake, and if anyone would’ve told me that by ‘this time next year’ I would have two new adorable grandsons, I would not have believed them.
But here we are with Ramsay born in July and another born on River’s 4th birthday.
Brodie Paul Edward arrived safely on Sunday after being induced. Mother and baby are doing amazingly well, and he is a little poppet.
We travelled up on Friday spending a few precious hours with Georgina before she left for the hospital. Friday and Saturday were fraught with many messages and calls. News of the safe arrival, and that he was a boy, released happy tears and overwhelming pride. We caught up with Andrew and Amanda sharing our excitement and they had also spoken to Georgina. It’s only 10 weeks until the grandsons will all meet each other, how amazing will that be.
As it was River’s birthday we were travelling again to attend the family gathering, watched him open some presents, blow out his candles and enjoyed spending time with him. He is growing up so fast, with energy and a thirst for knowledge. His love of jokes, awesome communication skills, bodes well for his school journey next year.
Our birthday present this year was a trip to Lapland UK, for the following Wednesday, and Georgina had got him the elf hat to wear on the day.
As Georgina and Brodie were still in hospital we stayed a little longer with River, then drove back to our Airbnb.
Monday, a quiet morning at the barn, with excitement building to meet Brodie and enjoy cuddles, as well as give heartfelt congratulations to Mum and Dad in person. That newborn smell, the facial expressions, the little noises are just the best.
Tuesday we initially were disappointed that they may not be coming home, but at 10:28 we got the news they were coming home.
What a privilege to be there when they did, so so special. More cuddles, moments to savour, watching the new parents with their precious son, protective, tender and in their bubble.
Wednesday and time for us to go home and then travel to Ascot for River’s trip to Lapland.
Magical is the best way to describe our evening. Every little detail faultless, us as grandparents were brought to tears more than once with River’s reactions and interactions. A memory for life, meandering through the pine scented forest, walking into Mother Christmas’s kitchen, with a waft of gingerbread, the ice-skating and the finale of meeting Father Christmas.
Three precious grandsons in our life, making it richer in every way possible, whilst watching our children on their parenting journeys.
I couldn’t tell you how many miles we did this week, but every one was worthwhile.
So much can happen in 365 days, and I feel so blessed.
Last week Georgina had her baby shower, and family and friends did her proud, with decorations, games and their love and happiness for her.
I met Victoria early and we put the finishing touches to the venue, and awaited her arrival.
Georgina looked sensational and I was pinching myself that this was her baby shower.
With family travelling from Sussex and Surrey the M23 and 25 did their best to delay them, but they arrived.
I am so proud of Georgina and can’t believe we are less than 4 weeks away to meet this precious little one.
I feel the photos from the day give the sense of the love that was shared.
A big thank you to everyone who came, to Harry’s bar for the venue, colourful bites for the macarons, the gifts and the love. To have a child has always been Georgina’s dream, and we can’t wait to meet you! She will be the best mummy💕💕💕
I hope your life is full of ‘ I can’t believe I did this’ instead of ‘I should’ve done it!’
I saw the above words on a post on my friend Honor’s Insta page. Both her and Maria have been inspirational in encouraging me to do just that.
They cohosted a trip to Morocco earlier this month, which I had coveted for over a year to do.
I paid my deposit earlier this year, and with other travels and family excitement, I knew it was approaching, and really hadn’t thought too much about it.
There was a flurry of activity regarding hot air balloons, camels, camping and gardens, and before I caught my breath I was very kindly dropped at the airport by my cousin, after an overnight stay at her home, treated to a tagine for dinner.
Arriving at Marrakesh airport where I was met by my driver, Sharif, the heat, the noise alerted my senses to the exotic culture of this city.
The Riad Mur Akush, owned by Maria, provided a safe haven, and I met the women we would be sharing this experience with. I knew half of them, a pleasure to reacquaint with them, and to establish new bonds with the others.
Lunch and dinner delivered opportunities to chat, share and familiarise ourselves with our roommates. I shared with Jet, who I had met over zoom, a beautiful soul, passionate about photography and the perfect companion.
An early start on the 7th and a drive to where we would embark on our flight. It was dark, with a chill in the air, but the coffee and tea provided some warmth.
We watched the balloons inflating, with some beginning to rise. We were called to ours and we were assisted to get in.
Before we knew it the balloon was untethered and we softly drifted up. There were so many in the sky, a rainbow of coloured teardrops drifting effortlessly. The sunrise was stunning, the exceptional quiet (except when the propane burners were firing), the lack of a feeling of movement, and the bird’s-eye view, were beyond comparison to anything I had experienced. It was emotional for us all in the basket. Feelings of pure weightlessness, wellbeing, at peace rippled over me. As someone who suffers with heights/vertigo this was definitely life changing. I can’t believe I did this moment!
Breakfast with our group was much appreciated and as the day warmed up we all chatted excitedly about our trip.
Back at the Riad some of us were keen to visit the medina. The smell of rose, spices and petrol ( from the motorbikes that whizz past you constantly) overloaded the senses. Some people stopped, bartered, bought, others were there to peruse.
Some of us had booked to visit the Jardin Majorelle ( Yves Saint Laurent’s home and gardens). A good 30 minute walk, again exposed us to a vibrant culture, mesmerising at every turn.
The gardens are stunningly beautiful, the colour accents enhancing the hues from the sky. Photos don’t do it justice
The evening was spent dining out, and a belly dancing show. The women dancing with candelabra were a sight to behold, as they navigated the low lights, tassels and each other. The cash placed in the bras of the less clad ladies, was a juxtaposition with some of the cultural and social mores.
Another early rise as we embarked on our desert trip. We travelled by mini bus to our overnight stay at a beautiful hotel Xaluca Dades. We had comfort stops for toilet, coffee and WiFi.
The hotel had a stunning pool, but we arrived too late, so it was a freshen up and dinner.
Breakfast and we were off, ready to meet the camels, we stopped at Dades Gorge and enjoyed Moroccan pizza along the way. The chat was plentiful, swapping life stories, hopes, dreams, listening, offering support, counsel, laughter and pride.
And so after a slight detour we arrived to be greeted by the camels. We were all duly hoisted onto them, and the trek began. 90 to 120 minutes over dunes passing wadis, passing little campsites ( one even had a helipad)
After about 45 minutes I had to get off, as my saddle had a life of its own, after 15 minutes walking I ‘screwed my courage to the sticking place’ and got back on. I think another hour of laughter, frenetic noises as the camels went down the dunes, with calls of ‘lean back’, we arrived at camp. And wow!
En-suite facilities, carpets, a dining tent, fire pit. This was beyond all our expectations.
We got ready for dinner, waited on with delicious food, wine and ended the evening with a drum serenade by the fire pit. Exhausted we fell into bed, enjoying the comfy beds, and our luxury facilities.
We woke early with the chance to see the sunrise and we weren’t disappointed. Some climbed a sand dune, others sat atop a smaller one to capture and enjoy the moment.
Breakfast was welcome, and we packed hurriedly to alight the awaiting jeeps to traverse the sand dunes. Our driver was playing Bob Marley and the more we screamed/laughed the nearer to the edge of the dunes he went.
The majority of the last full day for many of us was spent travelling back to the Riad. A few were struggling with a virus, but we did our best to keep spirits high and we enjoyed a late lunch before arriving back at 830 pm.
Jet and I were too tired to go out to dinner, so we packed and retired early.
Monday 11th November started with a lazy breakfast, some goodbyes, and a trip to the Hammam. What a treat, the scrub, the exfoliation, massage to ease tired muscles from the camel trek and the journey home. Another trip to the souks, then to get ready to face the queues at the airport.
Jet by this time was quite unwell, but we managed to navigate the queues and enjoyed a drink before getting on the plane. A medical emergency made for a delay to disembark, and paramedics boarded to ensure those affected were treated.
I have so many photos, and so many memories of this trip. The warmth was not only from the sun but radiated throughout from the women in this group. Bonds strengthened, interests shared and a keenness to explore more places, meet new people and spread the word of this fantastic group of women.
I am very fortunate to be able to do these things, and hopefully give confidence to others to do more, live more and enjoy every moment ( may not ride a camel again though😱)
Morocco has truly been an amazing place to visit. I do want to visit again, with Kevin. The people, the history, the culture, noise, colours and cacophony that assaults the senses everywhere you look. Oh and there are loads and loads of kittens and cats
This week was another trip to Scotland for a sad occasion. My cousin Helen’s husband, Brian, passed away on 8th October.
Brian had faced many health challenges over the last 30 years, and whilst both he and his family shared moments of anguish, these were met with stoical fortitude, humour, love and support.
Brian ‘Andy’ Innes Anderson was born 9th September 1958, by all accounts in a rush.
He joined the Royal Navy in his teens and whilst in the senior service he travelled extensively, trained to be a chef, boxed and was on HMS Ark Royal featured in the BBC programme Sailor.
He married Helen in 1978, with their eldest son born in October 1979, after a move to Helensburgh.
Another son completed their family in 1984.
They returned to Arbroath and Brian worked at Dundee College until his first health challenge. Over the years he had to cope with debilitating conditions. Each one was met with a positive mentality to overcome them, and make the best of it.
He channelled his energies into baking, sugar craft, the church, making bracelets, draw cartoons, and laminate cards to hand out at church, and much more.
Latterly he was also involved with Andy’s Man Club, a mens’ suicide prevention charity.
Brian was a prolific reader and could talk on any subject. His smile was as big as his heart and he enjoyed spending time with his extended family.
At his funeral, so beautifully put together by his wife and sons, we saw video footage of Ark Royal, pictures of Brian at the top of mountains, and his huge smile. His eldest son read a very touching eulogy, with the raw emotion exposed.
Music played a part in invoking memories of youth, love and family.
From the church we went to the crematorium with more music and poignant words. As the final goodbyes were said, the coffin began to descend and there was a loud cry from Helen as she had requested that the flag draped over the coffin, to be returned, and she thought it was on the final journey with Brian. It did lighten the moment and caused the congregation to suppress a giggle. I’m sure Brian would have appreciated that.
Brian gave so much to his community, and that was so apparent in the high regard he was held in. I’d forgotten about some of his youthful derring do’s, and it was a privilege to say goodbye and be reminded of them.
As we age it’s important to remind ourselves and others of how our lives have unfolded, good, bad, indifferent. It’s important to share what were our hopes and dreams, and also those we still have.
Helen has been by Brian’s side for over 46 years and she has the love and support of so many to help her navigate her grief and loss, and find her new normal. Life is precious.
On Wednesday night Georgina called me with the saddest news: the death of Liam Payne from 1Direction. Georgina has been a fan from 2011 and beyond their hiatus in 2016.
Five young men of similar age to her, she met them in March 2011 and again in March 2012.
We followed their journey to stardom and their solo careers.
In the 13 years you felt like you knew them, their struggles with fame, family sadness, relationships: their lives in a fishbowl.
Only they know the pressures that they were/are under, to perform, to live up to their own and everyone else’s expectations: finding love, security and peace.
Thinking about this the struggles are the same for most people, without the scrutiny…… but with social media those pressures are there for those that like; follow; comment.
There has been so much written about Liam’s last few hours, days, months. There will be elements of truth, misinformation, and lies, but at the heart of this was a father, son, brother, uncle, friend whose loss will be felt immeasurably.
Life for some can be overwhelming with both internal and external pressures. Today it is easier and varied to numb this. We are told regularly that mental health is a priority, and that we need to communicate how we feel, it is not weakness, seek help.
Too often help is not immediately available, and once we begin that journey from darker places it can feel insurmountable and so easily give up.
We need to keep talking, seek help, there is hope, resilience, that overcome life’s trials. There is joy, quite often in the simplest of things: a smile, a hug, a walk, comfort of a pet, the sea, nature all around us.
We all deserve to be listened to, find peace in our lives. We need something to change as there are, no doubt, so many who continue to struggle, less high profile, but just as worthy of help and a happier ending.
Where is this year going? September has gone so quickly. Lots of photos of Ramsay, time with River after his holiday. Walks with Georgina and Ralph. A trip to Warwickshire for pram shopping. Shoe shopping for the Camino walk next year.
I’ve set myself a few little projects to complete, and I want to spend time getting all my Christmas shopping and cards all done.
With a trip to Morocco early November I want to keep the remaining 6/7 weeks to Georgina’s due date clear.
I am feeling excited, but slightly nervous as the days pass, which I’m sure, is natural.
After a busy few days we made the trip to Scotland on Thursday for my cousin Brian’s funeral.
He was only 63, always a part of my life. I remember spending so much of my childhood with him and his siblings. Those bonds with all my cousins remain today.
In adult years with marriage and family the visits were fewer. I do remember in 1989 a holiday to Scotland where we visited Pitlochry, they were on holiday there too. We bumped into each other in a playground and somewhere is a photo as a reminder.
My parents moving back to Scotland in 2005 gave more opportunity to visit, and we enjoyed many a homemade cake in the comfort of their beautiful home. Both Alison and Brian were so good with Mum and Dad too, and still visiting Mum after Dad died in 2021.
With his wife. Alison, they had two beautiful daughters, they were and still are a tight unit. A grandson was born in 2019 another dimension in his life that gave him so much pleasure.
He worked for the same company for over 40 years, he enjoyed nature, walking, fast cars, music, racing pigeons, gardening and loved fishing, which my sister was so fortunate to spend time with him doing.
He liked a wee dram and any chance to get on a dance floor, I used to love joining him at family celebrations and weddings being hurled around faster and faster.
In many ways he reminded me of my Dad: quiet, unassuming with a wicked sense of humour. How he and the family coped over the last few months has been inspiring, especially as they each have their own challenges to face.
His wife, daughters and grandson will miss him immeasurably but there will be so many memories to ease their grief. That will also comfort his Mum and his siblings, and include us the extended family.
Friday was a beautiful day which started with a beach walk with Elaine and Dora just after sunrise. After breakfast we got ready for the sombre occasion.
Arriving at the church, the piper was playing, which always starts the tears.
His beloved car parked by the entrance, another lump in my throat, and then the floral displays on the steps.
Once inside the full church we awaited his family to arrive. Then ‘Always’ by Bon Jovi was played.
The service was beautiful, with the eulogy perfect for him, his life and loves.
Arbirlot cemetery, bathed in glorious sunshine is his final resting place next to his Dad and not too far from Uncle Dave and my Dad. It really is a beautiful spot.
So many attended the grave, that it almost felt an intrusion in Alison and the girls private grief. They were amazing and with the roses, kissed and gently thrown in was another emotional tribute.
Friends and family made their way to Arbroath Golf Club and we raised glasses, shared memories, laughed, cried and celebrated Brian’s life.
Long may that continue to remember him fondly, when we dance, when we listen to music he loved, when we are walking and enjoying nature. He will remain in our lives forever.
Our eldest grandson was born on Brian’s 60th birthday, and I promise that as I celebrate River’s birthday every year, I will raise my glass and remember Brian.
I started blogging about nine years ago, as our son was in Australia, I felt it was a good way to keep him up to speed with what we were doing. It started as chronological musings for the first two posts, but now it’s about anything. It’s covered elements of our lives and it’s occasionally good to go through and read. I’m also hoping that it’ll be a point of reference one day when I’m no longer here. The photos are great mementos and remind us of happy days, places visited and I love that.
I enjoy writing the blogs, editing and the pictorial aspect of it. 💕💕💕
Busy looking forward to doing Christmas by the end of October
Busy planning what to do in Morocco
Busy keeping most of November and December free
We’ve also had the saddest of news, with all that entails. This serves to remind us that life can change in an instant and how transient our hold on life can be.
Hold your loved ones close, tell them you love them, be kind and smile. Be joyful and permeate that joy.
I have to give some thought to putting words onto a card, but I don’t want to write about loss or sadness, I want to remember fondly, fun and laughter, and a gentleness.
A few photos there has been so many other things in the background and I’m grateful for family and friends supporting me.
I can’t believe that by the end of this year we will be the proud grandparents to 3 grandchildren. Georgina is expecting a baby in December. She told us on her birthday, but waited until twelve weeks to announce it fully. We are beyond thrilled and excited for her and her partner. She will be a fabulous Mum, a long held dream for her, and us, and we will support them in anyway we can.
No doubt the intervening months will pass quickly and Christmas will be exciting.
So with the news announced, we were on our journey to Tasmania to meet Ramsay. He was 12 days old and the emotion meeting him was overwhelming. This tiny little bundle ( I’d forgotten how tiny newborns are) was safely here and in front of us.
We met Amanda’s parents and Vinnie too. Gay and Mick could not have been more welcoming. Vinnie is a delightful dog and very good with Ramsay.
Gay and Mick opened their home to us and looked after us so well. Their generosity, hospitality and their candour both heartfelt and refreshing. There was plenty of laughter and we enjoyed our introduction to AFL.
We did and saw so much with them all and it must have been hard to adapt to having a newborn whilst taking us to places, and entertaining us. The fact they invested the time with us makes us very thankful.
We had so many cuddles and we saw raw emotion at times, doing their best, trying various things and suffering from sleep deprivation. Ramsay is adorable and thriving and I’m sure that they will find their rhythm with him, as they grow in confidence as parents. He is one very loved little boy.
Leaving them last Monday was very hard, especially as there will be so many changes over the coming weeks and months. Regular FaceTime and a visit in February to look forward to, will help.
I’m immensely proud of them both at their resilience and feel so much joy.
We broke the journey home by visiting friends in Perth. We last saw them 8 years ago, and it felt like it was only weeks. We enjoyed good food, met some of their family, and saw some of the attractions of Perth and Freo.
We are a little older, maybe wiser and our lives are richer in so many ways. Until the next time…
And with that we are home after a month away, it feels strange but we are looking forward to seeing River and the months to come.
These last few days have been a whirlwind. We’ve had three family birthdays ( our eldest son, mine and a great nephew’s) and our grandson decided to make his much anticipated appearance early on the 2nd July.
A very early morning message and then a call told us the news ‘ we’ve got a baby’. We already knew he was a boy, but the name was a total surprise to me
Ramsay Michael Morley
6 lb 9oz, at 8:11 am
I was very emotional, it had been a bit scary for them, but he arrived safe and sound, and Mummy did very well, in fact she looked amazing.
Ramsay was my maiden name, and Michael is Amanda’s Dad’s name, so very touched by the choices.
There will no doubt be much photo spam of Ramsay, who certainly has his Daddy’s facial expressions to a tee.
I have also been wined and dined with dinner out with Joe, Nicole and River for a pre birthday treat. We went to a lovely alfresco Italian in Maldon, definitely worth another visit.
Thursday was my actual birthday, and it was nicely chilled and a gorgeous sunny day. Dinner in the evening with Georgina, her partner and Kevin at Smith’s of Ongar was perfect with a chance to toast Ramsay too.
Friday I dodged the rain travelling to London to meet up with some ladies who lunch. We went to the Real Greek in Covent Garden and enjoyed chatting, listening and laughing about life and love.
Yesterday we had River and he picked some fruit from the garden, and enjoyed dinner so much he declared at the table ‘ you can make this again Morro’. Dessert was butterscotch angel delight with flake sprinkled on top. He ate 3 out of the 5, and loved eating it from a tea cup.
He entertained us and was so funny, his mind was doing somersaults as he continued to talk for ages. I read him The Elves and the Shoemaker, and when I’d finished he said I wish we were shoemakers.
The joy he has brought to our lives, and now with Ramsay my heart has doubled. Another precious little one to love, and to watch grow, as we watch his parents grow too. They are doing so well, I’m so proud of them both in the magical journey of parenthood. Can’t wait to see them all and to get our first hugs and cuddles.
Oh and England won on penalties to get through to Euro 24 semi finals…..
A busy week as we approach half way through 2024. A ‘trip’ in more ways than one, to Brighton, and we’ve watched three cricket matches. We watched U19 England v Sri Lanka, a convivial way to spend an afternoon. There were a few names to watch out for as stars of the future: Benkenstein, Mustard and Flintoff to name a few. We spent a day with River, and watched some cricket with Georgina. Today we caught up with Andrew and Amanda, on his birthday ( where did those 36 years go?), whilst they eagerly await the arrival of their son.
We have gifts and some clothes to take out with us, and I’ve had the chance to go through ‘vintage’ items kept.
Time does really go so quickly and it’s a privilege to be here to share in their next exciting adventure. Seeing your child become a parent is magical and to be a part of the journey with all the enjoyment that gives is priceless.
This year has been full of so much joy so far, no doubt there is much more to come. I’ve noticed that I laugh a lot more than I have over the last few years, which is a real positive. Life is good.
Going to watch a game of cricket yesterday I remembered that it was 43 years ago that I watched a match for the first time, and met Kevin’s family. It was daunting to meet so many new people, which I marvel at I just did it, as I must have been so nervous.
I’d never had any previous exposure to the game, but was very quickly encouraged to learn to love it as Marion, Kevin’s step mum, told me ‘cricket is his life’.
I learnt to score with coloured pens, and that got me out of making ‘tea’.
I still regularly enjoy watching cricket on tv and have travelled to many grounds to watch it ( probably more than Kevin).
We enjoy Essex Cricket membership and try to get to as many matches as possible.
But remembering days gone by didn’t stop there….
55 years ago to the day we moved from Scotland, to Maryland in London.
I made my first holy communion in the morning, enjoyed tea with extended family, then caught the overnight sleeper to begin our new life. It must have been daunting for both our parents who were very close to their families, both had 3 siblings.
I never really saw my parents as risk takers, but on reflection this decision, must have been huge.
Elaine was 3 and I was almost 8, and it must have been daunting for us, new home, schools and a new accent-but I thank my parents for how they managed the process and provided stability and opportunities that may have not been open to us if we had remained in Edinburgh or relocated to elsewhere in Scotland.
More than half a century living in England, although I still count myself as Scottish Italian. interesting how we can be shaped by decisions made for us, by opportunities that arise and what we see all around us.
I’ve been blessed with family and friends and as we are on the cusp of becoming grandparents again, I hope that our grandchildren can develop strong bonds with us and each other.
I’ve wanted to visit Dubai for a long time, so when Georgina suggested a ‘girls’ break for her 30th year, the answer was a resounding YES.
We booked in October and it seemed to come around very quickly.
We left Gatwick late on 31st May arriving the morning of the 1st June. An Uber to our stunning hotel ‘Atlantis the Royal’ provided a view of the metropolis that Dubai now is.
Check in was by Nikita, and a complimentary breakfast was provided. Our room was on Floor 41, with a sea view-perfect for sunset.🌅
Unpacking was swift as we found our bearings, we navigated the levels , shops, galleries and restaurants available. ( We didn’t find them all)
An afternoon on the beach beckoned, the sea felt like bath water. The food offering was delicious and the heat intense.
Dinner was booked for La Mar, the Peruvian restaurant. We dressed for dinner and we took the lift up to La Mar. The food was delicious and for me there were a few alcohol free options.
After a good night’s sleep we enjoyed breakfast and made our way to Nobu by the beach, pre booked. The staff prepare the loungers, and we were treated to various shots, ice lollies and cooling spray.
Georgina had booked dinner for Asia, Asia at the marina and we watched the sun set as the boats below glided on the water.
We booked a trip to the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi ( pronounced Abu Zabi) which was worthwhile visiting, and wearing an abaya obligatory in order to enter. The white marble is beautiful to see and touch. The chandeliers are a sight to behold. It felt peaceful although the incessant pouting and posing for photographs of visitors for the ‘gram’ did detract from the serenity of this building.
We returned to the hotel for an afternoon by the pool, before dinner at Ling, Ling, within the hotel. we were thoroughly spoiled and a dessert to celebrate Georgina’s birthday was so sweet.
The evening ended watching the fountain show with music, colour and fire.
Tuesday saw us at The Royal pool, for the morning. Another lovely experience with staff, food and service of the highest order.
We had booked Cloud 22, which has an infinity pool, another ‘gram’ favourite. Six hours of music, food, drink, people watching, sun, pool dipping. I’m intrigued by the ‘cosmetic’ procedures that some have had, particularly BBL, each to their own.
Our final morning, allowed some time by the pool before heading to the airport. Checkout was smooth and the same person who checked us in. An uber to the airport and the flight home.
Four days flew by, but so enjoyable. Time to relax, chat, laugh, the occasional tear. It was magical spending time with Georgina, I am so proud of the woman she is, and it was a privilege to have this time with her.
Dubai was everything I hoped it would be, and there is so much more to see and do. Until the next time……..
My little life 