Back Home again

After a wonderful twelve days away from the Island we decided to return last night, having travelled from Torquay in inclement weather. Not bad, but not nice enough to break our journey and the good roads were comparatively free on a Sunday. We had lunch in Bridport and decided against staying for a night in Weymouth. The Island looks pretty good and the house was tidy, as we had left it in a good state in case somebody wanted to view it. This morning the sun is pouring through the house and we both feel pretty good. We stayed at a lovely little hotel in Torquay, only two minutes from the Riviera Centre where we attended a conference of my Catenian Association on Friday Saturday and Sunday. An address from an American Cardinal on Saturday and a con-celebrated Mass by two Bishops to our congregation of 1500 delegates and wives on Sunday were highlights for us. Other days we went to Brixham, Paignton, Totnes, Dartmouth and of course, into Torquay. Weather in Torquay was abysmal and in fact we went to the pictures on one day to see Sahara (a very exciting film for those near a cinema). When we came out, having parked under the sea wall the car was coated in salt from the very heavy waves, which spilled over onto the road! When in Dartmouth we took a picture of the New Angel, but we were unable to book for lunch and the town was just beginning its Annual Dartmouth Music Festival and was pretty full. We only just escaped by the skin of our teeth of pickpng up a £40 parking ticket - who says Parking attendants have no heart. He was just licking his pencil to write out a ticket, so I fell to my knees and he let me off. That will teach Mum not to ask for assistance in Boots!!

When staying with Cathy and family in Wales we had some really lovely weather, with clear blue skies and we went out and about to Aberystwyth and Carmarthen, finally celebrating Mum's birthday with lunch at a lovely hotel in Lampeter. The boys are growing up and doing really well at school. Thomas's first year assessement said that he was especially good at nine subjects. How about that?? Edmund, as you will remember got a Maths prize. Kate is still at Lower school and has not yet begun to shine, although she plays her flute well for a beginner. Cathy is very well and a lovely Mum and John disappeared to London for the weekend to be with his two sisters, the youngest of whom, Maggie, had come over from Sydney for a visit.

So, we are still alive and kicking - Mum is a year older and looks good with a hair cut when in Lampeter and we will start to tidy up the garden later in the week. Thanks to all who sent cards, messages and presents. Love to you all.