Oldies On Tour

Thursday 23rd December

We arrived at Pigeons Perch around lunchtime, our Christmas destination, the home of Mark and his family. We had been looking forward to this for months and had everything crossed that we would get here this year following the awful 6-months I had just been through and of course any last minute restrictions Boris may have imposed; but we’re here now so up to our room, unpack and relax.

Since our last visit two and a half years ago the porch has been extended and during lockdown, a jacuzzi has been added to the garden, hopefully we’ll be in that tomorrow otherwise much the same.

During the course of the afternoon the family returned one by one and we all sat down to dinner, it was lovely to be here, son, daughter-in-law, two granddaughters and Dan, Tyla’s boy friend and of course Christine, a fully paid-up member of the “Page Family”.  After dinner, relaxing in front of the roaring log fire we all started to doze-off; Christmas holidays had arrived at the “Perch”.

Friday 24th December

We awoke to bustling activities from downstairs and Ashleigh heading to work, (Uni student, needs the money!!!). This morning is an  “all hands on deck working morning” for all of us, preparing everything for the next couple of days.   Everywhere you looked, fridge, utility room, garage, outside the kitchen door etc., there was food of one description or another, I know we all eat a lot over Christmas but I think there was sufficient food here for the whole of Chapel Brampton.   It was further exacerbated by the cheese board we were asked to supply.   Mark challenged us to get the following:-

Brie.        Port Salut.           Blue Stilton.         Boursin.         Strong Cheddar.         Red Storm.

Quite a challenge, especially the Red Storm but we succeeded;  we were also invited to add our choices so added 3-more, just in-case they ran short!!!!   

During the past few months Dan bought his first home, a 1-bedroom apartment on the ground floor in a reasonably new block and as Tyla was heading that way I was asked to join them, I think they wanted me to see it.    Tyla took me in her car, the last time she drove me was when she was learning. 🤢🤢🤢,  today was the first time Tyla had driven me since passing her test several years ago 🤠🤠🤠; very good driver.   Not only has Dan got a very cosy ground floor apartment, he has French Doors opening straight onto a quiet part of the gardens.

Returning to the Perch and there was an enormous buffet laid out, including a rather spectacular cheese board!!!, and though 7-of us hit it hard, we hardly made a dent in it.  By the afternoon everything that could be done for Christmas Day had been done, table laid, vegetables prepared etc., etc.   

During the afternoon we all enjoyed several sessions in the Jacuzzi, far too long for me as it happened.  After my extremely shower, I sat on the edge of the bed “suffering” with shakes and that general un-well feeling.   I blamed the shower, it was ridiculously hot and the electronic switch was jammed so it couldn’t be turned down, but later we decided it was the hour or so spent in the Jacuzzi accompanied by G & T’s!!!!!!  Anyway back downstairs, again food was available and we all chatted when Dan came out with a new game called  “Linkee”, certainly a different to normal Christmas games, we actually had to think!!!!  We were all engrossed and the evening just flew by and it was soon time to retire.

Christmas Day

We were woken up somewhat early by an excited Tyla running along the landing shouted “Merry Christmas”, so we all got up in our “jim-jams” for a Christmas breakfast cooked by Mark.   This was followed by a procession of us taking our showers.     Tyla and Dan went first as they had to head over to Dan’s parents whilst the rest of us showered then started supping Champagne, waited, drooling and just looking on at the mountain of presents around the tree and behind the sofa.  During this time Derek and Cath, Paula’s parents popped round for a Christmas drink.

By late morning with the turkey in the oven, Derek and Cath gone, expectations were rising but we were still waiting for the return of Dan and Tyla, still gazing at this mountain around the tree.  Fortunately it wasn’t very much longer before they arrived and the main business of the day began, but first we had our starters.  The presents kept coming, everyone was busy giving or receiving, paper flying until the turkey arrived; somewhat later than planned.

Mark carved the turkey with precision, I poured the Châteauneuf-de-Pape with care, and the

seven of us tucked into a wonderful Christmas lunch, turkey with all the trimmings.

Fully replete we cleared up and played games.  We started with UNO, always a Christmas favourite, this was then followed by another game bought by Dan called “Dobble”, this game was about observation and the younger players were very quick and I got well and truly stitched up, but laugh, we all hurt with laughter and during the proceedings Dan was given a new “nickname”,he is now officially known as “slug”, following this I was christened “lettuce”, I don’t really know why!!!!    To calm us down prior to turning in we had a repeat of the “Linkee” game  which was very good and certainly made the “little grey cells work overtime”.  The game is about answering questions, the correct answers are all connected, and the connection is the answer required to complete the round and win the point.

After a wonderful Christmas Day at Mark and Paula’s, and being with Tyla and Ashleigh, and of course Dan, made it very special.  It has been a long time since this side of my Family have been together, both Christine and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.   Tomorrow we have another party day so need our sleep so headed up.

Boxing Day 26th

Not too much of a rush this morning after yesterday’s hectic, but very enjoyable day though certain chores still needed doing as Derek and Cath are coming round; mind you there was so much help that we rather got in the way!!!

Once the scene was set Mark, Christine and I played a few bands of crib until Ashleigh suggested going into the jacuzzi, Christine and I elected not go in today, especially after the issue I had on Christmas Eve!!  Mark opened it up and went in with Ashleigh and Dan, we looked on from inside then resumed our game of crib.

Paula’s parents arrived in plenty of time for yet another great spread of food; a buffet today as there were now nine of us.  It was nice to catch up with Derek and Cath, again a couple of years or more since the last time we met up.

After the “big clear up” we all retired to the lounge for the Christmas quiz; a tradition in Page junior’s house together with a trophy.  This years quiz was written by Dan leaving the 8-of us to draw partners for teams of two.   Christine and Cath were one team, Tyla and Ashleigh were a formidable team, two graduates together, Mark and I were together leaving Paula with her dad.   Dan must have put a lot of effort into devising the quiz, with a number of varied topics each with 10-questions.   The banter that went on during the session was amazing yet Dan controlled it very well.

After all the questions, we marked each other’s papers and naturally that also caused some “friendly” confrontation due to disagreements with some of the answers.  The upshot of everything was that the two girls and Mark and myself were equal on points.    How to resolve this as the quiz rules state only one clear winner.   After much discussion, banter, disagreements tantrums we settled on tossing a coin; the best of three.     Dan tossed and the girls won the first two tosses so we’re presented with the trophy.   The main issue surrounding the quiz was that the majority of us are extremely competitive and none of us could consider not winning!!!!!!!

During the day poor Christine was starting to cough and splutter, the beginnings of a cold and by the evening she was full of it so went to bed early, feeling jaded.   With all the rushing about we had done since leaving Spain, not to mention the issues she suffered in Pilgrims Hatch, we all put this cold etc., down to the fact that she had now completely relaxed.   After her departure the rest of us carried on partying.

After Derek and Cath left and the clear-up completed I headed to bed only to findChristine coughing and spluttering badly and feeling generally run down so fed her with Panadol hoping a good nights sleep would put her right.

27th December 

Christine woke me up telling the dreaded news.  She had just taken a lateral flow test and it was  clearly very positive, well you could have knocked me down with a feather as we had been so careful and had tested negative on four occasions prior to arriving at Pigeons Perch.  How on earth did she pick this up we wondered but had no time to dwell as the house quite rightly went into “panic mode”.  Paula managed to organise a couple of PCR tests at a mobile testing centre in Towcester, about 14-miles away within the hour,  so off the two of us went.

I must say I was impressed with this NHS testing centre, and though they were still setting it up, they were testing people; we didn’t have long to wait and were through within 20 minutes.   

We returned to the perch about an hour after leaving and in that hour the five we’d left at home had disinfected and wiped down every possible surface and brought down most of our belongings to the door.  They had also very kindly bagged up some food but quite clearly, and rightly so, wanted us out and away.  For our part we were distraught , having been so careful we were aghast, how or where were we infected.  The worst part was the previous evening we had been laughing and joking with Derek and Cath, both elderly and vulnerable people and though all of us had been “triple jabbed”, one really doesn’t know.   The other bad news; Christine’s positive put the “kibosh” on the second part of Mark’s Christmas, tomorrow his mum with Jane, Dave and Mia were coming to stay, that has now been cancelled as his mum is extremely vulnerable at present.    Though we don’t get the PCR test results ‘ till tomorrow, we weren’t taking any chances so we left and headed to the Peak District, albeit 6-hours earlier than planned.

Sunday 19th December

Our last day of “Oreo responsibility” and much like yesterday, walking Oreo and relaxing was the order of the day.  These last two days of doing nothing has helped Christine get over the majority of her “aches-n-pains” in her knees, hips and shoulders etc., job done👍👍👍.

The trio are back later today, but we had a message telling us they had been delayed in Finland so don’t wait for them; ha ha, we weren’t going to anyway!!!!   They eventually arrived home around 1800hrs and after an hour or so of laughing and joking about our experiences and hearing about their holiday and not forgetting Mia’s visit to Santa Claus,  everything was forgotten😂😂😂😂

We eventually bunkered down in our cosy beds on the settees whilst the the other two scrambled around looking for the third duvet😅😅: which they didn’t find!!!

Monday 20th December

Today we had arranged to meet Trevor for lunch, but unfortunately Gill couldn’t join us as she is still full time working; oh dear, poor Gill.

Prior to leaving for our lunchtime get-together, I went down to the stables with Jane and Mia to be introduced to Shona, Mia’s 12-hands pony.   This certainly brought back memories to me, watching Jane brush and pick out her pony’s (Silver) feet.  Once groomed and tacked up, we headed to the ménage to watch Mia put Shona through his paces.  It has been over two years since I last saw Mia on a horse, the last time she was held in the saddle by Jane or somebody: Now full of confidence, she is an accomplished rider, and to confirm this she has a couple of first place rosettes,  3-seconds and a few others hanging proudly in her bedroom.    It was very cold out in the ménage and both Mia and I were pleased to “pack-up” for the day, so I left Mia to “muck-out” Shona’s stable.

We set out in reasonable time;  we had previously agreed to meet half way in Berkhamstead, the perfect place and the Kings Arms, a pub in the busy high street, was the venue.   Ah yes parking was now the issue, there was nowhere, and where there was, it was all metered, something very alien to us these days!!!  I drove up a “dead-end” side street adjacent to the Kings Arms and what luck, there was a car leaving.  I couldn’t get into the space quick enough, and a bonus, no meters!!!   It was only when walking away from the car I noticed a plate on poll, “parking restricted to 30-minutes, no return for 2-hours”, oh bother, never mind I’ll take a chance, after all I have Spanish plates and the local council probably wouldn’t go after me so 🤞🤞.

This old coaching inn has quite a history.  It was originally built during the reign of Queen Ann; above the door is her crest and it has been going ever since, first as a coaching station with accommodation and stabling for 40-horses, even Queen Victoria stopped here in 1841 whilst travelling to Woburn.  But the interesting thing for me was the landlord.   His name was “John Page (a relative perhaps???) and he ran the pub from 1792 until his death in 1840.  He was succeeded by his daughter “Poly” who allegedly was “very” friendly with the exiled King Louis XVlll of France who lived just up the road and frequented the The Kings Arms regularly; the result of this, and no doubt encouraged by her father, was a very upmarket clientele!!!!!

I digress: we had a very convivial extended luncheon and put the world to rights as well.  Trevor, being a investor in this group, current owners of the Kings Head, he enjoyed an investors discount and treated us; thank you very much Trevor, it was very kind of you.   We now left, both wondering if we had parking tickets or not; Trevor for overstaying his meter time and me for abusing the “short-stay” parking!!!  Good, all clear, a result 😂😂😂

Back at home and after Mia had retired to bed the four of us played Marjon, something we enjoy but as yet only get to play with Dave and Jane; then off to bed.  Tomorrow we are “Mia” sitting, Jane and Dave are heading out to view a couple of properties.

Tuesday 21st December

After breakfast and for a change the three of us headed to the park accompanied by Oreo, who had certainly perked “right-up” since his  “mum” had returned; more his old self I’m pleased to say.   Fortunately it wasn’t too cold and more importantly no rain, so had lots of play-time on the swings, slides and climbing frame etc.  Heading back Oreo picked up a long chunky piece of wood and insisted he brought it home.   It was so long that he banged into most things, and worst of all, my car 

The rest of the day we just pottered as Mia was still very tired from her exhaustive holiday and the evening was taken up discussing the “pros and cons” of the two houses they had viewed earlier;  we’ll have to watch this space!!!

Wednesday 22nd December

Freedom day for us!!! Pantomime for the other three, so we were all up early. Jane went to sort the horses whilst Dave created a spread sheet on the two houses seen yesterday.  Unfortunately there was also another “prospect” in the pipeline, yet to be viewed, which included a grade l listed monument on the land that needed “oodles” of  money being spent to restore it.  They couldn’t get a viewing before Christmas but were going to walk the footpath adjacent to the property to see how bad it was, as the property is on their way to the pantomime.   Once they’d left we packed the car, cleaned up and hit the road; time to resume our itinerary.

Today we headed to Castor, a village near Peterborough to meet up with Elton, Andrew and Holly; naturally whilst in England Christine wants to spend as much time as possible with Elton.

After a horrendous journey, traffic, rain, spray and of course, roadworks, we arrived in the pretty village of Castor, just 5-minutes from the centre of Peterborough.   We arrived at Andrew and Holly’s cottage around 1600-hrs, just in time for Christine to go with Andrew and collect Elton from play-school, I on the other hand enjoyed a G & T in the kitchen whilst Holly prepared dinner.  Also in the cottage lives their big guard dog who took an instant dislike to me, she was also protecting her three newborn puppies.   This “miniature”Dachshund made a lot of noise and snapped around my ankles!!!!

This thatched roofed cottage must have been built many hundreds of years ago; it was very old with a flagstoned  floor downstairs and exposed, very low beams everywhere, but tastefully modernised throughout.  As is the way with old buildings such as this, we will have to walk along the corridor to the loo in the night, not too much of an issue on the face of it but there was a roof truss to be negotiated along the way; could be interesting!!!!

Team Elton soon returned and he took centre stage.  I have said this before, he is “Bonny little chap,” full of beans and exploring everything, even after returning from his day at play school.  When it came to his tea time food wasn’t top of his priorities, there were two new faces, too much going on.   Anyway after tea Christine went up with Andrew to Bath Elton; modern Dad and an out of practice nanny, would have been interesting to be a fly on the wall in the bathroom !!!!!   

Once Elton was put to bed the four of us sat down to a very nice lingering roast lamb dinner followed by relaxing in the lounge and mulling over “this-n-that”.   There were no distractions from upstairs, obviously the day at play school and an early evening of fun and frolics with his nana wore him out!!!

Thursday 23rd December

Next morning was a different “kettle-of-fish; workday for both, Andrew took Little-one to his play-group, we quickly cleared up and after a swift breakfast left, following Andrew to one of his distribution centres; yes, amongst other investments he is the owner of several transport and distribution business’; best of luck Andrew in these times with driver shortages etc.

After the grand tour we said our goodbyes and headed to Chapel Brampton near Northampton for our long awaited Christmas destination with Mark and his family; can’t wait.

Monday 13th December

Oh dear Jane and Dave, how the hell do you manage to sleep on your bed???

Having sold Pascals Paddocks a few weeks ago and the house they were hoping to buy had fallen through, they were forced to take back one of their rentals to live in.  Pascal paddocks with 3-large bedrooms, a study and the usual living area has had to be squeezed into a traditional, fairly small,  3-bedroom house.  One bedroom is completely full of boxes, the lounge and kitchen-diner also have their fair share, so space is at a premium.   With this in mind, we were invited to use their bed, not only whilst they are away, but when they return we are staying for a further few days, so they would use the blow-up bed; how very kind and considerate, as getting up from the blow-up bed on the floor would be troublesome for us now!!!!

We think we had some sleep but not really sure, one thing we are certain about, getting up was going to be a pleasure!!!  They sleep on a waterbed, oh my goodness how uncomfortable; sitting up we hit the bottom and when laying down, the water sucked you in, in fact it was like wrestling with an octopus if you wanted to move about:  maybe tonight will be better.  Oh yes, there is no WiFi here either; it should be connected tomorrow and we have been asked to stay in to let the engineer into the house sometime between 1200hrs and 1300hrs

Our day was busy; apart from food shopping and dog walking, we headed out to the Apple Store at Lakeside, we wanted to look at replacement ‘phones.  The new i phones can use two SIM cards, which for us will be good as we both have a Spanish and an English ‘phone number.   Unfortunately we didn’t quite get to the Apple Store, as we popped into Currys PC World and was “seduced” by a very knowledgeable ‘phone specialist who persuaded us he could give us a good deal but first I had to have confirmation my existing contract had ended.   I was prepared to buy the i phone outright but his deal over two years looked good but decided to return tomorrow with the relevant information.

Back home and after our dinner we settled down in the lounge to watch TV; “wrong”, no WiFi means no TV  so we fell back to our normal pastime when away, we played Crib but it was cold so I went round turning up all the radiators,🤞🤞🤞 that works

Tuesday 14th December

After another uncomfortable “floating” night, and again “rushing” to get up poor Christine had most of her bones complaining.  Starting from the bottom, her knees hurt, her hip ached, and her left side shoulder was locked and she had been cold all night: one could say she was “not” a happy bunny, in fact we considered packing up, getting Oreo into the car and heading out to Derbyshire.   Martin had already mentioned there was an empty cottage available 

As previously agreed we waited in for the engineer to come and get the WiFi on; the appointed hour came and went, no engineer.  Late afternoon we exchanged messages with Jane, as you can imagine we were a little miffed having waited in all day for the “phantom” to arrive when Dave suggested I switch the box on anyway.  Low and behold, we had WiFi, apparently we didn’t have to wait in after all, Oh dear Jane, poor communication!!!!!  Day wasted still thought we would at least have TV,  “wrong”, no leads, packed!!!!!  Not a very good start to our week’s dog sitting and we were still cold, even though I had turned up the radiators.  I eventually found the wall thermostat and wound it up to maximum; now let’s see what happens!!!!

Tonight Christine had had enough of the water bed but before throwing in the towel and leave, tonight she elected to sleep on the couch.   Unfortunately by now her shoulder was still very stiff and painful that I had to help her undress, but at least we weren’t so cold!!!

Wednesday 15th December.

Christine had a reasonable night, more comfortable, no cold water, no nausea, less aches and pains, a good result.   I on the other hand had an even worse night fighting the “octopus” that was sucking me in every time I moved, made worse by not having Christine to balance the “floatation”; not another night in this bed, it’s the opposite end of the couch for me tonight!!!!!

Today I took the plunge and went out and acquired a new ‘phone contract with the nice man from Curry PC World, well, what used to be the Car Warehouse, but unfortunately our old provider didn’t send the correct code for the swap on time, so we parked the transfer for the day and went off shopping.

Back “home” we were still cold so again wound the thermostat right up, and after a short time; ah that’s better😍😍😍. After dinner we enjoyed another few crib hands before retiring.  Their sofa is a in two parts made into a right angle, so we slept feet to feet, both snuggled up in a double duvet each.

Thursday 16th December

Wow, what a comfortable night we both had.  Yes the size of the sofas are like being in a narrow single bed but that small compromise was nothing to what we gained in comfort and warmth not to mention the “octopus”, Christine could even move her shoulder.

During the week we dutifully took Oreo out for two walks a day, fed him at the appropriate time and numerous treats and affection but he was one sad doggy.  The loss of Doogle was hurting badly not to mention after a couple of days, his “mum” disappeared; one never knows hat goes on in a dogs head😢😢😢.

We went back to Curry PC world and completed everything and now my new iPhone 13 Pro is working with its electronic SIM card for my U.K. number and the Spanish physical SIM card in the slot, I’m good to go and only one device and a contract which has saved me money, win-win😂😂.  Unfortunately Christine had to pull the plug as her current contract was still running and she would have had to do an expensive “buy-out”, so a re-think was necessary.

We have decided to stay here as we had sorted most things and as always we can live without the telly. 

Friday 17th December

We are heading into London today to meet Andrew and Elton but did not rush as the cheaper day returns don’t start ‘till 0930hrs.

Parking the car at the station was easier than we thought; no doubt fewer commuters due to Covid.

Using our pensioner travel card we got our discounted tickets and boarded the fast train to Liverpool Street.   Naturally we were very apprehensive about being on a crowded train but low and behold, our carriage was reasonably empty so we could sit, albeit with our masks on, in isolation.  So far so good but we had to get to Marylebone and the tube didn’t impress us so we jumped into the first taxi we found, hopefully no-one with covid had been in there🤞🤞🤞🤞.

This is the first time we’ve visited Andrew in his new flat so had the grand tour.   It is situated in the mews behind Harley street, very private a quiet but only a three minute walk to the back entrance of John Lewis in Oxford Street, very central.   We went out to “2 Veneti”  for lunch, an excellent Italian , thank you for an excellent lunch Andrew. Later in the afternoon Holly returned having finished work, probably till the new year 🥰🥰🥰 and we left just before the rush hour.  Again the thought of a crowded train didn’t inspire us but hey, we’re both jabbed up, we wear our masks and at some point we have to get back to normal living.  So jumped into another taxi, walked into LiverpoolStation, “ran” to the platform and caught the fastest train, first stop ours😂😂.   Fortunately the carriage wasn’t overcrowded and we had two seats away from most folk.  Being the fast train to Ipswich, with no commuter stops ‘till Shenfield helped.

Saturday 17th December

Another warm and cosy night, and when they return they are welcome to their waterbed, but they will have to find a third duvet, we’re not giving one up!!!!!   Having been in London and on trains etc., we took our lateral flow test, the results were negative, we were so happy; how ever careful one is, one never knows.

Today was sorting last minute shopping and wrapping Christmas presents, walking Oreo and doing nothing much. 

Our dog sitting responsibilities end tomorrow, sometime, the “threesome” return!

Saturday 11th December

This particular Travelodge supplied an excellent breakfast which was “slightly” unexpected, still we enjoyed it knowing today was going to be boozy and we wouldn’t be eating ‘till late.  After breakfast we put our “glad rags” on and headed out.

We were booked into this Travelodge for two nights, but yesterday Lee and Sarah dropped us a note offering us a bed Baddow Park House, the venue for the wedding.   One of their guests had cried off so rather than waste the room we were offered it, which was extremely kind as the room rates are well above our “pay grade!!”.

We arrived at Baddow Park House at the prescribed time, unloaded the car and joined the party which though a little early, was in full swing.   Whilst waiting for the bride to arrive we enjoyed copious amount of bubbly whilst chatting to their friends.   The moment then arrived and we all filed into their wedding room to await the bride.

Because of Covid the actual marriage ceremony took place last year, alone and no guests so today was a re-run when they could eventually have their friends and family around them.  With the actual marriage ceremony having been completed, this time the happy couple recited their own “special” vows, composed by themselves, independently of each other.  The result was amazing and apart from what one would expect to hear at a  wedding, they both brought humour to the proceedings, especially regarding “Jasper”, Sarah’s best friend, her Labrador: it was particularly re-assuring to hear Lee acknowledged his place in the hierarchy!!!!!  

After the ceremony we fell back into the hall with its magnificent staircase rising up from the large hall, then splitting both ways and opening up into a ministerial gallery, where there was a string Quartet playing background music.   Off the hall was a beautiful oak panelled drawing-room, also full of guests, but more importantly, in here there was comfortable seating!    Whilst sipping further amounts of bubbly, we enjoyed a continual supply of excellent “Canapés”, and the particular one everybody seemed to enjoy the most, was the Baddow Park version of a sausage roll, sausage meat infused with herbs etc., then made into sort of “Sausage Wellington”, all wrapped in flaky pastry and cut into thick slices, superb!!!   We were told there were groups of guests; their family, their university friends, their work friends, and last but not least, their other friends, and as we were very fortunate to be invited, that is where we were.  It was very interesting mingling, meeting friends of Lee and Sarah from a previous life and getting to know them better; not too many secrets Lee and Sarah, ha ha!!!!

After enjoying far too many canapés, we were invited to head to the main function room where we sat down to a full wedding breakfast followed by speeches.   Lee had several university friends who were collectively his “best men”, and all going to say something and obviously he was quite nervous!!!!!

Everything went well and after the clear up from the dinner tables, the band moved in then music and dancing was the order of the evening, accompanied of course by the bar!!!   

Later in the evening we couldn’t believe our eyes.   We had enjoyed numerous canapés all afternoon, we had gorged ourselves with a wonderful three course meal and now, more food was produced.  The food was on the table for some time before folk ventured up, and after everyone had had their fill, the amount returned to the kitchen was nearly as much as came out!!!

After a wonderful and memorable day, we headed up to our rooms, tired, full, and “very” happy.

Our room and en-suite could have been out of a “Homes and Gardens” magazine, very elegant, spacious with a classic look, oh yes a very comfortable 2-meter bed, shame it was gone midnight and we had to go to bed and sleep.

Sunday 12th December

Following a very comfortable, but short night in this lovely room, we headed down to breakfast; a little early for a Sunday we thought but hey, a small price to pay for such a great place.

Today we had to head to Pilgrims Hatch (Brentwood) as Jane and family had headed out very early to catch a flight to Finland and we had agreed to dog-sit for the week.  Under normal circumstances we wouldn’t have rushed but we had been invited to join Sarah and Lee to watch the final F l Grand Prix of season.  This Abu Dhabi GP was going to be particularly exciting as Lewis and Max were on equal championship points and there was everything to play for.

Back at Jane’s I emptied the car whilst Christine took Oreo for walk.   We think he was pleased to see us, perhaps he wondered if he had been abandoned, only a week ago his companion for 15-years, Doogle, had to be put to sleep and he was missed.   Once chores completed we headed back to Chelmsford in time to settle in front of the tele ready for the green lights.

We were expecting an unusual race with so much at stake, but “my-my”, no one could have predicted the outcome.   We were so riveted to the tele the race just seemed to end as soon as it started.   Following Latifi’s crash 5-laps from the end and the field bunched up cutting Hamilton’s lead, at this point Max went in for new tyres, the result let lapped cars between Lewis and Max and with no time to let them through, the final result should have been a fore-gone-conclusion, so everybody thought; but, the race stewards thought differently.  They changed the normal “back marker” procedure and just let the cars between Lewis and Max through giving them one lap to race for the title.   Though Lewis was in front when the green light came on, Max with his new tyres soon overtook him and won the race and the title but then the controversy started the moment the chequered flag fell.   This I have no doubt will run for some time.   Thank you again Lee and Sarah for another memorable occasion.

We headed back to see Oreo and have a reasonably early night to catch up with sleep after a really enjoyable weekend.

Tuesday 7th December

OK, Exeter here we come.  We are staying with Geoff and Rowena, a couple we met watching rugby, England V Scotland at Cloggy’s bar in Falmouth Harbour, (Antigua).  We shared a table right in front of the TV, and after the game had lunch together.  Jane was with us at the time and the 5-of us hit it off so well that we met up a couple of times during our stays.   Unfortunately due to covid we haven’t seen them but kept corresponding during the past couple of years, so we are really looking forward to catching up.

Satalite Navigation says it will take a little under 3-hrs, traffic permitting, but we have to stop en-route to visit a retirement village, Grove Place near Romsey, Hampshire; we are un-decided as to where our future lies so have started to investigate all options.

As we approached Grove Place we couldn’t help but be impressed by the long entrance drive and security gate system, and then by the magnificent old building straight in front of us.

This beautiful Grade 1 listed building, built in the 16th century is the “social centre” and the “administrative block” for Grove Place.  The amenities include a full size snooker table in a beautiful oak panelled room, a restaurant in similar surroundings, a bar, numerous lounges and reading rooms and in another building, there is a swimming pool, gym and a small general store; everything is open to all the village residents and their guests.   All the residences, ie apartments or bungalows, are away from the main building; and though the buildings are of a different era, they blend in sympathetically.  Inside they are modern and designed for folk in later life.  All this is within 27-acres of formal gardens and fields, and I have to say we were mightily impressed though mentally, we don’t feel we’re not ready yet.

We now headed to Exeter, fortunately it wasn’t raining for a change and there were times, albeit short, when the sun popped out.   Our run down was un-eventful, traffic was reasonable and we made good time, then bang, we hit Exeter.   Prior to getting to the outskirts we sent a message saying we had 20-miles to go so should be there in about 25-minutes, “wrong!!”, the traffic in Exeter was as bad as it has been everywhere, fortunately Geoff realised I hadn’t a clue as to how long it would take and made his own calculation; he was right!!!

Arriving at their home, it was as if we hadn’t been apart for the past two years or more, we hit it off just as it was when we were in Antigua.     We chatted, laughed, had a meal, put the world to rights and suddenly realised it was nearing midnight, oops, past everyones bedtime.

Wednesday 8th December

Next day after a late breakfast, we had a tour of their one and a half acre garden; cultivated with numerous fruit trees of every variety known to man, a vegetable plot that would probably produce sufficient produce to feed the entire royal family for the year, and several formal flower beds for good measure, not to mention the lawns; ouch, it takes Geoff 4-hours to mow them all!!!

Following our tour of the “market  garden!!!!!”,  we walked down into the town and en-route strolled through several old alleyways and narrow streets passing the 15th century pub,  “The Ship Inn”, one of Exeter’s oldest, and ”where Sir Francis Drake” apparently partook of a few ales or more!!! eventually arriving at Cathedral square where we enjoyed our own’ couple of pints of local Devonian beer in a marquee set up as part of the Christmas market.   The square was bustling with students from the university as well as locals and there was a good atmosphere all around.  Next was a visit to Exeter Cathedral.

Exeter Cathedral doesn’t necessarily “pop” up as one most well known, but it is certainly impressive.  It was originally started in 1050 but due to wars and some checkered history, it was finally opened in 1400.   There are many points of interest regarding this building but notably, because it doesn’t have a centre tower, it is mostly known for having the longest, uninterrupted medieval vaulted ceiling in the world, about 96-meters long (315ft).  It was magnificent, and how they constructed such a high vaulted ceiling when technology as we know it hadn’t been invented, unbelievable, what an achievement.  It was well worth a visit.

The best of the day was coming to an end so headed back up the hill to Geoff and Rowena’s home for a late lunch.   This “light” lunch was a spread for the “5,000” and again we ate far too much.  Time just passed and soon it was dinner, I know when we looked at the clocks several hours had passed, but it only seemed like 10-minutes ago we’d finished lunch!!!!  This was how engrossed we were in conversation.

Thursday 9th December 

The following morning, alas we had to say our goodbyes but  said we’d return and they agreed they would visit us in Spain🤞🤞 this can happen.  We left mid-morning and headed straight back to Portsmouth, tonight we are dining out with Tom and Kathleen as they were unable to join us for the festivities in Crick the previous weekend.

Back in our temporary home, again we re-arranged the contents of our cases.  We have one big case and two carry-on’s and if we plan it right, we don’t need to take the “big ‘un” out of the car whilst visiting.

With this exercise completed we collected Tom and Kathleen and headed to the “The George” at Finchdean, a   A pub restaurant for a meal.  We were quite surprised how empty this very popular place was, but as there was a choir practicing in the conservatory, talking at table was difficult; perhaps the word had got out and folk kept a away!!!!!

After a pleasant evening we repatriated Tom and Kathleen to their abode and headed back to our temporary home for a good nights sleep as we have another hectic weekend approaching. 

Friday 10th December 

Another driving day today, and looking out of the window, the weather looks a lot better so that should be good.

Our first port of call was to visit Dougie and Jill, a very old and dear friend of Christine.  Douglas was the “man” who brought back Christine’s sailing confidence many years ago, though I find it hard to think she ever had any time in her life when there was any lack of confidence!!!  Poor Douglas, 93-yrs old, fell down the stairs breaking his hip, not a very clever thing to do at this age.   He is back home now but has to take things very easy, and with Jill also in advancing years, they have very wisely put a lift into their house.  During the 2-yrs plus since we last met up, poor Dougie’s hearing has also deteriorated and it was easier to write questions down.   Not withstanding everything it was great to visit them and catch-up with their news.

Eventually we headed to Chelmsford where we have been invited to Lee and Sarah’s wedding, the wedding that is being held a year late;  well they did actually get married last year but this is the second part, wedding breakfast etc.

The good news is we can stop off at Oakham Bites for our customary bacon baguette, again!!! We never seem to tire of them and it is of course lunchtime!!!  But first we have to register our car registration and pay some money into the Dartford Crossing website as this is our route to Essex.   You can’t pay at the booths, they have been removed; it is all about number plate recognition cameras and a fine if not paid within 24-hrs of using the crossing.   Anyway after a few aborted attempts, I managed to deposit some money and register our registration number, 🤞🤞🤞🤞 it works!!!

As usual we thoroughly enjoyed our double Bacon Baguette and rejoined the M25 and headed to the crossing.  Traffic was reasonable and progress was good until we caught the back of the queue for the crossing.  Heading North we filter through the original 2-tunnels, always a slow process.  Heading South is much easier and faster over the Queen Elizabeth Bridge.  

We eventually arrived at the Travel Lodge in Chelmsford, our bed for the night.   Christine wasn’t happy I’d booked it as she had heard bad things about them but upon arrival things didn’t seem quite so bad; perhaps she was thinking of the Holiday Inn Express!!!

We ventured out to eat later and after wandering about looking at various restaurants we settled upon an Italian where we had a very nice evening, returning back to the hotel at a reasonable time.  Tomorrow could be a long day and evening!!!!

Monday 6th December

We woke to awful weather, rain, and the clouds were so low it looked like fog, still after breakfast it may well improve, ever optimistic!!!!

Heading down to breakfast we bumped into Adrian and was rather taken by surprise as it was his morning off.  When questioned his reply was simple, short staffed.   Who would want to be a hotel manager these days???  I asked who his boss was; “Ross Ferguson” was his reply, I then asked for his e-mail address so I could record our thanks, and to complement Adrian to his boss for his hard work and attention to detail.    During breakfast, Adrian produced the e-mail address.

After breakfast it was time for the big “settle-up”, fortunately the function had already been taken care of when booked: this morning was about our rooms and the extras!!!  When presented with the account; firstly we were stunned into silence, followed by a nervous laughter, then nonplussed as this bore no relationship whatsoever to our expectations.    Fortunately I trawled back through the various e-mails I had exchanged with the Olivia (Conference and Events centre) and found the original booking and the agreed room rate, not only that, I had forgotten it showed an additional 20% discount!!!!    After the receptionist looked at my e-mail she had a job on her hands!  Whilst all this was happening a rather smartly dressed chap walked behind the reception desk and looked at me and said “good morning”, I immediately replied, “good morning are you by any chance Ross” and he looked at me somewhat worried and I could see his brain working, was I from head office or something!!!

I explained about our weekend and how diligent Adrian had been and that as a company they should reward such people well or they will be poached!  Anyway after some chit-chat he asked whether there was a problem with my account, “yes” I replied and showed him the e-mail, at this point his jaw dropped but had no answer so showed the receptionist how to credit us around £250.   Sometimes it pays to hold onto out-of-date correspondence!!!

Once everything was sorted and we had left our rooms etc., the weather was still appalling and our plan was to head to Foxton Locks for coffee before heading to East Midlands Airport to drop Jane off: What actually happened was a coffee at East Midlands Service Station followed by dropping Jane off early at the airport and heading South.  We made reasonably good time under very “trying” conditions but decided to stop off at the Bicester Village Shopping Outlet to pick something up as it was on our way.   What a shame, every car park was completely full, and this was a Monday!!!!!  The decision was quickly taken and we continued back to Portsmouth.

Tonight we were invited to Tom and Kathleen’s (Christine’s middle sister) for dinner and later headed back to our temporary home for a good night’s sleep after a very enjoyable few days.