Saturday 22nd November – the end of a week in the comfort of Coventry
Lin here...Well, we managed to get to Dunkerque around 3.15 and got straight onto the 4pm ferry home. My sister Jan said we'd be welcome to go straight there, but we were too tired for the drive, so stopped in Aylesbury overnight. The pub where we stayed was newly taken over and run by a lovely chap, who sorted us out with great efficiency. He was clearly rushed off his feet and showed us how to get out of the building next morning, when the bar would be closed.... Anyway after an ok night's sleep we woke up quite early and had a bit of a moan about the cost of such a basic room. We were thinking of heading into Cambridge for breakfast, when there was a knock at the door and it was our kind host saying that breakfast was ready. We were really chuffed: suddenly the £50 we'd paid didn't seem so bad. We headed downstairs and a table for 3 awaited us all set up with hot savoury pancakes We asked where we should sit and were seen to the aforementioned table, where we expected a single person to appear any moment to join us. I went to pour some cereal and our host recommend eating the pancakes whilst they were warm. We quickly got stuck in and they were very tasty. After a couple of mouthfuls we heard voices and 3 people appeared before us, clearly expecting breakfast...uh oh! For a moment I lost my appetite. Our host appeared and covered his tracks well. He smoothly lead the 3 to another table and headed off for the kitchen, bringing our toast over as he left. He'd clearly realised it was his mistake, so we finished tucking into our breakfast and managed to hold in our laughter until we got back to the room. We left nice and early and just after 10am we arrived at my sister's lovely home in Cov. We've enjoyed a really comfortable week here and can't thank Jan enough for helping us get through all our laundry...washing, drying and ironing, feeding us morning, noon and night and entertaining us throughout the week. She's also given us the chance to sort out our stuff and pack up our backpacks ready for the next phase of our travels. It was also lovely to see Dot and Norm, Jackie and Ed, Leanne and Dean as well as Shirl and Bas and Barb and Pete and Niall. We really enjoyed cooking for everyone on Wednesday and going out yesterday... thanks Norm! We'll try to remember Niall and Norm's jokes to pass on in the course of our travels.
Tomorrow we are off to Nottingham for the day and will stay with Wendy and Dave before heading up to Carlisle to see Alec graduate. We'll then be heading to London on Wednesday and will catch up with Brent's son, David, before flying to the US next Thursday. We've managed to pack away our remaining belongings into Jan's loft and after buying a small bag on wheels, we're now ready for next Thursday's flight. We've tried out our back packs and feel quietly confident that we'll cope!!! Now looking forward to catching up with friends back home tomorrow...
Sunday, 30 November 2008
Saturday, 15 November 2008
Journeying back through france
13th Nov
Lost a day somewhere. But today is a Thursday. Got up and packed our possesions. Had a look around Cahors. We have both got into looking around churches and cathedrals. They all have there own tranquility. Light and peace merge and energises the soul. Hey this is sounding a bit religious – but is definitely the case. Cahors Cathedral was very old but had many of the original medieval features in tact. Stained glass windows were similar to Carcassone. Intense blues and reds in small fragments converted into images. Two huge domes (the largest in France ) rose high above us directing the eye upwards. The outside of the main entrance was surrounded by strange figures gruesomely either stabbing one another up the arse or trying to behead each other – fascinating.
Linda still not feeling good but managed to find a toilet in the station. Had a quick look at the medieval bridge over the river Lot. Set off on our drive through the Lot region. The day was one of clouds and sun. The colours of autumn were spectacular as we drove along winding roads with the sun highlighting portions of the hillside in red and gold. Stopped at a view panoramic to have our lunch. We had bought some soup earlier which we heated up on our gas burners on the picnic tables. Linda prepared a salad and we feasted well in the crisp autumn air. Stopped at a small village outside Poitiers. Had shared cakes and coffee in a small boulangerie. Found accommodation in a logis de france on edge of village. Had that distinctive smell of some french rooms – stale smoke, dust, air freshener and stale air. Not good but somewhere to rest over night.
Fri 14th Nov
Lin here... felt a lot better this morning and did the first stint of driving after a pretty crap breakfast in the logis. Stopped in Tours, which was a real trip down memory lane for me, as I'd lived there in 1974. Remembered the school area and the walk down to the town centre, but hadn't remembered the size of the place! It was buzzing with life and had a lovely atmosphere. We found a little restaurant and for 11E each had an excellent lunch...must remember to look up the recipe for eggs mimosa as it was lovely. After a long walk finally found the old town before hurrying back to the car and moving on. Decided to take the motorway and managed to get to Rouen, at a cost of 27euros, which was a lot more than we'd expected. Same old same old in Rouen: huge town, rush hour and nightmare traffic and one way systems. Brent was brilliant. He stayed calm ( for a change) and managed to park up, so that we could find a hotel. We ended up in a nice spot right near the cathedral, which is truly impressive. Explored the town a bit: there was a fair on along the riverside, which was really pretty. Had a beer in an irish bar...big mistake again! Cost over £5 a pint!! On way out I managed to miss the kerb and fell over!!! Bl_ _ _ y hell! What next? Slept well and here we are having our morning coffee outside the cathedral....Saturday morning and hoping to get to Dunkerque today,.. catch you later dear reader!
Lost a day somewhere. But today is a Thursday. Got up and packed our possesions. Had a look around Cahors. We have both got into looking around churches and cathedrals. They all have there own tranquility. Light and peace merge and energises the soul. Hey this is sounding a bit religious – but is definitely the case. Cahors Cathedral was very old but had many of the original medieval features in tact. Stained glass windows were similar to Carcassone. Intense blues and reds in small fragments converted into images. Two huge domes (the largest in France ) rose high above us directing the eye upwards. The outside of the main entrance was surrounded by strange figures gruesomely either stabbing one another up the arse or trying to behead each other – fascinating.
Linda still not feeling good but managed to find a toilet in the station. Had a quick look at the medieval bridge over the river Lot. Set off on our drive through the Lot region. The day was one of clouds and sun. The colours of autumn were spectacular as we drove along winding roads with the sun highlighting portions of the hillside in red and gold. Stopped at a view panoramic to have our lunch. We had bought some soup earlier which we heated up on our gas burners on the picnic tables. Linda prepared a salad and we feasted well in the crisp autumn air. Stopped at a small village outside Poitiers. Had shared cakes and coffee in a small boulangerie. Found accommodation in a logis de france on edge of village. Had that distinctive smell of some french rooms – stale smoke, dust, air freshener and stale air. Not good but somewhere to rest over night.
Fri 14th Nov
Lin here... felt a lot better this morning and did the first stint of driving after a pretty crap breakfast in the logis. Stopped in Tours, which was a real trip down memory lane for me, as I'd lived there in 1974. Remembered the school area and the walk down to the town centre, but hadn't remembered the size of the place! It was buzzing with life and had a lovely atmosphere. We found a little restaurant and for 11E each had an excellent lunch...must remember to look up the recipe for eggs mimosa as it was lovely. After a long walk finally found the old town before hurrying back to the car and moving on. Decided to take the motorway and managed to get to Rouen, at a cost of 27euros, which was a lot more than we'd expected. Same old same old in Rouen: huge town, rush hour and nightmare traffic and one way systems. Brent was brilliant. He stayed calm ( for a change) and managed to park up, so that we could find a hotel. We ended up in a nice spot right near the cathedral, which is truly impressive. Explored the town a bit: there was a fair on along the riverside, which was really pretty. Had a beer in an irish bar...big mistake again! Cost over £5 a pint!! On way out I managed to miss the kerb and fell over!!! Bl_ _ _ y hell! What next? Slept well and here we are having our morning coffee outside the cathedral....Saturday morning and hoping to get to Dunkerque today,.. catch you later dear reader!
Wednesday, 12 November 2008
Gaudi and back into France
Welcome to the Costa Brava! (Lin here)
On Sat.8th Nov we enjoyed our visit to the Dali museum in Figueras: highlights were the car, that rains inside, the unfolding picture beside the crucifix, the wacky optical illlusions amongst many. We left Figueras around midday and headed along the N11 coastal road towards Barcelona. I wasn't feeling too good today and slept much of the journey. Stopped at a port and sat on the beach having a picnic in clear blue skies. Around 50k from Barcelona we began to notice solitary women sitting on white plastic chairs at the roadside. What were they selling! Well Brent had a good look and they had no wares...except for themselves and as the kilometres went by they became increasingly scantily clad. How bizarre! Thought about stopping outside of Barcelona, but the traffic was terrible and there were no obvious hotels, so we ended up driving into the centre. Quelle horreur! Brent was knackered and couldn't get the car into the miniscule place on offer in the car park, so the attendant did it for us! After a visit to the tourist office, where we thought 76 Euros too much to pay for a room we wandered the streets looking for accommodation...turned into a nightmare and around 8pm we decided to head back out of the city. We ended up on a campsite staying in a “bungalow” for 6 people, which cost us...would you believe it...76 euros! Oh well! Sunday 9th we got the train into Place Catalunya for 2E60 and spent a lovely day in the sun exploring Barcelona: highlights were the gothic quarter and the Gaudi buildings. Around 7 pm we headed back to the station and got on the Mataro train, which stopped one station short of our stop. We ventured into the town and found a lovely square buzzing with life, with a little market. It was around 8.30 and families were out in force. We settled into a great bar and enjoyed a few beers. Got a few funny looks as we were the oldest in the place by about 30 years, but the beer and music were good and there was a lovely ambiance. On top of that we paid normal prices for the ale. On way back to the station we called in to a small off licence. Linda in her inimitable style asked how many languages the owner was able to speak. In conversation he said he was fluent in 6. He then went on to comment that he was going back to England on Thursday to see a relative in Manchester – not only in Manchester but yes to ROCHDALE land of my birth. A small world indeed!!!
9th Nov
Brent here. Got up late. Eventually got our act going and decided we wanted another day in Barcelona. Went to Cathedral to see the inside this time. Was like looking round a building site. Very weird indeed. Admittedly what could be seen was impressive but more than 80% was behind scaffolding. Museum provided better value by giving an account of the work in progress. Just had time to get to Park Guell. Arrived in late afternoon and walked to the high point in the park. Spectacular views of the city. Was massive – no wander we struggled to park. Went on to see the tiled area at entrance to park with the hansel and gretel style houses. Light was fading so we headed back with a brief stop in a library to check our account.
Got back to the village we were staying in. Found a small bar with lovely beer. Should have stayed longer but instead we went back to campsite and frequented the bar there. Linda had two tapas which she enjoyed but I thought were a touch on the expensive side.
10th Nov.
Moved on back into France. Headed for Carcassone. Arrived at about teatime both feeling exhausted. Had a meal in the old city. Was weird to see it at night – lots closed and a little strange with many dark corners. We headed back for a good sleep. Linda was developing a cold and definitely not her bubbly self :-(
11th Nov
Had an early look around the old city in daylight. Linda enduring me reading out from some notes as we toured. The cathedral was the highlight with some stunning stained glass. Set off on the road at about 12.00. One of the things about traveling and eating at the right times is that it is very difficult to do. Often when we are ready to stop most European cities are on their siesta. Was reassuring when we found a supermarket to stock up our provisiions at about 1.30pm. Driving the rest of the afternoon was a nightmare with lots of rain and surface water. Arrived at Cahor to stop for the night when it was just getting dark. Drove past a budget hotel as we had seen a Logis de France sign. Could we find it – noooo. Spent the next ¾ of an hour trying to retrace our route. Cahors seemed to be made up of millions of roundabouts. Oh well you live and learn or in my case dont. Eventually found a hotel in same chain as one in Carcassone.
On Sat.8th Nov we enjoyed our visit to the Dali museum in Figueras: highlights were the car, that rains inside, the unfolding picture beside the crucifix, the wacky optical illlusions amongst many. We left Figueras around midday and headed along the N11 coastal road towards Barcelona. I wasn't feeling too good today and slept much of the journey. Stopped at a port and sat on the beach having a picnic in clear blue skies. Around 50k from Barcelona we began to notice solitary women sitting on white plastic chairs at the roadside. What were they selling! Well Brent had a good look and they had no wares...except for themselves and as the kilometres went by they became increasingly scantily clad. How bizarre! Thought about stopping outside of Barcelona, but the traffic was terrible and there were no obvious hotels, so we ended up driving into the centre. Quelle horreur! Brent was knackered and couldn't get the car into the miniscule place on offer in the car park, so the attendant did it for us! After a visit to the tourist office, where we thought 76 Euros too much to pay for a room we wandered the streets looking for accommodation...turned into a nightmare and around 8pm we decided to head back out of the city. We ended up on a campsite staying in a “bungalow” for 6 people, which cost us...would you believe it...76 euros! Oh well! Sunday 9th we got the train into Place Catalunya for 2E60 and spent a lovely day in the sun exploring Barcelona: highlights were the gothic quarter and the Gaudi buildings. Around 7 pm we headed back to the station and got on the Mataro train, which stopped one station short of our stop. We ventured into the town and found a lovely square buzzing with life, with a little market. It was around 8.30 and families were out in force. We settled into a great bar and enjoyed a few beers. Got a few funny looks as we were the oldest in the place by about 30 years, but the beer and music were good and there was a lovely ambiance. On top of that we paid normal prices for the ale. On way back to the station we called in to a small off licence. Linda in her inimitable style asked how many languages the owner was able to speak. In conversation he said he was fluent in 6. He then went on to comment that he was going back to England on Thursday to see a relative in Manchester – not only in Manchester but yes to ROCHDALE land of my birth. A small world indeed!!!
9th Nov
Brent here. Got up late. Eventually got our act going and decided we wanted another day in Barcelona. Went to Cathedral to see the inside this time. Was like looking round a building site. Very weird indeed. Admittedly what could be seen was impressive but more than 80% was behind scaffolding. Museum provided better value by giving an account of the work in progress. Just had time to get to Park Guell. Arrived in late afternoon and walked to the high point in the park. Spectacular views of the city. Was massive – no wander we struggled to park. Went on to see the tiled area at entrance to park with the hansel and gretel style houses. Light was fading so we headed back with a brief stop in a library to check our account.
Got back to the village we were staying in. Found a small bar with lovely beer. Should have stayed longer but instead we went back to campsite and frequented the bar there. Linda had two tapas which she enjoyed but I thought were a touch on the expensive side.
10th Nov.
Moved on back into France. Headed for Carcassone. Arrived at about teatime both feeling exhausted. Had a meal in the old city. Was weird to see it at night – lots closed and a little strange with many dark corners. We headed back for a good sleep. Linda was developing a cold and definitely not her bubbly self :-(
11th Nov
Had an early look around the old city in daylight. Linda enduring me reading out from some notes as we toured. The cathedral was the highlight with some stunning stained glass. Set off on the road at about 12.00. One of the things about traveling and eating at the right times is that it is very difficult to do. Often when we are ready to stop most European cities are on their siesta. Was reassuring when we found a supermarket to stock up our provisiions at about 1.30pm. Driving the rest of the afternoon was a nightmare with lots of rain and surface water. Arrived at Cahor to stop for the night when it was just getting dark. Drove past a budget hotel as we had seen a Logis de France sign. Could we find it – noooo. Spent the next ¾ of an hour trying to retrace our route. Cahors seemed to be made up of millions of roundabouts. Oh well you live and learn or in my case dont. Eventually found a hotel in same chain as one in Carcassone.
Friday, 7 November 2008
Back to Europe
Monday 3rd – Friday 7th November
Here we are again... actually in Spain now looking back over the last few days. Enjoyed staying with Barb and Pete and getting to know their grandchildren, Eve and Jake. It was nice for Brent to be plan ahead while I went for a walk in the sun with Barb and the children. Then on Tuesday Lorraine and Hughie entertained us with a lovely bonfire night meal and fireworks – the first time Eve ( aged 2) and Jake (1) had experienced these ..thank you for including us in this special event!
Got back to France safely with the help of Pete, who gave us a lift to the bus station at an unearthly hour and good old Ryan Air. Oh no – on arrival it was pouring with rain, had our good luck run out? Had a speedy look around Nimes and drove back to the gite, which felt like returning home...despite being much colder than when we left! Next morning (6th Nov) got up to a dry morning and after quick goodbyes headed off again. It had stopped raining before we left and lo and behold we even saw a bit of sun en route to Collioure, our destination. Brent had visited this fortified port many years ago and it was very beautiful. We found a reasonably priced hotel, had some lovely take away pizza and explored the town a bit. A TV crew were rehearsing a documentary to be filmed there the next day, so lots of areas were floodlit, which made it even more beautiful. Friday morning (7th) dawned with clear blue skies!!! We deserve this!!! We thoroughly enjoyed roaming the windy streets and visiting the artist's studios, which are abundant in Collioure. The first artist was very welcoming and filled us in on his background and life etc.
He was born in Casablanca and in his work uses memories of his childhood, when his father, a musician, held regular social gatherings in a lounge with different windows on each wall. In his work Cirillo includes a symbolic window. Interestingly 90% of his work is bought by doctors! He and his wife spend 1 month each year in Paris, where they stay in Yves Montand's apartment (which since he died has been left more or less untouched). All fascinating. We moved on after a lovely lunch to Figueres, where we are now in a nice hotel right near the Dali museum, which we are looking forward to visiting tomorrow.
Here we are again... actually in Spain now looking back over the last few days. Enjoyed staying with Barb and Pete and getting to know their grandchildren, Eve and Jake. It was nice for Brent to be plan ahead while I went for a walk in the sun with Barb and the children. Then on Tuesday Lorraine and Hughie entertained us with a lovely bonfire night meal and fireworks – the first time Eve ( aged 2) and Jake (1) had experienced these ..thank you for including us in this special event!
Got back to France safely with the help of Pete, who gave us a lift to the bus station at an unearthly hour and good old Ryan Air. Oh no – on arrival it was pouring with rain, had our good luck run out? Had a speedy look around Nimes and drove back to the gite, which felt like returning home...despite being much colder than when we left! Next morning (6th Nov) got up to a dry morning and after quick goodbyes headed off again. It had stopped raining before we left and lo and behold we even saw a bit of sun en route to Collioure, our destination. Brent had visited this fortified port many years ago and it was very beautiful. We found a reasonably priced hotel, had some lovely take away pizza and explored the town a bit. A TV crew were rehearsing a documentary to be filmed there the next day, so lots of areas were floodlit, which made it even more beautiful. Friday morning (7th) dawned with clear blue skies!!! We deserve this!!! We thoroughly enjoyed roaming the windy streets and visiting the artist's studios, which are abundant in Collioure. The first artist was very welcoming and filled us in on his background and life etc.
He was born in Casablanca and in his work uses memories of his childhood, when his father, a musician, held regular social gatherings in a lounge with different windows on each wall. In his work Cirillo includes a symbolic window. Interestingly 90% of his work is bought by doctors! He and his wife spend 1 month each year in Paris, where they stay in Yves Montand's apartment (which since he died has been left more or less untouched). All fascinating. We moved on after a lovely lunch to Figueres, where we are now in a nice hotel right near the Dali museum, which we are looking forward to visiting tomorrow.
Sunday, 2 November 2008
After getting lost for 15 minutes we eventually found the right road that led on to the side of the canal. This is the one that links the Med with the Atlantic so we came across many barges some of which had been converted to houseboats and even Chambre de Hotes. Our journey along the canal carried on uneventfully until we came to a trbutary onto it which blocked our route. Linda was right when she said we should have crossed over earlier. So we ploughed on regardless down country lanes getting further and further away from the Canal. In time we found a small road that led back in the right direction. Came back to the gorgeous tree lined banks of the canal. One of those enduring images of france – rows of plane trees with bark peeling of leaving trunks looking like some sort of mosaic. Cycled on with Linda now complaining about her sore backside and bemoaning the fact that like me she had little natural padding there. We eventually arrived at Bezier Ville Neuf only about 5km short of our target. But after a look around the village decided that we had to head back having covered about 10km and having a mind to realising that our legs were aching and we had to make the distance back. An uneventful ride back along the other side of the canal. We cycled into the Vias both feeling tired but satisfied. Time for some light refreshment at the cafe. Sat outside imbibing a pastis ( Brent ) and a muscat ( Linda ). Set off back to gite, took a short cut through school car park, heard a crash behind me as I came round the corner. Linda had taken the corner too sharply and lay prone on the pavement. Jumped off the bike and we assessed her damage. Worst injury was to her knee which was swelling rather worryingly.
We were close to home so she got back had a shower and applied the magical arnica to the bruising. All a shame because we had felt such a sense of satisfaction on our achievement.
Next day we spent doing some washing. There was loads to do and the drying weather was very iffy but over next two days got it all done.
Also visited nearest town of Bezier which had impossibly difficult underground car park – the type that has lots of paint and scratch marks along the ramp walls. Had a beautiful tree lined esplanade though bordered by pavement cafes – one of which we sat down for a drink.
Drove to other side of Vias and visited Cap D'Agde. A huge marina with loads of big power boats and yachts moored up. Was now late in the afternoon, lots closed down so headed back to base.
Day spent doing domestic chores and packing up and cleaning gite. In the evening went over to Flo and Ians house for a lovely meal and drinks. The house was suffused with the smell of cooking when we arrived. Had a gorgeous meal called I think Parcel de Vaux – delicious. This was preceded by drinks and followed by drinks.
October 23rd
Woke up to our busy day of travelling. From South of France to Rochdale in a day. We had it all planned out but knew any delays in the different links would scupper us. First stage was to get to Nimes airport. By the time we had got half way we were realising that every minute would count if we were to catch the plane. Linda rang Ian to check directions as we realised that a wrong turn would mean we would miss the plane. Drove into the small airport parked the car went to pay the man in the office. No man in the office. After about 5mins of shouting hallo he finally appeared. Time was moving on and our nerves getting frayed. Quick walk to the terminal and...Lin here now just finishing this off,,,
as we'd checked in on line we were able to walk straight through and join the queue at the x—ray machine. It was great. None of that hanging around. Brent though was clearly stressed at the last minute arrival and, I have to say, looked very suspicious as he passed under the machine. Needless to say he was pulled up and checked over by the officials there! Not the first and I'm sure not the last time!
Had a good flight arriving 5 minutes early and got to Nottingham on the airport bus, where Alec met us with our suitcase all ready for the week ahead. It was lovely to see him and we really appreciated his help. After a quick coffee we hopped onto the Trans Peak bus, where for £7.50 we got up to Manchester via the beautiful Peak District. All the way there clouds threatened and we arrived in the city to torrential rain...our first in almost 8 weeks!!! Grabbed a taxi to get us to the hire car offices only to realise that we'd hit the rush hour, which meant that after 10 minutes we'd moved about a 100 yards at cost of £5!! The driver was very helpful though and let us out with directions to the place, which turned out to be just around the corner!! Oh well, we'd obviously made a mistake when we'd multi mapped it!!! Picked up an almost new Astra and arrived safely in Rochdale where a lovely lasagne and salad awaited us. Lovely to see Fred and Doris and get into comfy beds.
24th October
A blue sky day.... wow, what is our secret? I enjoyed my first trip into Rochdale with Rebecca, Brent's niece acting as our brilliant tour guide ( she had an INSETday off school). Bought all the bits and bobs we needed and later enjoyed a lovely fish and chip supper with mum and dad.
Saturday 25th October
Set off and arrived in Skipton to rain. Parked up and had a lovely coffee near the car park before exploring the shops. I got my glasses fixed and bought another fleecy jacket. The open market was fun and we stocked up on cheese...Lancashire garlic and Stilton... yum yum! Arrived 10 minutes early at the house...our first impressions were apprehensive as it looked a bit glum from outside but inside we met lovely Sue, who'd prepared a welcome pack including home made chocolate cake and scones. The house is like a tardis...small on the outside but plenty of room inside with 2 kingsize beds! What luxury after all that camping!
Sunday 26th October
Woke up to sunshine but by the time we were ready the rain had started, so we started off in the car. However within minutes that sun was back so we parked up and had a lovely walk into Skipton via a little riverside walk. Arrived in town to more rain so forced ourselves to have another coffee before venturing across the road to the castle. As it was £5.50 each to go into the castle and I (Linda) was with 3 Lancashire folk... we didn't go in, but went round the back and found the Skipton woods and at no expense enjoyed a lovely woodland walk at no expense...lovely!! That evening sort of taught Fred and Doris how to play Backgammon after cumberland sausage and mash.
Monday 27th October
Up at the crack of dawn... not! Decided to make sandwiches for the Abbott family gathering. They all arrived around 11.30. armed with sandwiches and home made goodies... put us to shame! Needless to say we won't have to make sandwiches for the rest of the week as those we made are in the freezer! What an amazing day! Bright sunshine all the way to Bolton Abbey where we spent a very happy 3 hours plus walking round both sides of the river Wharfe. Stunning and great company. Andrew redesigned the ruined monastery and made us laugh. Back to the house fo r a pizza meal... a good time was had by all!
Tuesday 28th October
A bit cloudier this morning so we decided to do a bit of a tour in the cars. Headed to Kettlewell first where we had a lovely coffee stop at Zarina's, a fairly new cafe recently opened by the original calendar girls. Then we travelled through the beautiful Yorkshire Dales to Hawes. Here Fred, Doris, Brent and I explored the Ropemakers demonstration and the museum, which was very well done. The younger Abbotts did a walk around the village. Then we drove back through more lovely scenery and had our dinner all together in the pub near the Premier Inn, in Gargreave. ..oh yes, forgot to say that by mid afternoon the sun was out again... Brent and I wondering if we still deserve this!!!
Wednesday 28th October
Another fine day and we headed to Malham Cove. Caris managed to cross the river and then struggled to get back to the rest of us. Squire Andrew rushed to the rescue in his new 'pink' anorak and soon she was back safely with us. Rebecca, Caris, Andrew, Brent and I decided to venture up the steps onto the limestone pavement at the top of the cove, whilst the others strolled back to the Buck Inn in the village, where we all met up for a nice lunch later. We counted about 408 steps up to the top, but had fun on the hike back, by scaring off other hikers by talking about the 1500 steps we'd climbed!! Naughty Andrew's idea of course. After lunch we drove up to Malham Tarn, the highest tarn in England. It was fine, but freezing and the younger Abbotts declined from the quarter mile walk up to the tarn, whilst Fred lead the rest of us at a brisk pace. The tarn was beautiful and the swarm of seagulls above it quite lovely. It was lovely to spend time with Andrew, Ruth and the girls, who headed off after tea.
Thursday 29th October
A bit of shopping in Skipton before lunch was followed by a walk from the house. It was good to explore the view we'd been looking at all week. We started in the nearby park and asked a couple if there was a path up to the woods. They said there was but that it was quite tricky and muddy.. clearly they didn't think we'd make it...but they don't know Fred (86) and Doris (82)! We soon found the path and began the ascent. Doris had a stop and I offered to walk back with her. Brent and Fred carried on uphill and after watching a sheep dog rounding up some sheep, Doris decided she'd like to get to the top of the hill, where we met up with B and F. Great views from up there and another sunny evening walk back to the house. Great.
Friday 31st October
Awoke to another glorious day and decided to do the 3.5 mile walk from Gargreave. It was perishing cold as we reached the top of the lane and for a moment we considered heading back rather than climbing the hill. However we decided to go for it and Fred and Doris were just amazing. Up and over stiles, across muddy fields and all in good humour. The views back over Gargreave were brilliant and from the top we could see Malham cove too. The last part of the walk was along the canal and was really lovely too, with lots of barges to nosy into. We stopped at the Anchor Inn just before the end of the walk and had a nice lunch, then we walked into the village to look at the shops. After a quick cuppa back at the house we packed up the car and headed back to Rochdale. A good time was had by all and we couldn't believe how lucky we'd been with the weather!
Saturday 1st November...party day!
Travelled down to Coventry... M6 very congested so not much fun, but at least the sun was shining. Picked up Gaz, Steph and Alec and installed ourselves at Dulcie's. She made us really welcome and it was lovely to spend some time with her. Headed off to celebrate Shirl (my sister) and Barry's Ruby wedding anniversary. She looked absolutely gorgeous and it was great to see all the family. We had a good dance to the rock and roll band and it was lovely to see all the children...I've nearly got all their names right now! Aunties - Sheila, Vera and Marie, were all on good form and cousins had travelled from Southhampton, Devon and near to Bristol to be there. A good time was had by all.
Sunday 2nd November
Enjoyed a carvery meal with Dulcie and explored the new Herbert Gallery in the centre of Coventry. Tried to take the hire car back, but the office was closed!
We were close to home so she got back had a shower and applied the magical arnica to the bruising. All a shame because we had felt such a sense of satisfaction on our achievement.
Next day we spent doing some washing. There was loads to do and the drying weather was very iffy but over next two days got it all done.
Also visited nearest town of Bezier which had impossibly difficult underground car park – the type that has lots of paint and scratch marks along the ramp walls. Had a beautiful tree lined esplanade though bordered by pavement cafes – one of which we sat down for a drink.
Drove to other side of Vias and visited Cap D'Agde. A huge marina with loads of big power boats and yachts moored up. Was now late in the afternoon, lots closed down so headed back to base.
Day spent doing domestic chores and packing up and cleaning gite. In the evening went over to Flo and Ians house for a lovely meal and drinks. The house was suffused with the smell of cooking when we arrived. Had a gorgeous meal called I think Parcel de Vaux – delicious. This was preceded by drinks and followed by drinks.
October 23rd
Woke up to our busy day of travelling. From South of France to Rochdale in a day. We had it all planned out but knew any delays in the different links would scupper us. First stage was to get to Nimes airport. By the time we had got half way we were realising that every minute would count if we were to catch the plane. Linda rang Ian to check directions as we realised that a wrong turn would mean we would miss the plane. Drove into the small airport parked the car went to pay the man in the office. No man in the office. After about 5mins of shouting hallo he finally appeared. Time was moving on and our nerves getting frayed. Quick walk to the terminal and...Lin here now just finishing this off,,,
as we'd checked in on line we were able to walk straight through and join the queue at the x—ray machine. It was great. None of that hanging around. Brent though was clearly stressed at the last minute arrival and, I have to say, looked very suspicious as he passed under the machine. Needless to say he was pulled up and checked over by the officials there! Not the first and I'm sure not the last time!
Had a good flight arriving 5 minutes early and got to Nottingham on the airport bus, where Alec met us with our suitcase all ready for the week ahead. It was lovely to see him and we really appreciated his help. After a quick coffee we hopped onto the Trans Peak bus, where for £7.50 we got up to Manchester via the beautiful Peak District. All the way there clouds threatened and we arrived in the city to torrential rain...our first in almost 8 weeks!!! Grabbed a taxi to get us to the hire car offices only to realise that we'd hit the rush hour, which meant that after 10 minutes we'd moved about a 100 yards at cost of £5!! The driver was very helpful though and let us out with directions to the place, which turned out to be just around the corner!! Oh well, we'd obviously made a mistake when we'd multi mapped it!!! Picked up an almost new Astra and arrived safely in Rochdale where a lovely lasagne and salad awaited us. Lovely to see Fred and Doris and get into comfy beds.
24th October
A blue sky day.... wow, what is our secret? I enjoyed my first trip into Rochdale with Rebecca, Brent's niece acting as our brilliant tour guide ( she had an INSETday off school). Bought all the bits and bobs we needed and later enjoyed a lovely fish and chip supper with mum and dad.
Saturday 25th October
Set off and arrived in Skipton to rain. Parked up and had a lovely coffee near the car park before exploring the shops. I got my glasses fixed and bought another fleecy jacket. The open market was fun and we stocked up on cheese...Lancashire garlic and Stilton... yum yum! Arrived 10 minutes early at the house...our first impressions were apprehensive as it looked a bit glum from outside but inside we met lovely Sue, who'd prepared a welcome pack including home made chocolate cake and scones. The house is like a tardis...small on the outside but plenty of room inside with 2 kingsize beds! What luxury after all that camping!
Sunday 26th October
Woke up to sunshine but by the time we were ready the rain had started, so we started off in the car. However within minutes that sun was back so we parked up and had a lovely walk into Skipton via a little riverside walk. Arrived in town to more rain so forced ourselves to have another coffee before venturing across the road to the castle. As it was £5.50 each to go into the castle and I (Linda) was with 3 Lancashire folk... we didn't go in, but went round the back and found the Skipton woods and at no expense enjoyed a lovely woodland walk at no expense...lovely!! That evening sort of taught Fred and Doris how to play Backgammon after cumberland sausage and mash.
Monday 27th October
Up at the crack of dawn... not! Decided to make sandwiches for the Abbott family gathering. They all arrived around 11.30. armed with sandwiches and home made goodies... put us to shame! Needless to say we won't have to make sandwiches for the rest of the week as those we made are in the freezer! What an amazing day! Bright sunshine all the way to Bolton Abbey where we spent a very happy 3 hours plus walking round both sides of the river Wharfe. Stunning and great company. Andrew redesigned the ruined monastery and made us laugh. Back to the house fo r a pizza meal... a good time was had by all!
Tuesday 28th October
A bit cloudier this morning so we decided to do a bit of a tour in the cars. Headed to Kettlewell first where we had a lovely coffee stop at Zarina's, a fairly new cafe recently opened by the original calendar girls. Then we travelled through the beautiful Yorkshire Dales to Hawes. Here Fred, Doris, Brent and I explored the Ropemakers demonstration and the museum, which was very well done. The younger Abbotts did a walk around the village. Then we drove back through more lovely scenery and had our dinner all together in the pub near the Premier Inn, in Gargreave. ..oh yes, forgot to say that by mid afternoon the sun was out again... Brent and I wondering if we still deserve this!!!
Wednesday 28th October
Another fine day and we headed to Malham Cove. Caris managed to cross the river and then struggled to get back to the rest of us. Squire Andrew rushed to the rescue in his new 'pink' anorak and soon she was back safely with us. Rebecca, Caris, Andrew, Brent and I decided to venture up the steps onto the limestone pavement at the top of the cove, whilst the others strolled back to the Buck Inn in the village, where we all met up for a nice lunch later. We counted about 408 steps up to the top, but had fun on the hike back, by scaring off other hikers by talking about the 1500 steps we'd climbed!! Naughty Andrew's idea of course. After lunch we drove up to Malham Tarn, the highest tarn in England. It was fine, but freezing and the younger Abbotts declined from the quarter mile walk up to the tarn, whilst Fred lead the rest of us at a brisk pace. The tarn was beautiful and the swarm of seagulls above it quite lovely. It was lovely to spend time with Andrew, Ruth and the girls, who headed off after tea.
Thursday 29th October
A bit of shopping in Skipton before lunch was followed by a walk from the house. It was good to explore the view we'd been looking at all week. We started in the nearby park and asked a couple if there was a path up to the woods. They said there was but that it was quite tricky and muddy.. clearly they didn't think we'd make it...but they don't know Fred (86) and Doris (82)! We soon found the path and began the ascent. Doris had a stop and I offered to walk back with her. Brent and Fred carried on uphill and after watching a sheep dog rounding up some sheep, Doris decided she'd like to get to the top of the hill, where we met up with B and F. Great views from up there and another sunny evening walk back to the house. Great.
Friday 31st October
Awoke to another glorious day and decided to do the 3.5 mile walk from Gargreave. It was perishing cold as we reached the top of the lane and for a moment we considered heading back rather than climbing the hill. However we decided to go for it and Fred and Doris were just amazing. Up and over stiles, across muddy fields and all in good humour. The views back over Gargreave were brilliant and from the top we could see Malham cove too. The last part of the walk was along the canal and was really lovely too, with lots of barges to nosy into. We stopped at the Anchor Inn just before the end of the walk and had a nice lunch, then we walked into the village to look at the shops. After a quick cuppa back at the house we packed up the car and headed back to Rochdale. A good time was had by all and we couldn't believe how lucky we'd been with the weather!
Saturday 1st November...party day!
Travelled down to Coventry... M6 very congested so not much fun, but at least the sun was shining. Picked up Gaz, Steph and Alec and installed ourselves at Dulcie's. She made us really welcome and it was lovely to spend some time with her. Headed off to celebrate Shirl (my sister) and Barry's Ruby wedding anniversary. She looked absolutely gorgeous and it was great to see all the family. We had a good dance to the rock and roll band and it was lovely to see all the children...I've nearly got all their names right now! Aunties - Sheila, Vera and Marie, were all on good form and cousins had travelled from Southhampton, Devon and near to Bristol to be there. A good time was had by all.
Sunday 2nd November
Enjoyed a carvery meal with Dulcie and explored the new Herbert Gallery in the centre of Coventry. Tried to take the hire car back, but the office was closed!
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