Hi all,
Lovely to be met at the airport by Hasi, after the long trip home.
Somehow the return trip seemed longer than the way over, especially the first leg of 12 hours. I was really annoyed when I woke up after about 7 hours. I thought they were serving breakfast before landing, but it was basically a midnight snack with 5 more hours to go. Thank goodness for sleeping tablets.
It would have been quite a struggle on the train with our luggage, mine 17kg and Annie's 28.4kg!
Had a great first night sleep, waking a few times a little disorientated but to be expected.
Very weird not to see my sisters for over 24 hours now. I did wake yesterday morning wondering for a brief time where they were.
Walked on the beach for the afternoon. Lucky I did that yesterday, as it looks like rain today.
Have unpacked the pack, done a few loads of washing, and was falling asleep in front of the television last night at 7.15. Have now been awake for several hours, so decided just to get up.
My mind seems to be a bit scrambled, as I have been texting Moo, thinking for some reason it is evening there, and she has texted back saying he is going to sleep. Oops 11.30pm, not 5.30 as I was thinking.
Hmm Hasi is still sleeping so I will brew up another chai, and head up to the chooks and hang out with them for a while.
Love to all,
Zak
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
greetings from Ponte
Hi all
So left Llangollen this morning and made our way back home to Ponte.
More amazing countryside, charity shops and tea shops.
Jules welcomed us home with a big pot of curry and rice.
We went to watch Moo play darts. Unfortunately they did not win tonight, but it was a great challenge as the other team were also pretty good players and had great fun playing..
What is the word to describe a dozen welsh women playing darts?? It is really very entertaining.
Already midnight so time to hit the sack.
Love to all
Zak
So left Llangollen this morning and made our way back home to Ponte.
More amazing countryside, charity shops and tea shops.
Jules welcomed us home with a big pot of curry and rice.
We went to watch Moo play darts. Unfortunately they did not win tonight, but it was a great challenge as the other team were also pretty good players and had great fun playing..
What is the word to describe a dozen welsh women playing darts?? It is really very entertaining.
Already midnight so time to hit the sack.
Love to all
Zak
Monday, July 25, 2016
greetings from Llangollen
hi all,
Woke in our room in Travel Logde and looked out the window onto a scrap metal yard and what I thought was Mt Snowdon. Moo told me it wasnt, but i wasnt convinced.
Porthmadog is a pretty dismal looking town, with several charity shops which were also pretty dismal. However the redeeming factor was a fine indian restaurant for dinner last night.
Anyway the purpose of our stay here was that it is the nearest town to the very kitschy Portmeiron, where we spent several hours at today. Of course we all loved this place.
What an excentric man.that Mr Ellis was. He wore breeches withlong yellow socks. He couldnt have been a welshman, far too tall and thin.
Tonight we are in Llangollen. Another beautiful town in Wales. The wild river flowing through the town and the canal above the town. Lovely to stroll along the canal this evening and then dine by the river.
We are staying in the Hand Hotel which was built in the 1700s and was a coach inn. This place has a reputation for being haunted.
An employee here hung himself when he found out his wife was pregnat to her lover. He can be heard playing the organ some nights. The organ is right outside our rooms, so see if he gives us a tune tonight.
And theres a female who died in childbirth, and Albert, who died of TB. Anyway its all on the www and stay tuned to hear of any ghost sightings.
Tomorrow we will head back to Ponte via mid Wales. Moo has her last darts game of the season so we willl all be there to cheer her on.
Thats it for now.
Love to you all
Zak
Woke in our room in Travel Logde and looked out the window onto a scrap metal yard and what I thought was Mt Snowdon. Moo told me it wasnt, but i wasnt convinced.
Porthmadog is a pretty dismal looking town, with several charity shops which were also pretty dismal. However the redeeming factor was a fine indian restaurant for dinner last night.
Anyway the purpose of our stay here was that it is the nearest town to the very kitschy Portmeiron, where we spent several hours at today. Of course we all loved this place.
What an excentric man.that Mr Ellis was. He wore breeches withlong yellow socks. He couldnt have been a welshman, far too tall and thin.
Tonight we are in Llangollen. Another beautiful town in Wales. The wild river flowing through the town and the canal above the town. Lovely to stroll along the canal this evening and then dine by the river.
We are staying in the Hand Hotel which was built in the 1700s and was a coach inn. This place has a reputation for being haunted.
An employee here hung himself when he found out his wife was pregnat to her lover. He can be heard playing the organ some nights. The organ is right outside our rooms, so see if he gives us a tune tonight.
And theres a female who died in childbirth, and Albert, who died of TB. Anyway its all on the www and stay tuned to hear of any ghost sightings.
Tomorrow we will head back to Ponte via mid Wales. Moo has her last darts game of the season so we willl all be there to cheer her on.
Thats it for now.
Love to you all
Zak
Sunday, July 24, 2016
Greetings from Porthmadog
Hi all
It's quite late and I'm feeling dizzy from all the wonders of Wales we are seeing.
left Ponte yesterday, heading to St David's then up the coast to Newport. Stayed in a wonderful B&B above a cafe called Blas , which means taste. Celebrated our girlie road trip with a bottle of merlins, yum
Breakfast was included so we all had a massive cooked breakfast. Maria was keen to try welsh cakes and had some straight off the man(what they call the thick griddle that they are cooked on) which was a great treat.
This morning only got as far asCardigan before finding a car boot sale. This is really a welsh thing and they do them so well usually, and today was no exception. Each of us came away with at least one small treasure. There was so much we would have loved to purchase , but the problem of getting it back to the Southern Hemisphere, stopped us buying more.
Unfortunately The weather wasn't great when we reached Aberystwyth. One my first visit here the sun was shining, and I didn't mention it to the girls but boy does it make a difference. Really not as fun walking the promenade in pouring rain. Nevertheless a beautiful place.
Up into Snowdonia area and then along the coast to Barmouth. Long wide beaches to one side and the most incredible dry stone walls to the other. The stones used on these walls were sometimes huge, and they Criss crossed the countryside. They are such labour intensive and at the same times works of art.
Almost midnight, and I can't quite get the words and sentences as my brain wants them to be, so will finish up for tonight.
Hope you are all well
Love Zak
It's quite late and I'm feeling dizzy from all the wonders of Wales we are seeing.
left Ponte yesterday, heading to St David's then up the coast to Newport. Stayed in a wonderful B&B above a cafe called Blas , which means taste. Celebrated our girlie road trip with a bottle of merlins, yum
Breakfast was included so we all had a massive cooked breakfast. Maria was keen to try welsh cakes and had some straight off the man(what they call the thick griddle that they are cooked on) which was a great treat.
This morning only got as far asCardigan before finding a car boot sale. This is really a welsh thing and they do them so well usually, and today was no exception. Each of us came away with at least one small treasure. There was so much we would have loved to purchase , but the problem of getting it back to the Southern Hemisphere, stopped us buying more.
Unfortunately The weather wasn't great when we reached Aberystwyth. One my first visit here the sun was shining, and I didn't mention it to the girls but boy does it make a difference. Really not as fun walking the promenade in pouring rain. Nevertheless a beautiful place.
Up into Snowdonia area and then along the coast to Barmouth. Long wide beaches to one side and the most incredible dry stone walls to the other. The stones used on these walls were sometimes huge, and they Criss crossed the countryside. They are such labour intensive and at the same times works of art.
Almost midnight, and I can't quite get the words and sentences as my brain wants them to be, so will finish up for tonight.
Hope you are all well
Love Zak
Friday, July 22, 2016
greetings from Ponte
Hi all,
Well after our dismal failure at op/ charity shopping in Neath on Monday, yesterday Moo and I headed to Morriston for another go. Luckily St Vincent de Paul (patron saint of charities) was on our side, and we both did Ok. I got 3 dresses amd a t shirt, so was very happy. Its enough to add to the back pack with out too much hassle.
The arvo I just hung out with Moo in the kitchen while she did some baking, and organised the picnic for this evening. As anyone who has had a welsh picnic with Moo and Jules knows, it consists of boiled eggs, tomatoes and potatoes always, then she baked some chicken as well. For desert she had fruit buns, chocolate and apples.
Meanwhile she cooked up a boiled fruit cake for Jules. I drank tea, chatted and mucked around on the www and watched the tour de France. Really great to just hang out with her in her home.
We picked up Annie about 7pm, off the bus from Bristol, returning from her few days inFrance, and headed out to Three cliffs bay for an evening walk and picnic.
Jules used to camp here as a kid, and he showed us all his old haunts. A very beautiful place, and lovely to make the most of the long summer evening.
On the way home we dropped in to a local club, for a ...what would you call it?? Local folk, mostly in their 60s and 70s as well as one woman in her 80s, getting up and singing some old tunes, accompanied by a guy on the electric piano. It was pretty interesting and quite entertaining.
Today we headed to St Fagans, otherwise known as the Museum of Welsh life. This place is incredible. Its the second time I have been here with Moo, and I loved it as much as the first time. The time, money, skills and passion that has gone into this place is amazing.
After St Fagans, we went to Cardiff airport to meet Maria B. She had flown in from Milan, and will spend 3 weeks here with Moo, and will be with Moo for her 50th birthday, which will be lovely.
So this evening we have shared a wonderful dinner together, cooked by Jules and then a evening on the patio sipping Pimms and champagne. They are still out there chatting away, while I have ducked in to the kitchen to write this. Its now 10.30pm and time to sneak up to bed, as we want to be on the road early tomorrow to head for St Davids.
This time next week I will be home in my own bed, but theres still lots of adventures in stall for us before then.
Love to all
Zak
Well after our dismal failure at op/ charity shopping in Neath on Monday, yesterday Moo and I headed to Morriston for another go. Luckily St Vincent de Paul (patron saint of charities) was on our side, and we both did Ok. I got 3 dresses amd a t shirt, so was very happy. Its enough to add to the back pack with out too much hassle.
The arvo I just hung out with Moo in the kitchen while she did some baking, and organised the picnic for this evening. As anyone who has had a welsh picnic with Moo and Jules knows, it consists of boiled eggs, tomatoes and potatoes always, then she baked some chicken as well. For desert she had fruit buns, chocolate and apples.
Meanwhile she cooked up a boiled fruit cake for Jules. I drank tea, chatted and mucked around on the www and watched the tour de France. Really great to just hang out with her in her home.
We picked up Annie about 7pm, off the bus from Bristol, returning from her few days inFrance, and headed out to Three cliffs bay for an evening walk and picnic.
Jules used to camp here as a kid, and he showed us all his old haunts. A very beautiful place, and lovely to make the most of the long summer evening.
On the way home we dropped in to a local club, for a ...what would you call it?? Local folk, mostly in their 60s and 70s as well as one woman in her 80s, getting up and singing some old tunes, accompanied by a guy on the electric piano. It was pretty interesting and quite entertaining.
Today we headed to St Fagans, otherwise known as the Museum of Welsh life. This place is incredible. Its the second time I have been here with Moo, and I loved it as much as the first time. The time, money, skills and passion that has gone into this place is amazing.
After St Fagans, we went to Cardiff airport to meet Maria B. She had flown in from Milan, and will spend 3 weeks here with Moo, and will be with Moo for her 50th birthday, which will be lovely.
So this evening we have shared a wonderful dinner together, cooked by Jules and then a evening on the patio sipping Pimms and champagne. They are still out there chatting away, while I have ducked in to the kitchen to write this. Its now 10.30pm and time to sneak up to bed, as we want to be on the road early tomorrow to head for St Davids.
This time next week I will be home in my own bed, but theres still lots of adventures in stall for us before then.
Love to all
Zak
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
greetings from Ponte
Hi all,
So whats been happening...
Yesterday had a very easy day, mostly reading. The temperature got up over 30 degrees, so it was a good day to take it easy. Of course being tuesday darts was on, at a at home game, so we went up to the Gwyn arms for that. Moos team won 7 to 4.
Moo had put her car in to mechanic on Monday afternoon for a part to be replaced, but it of course has turned into something bigger than Ben Hur, and consequently the car is still at the mechanic till tomorrow.
Fortunately they gave us a replacemnt car so today we went up to Builth Wells for the Royal Welsh show. This is the biggest agricultural show in Europe!!
High lights for me were...
the pole climbers. These guys jimmied up a 30 metre pole with shoe spikes, the best doing it in about 12 seconds. It was really amazing.
The final climber was an 83 year old guy, who was not in the competition, but was the grandfather of one of the competitors, and he had been doing it for what?? more than 60 years. he was pretty good, but it certainly took a lot out of him.
Then the woodchopping, which is always a favourite of mine.The muscles on those guys are incredible.
The vegetable displays were great. The most perfect specimens of onions and carrots that I have ever seen.
And the flowers were absolutely beautiful. Mrs Rosemary Payne won several awards. I would love to meet this woman and spend some time with her in her garden.
Of course the favourite for the welsh folk was the welsh cob stallions. Mighty beasts they are.
Then the goats sheep cattle and highland cattle, that were all lovely. Very hot for these beasts today, and several of the farmers and farm hands looked pretty wiped out by the heat as well. I think the temperature got to about 26 degrees today.
Tomorrow evening we pick up Annie, back from her France experience, and hopefully head to Three Cliffs Bay for an evening walk, if weather permits.
Thats about it for now.
Peppermint tea then off to bed.
Love to you all,
Zak.
So whats been happening...
Yesterday had a very easy day, mostly reading. The temperature got up over 30 degrees, so it was a good day to take it easy. Of course being tuesday darts was on, at a at home game, so we went up to the Gwyn arms for that. Moos team won 7 to 4.
Moo had put her car in to mechanic on Monday afternoon for a part to be replaced, but it of course has turned into something bigger than Ben Hur, and consequently the car is still at the mechanic till tomorrow.
Fortunately they gave us a replacemnt car so today we went up to Builth Wells for the Royal Welsh show. This is the biggest agricultural show in Europe!!
High lights for me were...
the pole climbers. These guys jimmied up a 30 metre pole with shoe spikes, the best doing it in about 12 seconds. It was really amazing.
The final climber was an 83 year old guy, who was not in the competition, but was the grandfather of one of the competitors, and he had been doing it for what?? more than 60 years. he was pretty good, but it certainly took a lot out of him.
Then the woodchopping, which is always a favourite of mine.The muscles on those guys are incredible.
The vegetable displays were great. The most perfect specimens of onions and carrots that I have ever seen.
And the flowers were absolutely beautiful. Mrs Rosemary Payne won several awards. I would love to meet this woman and spend some time with her in her garden.
Of course the favourite for the welsh folk was the welsh cob stallions. Mighty beasts they are.
Then the goats sheep cattle and highland cattle, that were all lovely. Very hot for these beasts today, and several of the farmers and farm hands looked pretty wiped out by the heat as well. I think the temperature got to about 26 degrees today.
Tomorrow evening we pick up Annie, back from her France experience, and hopefully head to Three Cliffs Bay for an evening walk, if weather permits.
Thats about it for now.
Peppermint tea then off to bed.
Love to you all,
Zak.
Monday, July 18, 2016
greetings from Ponte
Hi all,
Finally got to Neath op shops today, and after the big wait to get there, neither Moo or myself got a thing!!
Will try again tomorrow in The Mumbles.
If the weather holds out we may be taking a dip in the sea at Caswell tomorrow. Fingers crossed.
Have bought some Pimms and lemonade for Moo and I to celebrate a glorious summers day, this evening.
I did get the spelling of Crn wrong, if anyone has been trying to look for it on a map, as Moo and I spent quite a while doing this morning. Looks awesome, Annie will be loving it.
That's all for now
Zak
Finally got to Neath op shops today, and after the big wait to get there, neither Moo or myself got a thing!!
Will try again tomorrow in The Mumbles.
If the weather holds out we may be taking a dip in the sea at Caswell tomorrow. Fingers crossed.
Have bought some Pimms and lemonade for Moo and I to celebrate a glorious summers day, this evening.
I did get the spelling of Crn wrong, if anyone has been trying to look for it on a map, as Moo and I spent quite a while doing this morning. Looks awesome, Annie will be loving it.
That's all for now
Zak
Sunday, July 17, 2016
greetings from Ponte
Hi all,
So sunday afternoon in Ponte.
Moo and I put Annie on the bus in Swansea this morning for her trip to Korn/Toulouse.
Of course, even though it wasnt an airport, I was crying as I * cwtched her goodbye. Feels weird not to have her around, as we have been together for the past 2 weeks. Nevertheless I am very excited for her to be having a few days in her 4theuopean country. (is Britain actually classified as european?? the welsh would definitely say no, actually most of Britain probably would)
Jules, Moo and I did a drive up to Llandovery today for sunday lunch. I passed on the roast dinner, and opted for a jacket potato with tuna and mayonnaise, (with loads and loads of raw onion.) True british fare, with a good strong cup of tea for only 80 pence.
After finding out I had been totally ripped off by buying a £2.50 pot of tea last week, I am keen to find good quality tea at a reasonable price. Luckily I have a fine teacher with Jules by my side.
I long along learnt that it is ridiculous to try and buy a decent coffee at a welsh caffi. The one and only exception to this is a small Italian cafe in a back lane in Swansea, that Moo and I found on a past visit.
The Italian caffi that we visited in Treorchy, was the caffi on my first visit to Wales, that I decided to forget
about finding a decent coffee in Wales, even if it is an Italian one.
However we did have a wonderful experience in the Treorchy Italian caffi the other day. We were all enjoying a fine cup of tea,(£1) b there, and had started singing, when a local welsh woman, aged in her 70s I suppose,came and sat in the booth next to us. After enjoying our singing, she told us that she was learning welsh at a local college, and had recently won 2nd place at the eisteddford for recitation in the Welsh langauge. She asked if we would like her to do her recitations. We of course were very keen and off she went. This was one of those great moments in travelling, we loved it.
Hmm the weather today... well we did have a few brief periods of sunshine, however on the whole it was overcaast with intermittent rain. We were unable to see more than a metre ahead of us, as we crossed the Black mountain on our return trip home. I am in three layers of clothing at present, as well as socks and boots. The locals are in tshirts.
Jules is saying that the next few days are going to have temperatures up to 26 degrees!! I will believe it when I see it.
Actually as I write, I may be seeing a glimpse of sunlight in the backyard!! May as well get out for a stroll.
Cant get my photos on to the blog, so you will just have to wait in anticipation for the 'slide show' when I get back to Oz.
Love to all,
Zak
*cwtched - anyone can cuddle, but only the welsh (and relatives) can cwtch
So sunday afternoon in Ponte.
Moo and I put Annie on the bus in Swansea this morning for her trip to Korn/Toulouse.
Of course, even though it wasnt an airport, I was crying as I * cwtched her goodbye. Feels weird not to have her around, as we have been together for the past 2 weeks. Nevertheless I am very excited for her to be having a few days in her 4theuopean country. (is Britain actually classified as european?? the welsh would definitely say no, actually most of Britain probably would)
Jules, Moo and I did a drive up to Llandovery today for sunday lunch. I passed on the roast dinner, and opted for a jacket potato with tuna and mayonnaise, (with loads and loads of raw onion.) True british fare, with a good strong cup of tea for only 80 pence.
After finding out I had been totally ripped off by buying a £2.50 pot of tea last week, I am keen to find good quality tea at a reasonable price. Luckily I have a fine teacher with Jules by my side.
I long along learnt that it is ridiculous to try and buy a decent coffee at a welsh caffi. The one and only exception to this is a small Italian cafe in a back lane in Swansea, that Moo and I found on a past visit.
The Italian caffi that we visited in Treorchy, was the caffi on my first visit to Wales, that I decided to forget
about finding a decent coffee in Wales, even if it is an Italian one.
However we did have a wonderful experience in the Treorchy Italian caffi the other day. We were all enjoying a fine cup of tea,(£1) b there, and had started singing, when a local welsh woman, aged in her 70s I suppose,came and sat in the booth next to us. After enjoying our singing, she told us that she was learning welsh at a local college, and had recently won 2nd place at the eisteddford for recitation in the Welsh langauge. She asked if we would like her to do her recitations. We of course were very keen and off she went. This was one of those great moments in travelling, we loved it.
Hmm the weather today... well we did have a few brief periods of sunshine, however on the whole it was overcaast with intermittent rain. We were unable to see more than a metre ahead of us, as we crossed the Black mountain on our return trip home. I am in three layers of clothing at present, as well as socks and boots. The locals are in tshirts.
Jules is saying that the next few days are going to have temperatures up to 26 degrees!! I will believe it when I see it.
Actually as I write, I may be seeing a glimpse of sunlight in the backyard!! May as well get out for a stroll.
Cant get my photos on to the blog, so you will just have to wait in anticipation for the 'slide show' when I get back to Oz.
Love to all,
Zak
*cwtched - anyone can cuddle, but only the welsh (and relatives) can cwtch
Friday, July 15, 2016
greetings from Ponte
Hi all,
Yesterday Moo,Annie and I did 'the triangle' with extension.
The triangle is a drive Moo and Jules often do on a sunday, encompassing the majestic Black Mountain and through the Brecon Beacons national Park.
So amazing this area. Probably my favourite area of Wales.(did I say that about the Gower?)
Of course had a few, OK several charity shop stops. This could cause issues later when we are repacking our bags to come home, but we figure we will deal with that when the time comes.
We had lunch/afternoon tea in St Marys church, Brecon. This was really a great thing.
Instead of this beautiful church just being used for a few hours a week for services, the communty have set up a cafe with kitchen in the church. There was tables chairs, lounges, a play area for the kids.
The church was alive with the sound of life, and smells of baking, opposed to being left empty for most of the week.
Hasi rang this morning and it was lovely to hear his voice after 2 weeks of being away. Unfortuantely he is already at the end of his holidays, and will head back to work next week. Lucky us we have 2 more weeks to go!!
Pumped up the chiminea last night in the front garden. Actually got it going so well that I think we burnt most of the fuchsia plant and lilies growing behind it. At one stage Moo was worried about embers going in her bedroom window and causing a fire. I was more concerned about setting the overhead electrical wires alight. Needless to say, it was a good fire. We had a few glasses, oops bottles of bubbles shared with Moo's lovely friend Louise.
Time now for another coffee and breakfast, before Jules takes us out for a scenic drive today, and maybe a few more charity shops.
Love to all
Zak.
Yesterday Moo,Annie and I did 'the triangle' with extension.
The triangle is a drive Moo and Jules often do on a sunday, encompassing the majestic Black Mountain and through the Brecon Beacons national Park.
So amazing this area. Probably my favourite area of Wales.(did I say that about the Gower?)
Of course had a few, OK several charity shop stops. This could cause issues later when we are repacking our bags to come home, but we figure we will deal with that when the time comes.
We had lunch/afternoon tea in St Marys church, Brecon. This was really a great thing.
Instead of this beautiful church just being used for a few hours a week for services, the communty have set up a cafe with kitchen in the church. There was tables chairs, lounges, a play area for the kids.
The church was alive with the sound of life, and smells of baking, opposed to being left empty for most of the week.
Hasi rang this morning and it was lovely to hear his voice after 2 weeks of being away. Unfortuantely he is already at the end of his holidays, and will head back to work next week. Lucky us we have 2 more weeks to go!!
Pumped up the chiminea last night in the front garden. Actually got it going so well that I think we burnt most of the fuchsia plant and lilies growing behind it. At one stage Moo was worried about embers going in her bedroom window and causing a fire. I was more concerned about setting the overhead electrical wires alight. Needless to say, it was a good fire. We had a few glasses, oops bottles of bubbles shared with Moo's lovely friend Louise.
Time now for another coffee and breakfast, before Jules takes us out for a scenic drive today, and maybe a few more charity shops.
Love to all
Zak.
Thursday, July 14, 2016
greetings from Ponte
Hi all,
Cant really add much to Annie's words about Caldey Island. My second visit there with Moo, and as serene, stunning and dramatic as last time.
As we were travelling around the coast I was amazed as always at the tides here. I especially was thinking about Marty and Claire. The tides in Darwin are I think up to about 7 metres in difference when there is a high high tide, but the Bristol channel has high high tides up to 13 metres. It is the second highest tidal fall in the world, the first being somewhere in Cananda.
It really is amazing.
Sleeping under 3 welsh tapestry blankets here in Ponte, a lovely Welsh summers night. This is quite a weight, as anyone of you who know welsh tapestry blankets will know. Wonder what happens in the winter??
Purchased my first two items yesterday from a Welsh op shop, this visit. I try not to look too much at the furniture and bric a brac, as its too frustrating that I cant buy any...just have to enjoy looking.
Time for breakfast, then back out on the road again, heading up to Brecon and surrounds today.
Moo loves showing us this amazing country, and we feel very spoilt.
Jules had a vegetable curry ready for us last night when we returned home..perfect hosts.
Love to all,
Zak
Cant really add much to Annie's words about Caldey Island. My second visit there with Moo, and as serene, stunning and dramatic as last time.
As we were travelling around the coast I was amazed as always at the tides here. I especially was thinking about Marty and Claire. The tides in Darwin are I think up to about 7 metres in difference when there is a high high tide, but the Bristol channel has high high tides up to 13 metres. It is the second highest tidal fall in the world, the first being somewhere in Cananda.
It really is amazing.
Sleeping under 3 welsh tapestry blankets here in Ponte, a lovely Welsh summers night. This is quite a weight, as anyone of you who know welsh tapestry blankets will know. Wonder what happens in the winter??
Purchased my first two items yesterday from a Welsh op shop, this visit. I try not to look too much at the furniture and bric a brac, as its too frustrating that I cant buy any...just have to enjoy looking.
Time for breakfast, then back out on the road again, heading up to Brecon and surrounds today.
Moo loves showing us this amazing country, and we feel very spoilt.
Jules had a vegetable curry ready for us last night when we returned home..perfect hosts.
Love to all,
Zak
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
Greetings from Ponte
Hi all,
So yesterday we left London behind and headed to beautiful Pontardawe.
Jules was there to meet us a Neath station, and it was wonderful to see him again. Not looking a day older than the last time I saw him.
So lovely to be 'home' at Moo and Jules 's place. (welsh tapestery everywhere)
Dont worry mum, I will take a heap of photos to show you.
Had an eveing stroll through Ponte town, followed by champagne on the front porch, before enjoying a dinner made for us by Jules. Sat around the table for hours catching up with news from Jules and discussing plans for a our time in Wales.
Of course first up today was the magnificent Gower. This area is so incredibly dramatic and beautiful, it never ceases to take my breath away. It was overcast and windy, with a bit of threatening rain, which abaited, but it just made it all the more dramatic and awesome.
On our way home we called in to visit Jules's sister, Cynthia.She is so gorgeous and warm and welcoming.
She talked about how much she loved hanging out with mum, and how they giggled together.
She said the time she spent in Australia was amazing and she felt so well and healthy there.
She is always very generous, and today gave me a pair of marquisite and amethyst earrings. Very beautiful and a real treasure. I call them my Welsh family heirloom.
Now we are back home. Jules has gone off to the gym and Moo has gone off to play darts. Annie and I will stroll down to The Ivy Inn once Ive finished this and watch Moo throw some darts with her team.
Tomorrow we are off to Tenby and Caldey Island.
In the next few days I will endeavour to put on a few photos, if I can put my SD card from my camera into the computer, because I dont think I bought the connector with me, but I will need Moos help for that.
So off to cheer on the Gwyn Arms A team.
Love to all, Zak.
P.S. clarification from Gen that Moo and I were in Brixton with her in 2010!! I thought 2006 seemed too long ago.
So yesterday we left London behind and headed to beautiful Pontardawe.
Jules was there to meet us a Neath station, and it was wonderful to see him again. Not looking a day older than the last time I saw him.
So lovely to be 'home' at Moo and Jules 's place. (welsh tapestery everywhere)
Dont worry mum, I will take a heap of photos to show you.
Had an eveing stroll through Ponte town, followed by champagne on the front porch, before enjoying a dinner made for us by Jules. Sat around the table for hours catching up with news from Jules and discussing plans for a our time in Wales.
Of course first up today was the magnificent Gower. This area is so incredibly dramatic and beautiful, it never ceases to take my breath away. It was overcast and windy, with a bit of threatening rain, which abaited, but it just made it all the more dramatic and awesome.
On our way home we called in to visit Jules's sister, Cynthia.She is so gorgeous and warm and welcoming.
She talked about how much she loved hanging out with mum, and how they giggled together.
She said the time she spent in Australia was amazing and she felt so well and healthy there.
She is always very generous, and today gave me a pair of marquisite and amethyst earrings. Very beautiful and a real treasure. I call them my Welsh family heirloom.
Now we are back home. Jules has gone off to the gym and Moo has gone off to play darts. Annie and I will stroll down to The Ivy Inn once Ive finished this and watch Moo throw some darts with her team.
Tomorrow we are off to Tenby and Caldey Island.
In the next few days I will endeavour to put on a few photos, if I can put my SD card from my camera into the computer, because I dont think I bought the connector with me, but I will need Moos help for that.
So off to cheer on the Gwyn Arms A team.
Love to all, Zak.
P.S. clarification from Gen that Moo and I were in Brixton with her in 2010!! I thought 2006 seemed too long ago.
Sunday, July 10, 2016
greetings from london
I all,
Sunday evening in London. Last night before we travel to Wales tomorrow.
Yesterday we started at Borough Markets for second breakfast, which included half a pint of cider, and freh baked pretzels..yum.
The food and stalls were amazing. My favourite here was the massive wheels of cheese and amazing breads
From there I headed to Brixton while Moo and Annie headed to the Tower museum.
I love Brixton. This is where I had my outfit for Annie and Steve's wedding made to order by an African seamstress. Gen also lived her for a while while she was in London and Moo and I stayed with her here.
The colour and sounds , and the smells are amazing. I had plans for a Carribean lunch from a woman who made amazing food from a caravan in a back lane....but that was last time I was there eleven years ago so no suprise she wasnt there any more.
Can that be right that the last time I was here? I know I came in 2005, as we were just about to buy the house and start paying a mortgage, and I thought I would never be able to afford to travel again, so I raced out and bought a ticket to London!! I'm thinking it cannot be right as Gen isn't old enough to have been living there 10 years ago is she? Will have to check with Moo when she gets out of the shower. OK Moo reckons it was in 2007 with Gen. Need Gen to clarify this at some stage.
Anyway although there is talk of developers wanting to bulldoze the old market area, for now it is still alive and kicking!!
Met back up with Moo and Annie at Camden markets. The local expression is 'heaving' and this is certainly a very apt description.So so so.many people. I sometimes think the IGA supermarket at Woonona is too crowded, so this was a complete blowout. However it wasn't too busy that we didn't find a few treasures to purchase.
Acta
As we had nothing planned for Saturday evening Annie decided to see Showboat. Moo and I whiled away a few hours watching street theatre at convent garden, which was great fun.
Today we headed to speakers corner. What has happened to this great public speaking arena? I loved coming here in the mid 80s when I lived here.
Today there were only 2,speakers but of course several hecklers. Actually one was not even speaking, he was just standing silently with is eyes closed holding a Torah. The other guy was a Muslim and of course he was the one with several hecklers.
Then headed, via Selfridge's to the V&A. Oh my goodness I forgot how awesome this place is. Time just vanishes as you are mesmerised for hours by the collections in this place. An afternoon does not do.it justice.
Tonight a modern hip hop /salsa musical 'In the heights' which was great fun and a fine finale for our stay in London.
Just now there's fire crackers going off and people partying as Portugal wins the European cup.
Time to repack the backpack
Love to all,
Zak
Sunday evening in London. Last night before we travel to Wales tomorrow.
Yesterday we started at Borough Markets for second breakfast, which included half a pint of cider, and freh baked pretzels..yum.
The food and stalls were amazing. My favourite here was the massive wheels of cheese and amazing breads
From there I headed to Brixton while Moo and Annie headed to the Tower museum.
I love Brixton. This is where I had my outfit for Annie and Steve's wedding made to order by an African seamstress. Gen also lived her for a while while she was in London and Moo and I stayed with her here.
The colour and sounds , and the smells are amazing. I had plans for a Carribean lunch from a woman who made amazing food from a caravan in a back lane....but that was last time I was there eleven years ago so no suprise she wasnt there any more.
Can that be right that the last time I was here? I know I came in 2005, as we were just about to buy the house and start paying a mortgage, and I thought I would never be able to afford to travel again, so I raced out and bought a ticket to London!! I'm thinking it cannot be right as Gen isn't old enough to have been living there 10 years ago is she? Will have to check with Moo when she gets out of the shower. OK Moo reckons it was in 2007 with Gen. Need Gen to clarify this at some stage.
Anyway although there is talk of developers wanting to bulldoze the old market area, for now it is still alive and kicking!!
Met back up with Moo and Annie at Camden markets. The local expression is 'heaving' and this is certainly a very apt description.So so so.many people. I sometimes think the IGA supermarket at Woonona is too crowded, so this was a complete blowout. However it wasn't too busy that we didn't find a few treasures to purchase.
Acta
As we had nothing planned for Saturday evening Annie decided to see Showboat. Moo and I whiled away a few hours watching street theatre at convent garden, which was great fun.
Today we headed to speakers corner. What has happened to this great public speaking arena? I loved coming here in the mid 80s when I lived here.
Today there were only 2,speakers but of course several hecklers. Actually one was not even speaking, he was just standing silently with is eyes closed holding a Torah. The other guy was a Muslim and of course he was the one with several hecklers.
Then headed, via Selfridge's to the V&A. Oh my goodness I forgot how awesome this place is. Time just vanishes as you are mesmerised for hours by the collections in this place. An afternoon does not do.it justice.
Tonight a modern hip hop /salsa musical 'In the heights' which was great fun and a fine finale for our stay in London.
Just now there's fire crackers going off and people partying as Portugal wins the European cup.
Time to repack the backpack
Love to all,
Zak
Friday, July 8, 2016
greetings from London
Hi all
Where to begin,
The flight I can narrow down to eating,crying and sleeping,for both Annie and myself.
Then beautiful Amsterdam. We had a lovely few days strolling long the canals and seeing the sights of the city,with the constant aroma of hashish never far away.
Forgot how much I love this city. So easy going, the people and the pace. Cycles are the fastest moving objects. Of course it was a bit tricky at first looking in the opposite direction for traffic, then checking for cyclists,then for trams,before you even get to thinking about cars.
Hmm good strong coffee and muesli and apple turnover and stroopwafel for breakfast!!
The accommodation was in a great location, right at a tram stop. Only problem was that they did not have kettle in the room,which I thought was outrageous, and I told them so.
Their explanation was that it was not sustainable to have a kettle in every room. I suggested that they could offer to customers and only give to the ones that requested one. No cuppa in the morning and herbal before bed,is no good for me.
The second evening we headed out of Amsterdam to visit my wonderful old mates, Lance and Trish and their son Kain. So lovelyto be with themin their home. Very special time.
Wednesday
the big day of the meeting of the three sisters!!
We met at Kings Cross station,just by 9 3/4 platform, for all you Harry Potter fans.
Lots of hugs and kisses.
Really unbelievable to be hanging out in London together. Some tears s well cause Steve isn't here withAnnie, but he is definitely with us in spirit.
So London. I thought we had booked an apartment for ourselves,however that was not the case. It wasa four bedroom flat(apartment sounds way too sophisticated) we three in one room with share bathroom and kitchen and people in the other three bedrooms who we rarely saw. Its OK ad we feel comfortable here.
London, I know it and love its craziness. A great city to visit in the summer! Sometimes a bit too much hustle and bustle, especially peak hour on the tube, but its always moving and shaking.
Probably won't get to see all my favourite places, but will definitely get to see a fewfew.
Always love the. Front et of the double decker buses. The best way toexplore London and get your bearings.
There are two major change since I was last here. 10uyrars ago.
Black cabs are changing colour and also the bikes!!
Hundreds of people cycling to work everyday.Moo says this is due to Boris Johnson making it a priority, and what a bloody great job he did of it. Prior to this you took your life in your hands cycling in London. I know I have done it.
And of course the beautiful long summer evenings, that are co.mpletely blowing Annie mind at the moment and specially the first few evenings in Amsterdam.
OK that is all for now. Midnight and need to get to sleep for an early start to Borough markets tomorrow,.
Will endeavour to be more diligent with writing now we have sorted the technology out.
.
Where to begin,
The flight I can narrow down to eating,crying and sleeping,for both Annie and myself.
Then beautiful Amsterdam. We had a lovely few days strolling long the canals and seeing the sights of the city,with the constant aroma of hashish never far away.
Forgot how much I love this city. So easy going, the people and the pace. Cycles are the fastest moving objects. Of course it was a bit tricky at first looking in the opposite direction for traffic, then checking for cyclists,then for trams,before you even get to thinking about cars.
Hmm good strong coffee and muesli and apple turnover and stroopwafel for breakfast!!
The accommodation was in a great location, right at a tram stop. Only problem was that they did not have kettle in the room,which I thought was outrageous, and I told them so.
Their explanation was that it was not sustainable to have a kettle in every room. I suggested that they could offer to customers and only give to the ones that requested one. No cuppa in the morning and herbal before bed,is no good for me.
The second evening we headed out of Amsterdam to visit my wonderful old mates, Lance and Trish and their son Kain. So lovelyto be with themin their home. Very special time.
Wednesday
the big day of the meeting of the three sisters!!
We met at Kings Cross station,just by 9 3/4 platform, for all you Harry Potter fans.
Lots of hugs and kisses.
Really unbelievable to be hanging out in London together. Some tears s well cause Steve isn't here withAnnie, but he is definitely with us in spirit.
So London. I thought we had booked an apartment for ourselves,however that was not the case. It wasa four bedroom flat(apartment sounds way too sophisticated) we three in one room with share bathroom and kitchen and people in the other three bedrooms who we rarely saw. Its OK ad we feel comfortable here.
London, I know it and love its craziness. A great city to visit in the summer! Sometimes a bit too much hustle and bustle, especially peak hour on the tube, but its always moving and shaking.
Probably won't get to see all my favourite places, but will definitely get to see a fewfew.
Always love the. Front et of the double decker buses. The best way toexplore London and get your bearings.
There are two major change since I was last here. 10uyrars ago.
Black cabs are changing colour and also the bikes!!
Hundreds of people cycling to work everyday.Moo says this is due to Boris Johnson making it a priority, and what a bloody great job he did of it. Prior to this you took your life in your hands cycling in London. I know I have done it.
And of course the beautiful long summer evenings, that are co.mpletely blowing Annie mind at the moment and specially the first few evenings in Amsterdam.
OK that is all for now. Midnight and need to get to sleep for an early start to Borough markets tomorrow,.
Will endeavour to be more diligent with writing now we have sorted the technology out.
.
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
Amsterdam
Hi All,
Was in touch with Kate yesterday. She and Annie were enjoying their first day in Europe.
Kate is unable to get onto the blog at present so can't post her updates.
Just thought I'd let you know in case you were waiting for posts.
Should be able to sort something when we meet up - one more sleep!
All for now,
Moo xxxx
Was in touch with Kate yesterday. She and Annie were enjoying their first day in Europe.
Kate is unable to get onto the blog at present so can't post her updates.
Just thought I'd let you know in case you were waiting for posts.
Should be able to sort something when we meet up - one more sleep!
All for now,
Moo xxxx
Saturday, July 2, 2016
Welsh Greetings
Hi All,
The time has arrived. Annie and Kate will be flying tomorrow and it is only four sleeps until I meet them in London. Exciting times!
Jules and I had a lovely few days in New Quay in west Wales this week. Spotted dolphins by the harbour on most days. The weather wasn't great but we managed to get out and about without getting too wet. Had a walk along the coastal path one day - beautiful!
The next few days will be cleaning and last minute preparations for Kate and Annie's visit.
Hopefully the weather will warm up a bit as well. It's dry but not really warm enough for Kate. I have plenty of wood to light the chiminea to warm our evenings. We also have wood available to light the wood burner inside if needed.
Not much news otherwise. Will keep everyone posted with the adventures of the three sisters.
Take Care.
Moo xxxx
The time has arrived. Annie and Kate will be flying tomorrow and it is only four sleeps until I meet them in London. Exciting times!
Jules and I had a lovely few days in New Quay in west Wales this week. Spotted dolphins by the harbour on most days. The weather wasn't great but we managed to get out and about without getting too wet. Had a walk along the coastal path one day - beautiful!
The next few days will be cleaning and last minute preparations for Kate and Annie's visit.
Hopefully the weather will warm up a bit as well. It's dry but not really warm enough for Kate. I have plenty of wood to light the chiminea to warm our evenings. We also have wood available to light the wood burner inside if needed.
Not much news otherwise. Will keep everyone posted with the adventures of the three sisters.
Take Care.
Moo xxxx
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)