I’ve already introduced Di and Nick (7 July) when they took me to Sevenoaks - a very caring couple who are always prepared to walk the extra TWO miles and then ask if that’s far enough.
Since my last UK visit, they have retired and moved down to Newbury - about 20 minutes drive from “home base” at Reading with Ray - to be nearer their daughter, Australian husband and two grandsons. So it was great to be able to “place” them and their new home in my mind for future reference.
Nick is a retired GP who gained my everlasting respect, years ago, when we were discussing the pros and cons of taking statins to combat high cholesterol. “Take the pills and eat the cheese” has been my favourite medical quote ever since, as numerous friends will attest.
Di had been knitting “squares” during the winter to try to keep herself awake in front of the television, to be donated to a local charity shop. I guess it will come as no surprise to learn that I spent a couple of evenings sewing them together for her, but only managed about a third of them … at least it was a start. This morning her grandson (6/7?) came to the house and decided he would like it instead.
On Wednesday, we went for a walk around the city centre and surrounds. An interesting stroll, including a lady dressed as a pirate collecting for cancer with a huge red parakeet on her shoulder … and:
2 of us appear to be a trifle overdressed
A visit to Highclere Castle was next on the schedule … as was an early start in the morning. It definitely pays to be with locals who “know”. Despite assurances on line that no spaces remained with the tour guides, we ventured forth at a very early hour to take advantage of a small “loophole” which allows people without booked tickets to sneak in to tour the Castle separately, from 9.00 am. Even so, the very knowledgeable guides were available to give all the information anyone could ever want (and make sure that no photographs were being taken inside) and the real bonus … no crowds. Even in the loos.
We had cream teas in the cafe and then walked out into quite a downpour which cleared, almost on demand, and we spent a very pleasant hour wandering in the grounds, avoiding puddles and dripping trees - in the sun.
Just look at those storm clouds and note the beautifully even line of the lower branches - achieved, evidently, by the resident deer, chewing on the lower branches. Who needs Black and Decker?
Recognise it yet?
Still no idea?
Downton Abbey!
And so today, after a lovely relaxing three days (apart from the pressure of signing the visitors book), I have been chauffeured back to Reading for 2 or 3 days. This time we had 2 grandsons with us, so I was able to hone my skills playing “spot the yellow car”. Sadly, this time, they decided to change the search to orange cars … and for the first time in my life, I found out that the “colour blindness” I was diagnosed with, 50+ years ago, appears to only affect reds and oranges and colour matching. I failed, dismally. Again.
I could get used to this lifestyle! I may have said that before?
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PS Just for you, Nick … I couldn’t resist the temptation, sorry!
Love the handbag
