Henry, Luke, Lauren, (Luke’s partner) Kitty - Henry and Kitty in teenager mode
Luke, Lauren, Kitty, Henry, Georgia and her partner Anton
On Sunday, Will came to pick me up at Sevenoaks and took me into Stratford, to meet up with his family. I can’t begin to say how much I enjoyed the day. The following photos are hopefully sufficient to show what a relaxed, happy day we shared. The last time I saw them was 11 years ago - and they all now tower above me as can be seen above - even sitting!!
Luke and Georgia are Kitty and Henry’s half siblings and I was delighted and impressed to see how well they all related together. Georgia particularly, impressed me, by caring and watching out for each and every one of us, all day … and I overheard her arranging to be with Kitty on Thursday - the day her exam results are due to come out, if she wanted her to be there. Luke, too, has always been a lovely chap - last time I was in UK, I was walking along the street in Cirencester and a young lad was cycling towards me - I didn’t know a soul and hadn’t even seen who it was when suddenly a voice said “Hello Sue” and there was Luke. He hasn’t changed.
Will and I talked non stop on the hour long car ride to the venue. He has a new job working in a local veterinary clinic, which saves him a long daily commute to work. We spoke a lot about Rachel and it was just like “old times”. He’s such a nice man and his children clearly get on well with him and vice versa.
The boys getting competitive with bench presses or whatever they’re called. The girls joined in shortly afterwards. They all attend gyms and are very enthusiastic competitors!
Lauren, Georgia and Kitty outside the Olympic Pool
Will and Georgia taking up practically the whole picture with their super long legs.
Henry, Luke, Lauren and Will - that MIGHT be the Olympic Stadium
behind them (now owned by a football franchise. I’ve forgotten which one!)
The Victoria and Albert “store” - holding items for Kensington’s V and A Museum
All our handbags etc had to be put in lockers … we were only allowed to carry in our phones/cameras and security guards stood at each floor level. All the walkways were “see through” and I found it a bit disconcerting at times. Speaking of handbags, Kitty suddenly offered to carry mine when we were out walking. It wasn’t light, but she carried it for me for the rest of the day without complaint.
Coincidentally, mum’s mother was a hairdresser in her youth (at Harrods, I think) and she was asked to model some period costumes for the V and A. We have photos of her modelling them - but there was no sign of any of those garments on display.
There were so many other buildings of interest, boats on the river and a general atmosphere of holiday making. I thought I’d taken more photos to be honest, but I hope it gives a general idea of a very enjoyable day out - with a family who look out for each other and were happy to include me in their midst.
A really happy and enjoyable day … and an invitation to go and stay, if I have any spare time left.
It really was a lovely day.
