LHR Terminal 4 to Beaucette

We arrived at the hotel just before midnight, checked in, had a beer and slept soundly after a long day’s travelling.

Our eldest and his family

Having collected the car from the other side of the airport we were on our way to Coventry to stay with our eldest and his family. It was strange travelling on motorways again, let alone at 70mph rather than Guernsey’s max of 35mph.

Hugs, smiles and the general loud hubbub of two grandchildren greeted us. Not having seen them since last May it was very special. How quickly they grow up, with the elder soon to have his 11th birthday.

The sun was shining so a walk in the park that afternoon was delightful, accompanied by bike and scooter for the children.

A delicious roast pork evening meal was devoured eagerly by all.

Piers’ sister

The following afternoon Piers drove to his sister and brother-in-law in Gloucestershire whilst I stayed another night. My brain was challenged by playing card and board games. I let others win, of course.

I had an easy train journey to join Piers, Hilary and Kiffer for lunch after which we drove to Newbury to join Diccon and family for 2 nights.

Again, we had wonderful greetings from Oscar and Maia.

Board meeting

Piers had to attend a quarterly Group Board meeting on Wednesday so Charlotte and I walked into Newbury with the two ‘weasels’. It felt strange to be back; shops had changed, people seemed impersonal and the roads felt huge.

On Thursday, I went back to my previous hairdresser, Paul Charles of Thatcham, to have a trim and highlights. I was very pleased with the results.

D and M

Next stop was D & M, some dear friends from when we were neighbours at Bourne End. We all moved on in 1977 within a few weeks of each other and hadn’t met up for several years.

It was really good to see them again and reminisce about our ‘outrageous’ and fun times. In 1975 D had used creosote to write “Come back Piers, all is forgiven” on our side of the fence – a prophecy fulfilled?

Our youngest and his fiancée

Our last whole day in UK arrived with me visiting a friend before lunch with Toby and Amy in their ‘new’ abode. They have both worked so hard with decorating their bungalow ready for when they are married in April.

Guernsey-bound

Bidding our farewells, we travelled south to stay overnight near Portsmouth where we met Kim and Michelle for dinner at Wickham Vineyard. A great way to end to a busy week and wonderful time away.

Saturday 22 February saw us at the Portsmouth Condor Ferry terminal, exactly 11 months after we emigrated.

‘Old Faithful’, the Commodore Clipper was waiting for us and we departed a few minutes early.

With breakfast eaten we retired to our cabin for a sleep after such a busy but enjoyable week visiting as many as we could in the time available.

Guernsey, and Beaucette in particular, beckoned.

Lin
from the saloon of
play d’eau

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Boarding passes at the ready click to enlarge

We board ‘Old Faithful’ and are ready for breakfast click to enlarge

Entering St Peter Port after a great crossing click to enlarge