To Windsor

 Wednesday, 12th May 2021

The usual garden photograph, before we leave, to set the standard. Plus, a few more to illustrate the changes taking place with new fence, mostly being undertaken by neighbour Steve, although, I have lent the sweat of my brow to the effort.

Approximately 280 uneventful miles. A bit of sunshine, a bit or rain, typical of the weather we have been having recently.

We find Gary & Susana's new house, without a problem (it is our first visit). 

Parking the van is a bit of an ordeal, but, possible.

Absolutely wonderful to see the family (Gary, Susana, Gabriel and Salma, after so many months of Covid restrictions.

Everyone looking well and happy, the children have grown so much.

The new house is excellent.

Thursday, 13th May 2021

Not blessed with good weather, cool, and, showers, some very heavy, throughout the day.

Two (walking) laps of Bray lake with Gary and Susana, followed by lunch sitting outside a cafe by the lake (it stayed fine for the duration of lunch). 

Playing in the garden with Salma, after she returned from school, followed by collecting Gabriel from school after one of his activity filled days, with an 18:00 finish.

Friday, 14th May 2021

More overnight rain, and, a cloudy day forecast.

Saturday, 15th May 2021

Another indifferent day, weatherise. 

A full day, In the morning we attend Gabriel's Saturday morning football session, they draw 1-1, which is an improvement on being beaten. Gabriel does not manage to score, much to his disappointment, but, he puts in a valiant effort.

We are dutiful Grandparents and freeze on the touch line, whilst shouting encouragement.

Horse riding in the afternoon (Gabriel and Salma, not us grandparents!). 

Myself and Gabriel begin making an Airfix model of a Red Arrows training jet. Airfix models appear much more complex than I remember as a ten year old!

Table tennis in the evening with Gabriel, he tells me I am "quite good", I think, he is being kind.

Sunday, 16th May 2021

A heavy work day today, but, enjoyable because lots was achieved, and, I was in good company.

In the morning, work with Gary and Gabriel to fill skip with rubbish and rubble at the "old" house. Gabriel worked extremely hard, encouraged, no doubt, by my stories of how children his age (11), used to be sent up chimneys, down coal mines etc. His efforts were redoubled when he thought he may be getting paid minimum wage for his labours.

In the afternoon, a little relaxation, playing table tennis with Gabriel, followed by weeding, grass cutting, and strimming, with Gary, Gabriel and Kathleen.

In the meantime, Kathleen had Salma at the park, and, even, a little try at skate-boarding!