Friday, July 27, 2007

Rain, rain go away

Tintern Abbey

Our drive down to Twickenham on Friday was slow going as the rain caused a number of puddles of standing water, and even closed two lanes in the opposite direction with a landslide. However, we did finally make it, and Anna was able to head out to attend her school friend, Ma'ayan's, wedding reception. Meanwhile I had a chat with my old flatmate, Carl, who we were staying with that night. On Saturday, we met up with Anna's brother, Richard, for a very tasty lunch and a cup-of-tea before we headed back North to Barkers Green.

We visited the Hawkstone Park Follies on Sunday and, despite some inaccurate advice on pram accessibility, we managed to coax Caitlin into walking around much of the route.

Then, it was the long flight home for me, and straight into work on Wednesday morning; while Anna and the kids stay on in the UK for a few weeks.

Chris

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Friday, July 20, 2007

Happy Birthday and Christening

Ragleth Hill

Anna's University friends, Sarah and Janet, arrived in Barkers Green on Friday night (with their partners, Jim and John) to kick off a very busy, but fun, week. As Anna & I were still fighting jet-lag, we didn't stay up too late on Friday, so that we could try to make an early-ish start on Saturday morning. The plan was to head to Church Stretton for a walk in the country, and to work up a thirst for a drink or two.

We got to Church Stretton pretty much on time, and met up with Amy and Neil. So, after a brief stop in the local supermarket for supplies, we were off. Our proposed walk took us through a low-lying field which, as a result of the recent rain, was a little water-logged; a few of us dived in to investigate, but once the water reached knee-height we decided to look for an alternate route. Fortunately, we were able to take a “long way round” the field and re-join on the other side. From there the walk went smoothly, and we were able to take advantage of the good weather. When we reached the peak, we were joined by some rather serious-looking ramblers who looked on unimpressed as we drank the toffee-vodka shots that I had stowed away! After finding some food & drink in a local pub, it was back to Anna's parents for a birthday barbeque.

The day of the Christening was a little rainy, but James handled the occasion very well and didn't seem to mind a bit when he was doused with the holy water. Anna and I would like to thank all those who attended, and pass on our best wishes to those who couldn't.

After returning my Mum to Abergavenny, Anna and I headed out to The Bell at Skenfrith to celebrate her thirtieth. The meal was very nice, and my Mum did a good job of putting the kids to bed for us, as they were both shouting when we left and asleep when we got home.

Chris

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Friday, July 13, 2007

We Made It!

Me and my Dolly

Caitlin attended her last days at her current “school” this week, to allow Anna some space to finalise the packing for our trip to the UK. I'm pleased to say that, despite Anna's understandable concerns, the flight went without incident and we all arrived in the UK safely.

Given that the flight involves hour-after-hour of travel, Caitlin was pretty well behaved; and James managed to sleep for a good chunk of the flight. We picked up our rental car, with Avis, from an uncharacteristically helpful assistant, and after no more than an hour or so of entertainment fitting the car seats, we were on our way!

We confirmed the arrangements for James’ baptism with the Reverend, so it looks like we are all set for Sunday.

Chris

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Friday, July 06, 2007

First Night Out

Murder Mystery

On Saturday night, Anna and I went out together for the first time since James was born - we've both been out individually, but this was the 1st time we were out together. The occasion was a friend's 30th, and she had organised for us all to attend a murder mystery evening, with a 20s theme, at The Hero of Waterloo. It was good fun, and I think Anna only called the babysitter once!

Now that Anna has finished her course, she has been busy this week putting her knowledge to work by re-designing some brochures and business cards for one of her Balmain Sinfonia colleagues, Andrew Collishaw. As we're due to fly out of Sydney next week, hopefully she'll get everything done before we go.

Finally, for those of you who enjoyed Anna and Caitlin's dancing video - here's another one from the same day, this time featuring Caitlin and her cookie.

Chris

posted at 9:49 pm   1 comments