I am being pulled in all directions over the next few weeks. The school 
holidays are special to me because I feel I only have my boys on borrowed time now, if we can do things together still and enjoy each others company, then I shall make the most of it.
The truth is, as they are teenagers, this largely involves me being their chauffeur, but I do have a few other plans up my sleeve.
This week is going to be hectic catching up with friends, including Sue’s bereaved husband, who is a bit of a culture vulture and is taking me to see the great soprano Kiri te Kanewa this evening. I have asked him to give me some photos of Sue, including some taken on their wedding day – the only time I ever saw her wear a dress.
And I shall be working hard on my studies too. Tomorrow I have an appointment with Lib Dem MP Lynne Featherstone, the last for my research project on MPs and blogging, which I would like to have well wrapped up before heading to our annual retreat in North Norfolk followed by a week in Centre Parcs (no laptop allowed at either place on strict family orders).
When we last stayed in Centre Parcs two years ago, I was in the spa having a detox seaweed wrap and had been coated all over with green slimy stuff and wrapped in silver foil, the lights were dimmed, the music played softly and I was dreamily dozing off when the fire alarm suddenly went off. I half hoped/dreaded a hunky fireman would come and rescue me, but I was unceremoniously rushed into the shower by staff and ushered out quickly in a toweling robe; and all for nothing as it turned out to be a false alarm.
This may be a longer break than usual, posts will be intermittent, and I will be trawling your sites when I can.
Here’s wishing you a summer of sun, fun and relaxation, with an adventure or too as well.
Ciao.
I envy you going to see Dame Kiri, Ellee. I hope Sue’d husband gives you some nice photos of her. Yes, make the most of your time with your boys. I’ve always dreaded the fire alarm or something going off while I’ve got my highlights foils in or a face mask on so can imagine how you felt! Hope it doesn’t happen this time! Have a great summer. Auguri from Sicily.
Enjoy seeing Dame Kiri, Ellee. I shall be interesting in hearing about her.
I hope you have some relaxing times Ellee; I had somehow missed your blog on your friend – you describe it so accurately, and that could have been me many years ago; you were a true friend to her, and now to her husband.
Centre Parc I loved – it is so relaxing and away-from-it-all. Wish I could take you sailing – maybe one day!
have a good summer. Make the most of the time with your family.
Kiri is a wonderful singer. AS for Holidays.. yep I understand what being the taxi is all about! :o)
Have a wonderful time, Ellee…it seems you’re are already off to a good start. Stay away from the flooding!
Simon, yes, taxi and bank roller too!
janejill, I do have sea legs and have taken a sailing course, I would be a good mate for one of your trips. Also, Chris, Sue’s husband, is a captain in the Merchant Navy and plans to buy a fabulous sailing boat to hire out. Who knows, our ships might pass in the night!
Good idea to leave the lappy at home. Temptation is too great. Have a good break, Ellee.
Enjoy your holiday.
Have a well-deserved and blessed break, Ellee. May your summer unfold as you wish it to.
Cheers,
Ian
Have a great holiday..thanks for your kindness today…
our boys have been taken away for two weeks by their grandparents – pure bliss !
Went to the pub and out for a meal last night without any constraints (babysitter etc) for the first time in 9 years.
Have a great time with your family Ellee, time flies by so fast so enjoy every minute.
I’m sure the concert was great, Kiri is a joy to hear.
regards
jmb
Ellee, be careful of Lynne F – she’s like the snake in the Jungle Book…
Have a good break. My 6 week sojourn on the Aegean Coast is coming to an end. The chance of a spot of rain would be good in these parts. It’s 43 degrees outside today.
Have a wonderful holiday, Ellee; you deserve it. Enjoy your boys while you can.
I completely understand about being on borrowed time with the kids.
Still laughing about the damn fireman not turning up.
Have a wonderful break. xx
Enjoy Kiri!
Michael, Kiri was fabulous, the Italian arias were my favourite.
Make the most of your summer hols Ellee – have fun 🙂
Understood, Ellee and best of luck trying to fit it all together.
Ellee have a super holiday you deserve it
Trudy
….and don’t forget it is your husband’s 50th birthday bash !!!!
Yes indeed, the aforementioned Stephen is my husband and it was a great birthday bash with 100 guests (including friends I have not seen for ages) and live music by his excellent R & B band, as well as an excellent tribute to Meatloaf by a good friend who used to do it professionally. A great time was had by all 🙂
I have heard Centreparcs can be quite heavenly … hope you have a good time!