MM354

The ‘staycation’ in Wales was fantastic! We had 3 days with 9 of us camping, which, could have been disastrous if the weather had been awful. Fortunately we had 2 scorching hot days where we got a chance to visit the nearby lake and get out on the peddlos, go horse riding and have BBQs. We had water fights, played games and engaged in fantastic family conversations.

The final evening was torrential rain with thunder storms – you can’t go to Wales and expect anything else. What an experience though, the lightening behind the hills and the thunder following shortly after and, would you believe it, all of us dancing in the rain. The memories will be there forever and, I think, has had more impact than our usual holiday, in terms of our family connection.

Once we returned, I surprised my wife with a short trip to the Isle of Wight. She had never been there before so I booked 2 nights in a hotel in Shanklin and off we went. That was a really relaxing trip and it was fun driving around the Island to the local beauty spots. One place Sandra had always wanted to visit was Osborne House and, having spent a few hours going around the house and the grounds, I would totally recommend a visit, it was impressive.

While we were on the IOW we had posted some photos on FaceBook and were then contacted by people on the Island that we knew. One of my mates from my RAF days messaged me and we met up for a coffee and catch up (only 20 years since we last met). Sandra was contacted by one of her Cousins who she hadn’t seen since she was 6 years old, so we went around his house, met his wife and kids and heard some old stories from their past. We were so involved in the conversations that , 2 coffee and some cake later, we left late and nearly missed the ferry back home!

I know that before we made a decision to do something in the UK, we were contemplating doing nothing, maybe some more DIY or gardening! Watching the weather predictions of thunder storms in Wales, I also nearly pulled the plug and cancelled the booking. I am so glad we made the effort, took a chance on the weather and embraced spending time together, camping in a potentially wet and windy Wales.

Sometimes you just have to take a risk, plan for the best and prepare for the worst, it worked for us.

I am looking forward to a holiday abroad next year as I still like the idea of chilling by the pool, playing water polo / volleyball and having a lazy afternoon sunbathing with a beer. For now though, we appreciate what we do have, what we can do, and the time together.

Life is not perfect but I feel grateful for so many things, I hope you do too.

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