T
his year’s trip to the United Kingdom was the first time overseas for two of the grandchildren, Austin and Ashley. They were able to meet family for the first time and enjoy some of the sights. We literally covered a lot of territory ranging from the northern Highlands of Scotland where we were “blessed” with some bad weather which added to the drama of this amazing place. The southernmost travel took us to the ancient town of Canterbury and Canterbury Cathedral as well as Hastings and the White Cliffs of Dover. We stopped at a few castles along the way. We especially enjoyed spending time with the family. Thanks to all for your hospitality and time. The children are all beautiful and full of life as are the adults. We hope you enjoy some of the memories from the trip. Hope to see you all soon. Veronica & Dick Bags packed, phones at the ready at Fort Lauderdale International Airport.
Frank & Fiona Birthdays and Anniversary
Hever Castle
London
Billericay, Malden, Southend & Sussex
In the back garden at Geoff & Teresa’s home.
The ancient seaport of Malden.
Summer in Southend.
Lunch at the Royal Ascot
Inspecting the new gazebo.
The Scottish Highlands & Edinburgh
Basecamp at Dalmally
Backgarden at Dalmally
St. Conan’s on Loch Awe
Jacobite Memorial, Glenfinnan
Kichurn Castle Ruin
The Ancient City of Canterbury & Canterbury Cathedral
The University Town of Cambridge
Dedham Vale - Constable Country
John Constable, (1776 – 1837) was an English Romantic painter. He is best known for his paintings of Dedham Vale, a village in Essex. One of his most famous paintings was the home of tenant farmer Willy Lott, shown below. He was born in the house and lived there his entire life. It is virtually untouched to this day. Constable’s father owned Flatford Mill, which is also depicted here.
Hastings with Bernard & Kate
A tour of Bernard & Kate’s remodeled seaside home in Hastings. Although the weather was uncooperative, we were able to see some local sights, including the Seven Sisters or the White Cliffs of Dover. Anyone old enough to remember WWII will recall that the RAF pilots returning from bombing runs over Germany prayed to see these because they knew they were home and safe.
Farewell Party
Always the saddest part of our trip, the final party is held at Tony’s home behind the Boar’s Head Pub. During the trip, we were able to spend time with almost all of the family and most of them were able to rejoin us one last time before we left. The family photo has beome a tradition and we always spend extra time with the kids because they will have changed so much the next time we meet.