Good question! Well, I spent the last couple of days on the beach behind 'Lobster Alive' restaurant on Carlisle Beach. On Sunday, the restaurant was open and full of the richer client group from up the West Coast - drinking champagne and eating lobster. I was drinking Sprite and eating rotis from a place just up the street. Anyway, some of the diners decided to sit and drink wine on the beach, next to my patch. At the end of the day, one of them said 'Are you leaving? You've been there all day and you look so serene'. So there you go, folks, go to chill out until you become serene!
Seriously, I really think that the colour turquoise of the Caribbean sea has healing powers. I wish it was somewhere I could just pop to for the weekend.
My return journey home was slightly amended - my hire car had a puncture - but Southern Rentals came to the rescue and had me whisked off to the airport. Checked in fine and headed through to the air conitioned no-man's-land of the airport.
The flight home was fine - I am loving Virgin Atlantic's Premium Economy purple seats! Touch screen entertainment system - watch any film on demand - watch on takeoff and landing...great. I managed to get some sleep too. I can't say I feel refreshed but at least I don't feel jet lagged....yet!
So, another trip bites the dust - time to plan for the next one!
BKBx
Tuesday, 28 May 2013
Saturday, 25 May 2013
33 Degree Day Ending with Rainshowers and Sunshine at Accra Beach.
Wow - 33 degrees this morning - soooooo hot! I had decided to go to Hastings Farmers Market. I saw it packing away last Saturday and made a note to get there earlier and see what it's about. It's at a place called 'Art Splash' on the main coast road up to Bridgetown and there are stalls selling crafts, homemade dishes and art work - plus things for the kids to do. I met some really lovely people and bought some hand crafted earrings and some homemade soap. I really recommend a visit.
I had to go to the bank to change some cheques - and there was hardly a queue - which is very unusual here. I then decided to head up to Earthworks at Edgehill to the Treetops Cafe. If you have nothing else, be sure to have their rum cake - I bought some to take out so that I can keep the experience going! I left with the cake - and a heavy heart - that will be the last time I'm there this visit. It is one of my favourite places, it has cool breezes and lovely views. Ah - drove away with tears in my eyes.
After a little rain the island cooled to 28 degrees and it felt fresh again - so I decided to get into the swimsuit and head to the beach. It had to be Accra - with its rolling waves and lively atmosphere. I bought a beer from Chicken George's - and had someone offer to rub in the suncream on my back, where I'd missed. Only in Barbados!
I had a sun bed and was just getting settled when there was a really sudden shower - which drove me back to the shelter of the bar and another beer! A local laughed because he thought I'd come out of the sea to get out of the rain...I hadn't! Back on the beach and that lovely part of the day that I call 'Silver Time' - when the sea goes from turquoise to glittering silver. It's when the families and locals come to the beach too - so it feels the really sociable part of the day. Then we had another shower!
Finally it looked like the weather wasn't going to be sunny anymore and the bar was closing - so I headed back to the apartment to clean up, saying a little 'goodbye' to Accra too. Oh - I hate this part of the holiday, where time goes so fast and everything seems so precious. Tomorrow is the last full day, the last night on the island, the last dinner...etc.
And then there's the packing!
BKB x
I had to go to the bank to change some cheques - and there was hardly a queue - which is very unusual here. I then decided to head up to Earthworks at Edgehill to the Treetops Cafe. If you have nothing else, be sure to have their rum cake - I bought some to take out so that I can keep the experience going! I left with the cake - and a heavy heart - that will be the last time I'm there this visit. It is one of my favourite places, it has cool breezes and lovely views. Ah - drove away with tears in my eyes.
After a little rain the island cooled to 28 degrees and it felt fresh again - so I decided to get into the swimsuit and head to the beach. It had to be Accra - with its rolling waves and lively atmosphere. I bought a beer from Chicken George's - and had someone offer to rub in the suncream on my back, where I'd missed. Only in Barbados!
I had a sun bed and was just getting settled when there was a really sudden shower - which drove me back to the shelter of the bar and another beer! A local laughed because he thought I'd come out of the sea to get out of the rain...I hadn't! Back on the beach and that lovely part of the day that I call 'Silver Time' - when the sea goes from turquoise to glittering silver. It's when the families and locals come to the beach too - so it feels the really sociable part of the day. Then we had another shower!
Finally it looked like the weather wasn't going to be sunny anymore and the bar was closing - so I headed back to the apartment to clean up, saying a little 'goodbye' to Accra too. Oh - I hate this part of the holiday, where time goes so fast and everything seems so precious. Tomorrow is the last full day, the last night on the island, the last dinner...etc.
And then there's the packing!
BKB x
Thursday, 23 May 2013
Hunte's Gardens and Bajan Art
I forgot how much the rain came down last night and stepped off the path - big mistake - squelchy mud. I had to get someone to hose my feet down - including between my toes!
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| Rembrandt lets us know he's here! |
I was very lucky to catch this action shot of him crowing!
Henderson normally specialises in batik but he has captured Rembrandt in watercolours!
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| Rembrandt in watercolour form |
It has been such a hot (30 degrees) and sunny day but we've had some sudden heavy rain - think tonight will be a take-away evening! I know it's lazy option but I just feel like kicking back and chilling this evening. I'm on holiday - why not!
I'm seriously thinking of doing the swim with turtles trip tomorrow but I'm a rubbish swimmer and have a real fear of not being able to climb the ladder back into the boat. If you see someone being towed back to shore on the island tomorrow - you'll know my fears were justified!
Off to get rained on!
BKBx
Wednesday, 22 May 2013
Carlisle Beach in the Rain!
Ok - not all day, but I was to be found huddled under a beach umbrella fending off a shower earlier today. Odd because it was a lovely sunny start to the day and the sea was glorious. I walked into a huge 'cloud' of tiny silver fish. They manage to stay in the same place even though the waves above them are moving - and they glint in the sun.
There was a cruise ship in today - so a busy beach and all the guys selling trips were trying to catch every possible customer. It made for an interesting day watching guys getting cross with each other!
Had a rum punch and a vegetable roti at lunch - it makes for a cheap, scrumptious and relaxing lunch time - and all from the comfort of a sunbed with a fantastic view. Bliss.
I had hoped to treat myself to a Haagan Dazs cup of ice cream on the way home but there is a homemade sign in the window saying they are closed - I don't know if that means forever or not. Hmmm - not good news!
Well - the rain has returned with a vengeance so I need to think carefully about where I am going for dinner. Last night I tried out a drink at Ocean 7 - nice place - and then was taken for dinner by a friend at Naru. It is a Japanese restaurant in the Shak Shak complex in Hastings. Really enjoyed the meal, it was a real treat.
So - that's going to take some topping tonight.
One thing I'm sure of, I am not going to waste my time drying my hair straight tonight! If you ever saw that episode of 'Friends' where Monica goes to Barbados and the humidity made her hair go wild...you'll understand!
BKBx
There was a cruise ship in today - so a busy beach and all the guys selling trips were trying to catch every possible customer. It made for an interesting day watching guys getting cross with each other!
Had a rum punch and a vegetable roti at lunch - it makes for a cheap, scrumptious and relaxing lunch time - and all from the comfort of a sunbed with a fantastic view. Bliss.
I had hoped to treat myself to a Haagan Dazs cup of ice cream on the way home but there is a homemade sign in the window saying they are closed - I don't know if that means forever or not. Hmmm - not good news!
Well - the rain has returned with a vengeance so I need to think carefully about where I am going for dinner. Last night I tried out a drink at Ocean 7 - nice place - and then was taken for dinner by a friend at Naru. It is a Japanese restaurant in the Shak Shak complex in Hastings. Really enjoyed the meal, it was a real treat.
So - that's going to take some topping tonight.
One thing I'm sure of, I am not going to waste my time drying my hair straight tonight! If you ever saw that episode of 'Friends' where Monica goes to Barbados and the humidity made her hair go wild...you'll understand!
BKBx
Monday, 20 May 2013
Bank Holiday in Barbados
Today has been very overcast and it began with rain - so I decided to head out in the car rather than swimsuit!
Had breakfast near Accra beach - at Quayside. Spanish omelette with warm, buttered toast really hit the spot. Glad that I ate there - I'd decided to head up the island to Holetown and thought I might try breakfast either at 'Bean and Bagel' or at the fab cafe in the chattel village up there. However, I was too hungry to wait that long so ate at Accra. Glad I did because so little was open, once you moved away from the south coast area..
Today is a national holiday - Whit Monday - and it seems to be a day for families to enjoy being together. I wish we had the same traditions in the UK - Bank Holidays now have all shops open and DIY is more traditional than outings and picnics.
So - having had a good tour up the west coast, I headed back to the apartment for a little relaxation and a read of the local papers. I always like to read the papers to see what's important here - and I have learnt that there are new banknotes being issued here next week, and that the Internet and telecoms provider 'Lime' is doing a major upgrade to improve services.
I then rallied and walked down to Accra Beach. It was still very overcast but bright and all the locals were out having barbecues on the beach. oh, the kids were having such a lot of fun and the beach was full of laughter.
I stopped by Chicken George's for a beer and then a chat with someone at the jewellery stall in the huts there - such lovely semi-precious gems there. Might be tempted to spend there soon.
So - walked along the water's edge, listening to the kids having fun, then back for a shower. Now, being a Brit, I had a cup of tea and a custard creme biscuit - since I've really lost track of meal times! The weather is now closing in for a downpour - so I will be driving out in search of dinner later - cos when it rains here, it really rains!
As everyone says here - enjoy the balance of your evening!
BKBx
Had breakfast near Accra beach - at Quayside. Spanish omelette with warm, buttered toast really hit the spot. Glad that I ate there - I'd decided to head up the island to Holetown and thought I might try breakfast either at 'Bean and Bagel' or at the fab cafe in the chattel village up there. However, I was too hungry to wait that long so ate at Accra. Glad I did because so little was open, once you moved away from the south coast area..
Today is a national holiday - Whit Monday - and it seems to be a day for families to enjoy being together. I wish we had the same traditions in the UK - Bank Holidays now have all shops open and DIY is more traditional than outings and picnics.
So - having had a good tour up the west coast, I headed back to the apartment for a little relaxation and a read of the local papers. I always like to read the papers to see what's important here - and I have learnt that there are new banknotes being issued here next week, and that the Internet and telecoms provider 'Lime' is doing a major upgrade to improve services.
I then rallied and walked down to Accra Beach. It was still very overcast but bright and all the locals were out having barbecues on the beach. oh, the kids were having such a lot of fun and the beach was full of laughter.
I stopped by Chicken George's for a beer and then a chat with someone at the jewellery stall in the huts there - such lovely semi-precious gems there. Might be tempted to spend there soon.
So - walked along the water's edge, listening to the kids having fun, then back for a shower. Now, being a Brit, I had a cup of tea and a custard creme biscuit - since I've really lost track of meal times! The weather is now closing in for a downpour - so I will be driving out in search of dinner later - cos when it rains here, it really rains!
As everyone says here - enjoy the balance of your evening!
BKBx
Sunday, 19 May 2013
What is the Point of a Mosquito?
I am covered in mosquito bites! I mean, even the sole of my foot. What do these horrid little bugs give back to society? I did manage to swat one that landed on my hand yesterday but they have scored more hits on me! Good job I take antihistamine for my skin allergy - so at least they don't itch too bad.
Had a really quiet day on the beach yesterday - hardly anyone around at all. It was a pretty overcast and there were a couple of spells of heavy rain - but I had plenty of shelter under the umbrella!
A killer rum punch at lunch time made for a relaxed afternoon - watching the race horses being exercised along the water's edge - I think there is a race day on Monday.
Still haven't decided what to do today - but I'm sure I'll think of something!
BKBx
Had a really quiet day on the beach yesterday - hardly anyone around at all. It was a pretty overcast and there were a couple of spells of heavy rain - but I had plenty of shelter under the umbrella!
A killer rum punch at lunch time made for a relaxed afternoon - watching the race horses being exercised along the water's edge - I think there is a race day on Monday.
Still haven't decided what to do today - but I'm sure I'll think of something!
BKBx
Friday, 17 May 2013
Out and About on the Island
I did have a slow start to the day but decided to leave beaches alone and head up the island, with my camera. I had to get some cash at the bank - that's an hour of my life I'll never get back! The queues in the banks here are crazy! I also managed to pick a teller who was in a bad mood and made me write my name, address and telephone number on every single cheque. I've never had to that before!
So, after that big waste of time it was nearly lunch time - so I headed up to Earthworks at Edgehill. Had an interesting moment when a truck ahead of me shed one of it's load of used tyres - which bounced down the road in my direction. Ever resourceful, I asked myself how the 'Highway Code' would suggest I deal with the situation, and treated it as a moving roundabout! No damage done - phew!
Edgehill has to be one of my favourite parts of the island - so cool and breezy, with an amazing view down to the coast.
If you know the island, you can easily make out the Hilton Hotel, which sits at the end of Carlisle Beach, my favourite place to lie in the sun. I promise myself that if I ever win the lottery, I will have someone build me a house at Edgehill.
At Earthworks, Tree Tops Cafe do a really good Bajan lemonade and I always like the fish cakes there too. Look at my wonderful lunch with a view! Note the cheeky bird looking for a share!
I checked in with Hendy on how the batik silk is doing for my Mum. It was just finishing the final painting stage, ready to dry. Here's the artist at work on the silk!
My wrap is still drying out prior to boiling the wax off - can't wait to see the colours properly, once the wax has gone.When I posted yesterday I don't think my link to his website worked - fingers crossed I get it right this time..
www.batikartbarbados.com
Popped into Earthworks pottery to get 2 mugs and a plate to add to my collection. I use them every day at home and love the bright colours that remind me of the Caribbean. Lovely stuff!
http://www.earthworks-pottery.com/
No plans for this evening but I fancy eating in a restaurant.
Sad news of the day is that McBride's in St. Lawrence Gap has closed down. That is one place I usually go each holiday - they did a lovely garlicky cream shrimp dish. It is also one of my best memories on the island - my friend celebrated her birthday while we were on holiday many years ago. I called ahead and McBride's presented her with a huge birthday cake, and the karaoke was hilarious. Going to miss the place.
BKBx
So, after that big waste of time it was nearly lunch time - so I headed up to Earthworks at Edgehill. Had an interesting moment when a truck ahead of me shed one of it's load of used tyres - which bounced down the road in my direction. Ever resourceful, I asked myself how the 'Highway Code' would suggest I deal with the situation, and treated it as a moving roundabout! No damage done - phew!
Edgehill has to be one of my favourite parts of the island - so cool and breezy, with an amazing view down to the coast.
If you know the island, you can easily make out the Hilton Hotel, which sits at the end of Carlisle Beach, my favourite place to lie in the sun. I promise myself that if I ever win the lottery, I will have someone build me a house at Edgehill.At Earthworks, Tree Tops Cafe do a really good Bajan lemonade and I always like the fish cakes there too. Look at my wonderful lunch with a view! Note the cheeky bird looking for a share!
I checked in with Hendy on how the batik silk is doing for my Mum. It was just finishing the final painting stage, ready to dry. Here's the artist at work on the silk!My wrap is still drying out prior to boiling the wax off - can't wait to see the colours properly, once the wax has gone.When I posted yesterday I don't think my link to his website worked - fingers crossed I get it right this time..
www.batikartbarbados.com
Popped into Earthworks pottery to get 2 mugs and a plate to add to my collection. I use them every day at home and love the bright colours that remind me of the Caribbean. Lovely stuff!
http://www.earthworks-pottery.com/
No plans for this evening but I fancy eating in a restaurant.
Sad news of the day is that McBride's in St. Lawrence Gap has closed down. That is one place I usually go each holiday - they did a lovely garlicky cream shrimp dish. It is also one of my best memories on the island - my friend celebrated her birthday while we were on holiday many years ago. I called ahead and McBride's presented her with a huge birthday cake, and the karaoke was hilarious. Going to miss the place.
BKBx
Thursday, 16 May 2013
A Day without Plans
I had every intention of going to Carlisle Beach again today - but plans change!
I had a call from my friend, Hendy, who was passing my place - so he called in for a chat and a lime (which isn't fruit - it's Bajan chilling).
Hendy is a batik artist and the good news of the day that the wrap I asked him to paint (to match my new curve-making swimsuit) is at the boiling stage of the creative process. That means it's nearly finished. He's also painting some silk for my Mum, who wants to make a shirt for herself that will be unique. Check out Hendy's website www.batikartbarbados.com .I'm pretty tempted to do one of his one-day courses in batik....but I'm not holding out any hope that I'll be able to produce anything as pretty as he does.
So - Hendy went off to work and I went to Accra beach to lie down! The sea was really rough today at Accra, so I only risked a quick paddle. I treated myself to a strawberry daiquiri at Oasis Bar - these little huts at the edge of the beach are great - and the cocktail was just $15 Bds (£3). I was asked if I wanted strong or medium - I went 'medium' because it was only 3.30pm and I have standards!
While waiting at the bar, a local customer tells me I have a 'Bajan shape' and his hands describe an hour glass shape in the air. God I love this place!
'Even the waves have rhythmn' - painted on a beach hut bar at Accra Beach.
I had a call from my friend, Hendy, who was passing my place - so he called in for a chat and a lime (which isn't fruit - it's Bajan chilling).
Hendy is a batik artist and the good news of the day that the wrap I asked him to paint (to match my new curve-making swimsuit) is at the boiling stage of the creative process. That means it's nearly finished. He's also painting some silk for my Mum, who wants to make a shirt for herself that will be unique. Check out Hendy's website www.batikartbarbados.com .I'm pretty tempted to do one of his one-day courses in batik....but I'm not holding out any hope that I'll be able to produce anything as pretty as he does.
So - Hendy went off to work and I went to Accra beach to lie down! The sea was really rough today at Accra, so I only risked a quick paddle. I treated myself to a strawberry daiquiri at Oasis Bar - these little huts at the edge of the beach are great - and the cocktail was just $15 Bds (£3). I was asked if I wanted strong or medium - I went 'medium' because it was only 3.30pm and I have standards!
While waiting at the bar, a local customer tells me I have a 'Bajan shape' and his hands describe an hour glass shape in the air. God I love this place!
Quote of the day
'Even the waves have rhythmn' - painted on a beach hut bar at Accra Beach.
Wednesday, 15 May 2013
Lazy Day on a Busy Beach
Well, 2nd full day on the island and I spent a lazy time of it on Carlisle Bay - a really wonderful beach to take dips in the most glorious, calmest sea. Bliss!
Being Wednesday, we had a cruise ship in and people came and went on the beach in a sort of shift pattern. Of course, that attracts the beach vendors - so I was quite busy rejecting their wares. Still, they know I'm here for more than a day trip from a ship, so they are happy to let me be.
Had a jet ski owner asking me out several times - no particular chat up line. I think he just plans to wear down my resistance with repeated asking. I've made it clear it won't work!
I didn't make it out for dinner last night - too chilled and hair in a frightful state - so I'm making a bit of an effort tonight and heading for 'Just Grillin' later. I want to get be some grilled dolphin (mahi mahi) - first of the holiday.
Yummee!
BKBx
Being Wednesday, we had a cruise ship in and people came and went on the beach in a sort of shift pattern. Of course, that attracts the beach vendors - so I was quite busy rejecting their wares. Still, they know I'm here for more than a day trip from a ship, so they are happy to let me be.
Had a jet ski owner asking me out several times - no particular chat up line. I think he just plans to wear down my resistance with repeated asking. I've made it clear it won't work!
I didn't make it out for dinner last night - too chilled and hair in a frightful state - so I'm making a bit of an effort tonight and heading for 'Just Grillin' later. I want to get be some grilled dolphin (mahi mahi) - first of the holiday.
Yummee!
BKBx
Tuesday, 14 May 2013
Lazy Days at Accra
Well, after breakfast and a snooze I managed to get myself down to Accra Beach to do some unwinding - mission accomplished there! Lovely day - sitting in the shade of a big umbrella - a bit of crosswording, bit of music, bit of reading. Had my first Banks beer of the holiday, followed by the first Twist (no, I wasn't dancing - it's a Bank's shandy).
I was twice told I am beautiful - awe, bless - and chatted up once. Noel (aka Jolly Roger, apparently - not sure if that's a reference to his pirate days or some favourite activity he has...hmmmm). Anyhow he swears I look 28 and he wants me to come to St. Lawrence Gap and learn to dance with him, at a party on Wednesday night. I have no plans for Wednesday but there is one place I won't be! Still, everyone here is happy just to chat and walk away - even though he was determined that I put his number in my 'phone. I didn't - too much of a liability!
So - showered and clean and thinking about the evening ahead - I think a simple supper somewhere close by and an early night!
BKBx
I was twice told I am beautiful - awe, bless - and chatted up once. Noel (aka Jolly Roger, apparently - not sure if that's a reference to his pirate days or some favourite activity he has...hmmmm). Anyhow he swears I look 28 and he wants me to come to St. Lawrence Gap and learn to dance with him, at a party on Wednesday night. I have no plans for Wednesday but there is one place I won't be! Still, everyone here is happy just to chat and walk away - even though he was determined that I put his number in my 'phone. I didn't - too much of a liability!
So - showered and clean and thinking about the evening ahead - I think a simple supper somewhere close by and an early night!
BKBx
Early to Bed means Early to Rise
I've arrived on the Island safe and well after a fab flight. Watched several films (Les Mis was good, then one with Cameron Diaz helping Colin Firth pull off an art theft - might have been called 'Gambit' but I'm not wasting brain capacity on remembering what was a pretty pants film!). However, it was 'Untouchable' - a French film with subtitles - that was the highlight - and based on a true story.
Anyway, arrived just after a heavy rain shower - it had been fine all day! - drove from airport to 'BK Towers' and Trevor was waiting to get me checked in. He'd been out to get me some wine to welcome me - and had a fall on the slippery pavement.
I whizzed out to the supermarket for essentials - tonic for my gin, stuff like that - but was really tired so didn't linger. Managed to stay up to 9.30pm then gave in to sleep -hence I'm awake at 5.30 am and listening to the radio.
It looks cloudy but fine so far. I'm contemplating putting trainers on (along with clothing!) and walking along the boardwalk for a bit - to watch the day begin.
I've laid out my beach kit in hope of clear skies - in the meantime I'm listening to a local reggae station....so can already offer an appropriate tune....
'A sunny day, with hopes up to the sky, a kiss and no goodbye, That's all I want from you '
Mr Vegas, 'A Little Love'
Anyway, arrived just after a heavy rain shower - it had been fine all day! - drove from airport to 'BK Towers' and Trevor was waiting to get me checked in. He'd been out to get me some wine to welcome me - and had a fall on the slippery pavement.
I whizzed out to the supermarket for essentials - tonic for my gin, stuff like that - but was really tired so didn't linger. Managed to stay up to 9.30pm then gave in to sleep -hence I'm awake at 5.30 am and listening to the radio.
It looks cloudy but fine so far. I'm contemplating putting trainers on (along with clothing!) and walking along the boardwalk for a bit - to watch the day begin.
I've laid out my beach kit in hope of clear skies - in the meantime I'm listening to a local reggae station....so can already offer an appropriate tune....
Tune of the Day
'A sunny day, with hopes up to the sky, a kiss and no goodbye, That's all I want from you '
Mr Vegas, 'A Little Love'
Saturday, 11 May 2013
Holiday minus 2!
You know it's nearly time to go on holiday when the appointment for the manicure and pedicure arrives! I now have pretty toes - thanks to the local salon and Chanel nail varnish. Colour for this trip is 'Starlet' - just hope I'm treated like one on the 'plane!
The bags are almost packed - I had a panic earlier in the week and decided the way to cure it was to start to fill the cases - and I just didn't stop. I've attempted to weigh them but that's so hard to do at home on the scales. I'm never happy until I've checked in gone through security.
I have just walked the dogs and missed heavy rain by seconds - even though the sun was out! Ok UK, if you needed to convince me to leave for better weather, you succeeded today! Still, will miss the dogs big time.
Tomorrow is big house clean day and tonight is' make-a-pasta-sauce-with-everything-in-the-fridge- that-will-go-off-while-you're-away' night. Don't know what to call it but it will be edible!
Still, the wine is chilled and soon I will be too.
BKB x
The bags are almost packed - I had a panic earlier in the week and decided the way to cure it was to start to fill the cases - and I just didn't stop. I've attempted to weigh them but that's so hard to do at home on the scales. I'm never happy until I've checked in gone through security.
I have just walked the dogs and missed heavy rain by seconds - even though the sun was out! Ok UK, if you needed to convince me to leave for better weather, you succeeded today! Still, will miss the dogs big time.
Tomorrow is big house clean day and tonight is' make-a-pasta-sauce-with-everything-in-the-fridge- that-will-go-off-while-you're-away' night. Don't know what to call it but it will be edible!
Still, the wine is chilled and soon I will be too.
BKB x
Monday, 6 May 2013
And now it starts!
I mean the run down to the holiday - the week of 'getting organised'. So - once I've walked the dogs I'll be tackling the huge pile of stuff that I've collected in the spare room that might be going on the trip. The pile looks bigger than the aeroplane I'll be flying on - so a touch of editing will be required! Anyway - I'm going out for lunch with Mum today so I guess the pre-packing purge will be ongoing through the day! Deep joy!
The doglets have been really good this weekend - and I'm starting to get sentimental about leaving them for 2 weeks - even though they will be with Mum and they get just as spoilt by her as they do by me! Oh - they would so love the sea out there!
I've just found out that Owen can't meet me at the airport when I arrive. He's the lovely man I rent a car from (www.http://southernrentalsbarbados.com/- highly recommended!). He always greets me at arrivals with a 'welcome home!' and a smile. I know I'll get great service from his team but it won't be the same....but I am glad he's getting a holiday off the island and that I'll get to see him before I leave.
Well, best get this day moving!
BKB x
The doglets have been really good this weekend - and I'm starting to get sentimental about leaving them for 2 weeks - even though they will be with Mum and they get just as spoilt by her as they do by me! Oh - they would so love the sea out there!
I've just found out that Owen can't meet me at the airport when I arrive. He's the lovely man I rent a car from (www.http://southernrentalsbarbados.com/- highly recommended!). He always greets me at arrivals with a 'welcome home!' and a smile. I know I'll get great service from his team but it won't be the same....but I am glad he's getting a holiday off the island and that I'll get to see him before I leave.
Well, best get this day moving!
BKB x
Thursday, 2 May 2013
What a Beautiful Day!
Oooh - if I ever needed something to get me into the holiday mood, it's a sunny day! How glorious! I even managed to dry some washing on the line for the first time this year - I love the smell of washing dried outside.
Had a bit of a bonus too (in an odd way) - one of the dogs needed to go to the vets, due to sudden onset of a really bad ear infection. Had to go to the surgery in Uppermill at tea time, so treated myself to a quick coffee sitting in the sun outside Java. Well, it helped recover from the £55 vet's bill! I was seriously jealous of all the people having large glasses of chilled white wine.- it is just the evening for that. Can't wait to be on my hols and chilling on the balcony with a rum cocktail.
Anyway, you can't drink and drive, plus I'm having a last ditch serious diet before Barbados. One triumph this week - I can actually get into the swimsuit I bought at the end of last year in the sales....deliberately 2 sizes smaller than I would buy. It has to be said that it is snug, but then it is designed to shrink wrap the body into a more human shape. Gives me a proper waist and a cleavage (!). However, since every silver lining has a cloud...I reckon it makes my legs look fat. Oh well, that's what sarongs are made to hide!
So - off to rescue my steamed vegetables and mix with a very small amount of pasta - deep joy! Maybe I should eat it while wearing the swimsuit, to remind me of the benefits of dieting!
BKB x
Had a bit of a bonus too (in an odd way) - one of the dogs needed to go to the vets, due to sudden onset of a really bad ear infection. Had to go to the surgery in Uppermill at tea time, so treated myself to a quick coffee sitting in the sun outside Java. Well, it helped recover from the £55 vet's bill! I was seriously jealous of all the people having large glasses of chilled white wine.- it is just the evening for that. Can't wait to be on my hols and chilling on the balcony with a rum cocktail.
Anyway, you can't drink and drive, plus I'm having a last ditch serious diet before Barbados. One triumph this week - I can actually get into the swimsuit I bought at the end of last year in the sales....deliberately 2 sizes smaller than I would buy. It has to be said that it is snug, but then it is designed to shrink wrap the body into a more human shape. Gives me a proper waist and a cleavage (!). However, since every silver lining has a cloud...I reckon it makes my legs look fat. Oh well, that's what sarongs are made to hide!
So - off to rescue my steamed vegetables and mix with a very small amount of pasta - deep joy! Maybe I should eat it while wearing the swimsuit, to remind me of the benefits of dieting!
BKB x
Wednesday, 1 May 2013
12 Days and Counting!
Yes - counting down the days to my next trip to Barbados - pink sand, blue seas, cheap rum - here I come!
I'm just refreshing my memory of how this blogging lark works - then will be posting regularly during the trip. Is anyone out there counting down to something exciting too?
Bajan Kate x
I'm just refreshing my memory of how this blogging lark works - then will be posting regularly during the trip. Is anyone out there counting down to something exciting too?
Bajan Kate x
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