After almost a year I had a trip back to see Steve and Sasa in Devon. I flew from Pau to Stansted with Ryanair as there were no other convenient flights available. Nigel took me to Pau and on arrival at Stansted I caught the bus to Victoria, tube to Waterloo and train to Axminster. London was quite a culture shock after life in Les Landes. So busy, so many people rushing here and there. A relief to get on the train and settle down with a book until I got to Axminster at 10pm. Steve was there to meet me and after a glass of wine and a chat it was good to get to bed after a long day. We had good weather whilst I was there which was a help. I saw many old friends and did lots of chatting. Steve and I went to see "Slumdog Millionaire" at the cinema in Lyme Regis. Last time I was there it was when the boys were young and we went to see ET! Before the film started we walked through the gardens and down to the Cobb where we sat and had a beer and a snack looking out over the bay. So many memories. On the Saturday I met up with Titch and we went to the meet of the Cotley at Blackhayes Farm, Stockland, Roger Parris' place. A beautiful day, glorious views and horses and hounds looked so well. Saw lots of old friends there, not many I know were mounted though. After that we went into Honiton and met up with Sasa and had lunch prior to looking round all the charity shops in the Hight Street. Saturday evening we went to a quiz at the village hall in Kilmington, a good evening but we didn't win!
Monday I went into Exeter, had lunch and a look around the shops before going to Annies where I spent the night. Next day Annie dropped me back at Steves and in the evening I had dinner at Maries along with Trish, Caroline and Gilly. Lots of chatting!! Wednesday morning I rode out with Dave, Sheila and Jan. Good to be on a horse again but certainly not as young or as fit as I was!! After an hour or so I had to ask Jan to stay at the back with me and walk back the last lap as I just felt that I couldn't do any more walking or trotting! Not helped by the fact that my mount was not the most comfortable of rides but he was very safe! Thursday we went to the Northcott Theatre in Exeter to see "Stones in his pockets" a very entertaining and funny play.
Friday was my last morning and Steve and I went for a long walk in Shute woods with Scout and then to lunch at Stockland before catching the train in the early afternoon. Always sad and difficult to say goodbye but once I was on my way was looking forward to being back home.
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