Newquay ~ 5 July 2002

Our job is so mundane, we seem to just live for our two days off. Today we travelled down to a surfing town called Newquay. It is about a half hour drive from St Merryn. What was once a small fishing town is now a colourful fair ground for surfers, swimmers and tourists.

It's a good feeling having a day off and with hard earned cash in your pocket to spend on what you wish. We found an Internet cafe, it's a good relief to hear from home and write back. Kasey had written a wonderful poem and I wasn't too surprised to hear of Buster's adoption to the "donkey lady" down the road. [Buster was an unruly Terrier dog of my parents - my mother found it hard to cope with his energy]

Newquay has golden sand and interesting little coves. We wandered along the beach to see the "Island" There was a house converted into a cafe on the Island with a wonderful bridge crossing over from the mainland. It was a great little spot.

The Tower of London and Tower Bridge ~ 14 June 2002

Our first 'London Experience' was having a typical English breakfast at a cafe called the "Cat and Cucumber". Bacon, egg, chips, beans and bubble. I was amused to receive a ready poured mug of tea rather than our own teapot, but later found this was typical of 'greasy spoon' cafes.

We then made our way across the Tower Bridge. It is a beautiful structure, built in 1894, one of the many London icons. The Thames looked a bit murky and I couldn't help but wonder how many dead bodies had been pulled out of it.

Looking across the Thames I point out a lovely castle to Ian. He seems to think it is a replica of an old castle. Getting closer we realize the replica castle is actually the Tower of London. It is so old, beautiful, interesting, ghostly and grim I can't believe it has taken me so long to see this amazing place!