I have driven past the signs for Berry Pomeroy castle on many occasions, wondering why I couldn't see it standing proud on a hill-top, like most of Britain's castles. We found it tucked into the side of a wooded valley, a castle yes, but not in the sense you would normally think. It had fortifications against those dreaded Devonshire serfs, but was in fact no more than a stately home. But what a lovely home it must have been in its heyday! It is today a very interesting castle, complete with stories of ladies in dungeons, tragedy and of course, the attendant ghosts. But all we saw were screaming kids on a birthday party 'treat'! Despite this, it is highly recommended, and a lovely day out.

Guides Regatta Rowing

It's that time of the year again! After the success of managing to not drown anyone last year, the Guides once again asked me to act as safety boat for their Regatta Rowing practice. There were some complete novices who did very well.

Showstoppers!

Phew - we are exhausted! This week we ran a Kids Holiday Club at the church. We had a good turn out every day and the programme was very full, with games, craft, drama, songs and much more. The main theme for the week was that God has a plan for each one of us. We looked at creation on day one, then on days 2 and 3 we looked at David and Goliath, and Daniel in the lions den, seeing how God was faithful in looking after them. On the fourth day we celebration Christmas! The birth of Jesus was a major event in the history of the world. The final day looked at the death and resurrection of Jesus, fulfilling Gods plan for mankind. It was lovely seeing the kids enjoy the activities and hear about how much Jesus loves them.

Camping & kayaking at Poole

Whilst the girls were away at CYC (Christian Youth Camp) for the week, Lynn and I took advantage by driving down to Poole for a few days camping. The start was somewhat dampened by 'holiday rain', but we finally drove into Pear Tree Camping Site, glad that we didn't have to pitch a tent. The next day promised sun by 1 pm, so we waited and were rewarded with a glorious afternoon. What else do you do on a glorious afternoon but to paddle around Brownsea Island in Poole Harbour. We were very pleased with ourselves and made plans for Thursday's paddle. But alas, it was not to be! After a lovely evening of fish and chips at the waters edge, we called into Tescos to replenish stock, only to have Lynn's kayak stolen off the roof rack while we were shopping! The Police were very efficient and assured us that all would be done to recover our property. But we ended up driving back to Devon without it. Never mind, we had a lovely walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Dor, along with 20,000 other people - or so it seemed!

Clubs' visit to Decoy Country Park

After last year's successful visit for our Church clubs' to Decoy Country Part in Newton Abbott, we decided to repeat the exercise again this year, taking the children from our Toddlers group, the Top of the Town Club and the Rock Solid Club. The weather forecast threatened rain all week, but God graciously answered our prayers and gave us a lovely day with mostly sunny skies and not a drop of rain - glory be to God! Great fun was had by all, with a game of rounders/kick cricket followed by a hour plus of watery fun when all the children were treated to a session on canoes on the lake. The day was finished off again with a BBQ and sticky buns at Bruce's and Eunice's house. Many thanks to Bruce, Eunice and Dawn for looking after us so well.

Grandma's birthday!

My mother, the Grandma of my children is looking good on her 79th birthday today!

Newfoundland Cove with the girls

More fun and games today as we sailed 'Jireh' round to Newfoundland Cove, where there is a small beach at low water that is only accessible by boat. Although sometimes crowded, today we had the beach to ourselves.