Day 22 - Monday 21st July

We set off early for York for our jam with Mick and Alfred at about 10 am to make sure we had plenty of time in case we got stuck in traffic. We arrived about 11:30 and Wen took the rout that took us through the walled City of York. It was a humbling experience driving under the arches of the wall that was built so long ago. We also drove over the River Ouse.

After finding a park in the street where Mick lived we walked around the corner to the John Smith Pub. They did not have food, but the hospitable landlord said we could buy a roast sandwich at the butcher and bring it back to sit in the garden. Instead of the roast sandwich we spied a little tea shop over the road and brought a freshly made tuna and salad roll. We then took them back to the pub to eat. It was a lovely way to pass the time.

We still had a bit of time so we headed off for a walk down to the River where Mick had taken us on the previous visit. We found a bench in the shade and gazed at the River and the pleasure boats.

Mick welcomed us and sat us down and chatted while Stanley, the dog rushed about in high excitement because there were visitors. As Alfred was running a bit late we got tuned up and started playing. After Alfred arrived we were in full swing with the music. We played a lovely cross pollination of songs we knew. Before we knew it we had been there for about 3 hours!!

We had to get going at about 3:30 - 4:00 as the family were taking Wenb out for dinner and we were unsure about the time they had booked. As it turned out traffice was good and as the table was booked for 7:30 we had plenty of time. I went off to get some more wine and as it was close to Mum's, I dropped in to see if she was ready. She was! So I took her back to Mandy's. I was hanging out for a glass of wine and as designated driver knew I had time for a glass of wine before heading off.

The night at the pub was marvellous. The whole clan was there and the food was delicious. Mum, Graham, Mandy, Linda, Jemma, Kelvin, bub Mackenzie, Wendy and myself ... we had a ball.

Bub was passed around to everyone and did not make even a sound. Wendy was given a couple of pressies and Linda even brought me a little something which was just lovely. I feel like I have been accepted into the clan and they are my family too!! Linda told a few stories. One of the stories was how her and Wendy had a huge fight (one of many) and Linda had to stay away from Wendy. As she was being watched she had to think of another way to get at her. She got hold of Wendy's toothbrush and took it out and brushed the goat's teeth with it and then took it back to its rightful place. Yuk and Ha! What a hoot!

Anyway a great night was culminated with the staff bring out a cake Mandy had brought for Wendy with 60 candles burning brightly and Wen blew them out in one go.

We are off to Dallowgill tomorrow to say goodbye to Wen's dad.

Click on the images below for larger images.