Private or Public and a Castle....

Summer in the South of France....I must say it's pretty nice.  The weather has finally changed for the better...at least for the moment.  The forecast still calls for a bit of clouds and rain scattered in amongst the sun but it has been nice enough to actually have some beach time.  I have now officially tried the beaches both ways...public and private.  It's a very different experience.  Lets start out with the Private Beach.  On Monday I got a text from one of my new friends here in Nice and was invited to join them at Neptune Plage (Beach) down along the Promonade des Anglais.  This is the long promenade just above all the beaches along the sea that you can walk along or sit on benches and chairs.  Across the road from the promenade are all the hotels and tons of cafes.  The private beaches are connected to a hotel usually but you do not need to be staying at the hotel to use the private beaches you just have to be willing to pay the fee which can range from 15-20 euros.  For this fee you get a lounge chair, umbrella and a waiter that comes to your little spot so you can order food and drinks.  You can stay all day which is great but the food and drinks are not included so it could get really expensive quickly.  I had already been out and about when I got the text so I wasn't prepared for true beaching it and was just joining them for a drink in the afternoon so it was not problem to just share one of their chairs and not pay the fee.  It was really quite nice having a spot all to ourselves with a little table and nice lounge chairs so you didn't have to lay in the pebbles that the beaches are made up of.  The afternoon was really great just lounging and chatting with this great couple.  I also got my kid fix for the day holding their sweet 9 month old little girl and being shot with an alligator squirt gun by their 4 year old little boy.
So now lets talk about the public beach experience...Since I did not really think to pack a towel or mat for the beach, well lets be honest here there is not way those items would have fit in my suitcase even if I had the foresight to pack them, I needed to make a purchase on my way down to the beach.  You would think in this town where the beach is one of the major draws finding beach items would be easy...not true.  Well partially not true, you can find tons of swimsuits all over the place and they are cheap but no towels or mats to be found anywhere.  I had almost given up and was contemplating buying the only towel I had seen which was the most hideous, tourist towel ever.  Super thin with a awful picture of what I think was the french riviera but I can't be sure.  But then a beacon of hope...a home decor store that happened to have all sorts of towels and pillows.  In the front window was the perfect beach mat,  slightly padded for the pebbles, soft so you didn't need a towel on top of it and a little detachable pillow...Yes!!!  I search the store for it and can only find it in this horrid floral pattern so I have to muster up my courage and speak to the sales lady.  First attempt..I point to the front window and ask for the beach mat.  She responds in french and points upstairs.  I head up there too look and it's all kids clothing...ummm, not really what I was looking for....so I try again but this time with props.  I get the ugly floral version, show it to her then point to the front window display and ask for the other color.  Ahhh...success,  My charades have worked, she understands and goes to get me one from the back.  I pay for my mat and head to the beach.  The funniest thing about this whole interaction was she never at any point would speak to me in English.  Oh well, I got my mat and was happy.  Upon arriving at the public beach it is pretty much like any other normal beach just with rocks instead of sand.  I choose a location a bit out of the way, unroll my new mat and lay down on the pebbles.  After a bit of adjusting and moving some rocks around...compare it to getting your sleeping bag on a good spot in a tent when camping...it is not bad at all.  The stones are all so smooth that it is really quite comfortable.  I settle in with my book and soak up the sun.  Now, here on the public beach while I enjoyed my spot and good book there were no waiters bringing me drinks but there was the homeless man who relieved himself on the brick wall behind me and instead of the adorable children their were the 12 year old french kids who have just discovered how funny it is to pull each others pants down to embarrass one another.  But despite these little differences the public beach is fine and will definitely work for me.  I may have a few spoiled days were I lay and be waited on at a private beach but I don't need that all the time.

Steps up to Colline du Chateau

Aside from the beaches I also have done a bit more exploring.  At one end of the Promonade des Anglais there is a spot where a medieval castle used to stand.  It is called Colline du Chateau (Castle Hill).  I didn't realize you could actually walk up to the top till I got very close and saw the old stone stairs that zig-zagged back and forth up the side of the hill.  It is not a quick easy climb.  It is at a pretty steep angle and there are a lot of stairs.  It wasn't what I expected.  It wasn't too bad for me to handle but there were quite a few people who you could tell were struggling.  Especially the girls who were dressed in sundresses and heels...not a good plan if you are going to hike up stone steps on the side of a mountain.  Once you arrived at the first stop (which I thought was the top) it was all worth it.  The view was spectacular!  360 degree unobstructed view of the sea and all of Nice.  I kept going higher and higher and the view just got more and more beautiful.  There also were large areas of castle ruins that they where doing archeological digs in.  I did finally arrive at the real top and it was so peaceful and serene.  The ocean was a lovely shade of blue and the city

View from Colline du Chateau

   
  was a sea of terra-cotta roof tops.  There was a man playing a guitar which made for the most lovely soundtrack for the moment.  I just sat taking in the view and listening to the music thinking...I understand why people love this city.  This will definitely be a spot I come to when I need to escape the hustle and bustle of the promenade.
The next couple of days are going to be busy with prepping things to get ready to move into my little flat.  The things you don't think about when you are living with people like having a local phone to be able to call people in the area since you aren't living in their house or locating a grocery store and laundry facilities close by.  Luckily the flat is somewhat connected to a house of someone I know so I am not completely alone and it does have internet (one less thing to worry about)  but it will be a whole different adventure.  Living on my own in France...here we go kids!                  

Half Days....

It has been almost a week since I set foot in France...it's going by quickly just like every other part of my travels have.  I am beginning to slowly find my way in this place and get a bit more comfortable.  I have done a ton of walking around here along very direct routes gauging directions off of landmarks and street signs that I can't pronounce but can at least recognize the words. I have managed to do all of this with out pulling out a map while out and about.  My researched directions the night prior have guided me well and I have found each spot I was attempting to get to.  Now that it is nearing the end of my first week I feel as though I can wander a bit outside of my direct routes and will be able to feel my way back to a common landmark that will direct me where I need to be.  Sigh of relief....I think I can handle this place now.  It really isn't as huge and overwhelming as it first seems but I suppose that's how all things are in life....the unknown is overwhelming and scary but if you face it (with baby steps in

Beach view...sunny half of the day

my case) it all ends up feeling pretty ok.
So you are probably wondering about the title...Half Days...well here is the explanation.  Everyday since I have arrived it has started out with gorgeous sunshine.  Hot enough that you want to grab your towel and head to the beach.  Really it is all just an evil trick.  I realized this the first day I walked down to the beach.  I was so excited to finally get down and see the French Riviera. The beaches full of people soaking in the sun and all the cafes bustling with those who needed a break from the heat and a cold drink.  Dressed in a sundress, armed with my trusty directions and a good book I headed out.  I made it there no problem, found a lovely beachside bench and sat down for my relaxing afternoon.  Well, not an hour into my time at the beach the wind picked up...not too bad, still sunny, I stayed.  Thirty more minutes and I started to feel shaded and a bit of a chill...it's just a cloud rolling by...it will pass.  When 15 minutes later it still had not passed I got a bit worried.  I looked up only to see really threatening rain clouds that looked like they were going to hit in about 15-20 minutes...quick calculation...ya that is about the amount of time I need to walk home if I move quickly.  I made it home just before the thunder and lightning began and the sky opened up with pouring rain.  And so began my phrase of the half days in Nice.  It has been like this every single day since I arrived.  Half sunny and half rainy.  It is supposed to continue too for the next 2 weeks.

Beach View...cloudy half of the day

After that first day I learned that I needed to get out and enjoy the first part of the day so I have been trying to squeeze it all in then.  I walked the beach a bit and have loved the people watching...it is really quite good.  There is such a great energy along the whole street.  The beach is nothing like what I am used to though.  First off it is small rocks and pebbles instead of sand.  There is one area where sand has been brought in but it just looks strange amongst all the rocks.  I haven't laid on it yet...Ill keep ya posted on the outcome of that.  Also all along the beach it is divided into private and public sections.  The private sections are usually attached to a hotel and have nice chairs, umbrellas and a bar you have access to.  It costs you about 15 euro to get in and use the chairs and umbrellas....no drinks included.  Public are just like our beaches...bring your own stuff and have a good time.  That is where I will be mostly unless I need to feel spoiled for a day.  The other difference is there are a lot of topless women sunbathing and men in really small speedos.  My favorite one today was a hot pink brazilian cut speedo...I am positive it was smaller then my bikini bottoms and he was much larger then me.  Ah Europe...gotta love it!

Street in Old Nice

 One of the other spots I ventured into after I felt comfortable enough to get a bit lost on purpose was the streets of Old Nice.  Crossing the street away from the beach into these little medieval streets was like finding a hidden treasure.  This is what I wanted to find and was closer to what I had expected of Nice.  There were tons of tiny winding streets jam packed with cafes on either side that had tables spilling out into the road.  They were filled with people just chatting, reading or just watching the world go by.  Looking up above the buildings and storefront you would see iron terraces with flower baskets attached which were dripping with beautiful colored flowers.  I know it sounds really silly but it made me wish I could speak this lovely romantic language to explain all of this because english just doesn't do it justice.  There is a completely different feel here then I have experienced else where.  Even though the city is alive and buzzing all the time there is also a feeling of a slower pace...you don't rush things you enjoy every moment you have.
One of the nicest moments I have had over this past week was attending a Garden Party at a home/B&B just outside of Nice in Mouans Sartoux.  I was apprehensive at the beginning not really knowing how people would feel about speaking english even though Sandrine had told me they all are ok with it.  The day actually turned out to be wonderful.  The group of people were all international (most were not originally even from France) and they knew each other because their children were attending a school taught half in English and half in French.  They did all speak English quite well and some were even happy to practice by having a conversation with me.  I got to know a couple of the people quite well over the course of the day and feel as though I have made some good friends who are willing to and want to show me around the area. I am looking forward to the next part of my stay here as I prepare to move out of Sandrine's place and into my own little flat this coming week.    

Climbing Hills and Sitting on Benches...

So I have been in Nice for a few days now and am not sure exactly how to start out sharing how I feel being here.  Leaving London was hard but coming to Nice was exciting.  It is just a much bigger transition then I thought it would be.  I guess I will start with the place I am staying for the moment which is so far the best thing about Nice.  The family has been so great and supportive. The apartment is a typical old french place which I love for all its character and charm.  There are beautiful high ceilings and windows, hardwood floors done in a chevron design and gorgeous multi colored tiled hallways.  Even the keys (which we will talk about the trouble they caused me later) to the apartment are the super old school style that we really only see on really old locking pieces of furniture in the states.  There is a great view of the city out

View from the Apartment Window

the sitting room window.  This is where I spent my first day in Nice just assessing my situation and planning my next few days.  Also the weather was pretty gloomy so I felt ok about being inside.  After doing a bit of research and looking at everything around here to do I felt even more overwhelmed then when I started.  Figuring out England was so much easier for me....I knew what I wanted to do and I wasn't afraid to get lost there.  Here it is very different.  I have no real concept of how to get around and I can't really just ask someone in the street because I don't speak French.  That night after all my research I sat down with Sandrine and her husband and they gave me a brief overview on a map of where we were and how to get to a few easy spots to start with.  Oh yes, I have now changed my option of maps a bit since arriving here... they are no longer for sissies....they are my good friend here because you can get them in english.  I still will not pull one out on the street though for fear of looking like a complete tourist.  That is just asking for more trouble then I want to even think about.  I have taken to just writing down all the streets and directions I need and keeping the big map safely in my bag in case I need to look at it secretly in hiding somewhere of course.  After I had a few directions from these wonderful people I am staying with I felt much better about venturing out into the unknown and exploring a bit.

Park Bench View

 I headed out of the house taking my specific right, left, left, right..then up the hill directions and began my first day out in Nice.  I had small goals for the day... find a park bench with a view to read on, find a bank (needed to exchange my pounds for euros), and don't get completely lost.  I had a super sunny day for this outing...it felt great to be in a tank top and sandals.  As I walked up the hill I couldn't help but notice all the beautiful architecture of all the buildings.  I don't know much about the different types but I know that a lot of Nice dates back to the medieval times and the buildings all are very unique and ornate but not in a gaudy way.  When I reached a crossing at the top of the hill I was struck by this huge old hotel.  Each room had it's own tiny iron  balcony...it just looked quite elegant.  I then turned and looked across the street and it was a similar type building but it was completely run down and over grown.  It reminded me of the house in the movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil".  In its time I bet this place was beautiful but it was no longer.  Kinda sad.  I sat on a bench with the view in the photo above for a bit soaking up all the sunshine I had missed while I was in London and reading.  It was nice just to be still for a moment.      

Second Park Bench View

After a bit I decided to head farther up the hill and see what else I could find.  As I rounded another corner a beautiful park came into view.  There were tons of families with blankets out having picnics and kids riding on the carousel that was on one edge of the park.  I picked a bench, sat down and started to read only to get up a few moments later when the 2 drunk old men a few benches down started singing the 1 and only line in a 50's song  they knew over and over and over.  The next bench I chose was quiet and peaceful.  You can see the view in the photo to the right.  I was hear for a bit but then the shade rolled over me and I got too cold so I moved on to another bench.  My final bench was my favorite one.  Across from where I was sitting was about 30 old men and a few token younger guys and women playing what looked like bocce ball.  You could tell these guys were out here everyday and had been doing this together for years.  I loved just listening to them speak as the background to my little life at this moment.  I had no idea what they were saying but the way they all were with each other was so familiar, loving and comfortable...in a way you just don't usually see americans interacting with each other.  I sat on this bench for hours just relaxing, reading and enjoying the beautiful day.  When my shoulders had finally taken all the sun they could (no sunscreen oops) I headed back to the apartment.  Everything was going great...I found a bank on the way home and got some cash and I found the apartment again with out getting lost.  The code to the front door worked perfectly...walked up 2 flights of stairs to the front door and this is where everything fell apart.  I got out the keys and started trying to unlock the doors but it wasn't working.  The key just kept going around and around.  It sounded like it would lock then unlock but the door wouldn't open.  Also these keys are really big so they make a lot of noise in the hallway which has great acoustics to make everything sound even louder.  In my head I was thinking...I gotta get this door open before someone thinks I am trying to break in.  In that moment the door next to me opens and a little old lady comes out speaking to me in French.  Great...now I was really in trouble....She just kept speaking and her voice was getting a bit more angry and concerned and all I could do was try and do the best charades act ever to get her to understand that I couldn't get the key to work but I wasn't a robber.  Finally after a few failed attempts to act it all out I said all the names of the family I am staying with, said american and pointed to myself then tried to make the key work showing her they fit in the door but it kept turning.  She calmed a bit, reached over and turned the key for me to open the door.  I said Merci, walked inside and heard her saying "ah, no Frances"  As funny as this moment is retelling it it also freaked me out.  I am here in a country where I have no real way of communicating.  I couldn't even make this women understand one simple little thing.  All the signs and information are in French.  Everyone around is speaking french and I have no clue what any one is saying or what any sign says.  It kinda feels like you lost one of your major senses and you have to figure out a way to make the other ones work harder to communicate or you better learn French really quickly.  It is a bit of culture shock that I have to deal with.  I know people do this all the time with out being able to speak the language I just don't think I prepared myself enough for the reality of it.  That being said...I am listening to my french CD's and am going to try and take a course while I am here.  Hopefully I will get enough phrases to get by soon....Wish me Luck!    

Good Bye London...Hello Nice

The 5 days I had in London flew by!  Upon arrival I was welcomed by all my wonderful friends like I had never been gone!  I really don't know how to explain the feeling I get back in this place...the best I can do in words is... just like home.  If I could combine San Diego and London together into one place I would be in the perfect location!  The first 2 nights I spent with Belinda, Michael and the boys.  Rudi had a new obsession...Curious George.  All he wanted to do was sit on the sofa and watch it.  He would look up at me with his sweet little face and say "Watch it...Curious George (which came out sounding more like Kiss George)"  How can you say no to that?  Once the movie began he patted the seat on the sofa next to me and said "Watch with me...Come on then"  So precious.  It's crazy how much he has changed and grown in just a few short weeks.  I headed out during the day to a few of my favorite spots, Hampton Palace, The Tower, and My

Secret Garden

 local relaxing spot the pub at Kew Inn.  I found that at each spot I saw something new that I hadn't found before.  One of my favorite new finds was this small opening in the tall hedges surrounding the gardens at Hampton Palace.  It made me feel like I was peering into some sort of secret garden that no one knew about but me.  It was really such a nice little spot to be.
That evening after spending the day in the sunshine at Hampton Palace I joined my friends Helly, Helly's boyfriend Will and Lauren for another night of some amazing beer at the The Pigs Ear Cellar Pub.  Such a great time....Love this place!
The next 3 days were spent at Lauren's house.  The first night was spent having dinner in a quaint pub near her house and just chatting and catching up.
Saturday I got a amazing treat that I was not expecting and might be the most amazing thing that I have gotten to do since I got here.  I got a personal tour of one of the tailor shops on Savile Row.  One of Belinda's friends has a good friend who is a apprentice tailor at one of the shops.  She also is one of the only women tailors on the row.  It was so amazing.  I was overcome with joy and envy all in the same breath.  Being in the cutting room and the design room surrounded by all the sketches and fabrics....samples and vintage pieces reconfirmed that I truly love designing.  As I was talking to the tailor it was like we were speaking the same language about our passion.  A passion that can't be explained in words but only felt by someone who has the same passion.  It is so rare to find another woman who loves menswear and tailoring.  I feel lucky to have met her and get to see that someone can make the dream happen.
Saturday evening Lauren, Toby and I ended up at a random pub watching a football match.  This was an experience I am so glad I got to have also.  All types of people smashed into this little pub...seriously smashed...we couldn't even walk through to get to the bar.  We ended up sitting outside with some serious Chelsea fans.  I figured it was best to just join in with them since I really didn't have a true loyalty to either team.  There was a lot of chanting, yelling and madness in the best way possible!  To all the guys back home who wanted me to go to an actual match....I didn't quite make it but this was definitely the next best thing.  Hope that will do for now!
I headed out on Monday morning with my huge suitcase to the train station on my way to Gatwick airport to fly to Nice, France.  I had worked out my route so that I could avoid stairs since my suitcase weighs almost as much as me....this plan was foiled on my first stop when the lift was out of order.  Luckily a kind gentleman picked it up like it was a small hand bag and carried it up the stairs.   I raced to make my connecting train and arrived at the airport with plenty of time to spare.  The flight was great and crossing the border into France was the easiest one yet.  I am not sure if the woman stamping my passport even looked at me....Apparently getting into the UK is the only place that will give you any issues.   Sandrine (the mom in the family I am staying with for 10 days) met me at the airport and we drove back to their wonderful apartment.  Side note...it's raining here today.  I met her husband and adorable son and just hung out for the evening.  They are so kind and welcoming.  A big thanks to my san diego friend for connecting me with these lovely people.
As I am been sitting here on my first day in Nice I have been going through the full range of emotions.  I started the day out so overwhelmed and a bit petrified of being here.  I don't think I really fully thought through what to expect here.  I'm nervous about not knowing the language and figuring out my way around.  To ease some of this I spent the day just researching everything about the area and how I can just take some baby steps into exploring this place.  I again had to fight off the feelings of guilt today of not just jumping in and staying inside all day but I let go of it quickly and am ready to explore a bit tomorrow....stay tuned for more Nice!

Sunny Stonehenge

For my final day in Bath the sun came out and it was so beautiful.  My event for the day was inspired by my wonderful sister in law.  As soon as she found out I was going to be in Bath she said I was so close to Stonehenge that I needed to go.  I have taken her advice and booked a seat on a purple mini bus to go and see this bit of history.  The drive is about an hour through the gorgeous English countryside.  As we drove the guide pointed out some really interesting bits.  There were remains of Celtic burial grounds that are from early BC.  There also was a White Horse that was carved into the side of the hill in limestone.  It was pretty interesting to see this huge horse just smack dab in the middle of the lovely rolling hills.  Our guide also told us that this area is the place where the majority of crop circles have happened.  Unfortunately there were none to be seen on this drive.  When we arrived it was just like I thought it would be.  A small cafe, gift shop, parking lots full of tour busses and across the street are the amazing rock structures.  They most definitely

Sunny Stonehenge

are smaller then I thought they would be but impressive none the less.  So you file through the ticket line, pick up your audio guide and head across the street to check out the stones.  Let's take a minute and talk about these new audio guides that every place has now.  It's like a little cell phone that talks to you and tells you information about where ever you are at.  I haven't fully embraced these yet.  When you look out at everyone trying to experience these beautiful structures it's like everyone's on a phone and not even engaging with anyone around them or experiencing what they are looking at.  A lot of people were just wandering about, looking at the floor listening to the audio guide.  This place was the first place I have even taken one...all the other museums I just couldn't do it but here I thought it might be informative.  Now those of you reading this who know me well are aware of my resistance to certain technological things or social media type stuff (Facebook for example) that reduces the personal connection people have in situations or just life in general.  I feel the same way about these audio guides.  I really did give it a try but I couldn't connect in and experience the grandeur of this amazing piece of history when there was some english woman talking in my ear giving me all sorts of facts.  I think for some people it is probably a great thing but not for me....I do better just being present in the moment and read about all the facts later.  Ok...back to the Stones...As

Thought I'd give you proof I really am here

 you walk into this huge field and along the path that circles the stones you get to see so many different beautiful views of this amazing structure.  It really is phenomenal how it was all built and put together over the course of hundreds of years.  It was so well planned out and added to over the years.  History also says that parts have been removed too by neighboring villages to build houses and buildings.  I couldn't help but think back to the times when these were being built and be very impressed with the people who were able to build it.  They only had very rough tools and no real ways to lift things up except pulley systems and their own strength.  It's quite impressive if you really think about it.   I wandered around for the hour we were allowed just taking in all the views and the green countryside surrounding it.  The drive back was peaceful and I snuck in a little nap so I was rested up for my travel later in the day.
I got back into town and had about an hour to spare before my train so I went and sat in the Abby courtyard and soaked up the sunshine.  It was a great end to my time in Bath, a sunny day, reading my book and listening to an opera street performer singing beautifully.  I then headed to the train station with my insanely heavy suitcase and board the train.  I settled in with my Jane Austen book that I purchased in Bath at a second hand book shop and the train took off towards London again.  I am so looking forward to being back with my wonderful friends in London.

Part 2...Me and the kids...

Where's my bus?

So here we go again...just me and the kids!  We begin with a bus ride.  Talia and I were dropping Nathan off at nursery and since I am not really driving here we all hopped on a bus.  The kids thought it was great fun once they learned that the needed to be patient and wait for it and it would eventually get there...this first photo on our snap shot adventure is Talia asking me....Where's my Bus?  Once they got on the bus they were in heaven.  I let them choose whatever seat they wanted and they ran directly to the back of the bus to the raised up seats.  They sat and kicked their little wellies with glee as we rode.  Nathan with his inquisitive nature had a lot of questions followed up with Whys....everyone on the bus was chuckling at the running dialogue we had going for the entire bus ride.  He even asked some questions I didn't know the answers to.  He was very confused about this.  He said Sara...how come you don't know?  Shouldn't you know the answers?
Oh small friend...if only I had all the answers to all the questions.  

Bubble Baby

After dropping Nathan off at nursery Talia and I headed out for "Our Day" which is what Talia kept calling the girls day we got to have together.  Of course it was pouring down rain but my little bubble baby stayed dry in the pram while I got wet.  We walked town a bit and then sought shelter first in the Bath Abby.  As we walked through Talia was so precious.  She kept looking up so high to see all the big beautiful stain glass window she would almost fall over backwards.  After the Abby we headed towards a museum.  On the way to the museum we got to walk through parts of town that I had not been to yet like the Pulteney Bridge.  This is one of the only bridges that has shops along each side.  It looks like a normal covered bridge from the side then once you get up to it you realize the cover is on the sides to enclose the shops.  Really such a unique thing.

Pulteney Bridge

There also was a beautiful horseshoe shaped water distribution feature at the base of the bridge.  Just past the river was a lovely green and walkway that we would have gone down to if it wasn't pouring down rain.  Once we got to the museum we wandered through it.  Talia loved looking at all the tea pots and spoons.  She also loved looking at the beautiful paintings...she kept saying ohh...thats pretty and so big!

I Heart OJ, cozy chairs and Eeyore

After the museum it was lunch time so we finished off "Our Day" properly at a cafe.  We cozied up in the big leather chairs and warmed up with some much needed coffee for me and Talia's favorite OJ.   As you can see in the photo Eeyore got in on our outing too...Talia said he really liked the bus ride and eating in a cafe.   After we were sufficiently warmed we picked up Nathan and headed home to relax.

A very blustery day 

Our last day together was bright and sunny....but very windy!  We basically stayed close to home but did brave the park for a bit.

Spin...Spin..Spin!

The wind didn't stop Talia from doing some serious spinning and playing.  Nathan was not as excited about playing in the wind but he was a trooper for a bit so his sister could get in some playtime.

Hoovering....He did the whole house.

Nathan got to do what he loves best when we got home....a bit of Hoovering....and so the day was complete.
My week with these kiddos was great.  I have loved each minute with these sweet children.  I head back to  London tomorrow but before I head out I will be making one more tourist stop....stay tuned for it!

Just me and the kids...

My 5 days with Talia and Nathan have begun and there is no slow starting for these 2.  It's full speed ahead!  These children are a joy and love life so much.  Every moment is filled with excitement, laughter, and learning.  Nathan is super inquisitive and wants to know everything.  He is at the Why? stage....that is the response to every statement.  Lately I have flipped it on him and asked him why do you think?  He was quite proud of himself when he knew the answer to his own why question.  Talia is little miss independent and wants to do everything big brother is doing with out any help.  This leads to a few stumbles along the way but she dusts herself off and keeps on moving laughing at herself saying "I was Mr. Whoops".  All the days have kinda blurred into one so I thought it best to just give you a snapshot in photos of what it has been like.
Every days starts early, anywhere from 5:30-6:30am, when I get 2 little friends in my bed snuggled up at my side.  Sometimes I can convince them to sleep for a few more precious minutes before the days of fun begin.....here we go....

Bikes and scoots...wellies and pigtails!

Heading up to the park....Scooter and Bikes!

Two is better then one 

These two love to do things together...even on the see-saw!

Flying Wellies

It's not fun till the wellies go flying.  Talia is a bit nervous about swinging very high.  Nathan Loves to soar high into the sky...He kept saying "I just grabbed a star from the Sky for you...and here is the moon"

Maze Cave

Back at home in the Garden this bush served as what Nathan called his maze cave.  He would climb all the way inside and just hang out in there.

Are you alright Nathan?

This is as far as Talia would go into the maze cave but she still tried to keep an eye on her brother in there.

Just Cruising

Inside the house we spent time just cruising in the mini cooper and....

Blue Green and Purple...his colors of choice

Putting on nail varnish (as Nathan calls it)

Look at the game!

Then finally watching a bit of rugby over the back garden wall.







There is a snap shot of the last few days with these little ones....I am enjoying each and every moment I have left with these little one!

A Day In Bath....

We drove through town on our way to the house and I got my first glimpse of Bath.  It is just as quaint and lovely as everyone told me it would be.  I'm looking forward to exploring. Once we got home we drug suitcases through the rain into the cozy house. The kids and Ryan help to "set up" my bed in the office.  Nathan pumps up my air mattress, helps me put the sheets and duvet on then both kids promptly begin to use it as a trampoline.  Fore seeing the way I may be awoken in the morning I remind them not to jump and squash me when I'm in it.  Nathan quickly says "No Sara, I will just come in and snuggle you in the morning...not jump!"  Seriously could this kid be any sweeter!!!  We settle in for the evening routine and head to bed a bit early...Big day of exploring tomorrow.  I only have one full free day here in Bath so I have to make the most of it and power through crazy tourist style.
In the morning I join Michelle on the nursery school drop off for Nathan and get a ride into town.  I met everyone at nursery since I will be taking him while the parents are out.  Then I am off and running...ok not really running but walking quickly towards  where my guided walking tour of the town.  So lets get started...My tour begins at the Abby Church.

The Abby

 This building is gorgeous.  It was built because of the dream of the designer.  It has some really interesting design details based on this dream like angels climbing up ladders along the 2 side pillars and the designers signature is done all with images depicting his name.  Right next to the Abby are the Roman Baths which is where the name of the town (Bath Spa) came from.  These baths are basically hot springs with 43 different natural minerals in them.  This was a major draw for the people to come to the city for the cleansing and healing elements to the spas. There is also a pump room right next door that you can purchase a drink of this mineral filled water that is supposed to be very good for you.  I have not had any yet but have heard that it is pretty rough going down....Maybe I'll brave it before I leave town.  We will just have to see.  Next our lovely tour guide Jean, who has been doing this tours for at least 10 years, walks us over to Victoria Park.  On the way she has some really great stories...too many to go into but my favorite was about the hanging Loo.  Their literally was a Loo hanging off the back of a building enclosed of course but it was just hanging out farther the the rest back of the building.  So back to the walk...we headed towards a beautiful gravel/pavement

Pavement or Gravel...Where are you?

walkway.  Jean continued to tell stories and the adopted second tour guide filled in where she felt Jean needed help.  It was funny...this lady had been on the tour so many times she knew it by heart.  The best part about it was she was dressed from head to toe, back pack included, in matchey-matchey Green and Grey (one of my favorite combos).  Even her son who she brought for his first visit to Bath was dressed in matching Green and Grey.  I loved it!!  Ok, back to talking about the path.  So this lovely path is gravel on both sides and pavement down the center which wasn't just for convenience it actually was where you would show your social standing.  High society walked on the pavement and lower class walked in the gravel.  Since Bath was such a social scene city anyone who was anyone would come out and walk along this path to be seen or try and see people.  This is also the path where Jane Austen would come out to " get her exercise".  She spoke of this in one of her books also.  As we reached the end of this pathway it opened up on to an impressive sight....The Royal Crescent.

The Royal Crescent 

   This building was built along the very first arched road built in Europe.  This photo doesn't do it justice.  Look it up to see the try grandeur or it.  It's quite impressive.  There also was another area we saw next which has the same arched feel but it is actually in a full circle.  It is called The Circus.  The building follows the beautiful arched look all the way around in a circle.  Check that one out on line too.  The walking tour then walked us back through town passing numerous medieval streets and old buildings.  Bath is known for its Georgian architecture which can be most easily identified by two main points.  First the windows...the go from largest at the bottom level to smallest at the top level.  This is partially because the servants quarters were at the top and they were the smallest rooms.  Second is the queen Anne front and Aunt Sally backs.  Basically this means the fronts of the building are beautiful hence the name Queen Anne front and the backs are just horrible looking, finished very rough and not done with any thought of the ascetic hence the Aunt Sally name...Everyone wants to see Queen Anne but no one really cares about boring Aunt Sally.  They were created like this to save money on designers and contractors.  Expensive to make the front then go cheap on the back.

Streets of Bath

After I finished the walking tour I went and had lunch in a local pub to rest my feet for a bit and regroup.  I decided to just walk  around some more through the streets of Bath and see where I ended up.  The whole town of Bath can be walked from end to end in about 30 minutes.  It reminded me of Coronado in that respect.  It also has a bit of the small town feel even though it is a really social city and has a great cultural and artistic scene.  As I walked I happened upon a great little shop that sold all local made items.  I popped in and shopped around.  I chatted with one of the owners for a while and found out that the basis of the shop it 3 designers went in together on one shop and they sell their own stuff there and also take in other designers as they feel a need should be met in the store.  She was really cool and wanted to check out my stuff.  She really liked my mens stuff and said they are looking at bringing a few pieces in....who knows.  I ended up leaving with some great jewelry and a business card.
The last thing I did on my power packed tour of Bath was a fashion museum.  I went in really excited and left a bit disappointed.  The historical pieces that they had were gorgeous but the new pieces left me wanting more.  There was one great Balenciaga piece but aside from that unimpressive.  There was a fun little section that people could try on historical type outfits like crazy

Wanna Play Dress-up?

heavy hoop skirts and tight corsets.  Or for the kids they had traditional outfits for them to wear.
Leaving the museum I stopped at a few more shops on my way to the bus stop so I could head back to the house.  When I arrived at the bus stop I was hit with an unexpected fact...the bus stops running at 6:30!  What...How can a bus stop running before the shops have closed!  I guess this is truly a small town and I had been in London for too long expecting busses to run till the wee hours of the morning.  Oh well, I grabbed a taxi and eventually made it back to the house and called it a night.  Kid Duty starts tomorrow!      

Last day in Spain...Back to the Rain

Our last full day in Spain we wanted to make the most of it so we planned to do the beach all day.  Me and the kiddos on our own for a bit then Michelle would join after she did a bit of packing and tidying.  As the time drew closer for us to actually leave Nathan decided not to come which was surprising since he has become my little shadow.  Every time I stand up to leave a room he says "Sara...Where are you going?"  So I have to clear my departure through him.  When I walk into a room he lights up with a smile that warms me to my soul and says "Hello Sara!" in his adorable accent.  His Mum says he has fallen in love with me....I'm ok with that!  Since Nathan decided to stay home and help out with the hovering (Yes, just like Rudi he loves domestic appliances difference is he actually uses them) Talia and I had a girls day at the beach.  We laid out the towel by the play structure on this gorgeous day to soak in the sun.

Hello Tractor!

 There was a sand tractor that kept driving by which she was entranced by.  She kept saying "Hello!" when it came towards us and "See ya later tractor.....Have a nice time!" as it drove away.  Michelle and Nathan joined us for lunch and a bit more beach time.  Talia and I braved the cold sea again while Nathan and Michelle watched from the sand.  We headed back to the Villa sandy and tired but content from a great day.  Talia and I had caught quite a bit of sun and were looking tan.....just in time to head back to rainy England.  The last night in the villa was basically the same as all other nights except I read the kids some bed time stories.  Everything was going well until we got to the book "The Teeny Weeny Tadpole"  apparently my American pronunciation is wrong.  Nathan was so cute about it...he kept saying "No like this Sara...Tadpole. Now you try."  I tried and tried and just couldn't get it right.  I really couldn't hear a difference but it was not close enough for Nathan.  We worked out a compromise and every time the word came up in the story he would say it for me.  It worked out well and was kinda fun...he cracked up after every time he said the word.  Just another moment where my American accent got in the way.

When there are no stairs climb the slide!

   The next morning we all ran around trying to get everything packed up and ready to go.  I had to make myself stop and realize this was my last morning here and I need to a least enjoy a bit of it so I made my breakfast and went out onto the terrace.  Since I was up a bit earlier then normal I got to experience the most amazing moment.....The way the house faces and its location allows for you to watch the sunrise over the mountains.  It happens so quickly you can literally see it moving.  It was like nothing I have ever seen.  I have watched sunrises before but this was a whole different experience.  I am so glad I got to see that on my last morning in Nerja.  The taxis arrived and we headed out to the airport.  One minor hiccup that took us back to the house was a forgotten "Goo" (Talia's treasured blanket).  Apparently as we were turing off our road (I was in a separate taxi so I didn't hear) Talia said "Goo is staying behind"  Oh that funny little girl....it would have be a tragedy if Goo had stayed behind.  Goo was rescued from it's extended stay in the Villa and we drove to the airport.  Check in, Security and passport check was a breeze.  Gotta love pre boarding the plane because of kiddos so you get choice seats in the front.  Nathan wouldn't have it any other way then sitting by me and a window so I was middle seat between 2 friendly flyers.  They were great little travelers...although I did have to read the card you find in the seat pocket explaining all the emergency procedures to them numerous times.  Good news is I will always know what to do in an emergency on a plane which will come in handy in all my future traveling.
I got through border crossing back in to the UK with minimal questioning this time....thank goodness!  There was a a bit of an issue when we called for the car.......It wouldn't start!  Luckily the battery had just gone flat so, a little jump start and we were on our way through the countryside to my new home for 5 days in Bath, England.  Even though it is rainy here I love this place.....Feels good to be back in England!  

Beach Babies and the Promenade....

As has become the routine I awake to energetic children joyfully playing above on the floor above me.  Still in my PJ's I make my way upstairs for my morning cup of tea.  Side note...I am obsessed with English Breakfast Tea (or Ordinary Tea as it is known here)  I haven't even had a cup of coffee since I have been in Spain.  I've also been warned I need to stock up before I leave England because you can't get the real stuff anywhere else.  They are serious about this because both families have offered to keep shipping it to me when I am back in the states.  Ok, back to Spain....Nathan and Talia are over the top excited today about going to the beach!  Buckets and spades are prepped and ready.  I convince them I need to eat breakfast before we go and we all need to get ready.  As it goes with most anytime you are super excited to go somewhere the prep seems to take forever to the kids and something always goes missing.  This morning was no exception....Talia's shoes were no where to be found.  This delay led to some minor melt downs but eventually we made it out the door, into the car, and onto the beach.  Success!!!

Beach Babies on wobbly ladders

The beaches in Nerja we go to have these great little play grounds on them.  There are a few different ones along the beach.  We settled in by one with a slide and got to playing.  There were Sandcastles with drawbridges (Nathan's interpretation of them of course) and quite a bit of sliding and dangling from wobbly ladders.  Also along the side is a nice wooden walkway that leads out to the beach that Nathan liked to run down shouting "Good Bye...See Ya Later!"  I really need to record the way "See Ya Later" sounds with a child's English accent....it's really great.
After a bit the slides and wobbly ladders lost their original appeal so we packed up our buckets and spades and headed down to the water to dip our toes in the Mediterranean Sea.  Ok, so I am going to admit something slightly embarrassing here....I had no idea when I arrived in Nerja, Spain that I was on the Mediterranean Sea.  Someone (who is not even in Europe) had to tell me.  Oops...Not sure even what sea I thought I was near.  I really hadn't even looked to see where I was I just knew it was on a coast. I have started looking at my geographic locations bit closer now.

Toes in the Mediterranean Sea 

        Ok, back to my toes in the sea.  Little Talia held my hand and ventured in about ankle deep saying "Ooh, it's a bit cold".  Nathan was a bit skeptical of the whole thing and hung back in the dry sand and watched.  Once Talia and I had cooled our feet enough it was time for lunch at a beach side cafe.  Ryan joined us for lunch then drove us home. It really was great spending time with just the kiddos and enjoying the beach.  It also allowed Michelle and Ryan some time to themselves.  In exchange for this time off Michelle and I left Ryan with the kids for the night and went into Old Nerja to walk along the streets and the Promenade.  Michelle has been coming here quite often since she was a child so she was able to show me some really neat spots.

Nerja Promenade Arches 

It was very much what I pictured a spanish town to be like.  Quaint shops along cobble stone streets and the cafe lifestyle.  I also love the idea of the big open promenades that everyone comes out onto in the evenings to walk and socialize.  This is what they do a lot to meet new people or catch up with old friends instead of going to pubs or bars/restaurants.  Such a fun thing to do!  I hope that at some point along my travels I am able to be a part of one of these.  Michelle and I weren't out late enough to join in here but I have been told they do this same thing in France and Italy so I still have a chance.
The night ended with fresh mussels at a beach front restaurant.  It doesn't get much better then that!
I can't believe I now only have one more full day left in spain.  Good thing I have the beginning of a good tan which I will continue to perfect tomorrow when we have another beach day...this one will be done properly in our swimming costumes. Then the next morning it's back to rainy Bath, England.

View from the Nerja promenade

A little rain....a lot of sun

I awoke my second day in Spain to to a dreary sky outside and puddle filled lounge chairs.  I thought I had left this weather behind in England!  Ryan checked the weather and apparently we were in for this all day long.  Oh well, I guess we just have to make the best of it.  Michelle and Ryan headed into town together to do some shopping and just spend some time together.  That meant me and the kiddos got to play "rainy day style" indoors.   There was a tiny break in the rain, which came at just the right time since I'm not sure I could have handled another minute of Dora the Explorer and the Pirate Pigs, so I quickly popped on their shoes and herded them outside for some much needed fresh air.  We may have only gotten right outside the door before we sat

Puddled lounge chairs

down to race some cars but the air was crisp and there was no Dora so life was good.  These wonderful children seriously can find joy in anything though so it wasn't tough keeping them entertained on this gloomy day.  That moment of outside really was the highlight of the day.  Everything after was pretty standard routine..dinner, bath, and bed.  The weather was supposed to clear the rest of the week so fingers crossed and wishing for sun as I went to bed that night.
The next morning I awoke to sunlight streaming in through the edge of my window shades!  When I stepped outside to enjoy my breakfast on the terrace you would have never known it had been raining the day before.  Everything was beautiful and dry and the sun was gorgeous.

Breakfast with a view

I just sat enjoying my breakfast, taking in this breathtaking view, and again pinching myself that this is really my life right now.  I was definitely deep in thought because out of no where 2 little heads popped up in the chairs in front of me.  Talia and Nathan had decided to join me for breakfast.  It is so sweet how we have formed a fun little bond so quickly.  They wake up earlier then I do and I don't have to wake since there parents take care of them but I can still hear there sweet little voices asking "Where's Sara?  When will she come play?"  One of Nathan's questions to me over this breakfast moment is " Sara, Why do you sleep so long?  I was waiting for you forever!"  Almost makes me want to get up earlier...Almost but not quite.

Breakfast Buddies

 Ryan, Michelle and the kids went to the beach and I stayed at the villa.  The car here only fits 4 people which meant I got some me time by the pool, with my book, in my swim suit (or swimming costume as they call it) on a lounge chair.  Bliss!!!  Felt like home...sun and a backyard layout session!
When the family returned home the kids and I did some serious exploring in the gardens.  We picked flowers, sat on all the hidden benches and played the "what can you see game" (which is Nathan's favorite) and looked under rocks for creepy crawlers (which I love to do).  We found some great rolly polly bugs which Nathan wasn't too keen on holding even though I held them first.  At one point we were strolling through the flowers of the garden and out of no

This is for you....because it's your favorite.

 where Nathan turned and handed me a dark pink flower.  He said as he handed it to me "It's for you because it's your favorite.  I remember you said it yesterday"  My heart melted...in passing the day before I had said that I liked those the best out of all the flowers in the garden and this sweet little man remembered and picked one especially for me.  Men take notes from this 4 year old....he knows what he's doing.  Sweetest moment ever (of course I took a picture).
The rest of the afternoon and evening were just spent enjoying the gardens and making up silly games.  Talia loves to pick the flowers then line them up and count them and Nathan just wants to explore and know everything about everything.  Theses gardens are a child's dream to explore and a parent or nanny's heaven.  So much beauty, diversity of activities and just plain fun!

Exploring the gardens

After the kids were tucked in Michelle, Ryan and I had dinner and chatted.  It has been really great getting to know them and we all get on quite well.  It feels as though we have always known each other.  At one point Michelle said "It feels like you have always been in our lives...not just for a few days."  I agree with her completely and love that I am able to just fit in so easily again and the transition feels so natural.  I am thankful for that.
Tomorrow the kids and I are headed to the beach....just the 3 of us!