Ilkley: Nat and Beth debating which toy to play with next.

Ilkley: Nat and Beth playing with a bear.

Bolton Abbey: Beth entertaining the ducks.

Bolton Abbey: We took a nice walk here on Friday lunchtime. Although there was rain about it didn't dampen the spirits.

Weekend

Parkes, Beth and I spent the weekend gone in Ilkley. Dad and Liz looked after us in grand style and Beth enjoyed being with them. It was also lovely to see Rosie, Matt and Nat on Saturday. Pictures will be posted.

Blean Woods: Parkes and Beth enjoying their picnic lunch.

Blean Woods: Beth cleaning the trees.

Birthdays

On Thursday gone we celebrated Beth's second birthday and Parkes' thirty-something birthday. We spent the morning at home and then went over to Grandma and Grandad's house for a smashing party tea. Thanks to everybody who sent cards and presents - you are all very naughty and the thought was lovely!

Yesterday we had a gathering on the beach to celebrate. Thanks to everyone who attended - it was great to catch up with you.

Today Beth did her first crap on the toilet. How life sprints along!

Cartagena: Beth playing around in the kiddies fountain play area.

Los Gallardos: The venue for our evening meals.

Los Gallardos: Our villa was smashing with great views and dusky lady in a bikini.

Almería: We visited Almería for a day trip on our hollibobs. I wasn't overly impressed with the town although I would like to have a night out in Molly Malones nightspot!

Isle of Thanet Yomp 2009

The Yomp will now take place on the Saturday September 12th. Hopefully we will have a beautiful late summers day.

Los Gallardos: Beth keeping out of the bright sunlight.

Los Gallardos: Beth relaxing in the heat.

Los Gallardos: Beth and Granny B reading books.

Los Gallardos: Malnourished father ambushes daughter's Milk Pop.

Los Gallardos: Happy times on the terrace of good food and plentiful booze.

Los Gallardos: Damn those pesky white bits.

Los Gallardos: The view from terrace of our villa really was awesome. The pool was awesome too with the temperature hitting 38 degrees on the Saturday we arrived.

Cartagena: Going back to the hotel after snails and beer.