Ending our trip with a double celebration

We made it back home to the marina last weekend after a couple of pleasant days cruising in some lovely weather. We have been blessed with a couple of glorious weeks and thoroughly enjoyed our trip, meeting up with great friends along the way. 

Friday saw us cruise between Grendon and Tamhorn. We soon passed Grendon Wharf and then fields full of poppies which looked fabulous. 

Grendon Wharf

Poppy fields

By mid afternoon the sun had got the best of us as we tied up to get some shelter. A nice spot with some trees for shade as we sat out on the towpath with a bottle of wine and just the occasional boat passing us. One final piscatorial session brought this lovely chub to the net.

Saturday was a short trip back to Kings Bromley and the end of this particular trip. Normally we would be on a bit of a downer as we turn into the marina, but on this occasion it was just tinged with sadness as we had a couple of significant events to look forward to and celebrate.

On Monday we travelled down to Cardiff and booked into a very nice hotel overlooking the castle. We have got to know Cardiff quite well over the last three years as our eldest son has been at university there. It just so happened that his graduation fell the day after our Silver Wedding anniversary, and so we celebrated both events with the city break and had an absolutely wonderful time.

The 'still' happy couple

Tuesday was our anniversary and we spent it relaxing and wandering around the city. You can't keep us off the water and the best mode of transport was the water bus along the River Taff from the city down to Cardiff Bay, a 25 minute trip for just £3 seemed excellent value. Cardiff Bay was vibrant and the regeneration is just fantastic. On our return we met both our sons who had travelled down by train and we all enjoyed a family meal together in the evening.

Passing The Millennium Stadium on the Water Bus

Panoramic view of Cardiff Bay

Wednesday was 'proud parents day' or graduation. Cardiff University put on a great event at St Davids Hall which ran meticulously well and for us all to be together celebrating Liam's achievement was indeed one of our proudest days.

So, after all the goings on, it's back to reality and work. How depressing !! Still, on the bright side, we have now firmed up our plans for our re-paint next year, it's just five weeks until we head out again and 266 sleeps until retirement. It'll be here before we know it.