Friday, August 20, 2010

Last trip of summer

This week, we made one last trip, before school starts again, and we're caught up in homework, activities, routine.


I flew out to Brussels on Saturday to see my friend Cee and her daughter, Ais. I wrote about Ais and the operation here. We had a lovely two days together, timed so Ais was home from the rehab unit for the weekend, and I could give her a massage as promised. Ais is doing really well, she walked 15 steps, on her own . It's still awful to see her struggle so much to make just one step, remembering how she would run around, and it's hard that she needs a wheelchair for outings, but it's a big improvement in a short time. Thanks to everyone who has prayed for her, and kept them in your thoughts.

We chilled out, our only outing to a bookshop-cum-restaurant. That's a whole other post.



When looking at the return flight, I just couldn't face the "silly o'clock"/ 5am at the airport" start. Ryanair had lovely, cheap flights to Madrid from Brussels, so I decided to make a detour on the way home. The girls flew out from Dublin to join me- their first "alone with no adults" flight.











We loved Madrid!










Perfect weather, friendly people, and lots of good food









- all the ingredients for an enjoyable break.















We didn't do a "whirlwind", preferring instead to savour fewer activities and leave some for a future visit.



















But we did do the bus tour, just to get a flavour of Madrid,














and we saw what I think is the most beautiful train station in the world




8 comments:

  1. Madrid looks a lovely place. Majestic buildings.
    So pleased that you were able to go and see your friends.
    I am pleased Ais is doing well, even if it is slowly....... Slow but sure.
    Maggie X

    Nuts in May

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  2. Seems like a fantastic trip! Well done, Mimi. Your summer is drawing to a close. We've been back since the beginning of Julyl.

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  3. Looks like you've made the most of summer and had some lovely trips and good memories to shore you up for the autumn. Good to see you back.

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  4. The unexpected treats are always the best:) I might think of detouring next time I am away! Jen

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  5. Wonderful news about Ais!

    I love these 'accidental' adventures. You seem to have had enough time to get photos to share the flavor with us. And those cheeses do look very tasty in the display cases.

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  6. The food looks really delicious, I like such places

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