"Can I Come to London Easter 2012 and Experience Your London?"

This was the question I asked Madeleine New Years Eve 2010 when they came to celebrate Christmas as a surprise. I realised with the decision made that they would move to Sydney September 2012 this would be my only chance.

The last ten days have flown. I have had time to play tourist as well as aunt and great aunt. A lovely balance actually. Richmond has been the perfect base (thanks Sue for the suggestion).

My final day had a slow start and some bargain sales shopping. Met the family and headed to Annalise's favouriet spot in Richmond Park. She played in the stream in full waterproofed outfit and we wandered through heath and spied robins. A very pleasant way to spend the morning. A lovely lunch followed in a delightful nursery cafe.  

We returned to Whitton after I added to the drug supply before I hit a non English speaking country. We visited the local pub, hundreds of years old, where rugby games are watched and everyone knows the Cottrells by name. A lovely dinner followed with survival tips for the next five days given.

Now my bags are packed and I am hoping desperately to get more than the three to four hours sleep I've been getting. A wonderful, memorable holiday has been had. How wonderful it will be to have the Cottrells with us in Sydney.