When I am asked what did I do last year then the very first thought is

 ‘where did I travel to?’

When I reflect  on my best moments & memories it always ‘where did I go to?

It is the family trip to the beach & the first beach swim.

 It was cold & I do still recall my reaction with my Dad helping me in & out.

It is the week away with the aunties & cousins who I still count as best friends.

[Well at least those of my age.]

It’s always on the personal  & family  memories & not the study or the work.

It is the photo albums & yes I insist before our next trip that we convert the digital snaps to a coffee table album.

That project for our last trip has now been completed as it is good to enjoy those memories again.

So to the next memory trip & it is then where & when?

School holidays & weather are variables that need to be considered.

Hence today’s exercise was to discover that flying outside school holidays meant another day or several on my own  some.

Yes, I’m allowed to do that.

So destinations & dates have been defined.

Why?

It is in the footsteps of my Dad who played rugby there 82 years ago.

Sky scanner comes up with too many options.

Nights 1,2,3,4 have been  further refined with accommodation .

More details to follow.

Home before the work conference where I can also catch up with two nephews.

I just hope it doesn’t clash with a grade 8 school reunion.

Yes I will this time next year when asked’ what did I do last year have an answer & memories.

It will feel good for all.

Planning will make the trip & the year productive & satisfying.

And a reason & a reward for all our work & family study efforts.

and another  reason for for a break it is a break from the news..

As the head mistress just wrote now

‘And before looking forward, it is always worthwhile to reflect, look back and be reminded of how much we have to be grateful for.’

Yes sir.