Is This Really an Englsh Summer?

Back in Hockering, we are experiencing a typically English summer - cold and wet! Although, being in England does mean we get to spend time with John, Clare and Jessica. This year we were able to watch Jessica in action on her sports day at Stafford House - the junior department of Norwich High School for Girls. Despite this being a non-competitive event - enjoyment and participation being the main theme - the parents shouted encouragement and urged the girls on just as if it was the Olympics! Most of the events were in the form of obstacle races demonstrating the various skills the girls have learned this year. Naturally, we thought Jessica showed the best form, but she does appear to be a natural runner - see photo Jessica in the lead! Because, in the past, both the mothers' and fathers' races have brought out naughty, aggressive competitive behaviour, these races are now obstacle races - although it has made no difference to the participants will to win! Jessica was quite shocked to see that the daddies cheated - not quite the behaviour her school was trying to encourage!!


Perfect poise - as befitting a Stafford House girl!


We have also caught up with Levent and Jax - together with their beautiful baby, Rosie. We spent a highly entertaining evening with them and were treated to a wonderful steak dinner. It should have been a barbecue, but - once again - the great British weather let us down. Nevertheless we had a splendid evening, despite the weather.

We are already counting down the days to when we leave for Turkey. The problem is - what are we going to pack! Having divested ourselves of all our kutundu when we left Turkey, we have decided to take the barest minimum and make do. The apartment is supposed to be fully furnished, so we shouldn't need too much. We will see!!