A postcard from Dubai!

I might have mentioned that himself and I celebrated our silver wedding anniversary this summer.

Instead of buying each other expensive presents, we decided to snag a cheeky week away, on our own, sans children.

It was to be the first break away on our own in 20 years. In my mind we were rehearsing for our retirement, therefore if it didn’t work out, there was till time to do something about it ha!

We stayed in a lovely hotel next to the Marina and with hindsight, we probably couldn’t have chosen anywhere better.

It was perfect for exploring and about a 10 minute walk to the beach.

We went to the malls.

This waterfall was at one end of the Mall of The Emirates.

While this fashion show was occurring at the other end.

Then there was a shark in the tank at The Dubai Mall.

There was the world’s tallest building.

Dancing fountains!

Boat trips across the Abra after exploring the gold and spice souks.

Boat and monorail trips along and around The Palm Jumeirah.

We enjoyed our stay but whilst I wouldn’t be upset if I had to go again, say for work, I wouldn’t go back on holiday.

I felt we well and truly ‘did’ Dubai. We found our own way around and made use of the fantastic metro system, water transport and trams.

We had a great break. However, I found it a very materialistic city and it felt like a very clean, well organised but souless destination.

I know I couldn’t live there, not even for the sunshine.

I loved the Marina but it made me miss walking Jack beside the River Mersey.

Sometimes, it takes a trip like this to make you realise that actually there really is no place like home.

And our retirement?

Well I don’t think it is actually going to be that bad, I have decided to keep himself. I call that a win win ha!

Have you ever had one of those moments when you realise that you are right where you should be?

Have a lovely day!

 

Five on Friday

It’s been a funny week, I can’t believe it’s Friday but we are ready for the weekend.

I feel like I have not done a Five On Friday for ages.

Here are this week’s offerings;

One

We have been enjoying the fabulous late summer weather.

We had the huge moon at the beginning of the week and glorious sunrises and sunsets.

The River Mersey has been looking magnificent too.

This picture is of the tide being in on one side and out on the opposite.

I love living so near to the river and watching the changing seascape .

Two

I have been sorting through some of my pictures from Dubai.

There is a post in the pipeline but here is a sneaky peak at the stunning marina where we were lucky enough to stay.

Three

Himself and I have spent some time this week in the car park of this church.

It is the church opposite the youngest’s school.

She has a speaking part in the school production.

As the performance date is drawing nearer, she has a heavy rehearsal schedule.

The school is a good 25 minutes drive from our house, hence the busy week.

Three

Well despite my protests it seems that you can’t stop nature.

The Glade is definitely looking more and more autumnal as each day passes.

I did think I would have to start preparing my garden for what comes after autumn, I find it easier not to say the W word ha!,

However, it seems to have sprung back into life this week. The geraniums, fuchsias and hydrangea are all going strong.

Five

It’s October, the eldest’s birthday month.

. I  am struggle to believe that she is almost done with her teenage years.

Her present is safety stowed in my special hiding place.

I am wondering whether we will even see her on the day, nevertheless I will be celebrating my 20th year of mothering ha!

 That is it for this week, I will pop over and comment after work x

Have a lovely day!

I am dreaming of …….

Can it really be Friday already?

This week has been a bit odd here in The Glade, Ms Glade went to Rome on Monday, just as the youngest returned to school.

Then I mostly been thinking about …………….

Books to read.

Dresses to wear.

Scarves, in pretty colours.

My favourite summer bag and make up.

And beaches!!

Ah what is this foolishness I hear you ask?

Well, Himself and I are leaving the changing season behind and heading for the desert on Saturday.

We are going to Dubai.

We have a week of relaxing planned , doing what we want, when we want!

I had planned to blog when I went to Spain, but the internet wasn’t great. Therefore, I am planning to take the whole week off, so by avoiding the frantic searching for wifi.

That said, don’t be surprised when I still pop by and leave comments, because quite frankly I’m addicted and don’t want to miss too much ha!

If burglar Bill is reading this, I don’t think he follows me, but just in case, it won’t be worth visiting The Glade, because the house will be occupied and Jack, that fearsome black lab, will be in residence at all times ha!

 

Have a wonderful week x x x

Thank you Amy for hosting x