I departed the Caribbean in late May, leaving Jonathan to sail Merryn across the Atlantic with Jon and Peter. Happily Merryn arrived safely in Gibraltar today. Meanwhile, I had returned to London where I spent a few days visiting family before heading to Ste Foy. I was really looking forward to cooler weather in Europe but arrived in a heatwave with record temperatures being set in the UK. It was a little cooler in the Alps but still very hot! Having had friends staying in the chalet over winter there were a few jobs to do getting ready for the summer season but also plenty of time to relax and enjoy being back on land.
I then headed to Greece and the stunning island of Astypalaea in the Aegean, to join a group of old friends for the 70th Birthday Celebrations of Martin and Neil. We first visited the island 20 years ago for their 50th birthday party and it was lovely to be back with so many familiar faces. By day we relaxed at one of the many beautiful beaches before gathering at Donny’s for 5pm beers and much fun and laughter. On most evenings we met for drinks and dinner at Levadia Beach or in the Chora. In fact every night was a party night! Jonathan was very sad to have missed it all.
I had another brief visit to London and managed to see the beautiful Henry Moore sculptures at Kew Gardens. It was brilliant to be able to see them in such a stunning setting and catch up with my dear college friends. Then it was time to return to Ste Foy and a reunion with Jonathan at Geneva Train Station!