Mermaid's treasure

Up early and off for a swim first thing. They have finally repaired the heater for the showers and the pool, although it was still not warm. Returned home to write a bit more on my Skelton Yawngrave novel before nipping up the hill to Anton's house to set off for the seaside with Klaudia and Oskar as it was such a beautiful day.

There was talk of rock pooling, but the tide was up when we got to the sea. Talking to Klaudia a lot, and discussing shadows and how they follow you. Then on to discovering "mermaid's treasure" by a rock, (mainly shells) as little Oskar boofed cheerfully about the place without fear. After two hours of this, and Klaudia deciding she wanted cuddles: code for being carried as the little princess had had enough of walking. Shortly after being returned to the car my Godchildren slept like babies as Anton and I drove home.

Sat in Anton's back garden drinking tea and chatting. Then Anton gave me three big bunches of grapes that are growing abundantly in his back garden. Home for a spot more work and a doze.

Met Lorraine in the evening, and we went out for Anton's birthday meal #2, except that this time Anna was ill again with a persistent stomach bug. Lorraine, Anton and I met up with Sam and Martin and their pal Nicky. Martin and Anton full of their walk in Scotland, which is becoming increasingly death defying in the telling. Then went to a bizarre Indonesian restaurant - which was like stepping from Brighton into a fragment of Barnsley, with karaoke going on, and numerous other birthday parties and a general air of vulgarity. I had lumpia, which having had cooked for me authentically by Sprinkles, I could tell were very poor. Food quite poor in general, although we all had a good time.

Home gratefully to bed.

Below Klaudia and Oskar by the sea.