York to London

 Wednesday 21st April, 1982                  camping York             fine and sunny

Lazy morning - up into town - some to see the museum and Minster.  I walked around shops and visited the museum.  The camp is right near town on the banks of the “Ouse” so it's only a short and pleasant walk to town centre - pity the new owner wasn't as pleasant - he wouldn't let the kids play ball, gave them lectures - no washing.  The camp looked like an army camp -all lined up like tanks - patrons comfort forgotten.  Glad to see last of him.  Across country, past Selby to Lincoln where we found the Caraville which has about six plots for transits - the funniest washing facilities - one toilet - the slowest washing machine, but quickest dryer.  The people were nice - we had drinks and Sandra went to bed - we all read for awhile then followed Marie and Lee, having to wait for the slow washer, walked up to pub.  Sandra not too well - Sean improving.

Thursday 22nd April, 1982                 camping Lincoln                     overcast

Slept in till 8:30 a.m. then up and off this a.m. early, as water was too cold to shower.  On past the Boddington airbase were lots of activity spells possible war.  Then on through Spalding where acres and acres of tulips lined the road side - more than we saw in Holland.

We lunched in Spalding - a nice town - then on through St Ives where Oliver Cromwell was born, past another airbase and on to Cambridge.  A lovely camp, the nicest facilities we have seen - in a huge paddock - kids are running wild.

Friday 23rd April, 1982               camping Cambridge                fine and cold

Up and lazily packed ready to leave.  We hate to leave this Caraville - lovely facilities, washing machine, dryer - small personal cubicles.  On to the War Museum at Duxford - too early so we went into a nearby village of Thriplow - a lovely little one-shop village with lovely people.  The 10 of us took it over, the Post Office wasn't big enough to take parcels.  Back at 11 a.m. to Duxford War Museum - very well done.

Luxford air museum, UK

We inspected the Concord - won't be flying in one.  Too narrow!  Spent two hours there - loved the old posters put out during World War II.

Arrived at Saffron Walden for lunch - lovely little village - sent 2 parcels - books, crochet rug, tablecloths and Koblenz in one and a Cuckoo clock in other £32 - wow!  

Saffron Walden, UK

Off then down to Audley End to view the Castle which belonged to Lord Audley who was given it by old Henry VIII -a lovely old home and the gardens were magnificent with a tree 440 years old - beautiful! 

Audley End, UK

On then to visit Trudy and Brian - we had passed Beckett's farm when Brian jumped out on Lee so we had to backtrack.  Live in a lovely area.  Anhesden, in Saffron Walden spent a pleasant couple of hours, then along through lovely country to Duddenhoe End where we spent the night at the "Woodman" camping behind a pub.  Had a nice evening in the pub.  Rae lost watch - the ablutions were clean but antiquated - the doors were like stable doors.  Two weeks to D Day.

Saturday 24th April, 1982            fine but cool

Up and on winding country roads through small villages - Linton - brought food - had a lovely pub meal at  "The Duck and Dog" on then to Bumpstead - lovely but no Park - on to Bumpstead South - no Park - so through green country to Finchingfield a village with a village green, a typical one that you read about in books, a pond with ducks, the bridge, children playing on the green and people picnicking.  

 

Finchingfield, UK

We had lunch, then walked around and then headed for Thaxted - a nice little town with an old Guildhall built in 1300 and a mediaeval church being restored to its beauty.  

Thaxted, UK

Sandra saw a lovely set of Punch Books for £18 in Mary Poole's bookstore, a lovely windmill.

Essex is lovely, so green.  We came to Dunmow and spent a bit of time browsing through antique shops and lovely streets.  They have a pub called " Kicking Dickie", lovely English name.

Then through High Roding, Anythorpe Roding - where windmills lined the road side, then Leaden Roding on then to Chigwell and Grange farm camping area.  Next door is Spanish Circus the first one to visit -English - washing on after a lovely hot shower - a wind blows over the green.  Sandra found Rae's watch.

York to Chigwell UK

Wells to Yorkshire and visit with George and Enid

Thursday 15th April, 1982                     misty and cold

Up early and wash hair - very foggy and cold - the van wouldn't start so everyone out and pushed it till it started - Lee singing out to "stop stop" Marie answers "we haven't started".  On the road again through Wells to Avon county - Marksbury - the most beautiful white magnolia trees I've ever seen.  Into Bath - no Park so on again through Burton and Castle Combe where Dr Doolittle was filmed, a lovely village but the park was 2 miles up the narrow road.  We had morning tea there and off - again through old Sodbury to the Severn River where we lunched in a huge service station overlooking the river and Wales.

Off across the bridge to Wales on to Tintern Abbey, which stands in ruins. 

Tintern Abbey,

A thriving abbey which fell foul when Henry VIII axed the Catholic religion.  Beautiful countryside in Wales as we meandered along the country roads - through Pen Crag and crossed the Wye River to England again and on to Ledbury where we shopped.  A lovely old town with its mediaeval marketplace - it boasts a " Full Pitcher Inn ".  On then about 8 miles to the caravan Park.

Met five girls from Bathurst.  Met a gentleman with relatives in Aussie who had a map of Australia on wall of shop. 

Friday 16th April, 1982               sunny but cool

Left Brompton Yard caravan Park after walking up to the village for some cough mixture for kids - lovely town.  Through Tenbury on a lovely spring morning, stopped at Bewdly for morning tea - hoping for scones and cream.  The innkeeper was very nice and put a coffee pot on for us - said you can bring in anything nice out of van - was funny - beautiful hot coffee, nice host and over own bickies all sitting around bay window of the "Hop Pole Inn" in the Hop Pole Lane - such great names.

Hop Pole Inn, Bewdley, UK

On to Much Wenlock for petrol where John just made it.  We stopped for lunch and just made it.  On then through Telford - birthplace of industry, where so much industry was commenced.  We had a misunderstanding between driver and navigator - a beauty this time, and whilst I kept thinking we were going to end up in the bushes - we did - in a car park in the bushes miles from all but Coalport Museum - the Leyland Brothers. We lunched, made friends and went to find parking for Ironbridge the oldest Iron Bridge still in use, built in 1779.  First ever built using mortise and tenon joints, with wedges and dowels - no nuts or bolt used.

Walked across and then to a little market and on to Wellington - Shrewsbury - Wem - along narrow roads to Whitchurch.  Then we were only a half hour to Chester.  Had tea and shower and whilst Sean and Brett walked the wall we went for a stroll up town.  The kids found a fish and chip shop and for 20p got a feed. Marton Mere camp - lovely hot water.

Saturday 17th April, 1982                       sunny and warm         

Up early, breakfast and up to town to shop - love Chester - brought jumper, singlets and a new overcoat - good bye to my old coat of 16 years old.  I am set right now for home.  Sandra fitted Rachelle out with new jackets, shoes and pyjamas - no American express - Sandra owes $28 on my master charge account.  Across to highway and on to Blackpool, only to find after a dash into town, everything closes at 7 p.m.  Still the kids enjoyed what they saw and the rides they had.  Enjoyed the stroll along the promenade - fish and chips - watching the parade of people - coloured hair, chains, dresses etc a real education for the kids.  Lee and Brett say they will start new Nambucca fashions with what they have seen

Sunday 18th April, 1982              lovely

Up early and washed clothing and to mass across the road at St Monica's.  A lovely little church and a lovely little priest.  Rae just saw a cow giving piggy back?  Morning tea and across country through Church town, Lancaster, Melling, Kirkby Lonsdale where we had lunch in town - everyone comes out in the sunshine on a Sunday.  On through Hawes, Aysgarth and Leyburn where John rang George Shaw - we retraced our drive to Aysgarth where we met George and he showed us over his Carriage Museum - Dorothy and Sid, Enid's sister and brother-in-law kept us entertained till George arrived - the falls are beautiful right outside his door.  

View of the Dales; money washing with Brett, John, Lee; the boys with George and George's Roller

There is a carriage at George's Carriage Museum that has a ghost story attached to it - when a photographer took a photo of the gig and developed it,  a man was sitting in it with a tam-o'-shanter - rumour goes he was killed by this gig in the garden.

George then took us for a drive to Bolton Castle where the Queen,Mary of Scots was imprisoned.  

Rumour has it that when she escaped she dropped her shawl and that town was known as Shawl near Leyburn; over hill and dale through beautiful Yorkshire countryside we came into Richmond caravan Park - showered, ate and up to George and Enid's via taxi.  We didn't arrive home till 2:30 p.m.  John better - Sean sick.  Enid arrived home from feeding Liz's animals in the lovely fur coat and expensive dress.

Monday 19th April, 1982                   Brompton on Swale

Up into Richmond to shop and wash - brought 2 nice Constable plates.  Sean to doctor at 5 p.m., he has bad bronchitis again.  George took Marie, Lee, John and Brett out to Bowes Museum in his Bentley - the kids loved the ride yesterday.  Lazy afternoon and parcel packed ready to go.

George told us about a little cafe where we could have fresh scones, jam and cream - closed Monday - so we began our trek till we ended up at the Castle restaurant - we had dined there before - had scones, jam and cream, those that wanted them.  I had a sandwich - some of the kids had chicken, peas and chips.  So much for the jam scones.  

Out to tea with George and Enid.  They came to pick us up at 7:30 p.m. in Enid's Saab - funny we were all ready - George put his cane out the window - singing out Tally Ho and away went the convoy the long way around past green fields and small villages till we came to "A66 Motel" where the vans parked straight out of door within sight - we were at Smallways about 4 ½ miles from Richmond.  Had drinks and then tea - Liz joined us - and it was a lovely evening - meal was superb - company great, returned to bar where we stayed till 12 midnight.  Into cars and off home on convoy - bed and a beautiful sleep.  Marie and Sandra fell in love with the man in the suit of armour - rang John and Elsie - the dinner went on my MasterCard as John and Lee had American express £71 for eight of us not bad $13 each

Tuesday 20th April, 1982                        lovely and sunny

Sleep in and awake about 9 a.m. - shower. lovely day again - up to George and Enid's for morning tea - a lovely two hours spent again with mine host.  They have been "splendid" to all of us - sorry to say goodbye - off on village roads to Ripon.

No Park so on to an area outside for lunch.  Marie and Lee drove back into town for toilet.  We all looked anxiously towards town until they appeared in the horizon.  Then on to York where we arrived at 4 p.m. and walked into town to shop.  Lovely York - early bed.

 

Wells to York, UK

Paris to England -

 Saturday 10th April, 1982                       fine but cold

On the road again after Sandra and Rae walked to Suresnees for jeans and jumper - Rae looks good even the boys say so.

Good bye Paris - after a few tries we were out of Paris and off - stopped at supermarket to fill cupboard with Easter food - then off through Houdan, Dreux, L'angle, Le Pin au Haras - all white fences, St Clare a walled village.  Countryside is beautiful - nice villages old castles etc.

Sunday 11th April, 1982                    sunny but cool             Arromanches camp

Up early, all showered ready for England.  Off to see the museum in the village, very impressive.  I didn't realise just how affected Europe was by war - every time I see a war cemetery I have a weep for the boys who stayed. 

Arromanches Museum

I never realised the invasion was so involved and massive.  We spent all morning at Arromanches and then walked up to mass - a lovely old derelict church with an old derelict priest saying high Mass.  Singing was good old songs I knew.

Back to camp had lunch and on the way to Cherbourg.  Past St Honores des Reters and  on to Omaha to visit American war cemetery - 16,000 men are buried there - they lost 6000 on the first day, sixth of June 1944 out of 60,000.  On past St-Mere-Eglise where the church that featured in the movie "D Day" is - through names of towns that went into history books -Montebourg, La Glacerie and into Cherbourg where we had a two hour wait to board Townsend Thoresen for Southampton at 5:30 p.m..

The sun is smiling in a mock goodbye.  Must see "The Longest Day" again - white wine has caught up with me.

Had a glass topped up for the crossing to Southampton, arriving about 9:45 p.m..  No trouble disembarking and after a little drive found the camp area.

Monday 12th April, 1982                 English soil                 sunny

Awoke to a beautiful sunny morning for our first English morning after so long.  The camp Anwar, was quite nice, and situated in a huge paddock surrounded by cows etc.  On our way to Salisbury to see the lovely Cathedral built in 1012-86.  All in one pattern except for the turret which was added later on. Then to Stonehenge a remarkable mystery - number of stones in a circle thought to be there since 2900 BC - it has a four stage history and thought to be a sundial and for worship.  

Stonehenge

Lunched in the car park with many English out for the day - then on to Beaulieu to visit Montagu Castle-£1.40 entrance for me a senior citizen - vintage car museum, monorail train display and a visit through gardens and Castle. 

A lovely day through English countryside and now we are at Brocklehurst at camping Holland’s Wood.  A lovely camp belonging to Forestry Commission - love these English areas in the wide open spaces - kids run wild.

Shower has a chain but no hot water.  To bed - Sandra and Rae have colds.

Tuesday 13th April, 1982                   sunny

Sun still shines brightly on the new Forest area - up and into village of Brocklehurst to do washing.  Marie and Sandra tackled that whilst I sent mail, went to a bank and shopped.  The village is lovely, small horses wander at will along the streets and footpaths.  Lunched and on way - passed Sway, through Bournemouth to Sandbanks where we caught car ferry across to Corfe Castle - a lovely stone village - then on to Wool where we visited Bovington Camp Tank Museum - the male species enjoyed that.  On the way we noticed a thatched roof being repaired.

On through beautiful countryside in perfect spring weather - winding roads lined with neatly trimmed hedges - barely fitting our vans.  Newly born sheep romp playfully beside contented sheep - fat cattle look lazily at us chugging by.  On through villages with delightful names of Bere Regis, Piddle-on-Trent, Affpuddle, Tolpuddle where the union movement began - with a hotel named after the martyrs, Puddletown, Littlehampton past statue of Thomas Hardy at Dorchester.  He was born near here in Dorset County - we visited "Smith's Arms" England's smallest pub Godmanstone.  

Charles II granted the blacksmith a liquor licence after the king asked for an ale.  The building dates back to the 15th century.

On through Cerne Abbas where we just managed to buy some sausages for tea before closing.  Then up a long hill to the Giant's Head camp area, lovely spot overlooking a green valley.  A lovely day had by all - thanks John.

Wednesday 14th April, 1982              sunny and cold

All up early, beautiful morning, on the road for a little way to the giant - carved in chalk on the hilltop.  180 feet long with a 120 foot club in hand, it may have been an offering for fertility in the Roman days.  On to Sherborne where we shopped in the little shops of the village, a lovely change after the European supermarkets.  Decided to stop at an Inn at Spackford near Marston Magna for a ploughman's lunch - was really friendly pub.  The Innkeeper has a sister in Sydney, (Aunty Fay from Roses restaurant at Crows Nest) - we had a delicious lunch, everything fresh.  On through Prestley, Shepton's Mallet, Boscombe to Wells where we spent an hour in the Cathedral and the village - Sandra, Rae and I sneaked away for an English cuppa, tea and cakes, John found us so we all had refreshments.

Decided to stay at Wookey Hole caravan Park.  All but Sandra and I have gone into the caves.  

Wookey Hole, Wells, UK

Not far from here is Longleat where "to the Manor born" was filmed.  They all liked the caves, though Marie said Jenolan Caves were far superior.

We settled into little caravan Park - clean with hot water.  We are right beside a little clean Brook.  The kids ran wild along the lush green lawns - the parents all went to the Wookey Hole Inn to play darts - a cold crisp moonlight night.

Paris to England - Wookey Hole, Wells, UK

Amsterdam to Belgium and onto Paris

Saturday third of April                        frosty fine sunny.

A leisurely farewell to our friends and on the way again.  Liz and Rob and Jim and his wife.  We headed north to Markem via Haarlam. 

Marken, Netherlands

It is connected to the mainland by a built-up road.  It is in the Isseljsee, the old Zuider Zee.  Not as nice as Volendam - a fishing village that relies mostly on tourists and fish - people weren't as friendly, but that could have been because a funeral we saw - behind the coffin came the men in national dress and the women in their long gowns, whilst bells rang in the church.  The procession look like a long centipede.  We saw a man making clogs, same wood as cricket bats.  After lunch we decided to head for the Hague.  

Davanzo van following

Arrived here at Duinrell about 6 p.m. - had a quiet tea and all into Lee's van to Madurodam.  Had two hours of daylight, everyone loved it and then as dusk fell the lights came on - looked like a miniature city all alight - we were cold, so into cafe for coffee.   It sounds funny asking for a table for 10.  Home to hot Dutch soup and toast then bed.

Madurodam, Netherlands

We stopped in the afternoon at a flower show a bit early for full bloom, then through de Zelk-tulips lined the roads, Katwik and here at Wassermann, near The Hague.

Sunday 4th April, 1982                       fine and sunny

Leisurely sleep in then began washing, Duinrell is quite a good caravan Park has all we want.  The rest went off to church, all bar Marie reluctantly - all the excuses they give.

Duinrell is fantastic - everything for kids.  Playground equipment is fantastic - junior Wonderland, swings of every description.  Boat and train rides fun things for $.25, like a donkey that sends out bubblegum - a little boy who will wee all over you and a ramp that shoot water up your legs.  Funny?

Duinrell Caravan Park, Netherlands

Sequel to mass - they don't know if it was a reformed Dutch or not - the bread was brown and it was Palm Sunday so was a long service.

Lovely warm spring day.  Walked around the Park tried all comic cuts- after tea we all went up the road to a Dutch pub.  Home by 10:30 p.m..

John says the church was a Dutch reformed Church much to Marie's horror.

Monday fifth of April

On the road again - called at Delft again.  Such a pretty place - Marie wanted to buy some presents for her sisters.  Brought pepper and salt shakers and little vase.  Whilst in Delft 2 kids cleaned Lee's van windscreen even though he said "no", when they were refused money they up with the bucket and threw it over the screen, then took off - cheeky buggers.  Poor Delft put a negative on it for us - Sandra had words with a rude fellow about 20 - we weren't impressed with the Dutch, very intolerant, cross race but very clean.  

Out on the road about Krabben Bossen we stopped for petrol and three young English bike riders came up and spoke to us - they had been on a bike rally top of Holland and were on the way home in one day 700 miles they said.  Had fun at the border, the guard wouldn't let John speak kept waving us on - silly John kept insisting till the guard lost his temper and guards hat +2.  Had to turn around and go back to opposite side - then we had to drive kilometres to Wurstwezel where they found it would cost them more money than they save for paperwork -some misunderstanding along the line.

Belgium.  On through Brasschaat, Merksem to Antwerp, where we filled the larder at the supermarket, then fun and games to find a camping area again - Sean remembered the VVV in centre, so found map and on the way again to Jan van Ryswycklan camp area - liked it there -  fellow had only just taken over.  We had to hurry to shower and catch bus into Antwerp for dinner at Simone's - Lee wasn't feeling too well - he's sinusitis is still around - a sleep and shower and we were on the way.  Well Simone excelled herself for just a short notice.

We had Belgium and chicken soup - huge pork steaks - salad and chips till they came out of our ears.  The kids loved that, Yves and Brett out stayed everyone.  Simone's eldest girl was there and Matthew her husband - a lovely family.  Everyone enjoyed the evening - Simone as vivacious as usual.  Jules was in London - had a beautiful fruit salad, cream and coffee - home in two car loads driven by Jenny about 2 a.m.

 

Dinner at Simone's 

Tues 6th April, 1982                       cold and windy

Up and on way reasonably early - bye Amsterdam and Antwerp, hello France - past Halle, lunch at Briand-le-Compe, Mons, St Gishlain and Dour.  At the border saw a well-dressed man hitchhiking with his umbrella - through Valenciennes to Iwuy where we had morning tea beside one of the many memorials to the allies during two world wars.  

On through land of the Somme where many battles were fought in 1918.  Through Peronne, Masniers to Roye where we couldn't find camp area so followed a sign out of town and spent the night at Beuvraignes - an old campsite at the back of a bar - hole in the ground toilet - no hot or cold showers only one tap over a dirty sink.  We decided to stay as Lee still had a headache.  Into the bar  - all but Marie and Sandra - after about 1 1/2 hours the locals became friendlier - ended up a nice evening.  

Drinks at the bar with the locals (even the kids)

Then the funeral director asked us all home but we had to eat first then it was 9:30 p.m. and he came to pick us up. Lee and John went off whilst the girls settled the kids - then they were back to pick up the girls.  I chickened out and went to bed - by 10:30 p.m. they were all back rain and all.  They ran away after he had filled the men with some potent potion.  He seemed to act funny so they took off.

Drinks with the local funeral director

Francis Grenier funeral director - knock on door - the funeral director with Sandra's umbrella left it there in their panic.

Wednesday 7th April, 1982               rain and windy

Suffering from the potent potion, the men drove slowly out of Beuvraignes.  Goodbye to the small population - even the garage man.  Brett brought his hat for 10 francs.  Off on the village roads to Ermeronville where we pulled in for lunch at a supermarket-we just had time to buy bread when we were hustled out-so we decided to eat there, just got our lunch set out in one car-Lee was asleep in the other, when we were told they were closing gates so we had to hold all on the table and drive outside-Marie drove theirs, Lee didn't stir.

On then to Paris through Louvres to the Peripherique and off at Pt de Malliot and here to Bois De Bologne at 4 p.m..  A few drinks in the van , washing at machine, long walk and bed.  It is becoming quite crowded here and a very muddy.  Rain has found us again.

Thursday 8th April, 1982                          wet and miserable

Up early and off to town earlier than usual.  Wet and cold but can't dampen our spirits as we took over the bus which only took nine passengers but conceded when 10 of us plus two other Aussie girls got on board.  Introduced the Davansos to the Metro system.  On to the Eiffel Tower - they loved it.  Alighted at Trocadero and approached from a different way - very impressive!  On then to Notre Dame - rain - had chip roll and drink in Lebanese cafe which was very filling - on then to Sacre Couer to meet John.  Up on the funicular - I think the lolly machine owners will be smiling tonight - the kids wouldn't pass one - we had chewy peanuts, sweets etc all day.

Saw some funny things in Paris streets.  Everyone does their own thing.  To American Express and home tired and ready for bed.  Titus and Charlotte gave us an old warm coat and as the weather improved, decided to hoist it.  Left it in shower - it kept being moved from shower to shower till it disappeared.  Rae tells me it ended up in garbage - pity!

It is Easter week and people are all coming to Paris.  The CA bulges already.

Friday 9th April, 1982                     Good Friday                cold wet then fine

Into town quite late today.  Sandra, Rae and Renée stayed home.  They put a full bus on this a.m..  People still arriving at park in droves.  They were arriving at midnight.  The parents went into town for te. It was cold-wet.  Disappointing day - didn't get into the Louvre or the Impressionists - too many people - Paris in spring is the in thing - crowds everywhere.  Everyone knows it's spring, bar the weather.  The trees are full of blossom, flowers bloom, birds chirp, lambs are born but still the sun refuses to shine.  We walked up Champs Élysée -lunched at the Burger King - strolled to Arc de Triomphe - Metro to Louvre - then home.  A drink after tea to cool off - the showers were too hot!  Rang Karen.

Funny sight: two gendarmes versus 4 gypsies in the Place de la Concord - the gendarmes won.

Marken to Paris

Hello Ludwig and Heidrun again....Goodbye Ludwig and Heidrun and Hello Holland

 Saturday 27th March, 1982                      fine and sunny and warm

Up to another lovely spring day - Heidrun tells us this is May weather - March or May we are enjoying it - barmy lazy sunny spring days.  

Camping on the Rhine at Bacharach

Walked into Bacharach along lovely old streets then off along the Rhein to Boppard - no chairlift - so on to Koblenz - stopped and filmed the Lorelei.  Lunched near the monument - the German corner - where the Mosel and Rhein meet - then went for a walk around.  Saw 2 well dressed gentlemen riding a bicycle - looks so funny.  Broke Lee up.  On along the Rhein to Remagen where we bade it goodbye and headed inland, where we became lost in the road works maze - incredible network.  A dog walker put us on the right road through Latenschoppen, Wormesdolf and Essig onto Eiskirchen - where we were greeted warmly by Ludwig and Heidrun, but we threw them into utter confusion by our numbers.  John and Sandra, Marie and Lee, Heidrun and Ludwig went out to dinner after a lot of confusion.  Sean and Brett went to town on a bike to collect McDonald's for the kids.  Good sleep after a late start.

Sunday 28th of March            overcast with no sun

Well we have had our three days of sunshine so who's complaining.  Boys left in a.m. to visit a radio station - lunched, then off to Bad Munster Eifel - better day than last overcast.  We walked around the village, crowded today - then right around the wall - home to afternoon tea.  Walk to town - Church at 6:30 p.m. and as we were having a German potato tea we brought the kids chicken and chips to eat on the way home, then when we did arrive back - late of course - Heidrun's German dish was potato fritters so the bigger kids had to force some down.

No such word as “nein” in this house.

Later in the evening an American friend of the Zopinski’s and his wife, Don and Elizabeth came over.  We had an interesting evening until Ludwig went to bed, then one by one the adults disappeared and we were left to entertain till midnight.

Monday 27th of March                       cold and raining

After breakfast, all females off to town to shop - the men minded the kids - the boys kept finding me.  Marie and Sandra tried on every pair of jeans in town - one place we marched out of!  Brought coffee sets, linen and Marie a blouse.

Had lunch in Pinocchio restaurant, house insalada - beautiful - a big salad of lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, ham and grated cheese.

Home to cuppa - walked back later for chickens in the rain.  Sandra feeling guilty offered to take all the kids - well one by one they refused till we were left with Yulia and when she realised she was the only one walking with us she took off home.  Blow me if chickens weren't ready so we had to return without dinner.  John - no he refused - the girls went and bought at other places - and after Essen had a pleasant evening talking - Heidrun likes the boys company - girls a little fed up with the fluttus - naturally the boys like it.  Bet Marie and Sandra will explode before we leave if they aren't careful.

Tuesday 30th March, 1982                       normal Germanic

Breakfast by candlelight - farewell to Ludwig - off to Evoluon - no explosion.  Ludwig woke us for 6 a.m. breakfast - farewell Ludwig.

Evoluon, Eindhoven, Netherlands

Packed up and off on road.  Stopped at Evoluon for lunch - passed by the towns of Gelder -Malsam-Beesd-Nevwegian-Ijesselmeer and Utrecht.  On the way we noticed Shetland ponies and beautiful windmills.  Hello Holland.

Arrived in Amsterdam after an afternoon at Evoluon - quite an impressive place - built like a flying saucer.  It had all technical knowledge -TV, radio, record making - and man and his problems from A.D. to now and his future re food and energy.

As soon as we arrived at the camp we all felt so free, decided to have a drink - well what a funny evening - a knock on door -"come in" says Marie.  An Englishman in gas trouble so boys fixed him - then about three drinks later another knock on door.  "Come in" cries Marie - and through the space appeared poor little fellow - half Indian, half Jew and whole Dutch "I'm alone" he says in bad English, so Marie introduces him "this is Lee Allen, John Allen, Pat Allen, Sandra Allen" well he kind of took over when he discovered Sandra could understand a little French.  His name was Bob - Allen was alone - laugh- we were in hysterics - he disappeared and bought in his family album instead of a photo of his wife as we expected -poor beggar was lonely, wanted a match and company but it was 9:30 p.m. and the kids were tired.  Well after about 1 1/2 hours we got the message through and he left, with Sandra promising him coffee in a.m.  To bed after an hysterical evening.

Was a surprise to drive in here and see so many people - tents, caravans and vans.  We usually are the only ones in the camp areas - about two dozen tents ring the area.  Spring is here the grass has riz the people are on the move!

Wednesday 31st March, 1982                  fine but windy

Slept in till 8:30 a.m., very tired, Marie, Lee and John went into town to find a diamond ring for Marie.  We took children in about 1 p.m. to meet them - walked along the red light area.  Couldn't believe it does happen.  Amsterdam is so full of punk youth - on the way home we nearly collapsed on seeing a ? girl with shaven head, dressed in a silver frosted costume like something from out of space.

Had chips and coffee at McDonalds for afternoon then walked the pedestrian mall looking at the passing parade.  Home by tram.  Salad and to bed.

Have never seen so much way out youth in beautiful Amsterdam - anywhere else except of course London - we also noticed increased numbers of police cars.

John left his run too late and had a cold shower.  Aussie pair Liz and Rob (met in Rome) arrived this p.m..

Thursday 1st April, 1982                fine and sunny

Boys off to Heineken's brewery - lazy morning then lugged all the washing in green garbage bags to laundromat - what a sight Marie with two bags, San with two, Rae and I with one each -paced the 1 1/2 kilometres to the Wasserette only to find, after putting our wash through 4 x 5  kilograms we couldn't dry.  I don't think she liked us - firstly we left the door open (an old Australian custom?) Second I brought two bags and she didn't want to give me a separate change.  I could see her Dutch brain thinking of how to punish us - so she wouldn't let us use the dryers - so off we went with semi-wet clothes which were twice as heavy instead of an anticipated half and dragged ourselves home.

Then when we arrived who should be waiting for us but Sandra and Marie's friend Bob, wanting a drink - Sandra told him "no go away" hopefully he will stay away.  Laughed at Marie she walked into delicatessen and asked for Devon.

John and the boys back - washing strung around the camp.  Met Lee earlier - he had a rotten migraine so tried to sleep whilst we kept children quiet.  About 4 p.m., Lee feeling better, the girls decided to investigate a little more re diamond rings.  So the four of them went into town to window shop.  Home by 6:30 p.m. had dinner - I visited an Australian couple Jim and?  For an hour - Liz and Rob came in for drinks with Marie and Lee.  Warm night.

Friday 2nd April, 1982                       fine and sunny

Lazy morning - leisurely breakfast - John and Lee played big poppas to four young Aussies and got their van going for them - door had fallen off to begin with, then it wouldn't start.  Lots of Australians here - three Top Deck buses arrived, 2 training and one on tour.  Sandra didn't insult her little Dutchman Bob, he came over last night with a pot of water to boil - poor fellow he is lonely.  Into town for a canal ride - hot and sunny - so enjoyed it.  

Waiting for the canal ride in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Lunch at the burger and beer - and the girls walked up to Bonebakker and bought their rings -Sandra brought a lovely nine diamond .3 carat.  Looks great!  Marie brought 2 nice rings then home - sun gone - raining.  Sandra, Brett and I walked around to Ann Frank's house - very moving.  

Ann Frank House, Amsterdam

The kids had been watching a fair being erected at Stationplein and when we arrived they are on the way home, it was blowing and raining so Marie, Sandra and I took off for the camp for washing and tea.  Kids had one miserable hour there.  The lovely sunny weather has gone.

Sandra, John, Lee and Marie went into town after Lee decided he wanted to see the city by night.  They hitched a ride in with a Top Deck bus crew - walked the red light area but were a little apprehensive of the passing unsavoury crowd, so went to a bar then home.  Weren't overly impressed.

Bacharach to Amsterdam

Time to hit the road

Monday 22nd of March                      cold and overcast

Awoke to a dull cold day - all up to hot shower - breakfast and prepare for being on the road again.  We left about 10 a.m. - Lee is nervous - so is John I think.  We went through Calais to the super Continental - to fill the larder.  Marie and Lee were astounded at the size - we are still off on the highway to Ypres.  Had lunch on the highway.

Stopped at the border then on to Ypres where the remains of the battle in 1918 war - huge cemeteries line the side of the road - Hooge Crater cemetery seemed to be the biggest.

War cemetery at Ypres

On through Doornick, Tournai, Bernissait to then into Mons where we immediately got lost -ended up at a dead end.  Poor Lee nearly died - a good initiation into European driving.

Had a cuppa when settled then realised it was 6:45 p.m. so on went tea - then bed.

We drove through Flanders Fields-just imagine Pop riding his bike to pick the potatoes from the field - have a strong feeling Dad is on this trip with me. 

Tuesday 23rd March, 1982                       overcast and cold

On to Luxembourg - different people in charge very obliging and helpful.  Didn't eat till 9 p.m. then kids went to bed and we walked to the bar - had a pleasant two hours in warmth, Sandra and John caught up on life back home - bed but not to sleep - restless night not enough exercise.  Went through Bove Anderloaes, morning tea at Fleurus - kids roam wild then on through Wierde to Courriene where we lunched beside one of the many Fritures - hot, freshly cut chips for lunch - spoiled only by tomato sauce.  On then to Aalen and into Luxembourg -stopped at the supermarket "cactus" where we all went mad with excitement buying - Marie, Lee and Brett can't get over the size of the markets and this one was cheap - 44 Belgian francs for Kellogg's, wines and brandy ridiculously cheap - on then to find a laundromat - where the dog sat under the umbrella.

Just made it at 6:45 p.m. - finished and out to caravan Park - shower and sleep.

Wednesday 24th of March                  sunny and beautiful

Up, washed, showered on this beautiful spring day - off to town - walked 1 km to bus stop "Arret" 20 Belgian francs.  Walked the streets till we were thirsty - had a cuppa - all 10 of us in a cake and coffee shop. Sean and Brett ran off to change money - John and I to the post office then we all walked around the Ponte Adolphe et Plase de Bruxelles, down the casements.  

Wandering Luxemborg

Was a beautiful day - lots of film is taken.  Lee and Marie loved it - the twins were very good. We saw the guard at the Palace, down ancient streets - found a nice Glama bar where we took over three tables, for ham roll and wine - then on to another walk through the pedestrian walk.  Love their no car pedestrian malls - bus and home to chicken and salad.  Sandra, John, Lee and Marie went to bar.  I was exhausted so to bed.  Ice on windows in a.m.  Sean's jumper as stiff as board from frost.  Blackout in p.m. so the later showerers missed out - little tot from camp (beautiful brown eyes) attached herself to the little ones - children need no language.

Thursday 25th of March                     frosty and sunny

Up early - no showers and an early breakfast.  Whilst we packed up the hot water came on, so we showered, packed up and delivered little nomad - who came around - to her parents and off.  

Through ancient old Echtenach Senningen where we drove over line of workmen much to their anger.  Lee had to wait - before the border we drove along the Mosel with Germany one side and Luxembourg the other.  Rae had to ask at the border for stamps on our passports -our first Deutscher - stopped at Trier for morning tea quick walk around town then we were moved on - parking in disabled area in front of Rathaus.

Stopped at Riverside for lunch, kids ran wild along the river.  Troy lost his ball in the river so Lee and John took off along the other side to retrieve it.

On then to Bernkastel-Krus, a lovely river village where we stayed for a while on the Krow - no caravan Park so back to Bernkastel - no deal, so here we are at Wehlen at a caravan park no hot water but comfortable.  Troy lost his ball up a tree this time.  Went for a walk up town - the streets are so narrow we walk along like a crocodile in single file - the whole 10 - I think the locals would like to photograph us.

Going for a walk along the river I met a group of three Germans - Karl Box, his sister and her husband.  The husband was recuperating at the clinic here.  Amazed that Australians can come away for nine months.  Sandra, John, Lee and Marie walking up to hotel for a night out.

The people working in Vineyards up mountainsides look like ants.  The Mosel is beautiful not as busy as the Rhine - the villages are just as lovely - quaint buildings and churches with the spires rising high into the air.

A really beautiful spring day.

Friday 26th of March              frosty and sunny

Couldn't find the owner of camp to pay, so left 10 deutsche marks in letterbox and off to Bingen, a very good road over the mountains.  After coming through Kov and Zell - bye Mosel hello Rhine - had morning tea on side of road on a lay-by.  A beautiful sunny day - spring is really here at last.  Pansies bloom everywhere - the fruit buds are waiting to burst open and winter brownness is being replaced by new growth.  Down into Bingen to the old parkplatz and the girls took the washing to the laundromat - we had lunch in the parkplatz then shopped whilst washing dried - bought a skivie for 7 1/2 deutsche marks about three dollars then highlight of the day - boat ride across Rhein to Rudesheim.  What a magnificent sunny day -arrived Rudesheim about 4:15 p.m. and walked up to see if the cable car was running to Neiderwald monument, but you wouldn't believe it - it opens tomorrow - one day too early.  

Window shopping in Rudesheim

We walked to the Drosselgrasse - went to our old restaurant to have coffee - Best cappuccino in Germany.  The couple who entertained us before weren’t there, but gentleman playing the organ played Waltzing Matilda for us.  We thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon.  We caught the boat back then continued to Bacharach where we had to ring the manager for showers - very obliging.

A hot shower and sleep by the Rhine.  Showered by candlelight - no lights.  Oh the fun we have!

 

Calais, France to Rudesheim, Germany