Keep Moving!

We've had a mini break, just over the county border, with one night away 😀.   It proves you don't have to go far, sit in airports, or queue.  You don't have to spend mega amounts. You can fit a lot in, and have a great time.  

I've had holidays out of a suitcase in the past.  Travelling across the USA and China were both amazing, but I don't want to do either again.  Now, I would choose somewhere to get some sunshine,  relax and enjoy the views, or just travel the least distance 😉. 

Barnstaple is not a pretty town.  Its maybe typical of places that have seen good times and are now struggling.  It is trying though and there were signs of investment.  The main shopping area has most things you need, though the larger supermarkets are of course out of town.  It was good for us to stroll around,  the Pannier Market has had glass doors added, making it look more contemporary,  and a few hardy stall holders were inside. Butchers Row looks lively again and we found a quirky cafe for a very good lunch.

The British weather continues to be changeable and, not trusting the clouds, we chose indoors entertainment for the afternoon.  Barnstaple has an indoor bowling alley and we used to enjoy knocking skittles down with our boys.   Its a drive out of the centre,  but we immediately felt welcome and the years slipped back to our younger days.  Honestly,  it was like being a teenager again!

In the evening,  we had theatre tickets, this was our main reason for visiting the town.   ELO Again, a tribute band, we were dancing in our seats if not the aisles.  Old favourites, and a bit of a laugh.  It was a great day.

Curtesy of ELO Again.

I had turned my phone off and had to rummage to find it 😅.  

We stayed in a budget hotel,  but it was clean and had a good hot shower and breakfast.   Everything we needed.

We woke to a bright and sunny morning,  the sky was blue and clear.  Too good to waste, we decided to visit Lynton and walk to the Valley of the Rocks.  Always dramatic, its a hidden gem.

Dramatic rock formations

Views of the North Devon Coast 

Wild goats scramble on the cliffs

Narrow cliff paths, not for the faint hearted.

View towards West Somerset coastline. 

It's so important to keep moving!  I know some find it hard, a close family member had MS and was dependent on a chair.  I understand the complexities and restrictions of disability.   If you can though,  then do!  Don't waste time saying you can't do something without trying.  Simple pleasures can be so rewarding.   Time spent with friends and just having a laugh can give you such a lift.  Time is short.  Do no harm, but live!

♥️