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Published: March 8th 2012
It would be an adventure. Well, ok, it probably didn't really compare with our big round-the-world trip in terms of scale but taking our 6-month old away for a few days, on the train, on my own, certainly seemed epic to me! Clara and I were going to make the most of my maternity leave and spend a few days in Somerset with my parents.
The first dilemma, of course, was what to pack. Those who read our last blog will know that last time we went away, our large family car was loaded full to the brim with stuff, stuff and more stuff. Our usual A4 list of required items would have to be severely edited!
My mum managed to borrow some large key items (cot, car seat, high chair) and I managed, somehow, to cram everything Clara and I needed for the trip into the backpack I'd travelled the world with. With Clara strapped into the sling on my front, the pack slung on my back and carrying the buggy in my hand I was ready to board the train.
The journey went well, with Clara kept entertained by the few toys I'd taken along but
mainly with a packet of baby wipes (what is it about wipes that's so great? All babies seem to love them!). My visions of trying to pacify a screaming baby whilst being shot murderous looks from other passengers, thankfully, did not materialise and we were soon disembarking in Taunton to a happy Granny and Granfer.
We spent a fun few days catching up with some friends and family, swimming in the local pool, going out for lunches and coffees and had a particularly lovely day trip to the coast at Sidmouth.
With it's towering cliffs, pebble beach and wide promenade, not to mention it's fab toy shop, Sidmouth is a popular seaside destination. There are loads of cute little cafes and we stopped in one for lunch before pottering our way through the shops and having a walk down the promenade. The sun was out and it was a great place to be on such a lovely English Autumn afternoon. Finishing off the day with some tea and cake in a seafront cafe made it a day to remember.
After such a great time down in Somerset, it was time to make our way home again. After
a hot drink on a very chilly platform we were northbound on the train once more. The journey passed with a couple of snoozes and a couple of meals for Clara and, rather than annoying the other passengers, Clara seemed to charm the socks off most of them!
It had been a truly successful adventure, helped no doubt by Clara's age. I think it would be a different story now, as at 9 months old she now snoozes a lot less often and wriggles a lot more! Perhaps next time I'll go in the car...
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Granny and Granfer
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A very happy few days with two of our special girls
What a lovely surprise to see your trip to us on you Blog. It truly was a memorable few days and we were amazed at how well the train travelling went although not really surprising whenwe have such a seasoned traveller for our daughter. Looking forward to a holiday in Wales with you all at Easter now lots of love Mum & Dad xxx