Christmas in Grangetown 2001

We took a trip into the centre of Cardiff to visit the Winter Wonderland

Then on Christmas day 2001 and The Flav's came around for Dinner.

A visit to Sweden with Val -2001

Rob and his Mother, Val, flew into Stockholm and caught the train up to Gavle where they were met by Mandy. They had a great time showing Val around Mandy's home town.

 We decided to spend a day exploring some of the beautiful countryside around Bonan, which promised the perfect backdrop for a picnic. The morning sky was clear, and the fresh spring air made it feel like the ideal day to be out in nature. We packed up a picnic, threw in a few of our favorite snacks, and set off on the open road, both of us eager to see what the day would bring.

Driving to Bonan was a treat in itself, with lush green landscapes stretching out on either side of us and the occasional lake glimmering in the sunlight. When we arrived, we found a peaceful spot surrounded by trees, with a view overlooking fields that seemed to go on forever. The quiet was blissful – just the sound of birds chirping and a light breeze rustling through the leaves. We laid out our blanket and took our time with lunch, savoring every bite and soaking in the surroundings. Val reall enjoyed visiting the countryside of Sweden, we felt like we had this beautiful corner of the world all to ourselves.

Later that afternoon, we decided to take a little detour and drive over to Iggen in Sweden. The road wound through charming little towns and scenic vistas, each one tempting us to stop for “just a quick look” or to snap a few photos. When we finally arrived in Iggen, it was everything we hoped for. The small village was nestled against a serene backdrop of hills and forests, the kind of place that feels untouched by time

 

Robin and Johan came over to help Val celebrate her birthday

Gavle - Sweden 2001

In March 2000, I made my way from Cardiff to Sweden to meet up with Mandy for a weekend adventure. After a smooth flight, I touched down at Arlanda Airport, where Mandy was waiting for me. We hadn’t seen each other in a few weeks, so I felt a rush of excitement as I spotted her through the crowd. We exchanged warm hugs and a few laughs about my journey, then headed off to catch the train that would take us to Gävle, a town we’d both been curious to explore.

The train from Arlanda was a comfortable escape from the biting cold outside. Through the window, the Swedish landscape rolled by – snow-covered fields, dark forests, and quaint houses that looked like they’d been plucked straight out of a winter postcard. The sky was a soft, pale gray, and everything had a stillness about it, the kind you only really feel in winter. Mandy and I spent most of the ride chatting and catching up, the scenery flowing past like a gentle backdrop to our reunion.

After a couple of hours, we arrived in Gävle, greeted by the crisp winter air and the charm of a small Swedish town. We were excited to explore, and the whole journey had an atmosphere of adventure and anticipation. Meeting up at Arlanda, catching the train, and watching the snow-covered landscapes set the tone for what would be a beautiful weekend getaway in Sweden.

Mandy and I found ourselves in Gävle, Sweden, during a lively time of year when the Gävle Festival was in full swing. The town was buzzing with energy, and it felt like everyone had come out to enjoy the sunshine, music, and celebration. We’d timed our visit well without realizing it, and the festival atmosphere was infectious, drawing us into the heart of it all.

The streets were lined with colorful stalls, each one more enticing than the last. Vendors sold everything from Swedish handicrafts to delicious street food. The smell of grilling sausages, freshly baked pastries, and spices filled the air, making our mouths water as we wandered from one stall to the next. Mandy was especially taken with the handmade jewelry and trinkets, while I was on the lookout for local treats.

Everywhere we looked, there were beer tents scattered throughout the festival grounds. We couldn’t resist stopping in one to sample a few local brews, and we found ourselves surrounded by friendly locals who were more than happy to chat and share a drink. The beer was cold and refreshing, perfect for the warm summer day, and as we raised our glasses to toast, we felt like honorary Swedes, swept up in the festive spirit.

Throughout the day, live music poured from various stages, with bands playing traditional Swedish tunes as well as more modern hits.

The Gavle festival was taking place and there were lots of stalls and beer tents dotted around the place.

It was here that we had the pleasure of seeing the iconic 1960s pop group, The Swinging Blue Jeans, perform. The excitement was infectious as the crowd gathered, chatting animatedly while the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink.

When the band took the stage, a wave of nostalgia swept over us. The familiar tunes of “Hippy Hippy Shake” filled the air, and it was impossible not to get swept up in the moment. We found ourselves swaying along with the music, the infectious rhythm prompting everyone to join in. Mandy grabbed my hand, and we danced along with the crowd, laughing and singing. The warmth of the evening and the joy of the music created an unforgettable atmosphere.

A Visit to the island of Crete

 In June Mandy flew into Stanstead airport from Sweden and we stopped at The Fox and Hounds pub in Newbury for a spot of lunch.

We then booked a trip to the Greek Island of Crete.  We flew from Cardiff airport and our base was the Marie Kelley apartments in the coastal town of Gouves.

Gouves, Crete, had the charm of a small, peaceful village nestled along the northern coast of the island. Its relaxed atmosphere invited you to slow down and soak in the simple pleasures of Greek life. The beach area, though modest, offered soft sands and the warm, gentle waters of the Mediterranean, perfect for an afternoon swim or a quiet walk. Tavernas dotted the shore, with locals serving up fresh seafood and traditional Cretan dishes, while the surrounding landscape was a mix of olive groves and rugged hills. It was a place where time seemed to stretch, offering a laid-back escape from the rush of modern life.

On a very hot day, we took a trip out to the town of Agious Nikolas, we stolled around the harbour but it really too hot to walk far.

We jumped on a pleasure boat  visited the island of Spinalona which once housed a leper colony.

The island, with its haunting history as a former leper colony, has an eerie but fascinating atmosphere. Walking through its stone alleyways, we could feel the weight of its past, with the crumbling houses and Venetian fortifications offering a window into a time long gone. The island is framed by stunning views of the azure waters of the Mirabello Bay, which contrast with its somber history.

Opposite the island lies the charming port town of Plaka. With its quaint tavernas lining the waterfront, we enjoyed the peaceful vibe, watching the fishing boats bobbing gently in the crystal-clear waters. From the port, Spinalonga seemed serene, a world unto itself, waiting to be explored. The experience was a beautiful balance between history and the tranquility of the Cretan sea.

Gavle, Sweden 2001

In June 2001, Rob boarded a flight from the UK to Arlanda Airport in Sweden, The flight to Arlanda was smooth, with the green and blue patchwork of Sweden’s forests and lakes visible as we descended. As soon as Rob stepped off the plane, Rob noticed how fresh and crisp the air was, with that unmistakable northern chill, even in June. The airport felt relaxed and efficient, and within no time, Rob  found himself in the bustling arrivals area, following signs for the train station.

The Swedish rail system was easy to navigate, and Rob  purchased hismy ticket to Gävle. The journey took about an hour and a half, and as the train sped through the countryside, Rob gazed out the window, mesmerized by the endless trees and shimmering lakes that seemed to dot the landscape every few minutes. 

Mandy was patiently waiting at the train station for Rob's arrival.

We decided to make the most of the day and took a drive out to Rullsand Beach, a place Mandy had told me so much about. As we left the town, the Swedish countryside unfolded around us, a mix of dense forests, serene lakes, and stretches of open fields. The drive itself was beautiful, with quiet roads and wide, open skies.

Arriving at Rullsand Beach was like stepping into a postcard. The sand stretched out in gentle, pale swathes, bordered by green pines and low dunes. The water was strikingly clear, reflecting the blue of the sky and shimmering in the sunlight. There was a peacefulness about the place – it was as if time had slowed down just for us. We walked along the shoreline, the sand soft beneath our feet and the gentle sound of waves rolling in. The air was fresh and had that crisp, clean quality that feels so unique to northern beaches.

After wandering through the town and taking in the sights, we found ourselves at a small, quirky Crazy Golf course, tucked away just off the main path. It was one of those spontaneous decisions – we spotted the sign, shared a grin, and decided that a friendly game was in order. Mandy took the first shot, showing off her competitive spirit, and I quickly realized I was up against a pro !

Easter in Cardiff, Bournemouth

 Mandy flew from Sweden to spend time in Cardiff for the Easter period.

In the evening we went to the Easter show at The Grange catholic club and Mandy won a prize for her home made Easter bonnet.

In June we took a trip to see Mandy's mum, Edith, in to Bournemouth. We took Rob's mum, Val and her friend, Laura on the visit. We enjoyed sitting in Edith's small but beautifully kept garden. We then took a stroll to the local market and the impressive sea front.

A very Cold Stockholm 2001

In March 2001, I flew from the UK to Arlanda Airport in Stockholm, Sweden, for what promised to be an exciting and somewhat chilly weekend in this beautiful Nordic city. After the flight landed, I walked out of the arrival gate and there, waiting for me with a warm smile and an excited wave, was Mandy. We hadn’t seen each other in a little while, so there was something particularly special about that moment. The air felt fresh and crisp, and I was immediately grateful for the warm layers I’d packed—Stockholm in March was even colder than I’d expected!

Mandy had planned for us to start our exploration right away. We hopped on the Arlanda Express, a sleek train that whisked us into the heart of Stockholm in no time. As we stepped out into the city, I felt a sharp chill in the air. The cold had a bite to it that was new to me, but the city’s charm more than made up for it. Stockholm’s old buildings, with their pastel-colored facades, stood out vividly against the grey sky. The streets had a quiet elegance, with hints of spring around the corner but winter still firmly in place.

We headed to the waterfront, where the icy wind was especially brisk. The harbor waters were partially frozen, something I’d only ever seen in pictures. The sight of thick chunks of ice floating on the water’s surface was mesmerizing, and we took a moment just to watch as the pieces drifted, clinking together like glass. Mandy laughed at my reaction to the cold, saying she’d already adapted. But with each gust of wind, I pulled my coat a little tighter and made a mental note to buy some thicker gloves before the weekend was over.

From the waterfront, we strolled into Gamla Stan, Stockholm's Old Town. The cobbled streets wound between ancient buildings, and we found ourselves exploring alleys lined with charming little shops and cozy cafés. Ducking into one of these cafés, we warmed up with cups of hot chocolate, thick and rich enough to make the cold feel a bit more manageable

Despite the weather, we were determined to make the most of our visit, and one of the stops on our list was the Natural History Museum.

As we entered, we immediately felt the warmth, which was a relief, and the space opened up with that unique, comforting museum aroma—a mix of polished wood, books, and the faint smell of exhibits. It was bustling with local families and curious visitors like us, all eager to explore.

The exhibits were nothing short of impressive. We were drawn to the Arctic section, which was particularly fitting given the weather outside. The display showcased the native animals, plants, and the way humans had adapted to survive in such extreme conditions.

The city was beautiful but incredibly cold—so cold, in fact, that the sea water in the harbor had actually frozen. We were in search of something a bit warmer and decided that a trip to the famous Vasa Museum would be just the thing.

As we stepped inside, the temperature difference was a welcome relief. The museum had an impressive, almost reverent atmosphere. Then we saw her—the Vasa, an awe-inspiring sight even from across the room. It was hard to believe this enormous, intricately carved ship had been under the sea for centuries before being raised. The Vasa is the only nearly fully intact 17th-century ship in existence, and seeing it up close felt like stepping into a time capsule from 1628.

The Vasa was magnificent and haunting, towering over us with her ornate carvings and formidable size. The details were incredible—every carving on the stern told stories of power, mythology, and the might of the Swedish Empire at the time. We learned about the ship's maiden voyage, which tragically lasted only a few minutes before she tipped and sank in Stockholm's harbor. It was hard to imagine the shock and heartbreak of the onlookers that day.

We came across a lovely park, blanketed in snow, and decided to take a stroll through it. The snow crunched under our boots as we walked along the paths, admiring the way it lay, undisturbed, across benches and tree branches. Mandy looked delighted, pulling her scarf up around her face and tucking her hands deep into her pockets as she took in the wintery beauty around us.

There was something peaceful about the scene. Every so often, a breeze would come through, sending a fine mist of snow drifting from the trees, sparkling as it caught the light. It felt as though we had the whole place to ourselves; there were no sounds other than the occasional call of a bird or the rustling of branches in the wind. I pulled my scarf tighter, but no amount of wool seemed to keep out that icy wind.