...and Rome....

intense planning paid off:

packing done, picked up Ix from playscheme central London and up towards M25 to drop off at respite; drive back to leave car, pick up luggage. train to Gatwick; plenty of time for eating...plane then taxi organized by hotel, who had emailed to ask if I needed it. not cheapest way but needs must on a late flight...

so a late night but ready and eager the next day for sightseeing, meeting up with Sister and BIL in the morning. who had travelled by train via France to save the environment...

L studied Romans last term so was excited.

G age six was happppy to wander, see, too.

coloseo fun for all...



G particularly liked walking on the "big cockle stones" - "can we go again please?"




and the "mouth of truth" was a big hit



you cannot beat Italian gelati:




we climbed many steps... the Spanish ones of course





and spent time in the park, including on hire bikes





It was a great trip - the Sunday we got up, had breakfast, packed, paid, took train to airport - just missed one train and got stuck in security queues but boarded flight just in time.

arrived back - Ix had been picked up by his carer and was absolutely fine.

could we have done Rome with him?

yes - with a carer in tow, with plenty of downtime with DVD, computer, wholly organized, less "oh let's go this way...".

but ultimately, his needs are different and it is OK to spend time differently - and with the other two. who also need some "attention".

While he was well cared for and happpy in his own room at respite residence, and with a routine he knows well.

"I went to bed at respite" he told me proudly on his computer when we were all back and ready for bed at home again.

It is all about creating memories, good memories, good times...

they were the best of travelling companions, with each other, with me.

will do it again sometime!

next holidays will be with Ix, based around his needs as well as the girls; but the way is open to take advantage of the residential respite and go on many more mini-adventures...