Crazy Colombia!: October 2026

This summer I was in Europe (France, Scotland and Spain) where I met with family, some of whom I hadn't seen in 7 years, and friends from university, who I hadn't seen since living in Colombia, for 9 years.

The majority of my trip was at 'home' in France. I timed my visit to coincide with my brother and family, who came over from Cambodia. My other brother and family joined us for a weekend and we were finally all together again.

We had a lovely time on the beach, at home and Italy.

Here are some snapshots:

I was not letting a little sand stop me from getting to the sea!

JJ, Mam, Bella, Jo and me enjoying the Mediterranean in Menton, in October!

Enjoying coffee in Ventimiglia, with Tophe (and Jo in the background)

I enjoyed spending time with my 3 beautiful nieces (Bella, Jo, JJ)...

...and also with my brothers (me, Tophe, Eric).

Passing on my love of baking (JJ & Jo).

Jo checking if the brownies were ready yet.

The girls (Bella, Jo, JJ) delivering homemade cooking to the family drinking coffee at the local cafe.

and then everyone went home (Tophe, me, Eric). :(

Whilst in Europe I also went to my old university town: Edinburgh, where my niece (Bella) is now also studying.

view of Edinburgh Castle, from the Botanic Gardens

with Liz at Wardie Bay

We had amazing weather and decided to take a trip to Ayrshire on the West Coast of Scotland.

We were visiting Culzean Castle and stopped by a local fishing village whilst there.

Maidens Harbour

From there we saw Aisla Craig (which is also known as Paddy's Milestone as tradition has it that it is the midway point between Belfast and Glasgow).

Aisla Craig

The next day we visited Culzean Castle. It was windy, but still a beautiful day!

Liz and I at Culzean Castle

Castle grounds

café with a view!

amazing trees (with Liz)

we even found 'Nessy' :)

My final 'reunion' was with Cat, who flew from England to see me in Madrid. We spent 4 days walking around and enjoying the local outdoor bars and food!