Saying Our Goodbyes

Well saying our goodbyes had to be done sometime and was something that I (Pete) had decided not to think about too much before hand. Putting horrible things (report writing or any kind of paperwork really!) to the back of my mind is something that I am pretty good at.

The first set of goodbyes was on the Saturday, before we were due to leave. The plan was to meet in 'The Standing Order' and move on, but as so often has happened before, the lure of cheap drinks and comfortable seats proved too much. Therefore the final night with our friends was spent at 'The Standing Order'! At least, with the new licensing laws, we were able to drink until late. To be honest I could have spent all night drinking and talking the usual rubbish with the boys, at any place. And yes Rich, I have never seen you down a pint in one. Thanks for coming: Chris, Jim & Helen and Rich & Erica. We will miss you.

Rich, Pete, Chantal, Chris, Jim & Helen in 'The Standing Order'

It was a nice surprise to see Harry, Simon, Linda, Ross, Anna & Helen, representing Eastleigh Ladies Hockey, at the pub, too. Thanks for the fun years playing hockey with you all!!

We had a farewell meal at the 'Southampton Arms' on the Monday, before our departure. It was a tasty and enjoyable meal, with the whole Hall clan and Nan. Thank you all for the lovely meal.

LEFT: Pete with a cheeky Sophie. RIGHT, Pete's nan, Pete's mum, Chantal, Sarah, Sophie, Steve & Pete's dad

During our final days in our house,we had some unexpected visitors. Natalie, it was so good to see you. Thank you for popping in during your lunchbreak. Helen, turned up one evening, to say farewell only to ring up 5 minutes later to say she needed help; her car had ran out of petrol. Off Pete went, with petrol container in hand, to help her. Helen then returned to Brunel Road, and again, farewells were said! This time she went straight home, without any problems. Helen, your goodbye pressie has been well spent in the Dux de Lux pub and Mexican Cafe, in Christchurch! Thank you very much.

And then there were the goodbyes on the day of departure. It was nice of Steve, Sarah, Sophie & Jessica to see us off from Southampton. And there was one last task for Pete at the Hall's residence; finishing putting up a shelf he had started, a few days earlier.

Steve, Sarah, Sophie & Jessica

Pete's Mum & Dad went with us to Heathrow. There were tears all round and croaky voices once the departure gates came into sight. Of course, before we got to that stage, Pete had to have a few last English beers at the airport bar. You never know how long he will have to go without! (Really it is not that hard to find some English style beers here though.)

A set of tearful parents. Honestly, you can't take them anywhere!