Family

Family, or at least the definition there of, has always brought with it a mix of complicated emotions for me. It has never been easy for me to define my place in this space and the many contributing factors simply confounded my anxiety and lack of confidence. So, it was with these shadows of doubt, that Daryl and I made plans to travel to the UK, returning my father to his homeland and enabling us to meet a family we barely knew.

The last five days of our trip we spent immersed in family life as we explored the Welsh countryside and on our last day I found myself grieving to be leaving a group of people, who once were strangers, that have imbedded themselves into my life and heart. I am left wondering what life might have been like if my father had the courage to return to Wales, so many years before and during my childhood and youth; I suspect it would have been better.

Welcomed with open doors and arms we met a collective of family members during lunches, dinners, endless cups of teas, and a variety of alcoholic drinks. We celebrated, grieved, and reminisced together, shared stories and even removed a few skeletons from the closest as we discovered and nurtured a connection that will now remain stronger from the great south land of Australia all the way to Great Britain.

We were blessed to be shown some of the remarkable landmarks of Wales including another steam train journey ( I know, you are shocked at this revelation), this time on the Ffestiniog locomotive with Charles and Karen. Travelling first class, such a treat, I have to say, we enjoyed magnificent views from the observation carriage, plush royal blue seats and service with a smile from a young woman of middle eastern descent. Serving gin and tonic while the steam train chugs its way up the mountain is no easy task. The Ffestiniog travels through the heartland of Wales between Porthmadog, an historic harbour town, and Blaenau Ffestiniog, known as the town that roofed the world, where you can see the remains of the slate mines.
While on the subject of views we were also treated to Harlech castle, built in the 1200’s that looks out over Irish Sea on the edge of the delightful village it is named after. Harlech is also now famous for having the steepest street in the world with a gradient of 37.45% according to the Guinness world records.
Finishing the day we found ourselves dining at Lake Vyrnwy and it is impossible to describe this resplendent location. The lake, with water as still as glass, is vast and couched by the mountains. As the sun set over the water and the restaurant lights reflected in the shadows it was a photographers dream. Unfortunately, the still evening and balmy temperatures also sent an invitation to the midges and they were very friendly. Tiny little creatures, like sand flies, that bite, we quickly returned inside where they could no longer feast on us.
We journeyed through Bala, a picturesque village where many of the Welsh family live, enjoying lunch at the local pub, delicious I must say, before heading up to the farm. Visiting this property is like going to the top of the world, with panoramic views and what seems like endless acres of lush green pastures. Hugh, the patriarch of the family, is the most down to earth, proud farmer, I have met for a long time. A recipient of many awards for his prize winning sheep and cattle, he is passionate about the land, his family legacy and the community he overlooks. Featured on Welsh television, he is indeed quite the star. He took us on a farm tour in the pick-up (ute for the Aussie folk) and we were followed by his wife Lin and daughter, Lowrie driving the quad bike, opening the gates for us along the way. With its own weather pattern, the poor ladies were wet by the end of the tour from the rain that decided to follow us. Comparing our black Angus to his Welsh black cows, it is coincidental that we have such similar stock. He sought after rams watched with interest as we drove through their paddock, but really seemed far too content to be bothered by us at all. Three Collie puppies bounded up to greet us after our trek and I suspect the temptation to take one home was strong for Charles, eagerly encouraged by us all. At eight weeks old, these pups are a bundle of cuteness. I’m not convinced Lowrie is in any hurry to part with them. Returning to their home, some 400 years old, it is amazing to sit in their renovated kitchen, drinking a hot coffee and marvel at the history within its walls.
Of special note was the family gathering organised on the Saturday. This was particularly moving, given it was scheduled simply because we were there and we were delighted this was reason enough for the majority of the clan to get together. Reminiscent of gatherings at home, we ate too much, drank enough and there was even some healthy competition happening over the badminton net. Conversation flowed as fast as the drinks and the children (big and small) were happily entertained by a jumping castle. With the music playing and the sun shining, we relished the chance to be a part of this warm and wonderful family.
Sadly, like all good things, our time quickly ran out, we wonder where the eight weeks have gone as it seems like such a short time ago that we embarked on our big adventure. I have no doubt we will return to this beautiful part of the world. Wales has so much to offer and I hope we will explore more on our next trip.
By some miracle we managed to get all our souvenirs, gifts and even most of our clothes packed and under the baggage weight limit, although a few items of clothing were donated to the local hospice.
Our final journey to the Manchester airport was without delay or incident. Daryl and I were both awake long before the early set alarm, despite a restless night, with my mind already jumping from farm to work and of course the children waiting for us.
From one family, we return to another, eager to see their familiar faces and embrace them. Home will be welcomed and we hope one day we will welcome our British family to our own doors.
Until next time,
N