Muddy Marge

Chale

'Don't come a knockin', if the van's a rockin' they say. That is certainly the case, the wind is relentless, buffeting the van all day and all night.

Yesterday, one of us was 59, best make this year count then! Some lovely birthday cards adorned our breakfast table, and we were impressed to see our six month old grandson had learned to write already! 

We took a drive down to Freshwater bay, the wind gusting really strongly, churning up an angry sea. Wrapped up in our waterproof clothing, we took a walk up onto Tennyson Down, the sea air was brisk, but at the same time exhilarating. After the walk, Cornish pasties for lunch.

The afternoon involved some pretty hair raising driving, as we found ourselves on some very narrow country roads on route to The Garlic Farm.

the aroma as we stepped out of Marge of garlic was fantastic. In the farm shop, we enjoyed looking at all the different products, and tasting the many samples. We asked a member of staff, if all the products were made on site. Originally they were, but as the product range expanded, and the farm became more popular with tourists, production had to be transferred to the mainland, as planning permission for expansion was refused because the local people didn't like the smell of the pickling process. It seems a shame that the much needed employment for the islanders was lost.

Garlic's purchased, we retired to the cafe for some much needed coffee and cake.

Then a photo opportunity with the resident peacocks, (we counted six in total). Seeing the peacocks reminding us of France, where we saw some once alongside a cycleway.

The stop for the night was The Wight Mouse Inn, at Chale.

The area at the rear for the campervan was spacious and fairly level. Once again we had a view of the coast. 

After spending most of the day eating  too many treats, we opted for a fairly light evening meal, ham, egg and chips and for the birthday girl, plaice fillet cooked in garlic butter with new potatoes and salad, accompanied of course by a very large glass of Australian shiraz. A perfect end to the day.