Black Forest Martini

The day started with a phone call from Neil in Australia. He wanted to " touch base " with his sister Becky. He is looking forward to the New Year celebrations in the vicinity of Sydney Harbour. Apparently he knows someone who can let him have a residents pass for the New Years Eve event so he will be able to get close to the action.

Becky, her husband Mike and me had a walk down to the village to get some fresh air. Mike wasn't feeling well so he thought getting out of the house might help. He did seem to perk up during his walk.

We had a table booked for this evening at The Hotel Du Vin in Newcastle and it was touch and go as to whether we could go as Mike was still unwell. In the end he decided to chance it.

The food was delicious - enjoyed by all of us - Mike had Mackerel, Becky Coq au vin and I had confit belly pork, apple sauce, cabbage and bacon and pomme puree.

After the meal we went to the bar and ordered cocktails. Mike had Singapore Sling, Becky a M & M and I had Black Forest Martini ( which was yummy ). I hardly drink alcohol but I do like a nice sweet cocktail now and again.

Mike couldn't finish his cocktail as he started feeling poorly again so we went outside and walked along the Quayside to see if the fresh air would help. He was feeling a bit better but we decided to get a taxi home. He had some Lemsip and went off to bed. Hope he will be feeling better tomorrow. Sleep tight Mike.