Just back from Manila

Mum had an appointment at Sunderland Eye Infirmary this afternoon, so we took the opportunity to visit my cousin, Eric, and his wife Pauline. They are still jet lagged, but were happy to see us and to tell us a lot about their recent holiday in Manila.

Eric and Pauline's middle son, Iain, daughter-in-law, Andini and grandson, Adam, have moved to Manila. Iain, whose work takes him around the world, will have more nights at home as a result.

Here Mum is looking at Pauline's iPad to see photos of Adam. There were also some great comedy ones of Eric in a wet suit before he went scuba diving, (one of the best experiences of his life).

We had yet another good experience of the Health Service today. We have a great deal of faith in Sunderland Eye Services. The senior orthoptist has been brilliant and has worked out how to control Mum's double vision very accurately.

While we were out, we heard that it was snowing at home. It had almost cleared by the time we returned here, but the roads were wet and are now icing over.

The central heating is still ON which is great. The firm is sending out an expert on Saturday. Intermittent faults are always the hardest to diagnose. (Should we ask for a new boiler??)