I've just come back from an overnight stay in the capitol city, Wellington. As I was away a little less than 24 hours, Gemma stayed home alone. She was left with dry food, wet food, fresh water, and a nice clean litter box. As she tends to snooze most of the day, I was sure she would be fine. Although maybe her pussy cat brain would wonder where I was at bedtime? My blue overnight case was packed, and I was ready to go.
All packed for an overnight trip
The coach collected me outside the village, with the next stop being Coastlands Mall for lunch. Previously, I would have gone to my favourite Butlers Chocolate Cafe, but this chain of shops has now been closed, so I made do with an ordinary cafe instead. I felt a bit rushed in making my choice as there was a long queue behind me, so missed the fact that there was nice hot soup on offer. Never mind, I made do with a coffee and cake. Next time I'll take my time to read the board properly. After lunch I was taking a photo of the coach, and the driver offered to take one for me.
On the way to a big night out
Our hotel overlooked Oriental Bay, which is named after the ship "Oriental" which arrived in Wellington in 1840. It was a cool day, with a light breeze, and there was an hour or so to settle down and relax. The sun was streaming in the windows.
My room for the night
The view out the window
Dinner for the evening was at the very busy Dragons Restaurant. Our coach group was seated at tables for 10, and the food just kept coming, it really was delicious. Then it was just a short walk to St James Theatre in Courtney Place.
We walked to St James Theatre
St James Theatre was built in 1912, and is full of wonderful decorations. However, it fell into decline and was very nearly demolished when the owners placed a destruction order on the site. In 1993 Wellington Council purchased the property and handed it over to St James Theatre Charitable Trust, and restorations began.
Inside St James Theatre
The show started with a hiss and a roar and continued non stop throughout the evening. Song after well known song was belted out and had the audience clapping along. It was very enjoyable and at the end of the show, the whole cast came back on stage and performed an extra rendition of several of the favourite songs. It was a great evening, full of energy and feel good entertainment. But I must admit I was feeling a little upset during the show. Even though I enjoyed the music, I thought to myself, what am I doing here, surrounded by all these strangers, when I really want nothing more than to have Robin by my side, sharing this experience with me. Alas, it is not to be. We boarded the coach for the short drive back to the hotel. and I'm sure we all retired with the words of Abba running around our heads.
View from my hotel window at night.
After a reasonable night's sleep, I woke early, made a cuppa to take back to bed, then caught up with the news of the day. Then it was time to shower, dress, and head down to the hotel restaurant for breakfast. Mmm, I decided on pancakes, yoghurt and fruit, washed down with orange juice and coffee.
Sunday breakfast
With the bags loaded in the coach, and all the passengers on board, we headed north. The coach dropped me back at the village, turned around, then continued on the journey. It certainly was a great experience. Gemma barely stirred when I opened the door. She was tucked up in her tower and went back to sleep, finally getting up, stretching, and coming to greet me after an hour. Perhaps she didn't miss me at all!
Oh, you've come back, have you.
15 comments:
Jenny, how delightful your trip to Wellington sounds. Such a lovely view of Oriental Bay from your room. How grand St James theatre is. The perfect venue to enjoy Mamma Mia. How sweeter it would've been if your beloved Robin was there with you, but I'm glad you enjoyed your little getaway. Take care. Xx
It looks like a very organised and enjoyable. It is great to have group tours like this. I hope you get to do more.
What a lovely overnighter you've had, Jenny. I suspect you were thinking, in that moment, of how much Robin would have enjoyed being there with you..my Grand-mere would have said that he was an angel watching over you...
I'm glad you enjoyed your trip nevertheless...hugs, Julierose
A lovely trip away on the coach ,staying in a beaut hotel enjoying delicious dinner and then Brekky.
It would have been nicer if dear Robin was with you but I’m pleased you get out about just the same. 🤗
How nice that you made the effort to get on a bus on your own. I can understand reluctance about doing any of this alone, so, good for you! The town looks charming (Who wouldn't like a harbor view?!) and the theater is amazing! By my way of thinking, it would have been worth the cost just to see the inside! Wow. So glad you enjoyed the music too. One can't help but sing along to "Abba" music. I'm happy for you to have had a new adventure, and I hope you enjoy many more.
We took our nieces with us to see Mama Mia a few years ago. They had not heard of ABBA before but really enjoyed the show and the songs. We told them they should watch the movie. I’m glad you had a nice time. Of course, it would have been better if Robin had been there to share the experience with you. He is always with you, Jenny…in your heart.
I'm so pleased to see you out and about like this Jenny. What a lovely excursion! Thanks for sharing the photos.
yeah - sitting in a dark theater, surrounded by strangers, brings out feeling the feels ... i thought i was the only one ... it's hard, innit?
Oh I would have loved to be on that trip to see Mamma Mia with you, it looks fabulous. It would have been better with Robin by your side but I'm sure he was with you in Wellington. and will always be with you. Luv and hugs.
The weekend trip sounds delightful. Yes, it would have been something that you and Robin would have enjoyed together, but I admire your strength to make the effort to go. He would be proud of you.
What a lovely trip you had. It would have been perfect if your sidekick and best friend had been with you, but rest assured Robin was there in spirit.
God bless.
It’s so good to see you out and about even though it is extremely hard. Well done to you
Aaaw what a lovely outing, Jenny. I agree with Janice- Robin would be proud and I know that he was smiling down on you . Warm hugs.
How adventurous for you to go on an outing all by yourself. I can understand how it must have felt without the other half. But I am so glad for you. The theater looks amazing and it sounds like it was a wonderful time. I am sure your cat Gemma did miss you. They don't show emotion terribly well.
I think it is good that you went on this overnight trip - yes it wasn't near the experience you would have had with Robin but don't you think he would want you to enjoy yourself - he knows you think of him. It looks like a wonderful time and nice that you aren't staying home day in and day out but getting out and doing things - I'm proud of you!
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