When Lala came for a visit, the world was a different place. In our innocence, we took full advantage of many beautiful things the world has to offer.
We had a wonderful Christmas in London (despite the lack of heat!) and James and Luke were able to spend a lot of time with their grandmother.
In London, we went to the theatre (Hamilton), the ballet (the Red Shoes), shopped all over (Bond Street, Oxford Circus), ate at great restaurants (Fortunam & Mason, Dishoom, Argentinian Steakhouse) and saw Dennis play in his band at a famous pub where The Rolling Stones perform (Half Moon Bay).
In Paris, we saw the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, stayed (Hotel Academie) and shopped (Bon Marche) in St. Germain de Pres and of course ate some wonderful food.
In Barcelona, we stayed in the Gothic Quarter (Hotel Hola Barcelona), were awed by La Sagrada Familia, toured the Picasso Museum, watched flamenco dancers and again ate some amazing food (jamon iberico, patatas braves, octopus).
In the Fuertaventura, Canary Islands, we had some sunshine filled family time and saw an almost alien landscape of deserts and volcanoes – just miles off the coast of Africa. Lots of food, camels, beach and fun.
We knew what a special time it was to have Lala with us. It was the most special time I have ever spent with my mom. In hindsight, we did not realize just how blessed we were.