News & Updates from Joyce Watson
In September this year I celebrated my 80th Birthday. For this birthday my children sent me on a train trip around America! I flew out from Edinburgh to Chicago and met up with one of my daughters - Susan - who lives in Missouri.
We pent the first night in a hotel and then the next day got on an Amtrak train to Seattle, a journey which lasted 44 hours!
Luckily we had a bedroom on the train, Double Decker trains. Such beautiful scenery on the way, its a pity it gets dark at night and we have to sleep.
Had two days in Seattle, went on a boat trip and saw a glass garden, then back on the train to Los Angeles.
Had to break the journey and spend the first night on a bus! The train track had been destroyed by the forest fires!
Back on the train again another night on the train and 2 days in Los Angeles. open bus city tour, walked on the stars pavement, and walked down Rodeo Drive amongst the stars shops.
Train again to New Orleans French Quarter - my birthday - felt like a queen! Another city bus tour, Walked amongst the streets, soaking up the music. Champagne for breakfast, cocktails before dinner and wine and special birthday cake for dinner.
Unknown man [who had been smiling at me] in the restaurant paid the bill for our dinner! Back on the train again to Chicago for 4 days. Saw so many wonderful sights, another boat trip, and a further surprise, my school-friend of 66 years met up with me for lunch - and I didnt recognise her!
Both of our daughters had planned the visit.
So after 4 trains, 4 hotels in 4 different cities, over 10,500 miles am now back to earth, and crafting again.
I felt very proud on Monday 30th October, when my eldest grandson Josh married the love of his life Danni.
It was only a very small wedding but the happiest of days for everyone The day was cold but bright and Danni looked lovely in her dress and Josh was in his army uniform. so smart.
I didnt shed a tear during the ceremony but when I gave Josh a hug afterwards the tears flowed, such an emotional day, a memorable one too.
Danni had the giggles when saying her middle name [she doesnt like it] and the best man when asked for the rings, put them on the cushion still in their boxes!