The Week Ahead Weekly Updates and Communication for Parents

We set off early at 6.30am, Saturday morning (June 21st). James had a car load and the rest of us were dropped at the Liverpool dock by granda. Both groups got through security and we ended up reunited on the other side of the gates. The boat was a lot quieter than usual and so it was easier watching the children with plenty of space. They enjoyed the play area, the deck and the on board movies. We did a lot of jelly fish spotting too! We arrived into Belfast docks at 6.30 pm. James drove his car load to Newcastle directly whilst myself, Grace, Ruth, Timothy and Abigail had to navigate two buses and a run through the streets of Belfast between them with our bags and suitcases in tow. The second bus ride from Belfast to Newcastle was an hour. We felt very relieved when the Mountains of Mourne got closer and closer into view, when we could see the sea 🌊 and were nearly home. Everyone got to bed late that night but we all slept well! The following days were quite chaotic with the mix of tiredness, up and down emotions about leaving our friends and family in Yorkshire and the sheer chaos of clothes and stuff needing a place! In and amongst all this the children have still enjoyed trips to the front, paddling in rock pools, playing in the garden and swimming at the harbour. There was a lovely double rainbow over the pier on Esther and Timothy’s first swim. Grace and Esther have had a trial at Shimna college (the local secondary school) and both agreed that the activity weeks at BCS are definitely better managed! The highlight for them was going to ‘Go hydro’ just outside of Belfast. Abigail and Timothy enjoyed a morning taster at Newcastle Primary where both my grandparents taught. Despite some hiccups like the microwave blowing up and me loosing both our drivers licenses (james’ has been found!) we are finally getting on top of things and finding a place for everything! We are really thankful for the kindness, support and prayers of the BCS community and all they have done for us as a family over the last 13 years. We will continue to pray for you and keep in touch. Much love and God bless, Hannah, James and all the Stannett children xox