The railway had been shut down before he moved and there is just one goods train a day,
Our first port of call was the doctors' surgery and the lady he wanted to see was there and thrilled to see him. We then called at a couple of houses and no-one was home so we went to the cafe at the railway station and had an enjoyable lunch and cup of tea.
After that we had a short walk in the town centre and phoned the first lady we had missed and she had returned home so we drove out to see her and have a look at her garden.
We then went back to see if Doug's next-door neighbour was now home and she and her daughter arrived just as we did. We were lucky as she had been in hospital a few weeks ago so we would have missed her.
They had recognised Doug as he got out of the car and were so pleased to see him. She told me that "I have a good one", but I already know that.
It was a lovely day out and we don't intend to leave it as long before our next visit.
What a peaceful little town it looks. wonderful to be greeted with so much pleasure. He really is a keeper
ReplyDeleteDefinitely.
DeleteA good day out..and that warm feeling when your choice is praised!!
ReplyDeleteIt was a lovely day out. A sunny day but not the heat of summer. I think Doug was apprehensive about returning but really enjoyed it.
DeleteIt's very lucky when you go back somewhere and the same people are still there; everyone moves around so much these days. Glad you had such a successful trip.
ReplyDeleteIt was a great trip. Doug's neighbour who is 88 was born in her house and intends to die in it as well.
DeleteA nostalgic trip to one's former hometown is both apprehensive and exciting! Glad it was more of the second type. Glad you found the people Doug wished to see, and the trip was enjoyable.
ReplyDeleteYes, to start with it looked as though we had missed them but it all turned out well in the end.
Delete-sounds like the two of you had a very nice visit to Doug's hometown.
ReplyDeleteIt's a shame to read that fast-food joints have since taken over many storefronts.
It seems to be happening everywhere. People are eating more and more "convenience" food.
ReplyDeleteOne of my best friends lived in Helensville for quite a few years. I haven't been there for a while though but the old hotel always catches my eye.
ReplyDeleteYes, the old hotel really stands out - unchanging.
DeleteThere’s a lot to be said for living in a small town like Helensville Sue!
ReplyDeleteIt seems Doug knew many of the inhabitants and they were pleased to see him!
I grew up in a small town too, Wairoa in Hawkes Bay and I have lovely memories of my childhood there too!
I’ve been reading through your posts - gosh you two lead a busy life!
I’m busy as I’m still working but I can’t wait to retire to be ‘your kind of busy’!
I like the walks you do, the trips away and the theatre - all good for the soul!
Take care
Shane🧚♀️✨💫