While housesitting in Guernsey we found a kindred soul in Helen, sister of our homeowner. Helen graciously took us under her wing and introduced us to people and places we would have otherwise not encountered. Our first stop was one of her favourite beaches on the northern tip of Guernsey.
The beach stretches forever and Ralph had a great time exploring and digging in the sand. (That's John and Ralph way off in the distance.)
When it was time to move on to our next stop, he ran as fast as his little legs would carry him and if you zoom in he looks as if he's grinning from ear to ear!
Helen suggested we meet Molly, her sister-in-law, Peter, her brother-in-law and Jean-Pierre, her nephew for lunch at the Tides Bistro and Cafe. This restaurant is part of the Oatlands Village that features unique attractions and shops and is also home to these historic brick kilns.
There is also a mini golf course.
...and shops houses in thatched cottages...
This stone wheel was used to crush apples into cider.
Tides Bistro and Cafe is dog friendly and Ralph sat patiently under our table while we enjoyed a lovely lunch. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting Molly, Peter and JP. Thanks for the great conversation and laughs.
Next, Helen suggested we go for a walk in her neighbourhood. On the way from the restaurant to her home we passed by this fruit and vegetable 'market'. Locals set out their extra produce that can be purchased on the honour system. The money for this particular vendor went in the milk pail.
Our stroll around Helen's community is a sight few tourists ever see and I'm so glad we had the opportunity. I never tire of the diversity of styles, building materials, size or decor of the homes. They're all lovely!
This is the backyard of another of Helen's relatives and being able to wander through the impressive gardens was a very special treat.
These particular flowers are unlike anything we've seen. The vibrant contrasting colours just left us spellbound.
All of the tile work as all as the majority was created by Helen's brother-in-law who sadly passed away a few years ago.
These hedgehogs are just too cute. They measure about one foot long from nose to tail.
Meanwhile, Ralph wanted to keep on the move, so off we went.
Our next stop was the Dehus Dolman. We would likely have walked right by this megalithic passage grave if Helen had not shown it to us.
We had to bend at the waist to enter, but once inside we could stand erect.
It's also possible to walk around the dolman, exploring between the more recent protective outer wall and the original standing stones.
On our way back to Helen's I spotted this little gem of a property.
These 'scarecrows' aren't all that scary - more welcoming really - just like Helen and everyone else we met on Guernsey.
Ralph was rather curious about this horse and rider.
Thank you, Helen, for such a lovely day. We'll cherish it always. :)
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