Chichester
Two days off in a row – unheard of for me! This weekend, I've actually enjoyed some quality time out and about, during the Easter weekend. I don't often have this much time off, especially on a Sunday, so I have made the most of it. The weather has been amazingly sunny and for once it has been a pleasure being outside. Still saving hard, I always find it difficult spending money, but for the first time in I don't know how long, I've thrown caution to the wind and actually enjoyed myself!

On Friday, Darrell and I went to the historic city of Chichester and did some sightseeing, enjoying the idyllic surroundings of Chichester Cathedral, where I lit a candle for Mum. We walked along the old city walls and enjoyed the immaculate Bishop's garden. As is usual when we go out, we ate lunch at Pizza Express, a pricey, but thoroughly authentic pizza dining experience, that I save only for days like this. Having travelled to Italy on five different occasions, I find Pizza Express offers the best pizza outside the Motherland.

Chichester was a delight as usual, even if I did feel rather old walking around the centre. In my younger days, I wouldn't have even considered going to this picturesque city, but time has moved on and so have I. I have mellowed immeasurably  and grown to appreciate such places, even if they are a little middle class for my taste!

Today we had Easter Day lunch at the Ship and Castle, near The Hard in Portsmouth. This was a place recommended by a friend; supposedly it has the best carvery in Portsmouth, and to be honest I wasn't disappointed. The food was delicious and yes it was the best roast I have had here, for a reasonable 12.95 a head. I will certainly be back, should I have a Sunday off again.

Darrell and I also visited the Historic dockyard and were suitably impressed by the Royal Navy's flagship HMS Queen Elizabeth. The sheer size of it was awe-inspiring. Of course, HMS Victory and Warrior are just as spectacular, but their size pales in comparison to this amazing new aircraft carrier. This landmark location in Southsea is a true asset to Portsmouth and certainly worth visiting, even, if like us, it was a brief stroll around the vast complex.

From the dockyard, we walked to the Cathedral, the tree outside adorned with Ukrainian ribbons, adding a touch of poignancy this Easter, as the European war rages on. After a moment of reflection, we continued on to Southsea funfair, where we saw the Hovercraft leave for the Isle of Wight. These all but retired vessels are incredible to watch, as they leave port, always giving me a thrill. After a leisurely walk along the front, in the afternoon sun, we finally left for home.

Spending money I shouldn't, sends a shudder down my spine, nevertheless I have felt calm and chilled in a way I haven't recently. Both Darrell and I have been able to spend time together, which is rare. Both of us need to do it more and make time for one another. The Hard is only a twenty-minute walk from our house, so there is really no excuse. Life is very frugal for us, but we can do things cheaply and economically, we just have to make the effort in the first place!

I hope you all had a happy Easter!


The Hard
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