November 2024 Ramble

 

Well, the day before, the weather was shitty

and cold, and the day after we had sleet, but the day of the ramble we had the luck of the NERDS and the weather was very pleasant and sunny.

Just right for a winter get-together.

Laf and Sandyballs met at Newhaven bus station but there was no sign of Froggy and Matt. The Bish had phoned in sick, and Paco was on his holidays exploring the hospitals of Spain again.

Laf and S.B. waited and waited. Finally a 12A bus arrived with Les Autres and a tale of just missing the previous bus by their fingernails. Froggy had heard of an art exhibition nearby

where Mrs Froggy was exhibiting a couple of paintings so we decided to explore. The exhibition was being held on the East bank of the Mighty Ouse near a cafe (Mamouche)

in an area of Newhaven that Laf had never visited before. How bizarre.

Anyway the exhibition was being held in a large, airy, light building which had previously been part of a tech. college next to the old Customs Hall. With a bit of luck Froggy may have taken some photos of the paintings there for you , Brian. Froggy identified some of his wife's masterpieces and we all agreed they were very nice.

Time was now pressing so Laf reverted to his Plan C which involved walking over The bridge into NHN and hurrying down to The Ark

for a crafty aperitif

inside rather than outside (because it was cold) watching for the arrival of the ferry as in previous times.

After this we had a pleasant walk along the quay to La Luna Rossa

for lunch. Here Laf was greeted by his favourite waiter Sean

and his favourite owner, Rosario, who was waiting for him with a glass of wine already poured (sounds like Phiby's ideal situation).

The meal was up to its usual standard.

Matt was accosted by a strange female who was quite attractive although old, and quite unlike the usual females who throw themselves at Matt. Turned out to be a Rosemary, one of Brian Atrill's cast-offs, so good luck there, Matt.

After that we all cleared off for a pleasant walk back up the quay and homeward bound. Because of his new sex appeal and charisma Matt has been chosen to book the NERDS Christmas ramble meal in Seaford at Picassos on December 10th. Absent NERDS please note the date.

All for now.
Lafayette.