Categories: uncategorized
Date: 12 March 2004 14:25:24
A foul day today - dad was optimistic the sun would burn through the drizzle-filled mist but I seriously had my doubts. And I was right. Nevertheless Dad decided that he'd like to go out for a run in the car so we wrapped up warm and set out to tour the Island and see whether the Military Road was re-opened yet. It had an added bonus for me as I was able to check out the route for my Easter visitors.
We went to Yarmouth and from there on down to the Needles. Actually, needless - you couldn't see them for mist. On through Freshwater where the wind was whipping the waves into a fury. Past Compton Bay where the Military Road has had to be diverted inland because of the crumbling cliffs. We decided against stopping on our favourite cliff-top car park there and watching the waves crashing over the petrified forest, mainly because the edge of the cliff and the edge of the carpark seemed to be in incredibly close proximity to each other.
In search of hot food, we called at Isle of Wight Pearl, one of the few places which stays open through the Winter. It was lovely, browsing through all the beautiful jewellery before making our way to the coffee shop for a meal.
I was struck with an irrational sadness for one moment - a sense of self-pity I suppose, although nothing too deep. Just the realisation that I would never own jewellery like this. I wear jewellery so seldom that it would be pointless ever to invest in something more expensive than a £5 pendant from Woolies. And I have nobody who would ever buy it for me indulgently. The thought crossed my mind that it'd be a lovely surprise present for my 40th, but that nobody would think of buying me that as I am so seldom interested in jewellery at all. Since losing the signet ring my mother bought me for my 18th birthday I have had nothing of real sentimental value apart from one necklace which I had from her jewellery box when she died. Still, a silly thought - why on earth would I want some fancy jewellery when I only ever really wear jeans? I put the thought out of my mind and went back to window shopping.
I had reckoned without my dad.
Dad, thank you. The coral and pearl necklace is the most beautiful thing I have ever owned, and totally unexpected. I am totally overwhelmed. Thank you.