Dear Merche, Bawburgh in Norfolk sounds delightful! Because of the restrictions we’ve not been able to see Joe in Wymondham since the end of last year but are hoping to see him this month. The Kings Head sounds beautiful and how lovely to revisit when you’d had such a great time for your anniversary. Thanks for writing love Ali xx

Hi there Tina, I hope you’ve had a good week and it’s been a little easier for you now it’s cooler? I’m completely in your camp when it comes to enjoying the Greek Islands – Zante and Cephanlonia – two of my favourites and I also enjoy Corfu when we can get back there. Fingers crossed you’ll make it to the Isle of Wight in September – that’s always a lovely month of the year. I’m glad you enjoyed the photos Love Ali xx

Dear Bernadette, I am glad to know that the blog photographs brought back happy memories for you of your husband and the times you spent together. It’s so precious to be able to re-live all those years again. Take care and thanks for writing, love Ali x

Hi there Lorraine, sounds like you’ve been very busy with your granddaughter Ottilie – how were the birthday celebrations? and I’m sure you’re glad it is now cooler! That’s wonderful you were able to meet with your cousin in Windsor, especially as it had been so many years since we were together. Great that you got on with her husband Ian as well and I’m glad you had time to see her mum also. She sounds incredible – 82 and still teaching tai chi! I’m glad that you enjoyed the blog and the photographs and hope that one day soon you’ll be able to return to Malta yourselves. It really is such a lovely part of the world. With love, Ali xx

Dear Jo, I think Colin and I are very lucky to get the chance to live our life and I’m really happy to know that you too are embracing your own personal freedom although you may miss Etty initially… Those early mornings I agree will be good to give up on. Invariably the weather is hot while we are abroad, but we were lucky to get back for a few days of it and I’m happier now it’s cooler at night. Thank you for your recommendation – I will now look out for Mothering Sunday. Nearly finished The Road Trip, and it’s very different to her first two books, but as always, great and strong characters. I hope you enjoyed The Potteries – I used to live not too far from there and there are some wonderful places to visit. Never made it to the Emma Bridgewater factory but maybe another day. Thank you for the compliment about the dress – I wonder how many more years it will last? Sending you sunshine and blue skies too. Love Ali xx

Dear Cherry, so glad you’ve had a chance also to visit these islands – we had a view of Sliema when we arrived on Malta and it looked beautiful. I’m sure you will enjoy the Isle of Wight especially as all the family will be with you. Enjoy and thank you for keeping in touch, love Ali XX