After leaving Southampton, Mick and I caught a train to Bristol, as we had agreed to house sit for the local vicar and his wife for a week. There had been little communication between the home owners and me prior to our visit, and I was of the understanding that we would spend a night with them before they headed off for their week’s break.

I at least had the arrival time and address correct.

Mick and I knew that if they were not home, they would be in the Church next door finishing a cup of tea with the parishioners after the morning service, and we were told to come over. So we did.

As soon as we walked in, we knew that something special was happening. Speeches were underway, and there was lots of food on tables ready to be eaten (obviously brought to share by those who were there), and I wondered if this was a farewell party for the local vicar. But we later found out it was a surprise party to celebrate and thank him for ten years’ of service. The people love him and his wife.

Mick and I stood out a little, as being non locals. And once the speeches were finished the vicar and his wife looked at us wondering if we were in fact the Australian house sitters.

So after a quick introduction, we joined the line up to try the delicious lunch that had been brought to share with, and by those present. We found a spot at a table and started to chat with the locals there.

It was a lovely welcome, and Mick and I had a great time.

As soon as the vicar and his wife could leave, all four of us headed next door to the vicarage to meet the dog and to have a tour of the home.

About ten minutes later, they were gone and Mick and I were in charge. It was the quickest ‘handover’ ever. Luckily there was a folder of important information about the dog and the rubbish management system – the two most important items for the house obviously.

Not long after they left, we decided to take the dog for a short walk to get her used to us, and vice versa. The weather was overcast and drizzly, and I think that is what it is going to be like for most of our week’s stay.

She is a White German Shepherd – although her colouring is more ginger and white. Her hair is so soft and she took to both of us very quickly.

She loves playing with her soft squeaky toy, but insists on sitting beside one of us.

The vicarage is very close to the Avon River and the centre of town, so Mick and I plan on using this time to explore the city as much as we can.