Penzance and Amanzi

This inquisitive cow and her mates chased us over a stile near St Ives.

Last week I had a week in Penzance – it’s not exactly far from Falmouth, but you don’t need to go far from home just to have a break. And as I love Penzance, and have friends and cousins down there, it’s a good place to go at very little notice.

The first weekend we were walking back from Marazion when we saw a swarm of starlings, just before dusk. It was the most magical sight, like a constantly waving cloud, buzzing over the church. Sadly I didn’t have my camera – it was too cold to take pictures – my hands would have frozen - but the starlings looked amazing. And several days later, as I walked out with Moll, a swarm flew over my head. A never to be forgotten moment.

Thankfully the weather warmed up and we had several fabulous walks, and in decent weather so I was able to take pictures for the book/Cornwall Today. On Friday I met cousins for lunch at the Penlee Gallery and we sat outside in shirt sleeves in the sun! A far cry from where I am now, typing in 2 long sleeved thermal vests, one Viyella shirt and a thick Norwegian jumper on top of that. I might look like a Yeti but it does help keep that bitter easterly wind out.

On Saturday I was fortunate enough to be invited for another free dinner at Amanzi restaurant in Falmouth. I’d written a review of this South African restaurant back in the summer, and they were so pleased, and their business has picked up so much since my review, that they offered me another free meal. So I took my mate Deb, who is not having an easy time of things at the moment, and we had “one of the nicest evenings I’ve had for a long while” (she said).

As I couldn’t decide what to eat – it all looked so good - we ended up having scallops, mussels in a Thai sauce with crispy bread, grated Biltong with avocado salad, and falafel with salad. A real feast, and the fish was cooked to perfection. If ever you’re in Falmouth do go – it’s not expensive and the quality and service is amazing. You won’t be disappointed!

And now I must rush – the van has had a flat battery and it’s taking ages to sort it out. Long suffering Mr B has been ferrying me between home and the garage regularly. Thank god for special mates.