" It's a 10 minute walk from the station and the nearest glass of wine " said Shipscook and he did not lie. All true. :yes:

I was met at Charing Cross by the charming Shipscook and escorted through tunnels and up and down steps top the right tube line. No longer an " Oyster virgin " I still appreciated the reminders to swipe the card at appropriate places.

Bohemian , inspiring, comfortable and cosy Rancho Collapso is accessible via Sainsburies, so we arrived laden with foodstuffs to add to the huge amounts of wine and food already there. It's a charming house and garden , full of rooms and bathrooms. Jacuzzi on arrival ( I must have smelled a bit off :)) ) and emerged fragrant and squeaky clean. :) dressed for dinner in silky kaftan thingy purchased in African shop near Finsbury Park.

OldNick gave up his bright orange room for me , full of pirate stuff and pirate vibes. I slept like a log and dreamt pirate dreams all night only top forget them the next day.

Tapas ... oh the Tapas ..... lots of yummy things to try, some familiar such as taramasalata and hummus and some exotic and delicate such as quails eggs. Very nice.

Dwink .. oh the dwinkies ...... I got to try mead which was fantastic and a weird night cap consisting of rum and something else .... an acquired taste, I think ;)

Lots of late nights and early mornings. Moff is the only person that is allowed to sleep . Much talking and laughing.

I received artwork artistically signed by a budding young artist who kept us entertained that first evening.

MrsF tirelessly supervises the smooth running of things and excursions and has an amazing way of ensuring flow and harmony throughout ; a gracious and caring hostess. Nothing seems to be too much trouble.

Breakfast is a real treat , expertly cooked and served by Shipscook and brought up to one's room :yes: Luxury, I tell you.. I did hear it was a cunning plan to ensure that bathrooms were free and available in the morning but works like a charm.:yes: No complaints whatseover.

Food , as I mentioned before is plentiful , HOT and spicy and very yummy. Mrs F's lentil soup and spicy tuna and prawn soup are to die for. I hope she posts the recipe ;) Shipscook's monkfish curry is already posted, I think. Very yummy and very hot. :yes:

Three unforgettable days. Thank you all at Rancho Collapso *mwaaah* kisses and hugs !

XXXXX