This weekend Adam and I ventured further to east of where we are living in Grays to Southend on Sea, which is suppose to be what the British consider a beach. We caught the train out to Southend Central. The town centre has a big shopping mall that would easily rival Queen Street back home, with every major store. I bought a new beanie/beret type thing and I was glad I did because when we walked down to the beach the wind was so cold that it felt like it was cutting you. We had a look at Adventure Island which is a theme park on the waterfront. It looked like lots of fun, but we didn't hang around for long. We went for a walk along the beachfront. The strip that runs along is virtually packed with amusement and entertainment centers as well as clubs and pubs. Unfortunately not everything was open as it all closes down for the winter here. I would imagine it would be quite a good day out during the summer time, but I honestly can't blame people for not wanting to be there during winter. Still there were plenty of people at Adventure Island. The beach was overall very sad. The sand is course and gross the tide was out revealing horrible mud flats. I guess I am being harsh because I am use to Australian beaches.

We had a quick look at the 1.33 mile long pier that stretches out into the water before rushing back up to the town center and practically diving into a Starbucks. We ordered the biggest hot chocolates you could get and were basically given a cup that you could have taken a bath in - I was that cold that I wanted to. We didn't hang around much longer and decided to go home so it wasn't a fantastic day out, but at least we can say we have been there.

The weather has taken a turn here. The days are getting longer but the weather is getting colder. The locals reckon it is going to snow so we are going to get some gum boots tomorrow just in case. I have one more week of work before I get a week off for the half term break. I am looking forward to it. Next Monday Adam is taking me to see the Phantom of the Opera in her Majesty's Theatre in West End. I can't wait!

Till next weekend,

X

Laura