It was a very grey day today and looked very much like it would rain but, happily for us, the rain stayed away for the time being.

We took a taxi into Central and made our way to the IFC builiding. It took us some time to find where we were going, but we eventually found our way to McDonald's where we were meeting our good friend Jocelyn and her little daughter Phoebe for lunch. Julie knows Jocelyn from when she used to visit Hong Kong in the past, but has never met little Phoebe.

It was lovely to catch up with our friends. Phoebe was a bit shy at first but was soon happily showing Julie all the contents of her handbag and Julie was admiring her beautifully decorated finger nails. We all enjoyed a McDonald's (although we know we are not supposed to!!) but Phoebe really only wanted her Happy Meal so that she could get the toy. Parents the world over will recognise this situation and it brings back so many memories of Hong Kong when my own children were much younger.

After lunch we went our separate ways and Mum, Simon and Julie set off to visit the Botanical and Zoological gardens. We can assure you that the brisk walk up from Central through the streets is practically vertical and we had all experienced plenty of cardiac strengthening exercise by the time we reached the park!

We had a lovely time in the park. Julie really enjoyed looking at all the animals, especially the Orangutans and the giant tortoises. We also saw many different types of birds including a crowd of very colourful, very noisy (and very smelly!) flamingoes. As with many attractions on Hong Kong Island, the park is set on a steep hillside so is set on many levels with steps in between. It makes a very attractive layout of the beautiful gardens and many birds and animals. It was still very grey and overcast and spots of rain were often in the air. After descending to the lower level and admiring the fountain we decided that we couldn't push our luck with the weather any longer and set off in a taxi back to Happy Valley.

Together we enjoyed a Saturday film night at home and watched Secretariat, The King's Speech and more. Mum and Simon don't usually watch TV but they are making up for it during Julie's visit!