Earlier this evening, our daughter Frances "facetimed" us from Changi Airport in Singapore. They had a four hour layover to endure. And there was Phoebe, bouncing on a trampoline in the children's play area. "Look at me Grandpa!" as Margot staggered around looking very pleased with herself.
Where there is good WiFi, family and friends can communicate with each other from anywhere in the world. Not just exchanging words but seeing each other on little phone-camera screens too. It is almost beyond belief.
The first time I encountered "Facetime" it was twelve years ago in the back of a taxi in Bangkok. My friend and teaching colleague Jennifer was talking to her mother back in England. It seemed quite surreal.
So yes. There the girls were in Singapore. They should be back in Sheffield early on Monday afternoon. I hope that their father drives them all safely home. It's one thing picking up your car after a three hour flight from Portugal but after almost a full day of travelling from Perth, Western Australia - well that is a different kettle of fish entirely. It would be so easy for any driver to succumb to tiredness.
My fingers are already crossed for their safe return.
from Yorkshire Pudding https://ift.tt/sX3K4oS
