It doesn't seem a moment since we were celebrating GG Harry's 90th birthday and on Friday 23 August we were doing the same for Great Grandma Ruth.
This time we decided to fly over to Belfast on the Thursday night rather than take the ferry. Not sure which way is easier - with the ferry it takes longer but at least you have your own car and can take as much 'stuff' as will fit in the boot. On the plane we had to fit everything in a 20kg bag and were given a car that only showed kph (Steve did a magnificent job of getting it changed - they weren't very keen to send a new one out to the hotel). The kids enjoyed flying - they have both flown before but neither of them can remember.
We stayed at the same hotel as last time, the Marine Court in Bangor. It's great for the swimming pool and we can walk to grandma's but the downside is that they seem to have weddings or parties most nights and the music is very loud in the rooms, sometimes not finishing until after 1am.
The party was lovely, people called in throughout the afternoon with birthday wishes and gifts. The kids made new friends - Peter from down the road was a hit though I dread to think what his mum thinks of some of the tricks Toby has taught him (fashioning a tree into a catapult and raining next doors garden with apples was one). 
I think grandma was quite overwhelmed to see just how many friends she has collected over the years - unfortunately there aren't many of her 'original' friends left; as she said "that's what happens when you get to 90." Most sad of course was that Grandpa Harry was missing from this line-up, but he was definitely in the thoughts of many guests.
Jane, Steve and I managed to continue the party (grandma declined the invite) by going to The Undertones Teenage Kicks 35th Anniversary Concert. It was pretty cool - if anyone was to ask me if I like punk I'd probably say "not really" but then when I listen to any (proper punk that is), I really love it. We had a fab time despite not venturing into the mosh pit - the venue was tiny and we had a great view of the stage as we were up on the balcony above. Best of all, it was right next door to the hotel. It's reminded me how fun live gigs are - I'll have to get a few booked to look forward to!
Since we stayed until Sunday afternoon, we had time to explore the shore and fit in a few extra activities while we were there. The kids loved messing round on the beach and in the rock pools looking for creatures, shells and any other interesting bits. The coastline is so beautiful around Northern Ireland and it was lovely being able to enjoy it in the sunshine for once!
One of the most enjoyable things was going for fish and chips in the village of Groomsport. They were cooked to order and we ate them outside looking over the harbour; even the rain starting halfway though didn't put a damper on events.
It was a great trip and I'm glad the kids had chance to visit grandma at an age when they will hopefully remember. Have to say that I hope if I make it to 90 I still have the energy to do breadstick fencing with my great-grandson!!
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