BACK IN THE UK

Tears flowing as we said goodbye to our new american friends - there was a large gathering outside the Gerstell Academy where new friends were saying farewell to eachother. It was an emotionally charged group of people. Tears of sadness were flowed amongst many of the girls, the moms and even some of the boys and guys had moist eyes.

So many new friendships had been made in a relatively short space of time, but they were already relationships that caused heartbreak at the thought of separation. I had many of the 'moms' tell me they wanted to keep their newly acquired british child. It really was a difficult departure for many of us, but it is the start of what we hope is a very successful annual exchange programme between Timperley and the Gerstell/Westminster lacrosse communities. Initial talks already have started for next years return trip by the americans.

The kids recovering on the coach to Phili airport after and emotional farewell to their new found american families and friends.

Tim and Greg sharing out some sweets stolen from Jess Sandy's goodies bag given to her by her hosts - see below.

The 'said' goodies bag.

The 3 Musketeers issued '3 Musketeers' chocolate bars by Wylo who came across them in one of the airport shops.

Karen loving her time with the girls, waiting for the delayed flight US734 out of Phili.

She quotes (US style), 'They bring joy to my life'.

or

(UK style), 'They were lovely'.

Boys on tour!

L to R - George, Jordan, Chris, Piggy and Mike.
The U16s on tour.















Now the waiting game is no longer fun. Come on US Airways.














Jess and Lizy checking out the gate number.










Well we finally landed back on British soil this morning, a little later than scheduled. Despite a nightmare SELF check-in at Phili (they wouldn't provide an assistant to check us in) we did get them all onto the flight and through customs in the UK with no real hiccups.

Everyone had had a great trip home and I would like to take the opportunity to thanks all the kids for making it such an easy journey for Wylo, the 3 musketeers and I who were in charge (missing Craggy and Sarah).

Sarah has gone on with her family (including Toby of course) to other parts of the US, and Craggy has gone to stay with Adam Guy (our LDO from 2 or 3 years ago). Also Joe Streuli has stayed on in the US to holiday with his family.

At least we appear to have brought some Maryland sunshine to Manchester. I think many of the kids will be sleeping or have taken a nap today, so bear with us if we look a little groggy.

THANKS TO ALL OF YOU WHO HAVE POSTED COMMENTS AND FOR THOSE WHO WANTED TO BUT DIDN'T MANAGE TO. WE HAVE RECEIVED SUCH POSITIVE FEEDBACK FROM MANY OF YOU.

WE INTEND TO POST MORE INFORMATION ON THIS BLOG SITE SO KEEP AN EYE OUT. CHECK IT OUT AS OFTEN AS POSSIBLE - ITS A GOOD WAY TO COMMUNICATE .... A TOUR REUNION BEING ORGANISED FOR THE KIDS SOON, HOW TO GET MORE PHOTOS, PLUS OUTLINING WHAT THOUGHTS ARE BEING EXCHANGED ABOUT THE AMERICANS COMING OVER NEXT YEAR. SO WATCH THIS SPACE!

Bye for now... Karen