Friday 9 January 2015

Coastal Convalescence

Let it not be thought for a single moment that your good wishes, your concern for our well being and your many, many kindnesses expressed on our last post of Friday, 31st. October 2014, as well as through emails and letters, should have passed unnoticed. We have been so very touched by your warm heartedness and generosity of spirit making our thanks so completely inadequate. But thank you we do, and from the bottom of our hearts.

Jane Hattatt within the hotel in Pocitos, Montevideo, Uruguay [January 2015]

Lance Hattatt on the cliff top at Casapueblo, Uruguay [January 2015]

So, disdaining taking the waters of the Spa towns and cities which punctuate the British Isles and much of Europe, mindful of the sanatoriums of Switzerland and fearful of the December chill winds of the Riviera, we ventured for recuperation to far flung South America and the capital of Uruguay, Montevideo.

In truth this had been arranged for the better part of a year when travel plans had been made with what now must be regarded as our erstwhile friend and guide whose behaviour, seen in retrospect, has proved to be both disappointing and alarmingly dishonest.

However, such joy that we went. Staying in the Pocitos area of Montevideo we delighted in the warmth of the summer sun, the broad sandy beaches, the shade of a local park, in delicious dinners to be found in nearby restaurants, in good local wines and in all the sights and sounds so very different from the cities of Europe.

shopping abroad - always to be found as a very different experience

one of many colourful streets to be explored in Pocitos, Montevideo

a favourite local restaurant, El Viejo y Querido, in Pocitos, Montevideo

Of course there were the museums, a day excursion to Punta del Este, a rather over priced and over glamorised resort along the coast, picturesque Casapueblo, fireworks at New Year, strolls along the Rambla and endless people watching. In the main though, Lazy Tarts as we are, we did very little and loved and relished every single moment.
the beach at Punta del Este, a resort on the coast of Uruguay

before the heat of the day, a solitary figure on the beach at Montevideo

But of everything, most lasting will be the connections made and the memories of the people, old and young alike, who became a part of our daily lives and whose warmth, vivacity and friendship have found for them a very special place in our hearts.

the smiling face of the waiter at the restaurant, El Viejo y Querido

together with the staff of our local café and wine bar, La Dulcería

Now a new year stretches ahead with so much yet to happen and so much to which to look forward. But for the present we are happy once more to be back with you all and give to each one of you our warmest wishes for a peaceful and prosperous 2015. Happy New Year!


paddling in the shallows of the River Plate [January 2015]




208 comments:

  1. Wonderful to hear from you again and to see you enjoying yourselves in such amazing surroundings. Welcome back and wishing you all the best for 2015 ( and beyond, of course ).

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    1. It is really good to be back after what seems to have been an exceptionally long absence. We shall now look forward to catching up with everyone.

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  2. Wonderful to hear from you and to know that you are both recovered and have been enjoying life in sunnier climes. Just look at the colour of that sky, I can feel the warmth from here.
    A very Happy New Year to you too.

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    1. This is so very kind of you. At one point we began to feel that we should not be well enough to make the journey and/or hospital visits would prevent our going.We have really missed you all. Yes the warmth was truly wonderful.

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  3. Glad to hear that you are both on the mend and have had a wonderful time in Uruguay :) A stylish way to recover! Happy New year to you both!

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    1. It was, Mark and Gaz, really good to have a complete change and to snatch a little summer in the middle of a Hungarian winter. We shall look forward to catching up with you and your garden.

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  4. I hope the sun's shining on your lives all year! Lovely to have you back.

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    1. And that is such a nice thought and one that we can truthfully wish for you, dearest Faisal. What is more, it is good to be back.

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  5. Hello Jane and Lance, You had us worried there for a while, but I am glad that things now seem to be on an even keel again. And what a perfect time to resurface, so we can return your greetings for a Happy New Year!
    --Jim

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    1. We really do appreciate your concern, Jim. Actually we have had rather a rough time and although not totally finished with hospital appointments we are most certainly over the worst. It is to be hoped that all is well with you and that 2015 has got off to a good start and that it will bring you nothing but happiness and success.

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  6. Thank you for touching base with us and I wish you a happy and healthy 2015!

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    1. Thank you! It is a real joy to be connecting with everyone again. We have missed you all hugely.

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  7. nd to you, Dear Ones---the sight of you out in the sunshine (wading barefoot in the dapply water with the sun golden on your hair is surely listed amongst sovereign remedies in some lofty medical tome) is a wonderful thing indeed.

    Just to know you're up and about (and out---very far out into the world, and I think that "taking the waters" which involves passports, balmy temperatures, time to cultivate "our" restaurant and bar, and a host of charming and cheery friends---now THAT's something which should be attach in a codicil to Blue Cross and Medicare. (speaking from a totally personal standpoint, of course).

    It's lovely to see you well and warm and adventuring across the globe, and I know it's done you bushels of good. Do take care of YOU and ease back into the whirl of magic which seems your milieu. Even Fairy Tales need a little break, now and then. (And don't trust that Apple-a-Day thing, either).

    love and warm thoughts from this icy ten-degree day,

    r

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    1. Dearest Rachel,

      How your comment, as always, warms our hearts, even more so than the gentle shallows of the South Atlantic. You are right, getting away has proved to be the most wonderful of remedies and for the first time in several months we both, at last, feel up to getting on with our lives. And now we have all the fun of catching up with, and connecting to, all our blogger friends who have been so very kind and supportive during our absence. And in this respect you are, we assure you, by no means the least.

      All of that said, we do hope that life is treating you well and that you are comfortable and warm. For 2015 we wish you everything and more that you would wish yourself and your family. Take care. With our best love, J&L, xxx

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  8. Dear Jane and Lancer, how lovely to have you back! I hope you are both feeling well and fully recovered, and that your trip to Uruguay was as restful and therapeutic as it sounds and looks. I'm so sorry your young friend let you down. In time, I hope he will learn to treat people better.
    That final paddling photo is adorable! xxx

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    1. This is more than kind of you, Curtise, and we are so happy to be back. We enjoyed ourselves enormously in Uruguay, not least on account of the summer sun. It has certainly been something of a shock to return to the freezing temperatures of Hungary.As for our 'friend', one learns to be philosophical and we, as many others so it transpires, are glad to be free of his unpleasantness.

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  9. If convalescence is needed, I can think of no better place that somewhere warm, sunny and wonderfully exotic and faraway. Wishing you both a very happy and healthy 2015. It's lovely to have you back again.

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    1. It is really strange, Perpetua, that in the past we did not mind the cold, in fact we rather enjoyed the winter. Now, as we become older, it has lost some of its attraction and so, as a result, we really enjoyed the warmth of Uruguay.

      We too wish you all possible happiness and a peaceful and healthy New Year. It is so good to be in touch once more.

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  10. I am so very glad that despite all the worries you managed to keep your date with Uruguay and hope that the happiness you found there will keep you company through the year ahead..

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    1. At one point, Helen, we really did think that it would be better, and more prudent, to abandon the trip completely. Now we are so glad that we persevered as we both feel so much better and the prospect of forthcoming hospital visits have taken on far less significance. For our part, we wish you a peaceful and prosperous 2015.

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  11. What joy of all joys to see you both back and to see you both convalescing in warmer climes and looking well. It's so good to have you both back again, Jane and Lance, and I wish you both a very happy and healthy 2015. Sending much love from the UK. XXXX

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    1. This is exceedingly generous of you, Jackie, and it really is such fun to be back. The sun of South America has done us a power of good and we have returned fighting fit, so to speak. Of course we send you our very, very best wishes for the year which lies ahead.

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  12. I am really happy to have some news from you !
    I see you are in uruguay ! Enjoy as much as you can .. and Happy new Year to all of you and the family, especially with you all the Health of the world !

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    1. How really kind of you. We have missed everyone so very much but really were not up to doing anything in the months before Christmas. Now all is well as we do so hope it is with you. A very happy and successful 2015.

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  13. Uruguay is a lovely little country. I recall being made to learn capitals of countries of the world as a school child. I remain quite fond of Uruguay; it has not changed the name of location of its capital in these last sixty years.

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    1. Such memories! Yes, indeed, we too recall the learning of the capitals of the world along with the major rivers, mountain ranges, deserts and so on and so forth. On reflection none of it has stood us in bad stead. You are right, Joanne, Uruguay is somewhat unusual in changing very little although they have dismantled the entire railway network. But this you probably know.

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  14. Happy, healthy 2015!

    I did a lot of thinking and photographing of colourful streets, at one stage, but I never thought to include Montevideo. Did the bright and contrasting colours look wonderful on this, your most recent trip?

    thanks for a great link
    Hels
    http://melbourneblogger.blogspot.com.au/2010/10/colourful-islands-and-coastal-cities.html

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    1. And we wish you much peace and joy in the year which lies ahead.

      Although we have never visited Cuba, so much of Montevideo, particularly the old quarter, is as we imagine the towns and cities of that country to appear. We do love all the brightly painted houses and yes, we thought them even better than before. Sadly most of the buildings lining the River Plate/sea are of drab, grey concrete and of little, with one or two notable exceptions, architectural merit.

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  15. Dear Jane and Lance,

    So happy to see one of your posts and the two of you enjoying the South American sun. I hope the warm weather and sunlight speeded up your recovery.

    Wishing the two of you A Happy, Healthy and Magical New Year, in which we hope to meet again soon!

    Sending Love from the girls as well,

    Madelief xox

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    1. Dearest Madelief,

      We have been absence for far too long and it really is good to be connecting with everyone once more. We did indeed have a very restful and enjoyable time in Uruguay and the summer sun has certainly set us up for the winter here.

      We are already talking about our next trip to the Netherlands and cannot wait to see you all again. Indeed, as an added incentive we have been given discount vouchers by KLM!!!

      All our love to you, the girls and B. Take care and speak soon. J&L, xxx

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  16. Very happy to see you here, and so sorry you have had disruptions to the force, in both health and erstwhile friendships. You seem, unsurprisingly, to have recovered. A testimony to good character. May 2015 treat you very well.

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    1. Thank you so much. We do really feel so much better than we have felt for months and, a friendship apart, enjoyed ourselves enormously in South America and are now happy to be home once more. We send all our best wishes to you for this New Year.

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  17. Dear Fairy Godparents,

    La Dulceria and Supermercado 'WinDixie' come from a way of navigating the world with the spoken and written word that instantly touches a note of understanding not too deep within me. I carry quite near the surface, always, the rhythm of the first language I learned and, though not precisely the same mentality, an innate sense of how spanish-speaking people name things, both without precedent and in imitation or tribute to another culture.

    Sorry, went off on a bit of a tangent, there. But here we are! 2015! How I envy that solitary beach lounger taking advantage of the quiet and the hours before the rising of a blistering Southern sun. It does my heart well, too, to see you both--out in such a wide world and way of experiencing it. Always, despite whatever whims fortune tosses into your path, with an insatiable thirst for adventure, new vistas and, I notice, a particular penchant for ocean, eternal summer and sun.

    I am sending you the very highest and best regards of my heart, FGPs. With wishes for paradise, as we help create it, at every turn.

    I remain your Fairy Goddaughter, with love,
    -Suze

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    1. Darling FGD,

      How perfectly splendid to be back in touch. And with this we send you and your family every possible good wish for peace, happiness and success in 2015.

      There is, as you touch upon here, something wonderfully evocative about a 'foreign' language which never fails to resonate. Both Spanish and Portuguese, of which we speak neither, are arrestingly lyrical and lovely to listen to and certainly hearing them spoken added greatly to the enjoyment of our time away.

      We too loved the idea of the person on the beach setting out early, as in fact it was, with deck chair and book and just enjoying the very simple things of life whilst the South Atlantic washed, as it came to do, over his feet.

      There is, and of this we suspect that we have your full agreement, so much to be said for Carpe Diem. And do we not have a duty to make the best of all that life has to offer? We believe ourselves to be so privileged and fortunate in so many respects; let us never forget that.

      Love as always, J&L,[FGPs] xxx

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  18. Dearest Jane and Lance

    Cead mile faulte and so good for the spirit to see you both in sunny Uruguay. So sorry to hear you were betrayed by a supposed friend. Good riddance. It is entirely his loss. Despite this you look to have met and captured the hearts of some newly found friends who are so fortunate to have you cross their path.
    I am so happy to see you return to the blogosphere. It has been very lonely without you.
    Helenxx

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    1. Dearest Helen,

      We are so very, very blessed in so many ways and if one friendship falters, so be it. We are surrounded in life by so many truly wonderful and genuine people who enrich our lives beyond all measure and in this we count you most dearly.

      Now, Helen, 2015 is with us. We must not reach the year's end without our meeting up. The spare room is ready and waiting for you both and there are daily flights, for when you are next in Ireland, from both Cork and Dublin.

      Until then, our best love. J&L, xxx

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  19. Nothing like a complete change of scenery to regain a stable footing and health, so happy to hear from you and wish you a healthy and happy year and years to come.

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    1. We certainly agree with you here, Linda. We really believe that the time away has done us the power of good. For now we do hope that you will have a happy and successful year. It is good to be back in touch.

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  20. Happy New Year dear friends. So like you to eschew the expected and take the air in Uruguay. Love you!

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    1. And we wish you and your family, Jen, a really peaceful and happy 2015. We do have to say that we find Uruguay an intriguing country and so very different from Europe. We plan to return.

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  21. oh jane and lance, i envy your exotic travels. it seems we never get anywhere past camping under the stars. we really must spread our wings and venture! i love that you photographed some of the local staff and shopkeepers. you will be able to remember them years from now! xo

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    1. For years, during which time we had the garden to maintain, Janet, we never went anywhere. Free of that responsibility, and many others too, we have rather 'discovered' travel and, somewhat to our surprise, find that we enjoy it.

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  22. I'm sorry you were disappointed, I'm glad you enjoyed Uruguay, I'm gladder to have you back.

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    1. Life, as we are sure that you know, is full of disappointments, bitter or otherwise. That said we had the most marvellous time in Uruguay, met with many interesting and creative people, and generally ate and drank rather well. It is good to be back, thank you.

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  23. Happy New Year!! I am very glad to see you have been relaxing and recharging. Hope you are both doing well, and best wishes for health and happiness!

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    1. A Happy New Year to you too, Louise. We did indeed have a thoroughly relaxing time although returning to the cold of a Budapest winter has come as something of a shock.

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  24. Dear Jane and Lance - it is lovely to see you back in this space and looking relaxed following your sojourn in the Montevideo sunshine.
    I am sorry to learn about your piano playing friend - it leaves an unpleasant taste, but you are fortunate that you have many other good friends to surround yourselves with.
    Wishing you both a happy and healthy 2015.

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    1. Do believe us, Rosemary, it is wonderful to be back and in touch with everyone once more. Our absence was far too prolonged, mainly of necessity, but we do both feel so very much better even though there are still hospital visits to be got through.

      Thank you for your concern about our 'friend'. In the event we totally misread, as did others, the kind of person he actually is. But one does try to trust people until they let one down - and just occasionally that does happen.

      For now we do hope that all is well with you and your family and are much looking forward to catching up with 'Where Five Valleys Meet'. A Happy New Year!

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  25. You've been spreading goodwill around the world, one restaurant at a time. I am sure it would have been great fun to be with you at El Viejo y Querido. Very nice to hear you enjoyed Uruguay as much a second time.

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    1. We did meet some wonderful people, Andrew, and were genuinely sad to say goodbye to them. Certainly Uruguay more than came up to our expectations a second visit and, on balance, we enjoyed ourselves even more.

      Thank you and R so much for the card. We were really touched and will email you both as soon as we have caught up with everything. xxx

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  26. As others have said, I am so glad to see that you are well and bathing in the sunlight of new tomorrow's. So sorry that you found disappointment in someone you trusted, but it looks like you moved on and the smiling faces at the cafe tell me that you are again surrounded by people who are kind to you.

    Keep dipping your toes in the water, and enjoy the warm sand.

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    1. Thank you so very much, Arleen. We have really missed everyone and are so much looking forward, if we may borrow your wonderful phrase, to 'bathing in the sunlight of new tomorrows'.

      Yes, someone in whom we invested a great deal of ourselves did rather, or so we feel, turn out to be a disappointment and completely untrustworthy. Sadly we think he is, and most likely will remain, one of life's spongers. But, as you also say, there is water which awaits the dipping of toes. Such fun!

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  27. Welcome back Darlings Jane and Lance!
    I have been monitoring the awful events in Paris these last days which finally ended but not without heartbreaking loss and just as my sense that the world will be seeing much more of this savagery, I am suddenly reminded the power that 2 generous souls even across this most modern medium can shine warm light into cold and darkness helping keep the black dog's bark and bite at bay.
    As you can see there are so many you touch delight in your excursions and delightful company. By the the sunny pics and, as always, beautiful prose, I sense your New Year is off to a good start and look forward to many shared adventures and ultimately our meeting

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    1. my goodness, I'm having wifi difficutites with everyone homebound and online in the extreme cold and cut and paste my comments just in case they dissolve into the frozen ether which did happen and my cutting or pasting omitted a rather strong close which I now can't remember other than I do hope we meet face to face in 2015 Darlings J & L.

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    2. Darling G,

      Thank you for such a warm welcome. And we cannot say enough how good it is to be back.

      We too, along with much of the world, have been deeply shocked by the events in Paris of the last few days and which, mercifully, but with dreadful loss of life, came to an end this evening. What you then go on to say is so very, very generous but, and this you must believe, we are no different from countless individuals everywhere who, and here we most certainly include yourself, trust that each life can, and must, make a difference and that in the end right and justice will prevail.

      And now we really must work our ways to a meeting. We know that we shall have so much in common, so much to discuss, so much to delight in. Jocund day does indeed stand tiptoe on the misty mountain top! Happy, Happy New Year,

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    3. Darling G,

      Go instantly and put more logs on the fire! Fill a hot water bottle! Heat a warming gruel! We are all too aware of the dreadful weather conditions in so many parts of the United States. Take the greatest of care..

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  28. Oh so glad to hear that recuperation is underway. What a gentle and wonderful word that is. The pictures are fabulous and I admit to wanting to dip my toes in the water as well! Happiest of New Years! It is my experience that stepping from the shadows into the light makes us ever grateful and the light all the more beautiful!

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    1. Thank you so much, Wendy. We really are so much better and whilst a few hospital visits still lie ahead they are nothing that cannot be coped with. It was rather special to be paddling in December and January, the water wonderfully warm, although strange to see Christmas decorations of artificial snow!!

      You are right about the shadows and the light. Thank you for that and for your good wishes which we return manifold.

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  29. Dear Jane and Lance — It's so good to have you back within the blogosphere — you've been missed! I wish you a happy and very healthy 2015!

    Mark

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    1. It really is good to be back, Mark, and we are much looking forward to catching up with everyone. We both wish you all the very best for 2015 and are excited about any new projects which might be stirring in your mind.

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  30. Hello...I don't think I've ever commented on your blog before....but scrolling through another site just now I found that I was very happy to see your return!..isn't blogging a curious and delightful thing? wishing you well for 2015

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    1. We are delighted to have your comment, Libby, and very much hope that we shall see you again. We do agree with what you say about blogging and the thing which continues to amaze us is the way in which real friendships can be formed and developed as in the real world. We send you our very best wishes for the year ahead.

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  31. ever so glad to see your little blog square at the top of my page...that means you're back!

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    1. That is so very kind of you. We do wish you much happiness in 2015 and are so pleased to be back in touch once more.

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  32. Very pleased to "see" you and to know that you've had a good rest and recuperation in a warm climate (much envied from where we sit right now!). So, happiest of new years, and welcome back!

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    1. It was so lovely to snatch some summer sun in the midst of a winter which, Susan, we know only too well is proving fairly horrific in many parts of the United States. Take care and keep warm. Any chance of you and J visiting Europe this year?

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    2. I don't think we'll be traveling abroad this year, though one never knows. (Our travel funds for this year went to a new boiler, which we're very happy to have right now!) All the more reason I love to see news of your doings on FB and here!

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    3. We are, of course, most disappointed but totally understand. How often we have found that some domestic requirement gets in the way of more exciting things. But no matter for whenever do be assured that we have a spare room waiting to welcome you both.

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  33. Welcome back!
    I hope whatever caused your absence is well behind you and that you can look forward to a calm and productive year ahead.

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    1. Thank you so much, Jean. All is well, as we trust that it is with you both in France and in the UK.

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  34. Popping in to again say I'm glad you're back, and on the mend. Wishing you both a very very healthy and happy 2015! So happy to see you soaking in the sunshine and relaxing. xox

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    1. This is more than kind of you, Carol. Thank you so much. We are happy to be back and send you every good wish for a peaceful and successful New Year.

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  35. Such a welcome surprise to see this post in my inbox! I'm sorry you've been ill. It looks like you chose the perfect spot to recuperate. Lovely pictures! Wishing you a happy and healthy 2015.

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    1. The months before Christmas were not so good, Jennifer, but happily we are now on the road to recovery, helped immensely by the suns of South America. We do wish you well for the year ahead and thank you for taking the time and trouble to comment.

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  36. How absolutely delicious to see you back here after so long being away. The blogosphere has missed you and your so enjoyable posts! It is so sad when 'friends' disappoint -- and deflating, too. Anyway, Happy New Year and 'keep the faith', darlings!

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    1. And how exceedingly generous of you!! Our prolonged absence, in the main of necessity, has seemed like something of an eternity and we are so pleased to be up and running, so to speak, again. We wish you peace and joy throughout 2015 and beyond.

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  37. So glad to see you posting and so horrified to see that someone you cared about and trusted has been discovered to be dishonest and not a good friend, after all.

    I’m glad to see that you rallied and had what looks like a wonderful, restorative time. So much of my focus when I think of places I’d like to travel is on Europe, that places in South and Central America hardly enter my brain. What a gorgeous place you were in. And how lovely to convalesce somewhere where you could warm your bones and comfort your soul. I’m so happy to see you back and healthy, dear people!

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    1. Thank you so much, Kim. People are all very different, and this we readily accept, but it is not always easy to know how to deal with manipulative lies and deceit.

      We enjoyed ourselves enormously in Uruguay although returning to the Hungarian winter has been something of a shock. Certainly, in our experience, South America is totally different from Europe and somewhere which previously we too had not thought to visit. Should you ever have the opportunity to go, then we should most readily recommend it. And it is good to be back!!

      Warmest wishes for a happy and peaceful 2015.

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  38. Dearest Jane and Lance,

    It is a pleasure to have you back in the fold after such a long absence. I do hope your convalescence in far off lands of beaches and sunny days has paid off ten fold, and that this will be a happy, healthy and successful year. Happy New Year to you both!

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    1. Thank you so much. We do indeed feel something like lost sheep and it may take a while to be fully back in said fold!

      The change, and warm sun, have worked miracles and we both feel so very much better. And whilst we are not totally free of hospital appointments, everything once more seems manageable. Our very best wishes for 2015.

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  39. Oh I am so glad to see you posting again ! I worried :)
    I am also happy that you were in Uruguay, enjoying the weather and the people and the place. I found that the people in Argentina were some of the most kind and caring that I have ever met, and I / we did quite a bit of traveling in our day.
    We had friends who owned a summer home in Punta de Este, we never visited but they loved it so .. dinners in restaurants with tables on the beach sounded so appealing . It really sounds appealing right now, as there is snow and ice outside my door :( I am happy you are posting again... all is right with the world :) besos, C

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    1. You are so very, very kind Candice. Thank you so much for your concern.

      It is interesting what you say here of the people of Argentina for we found exactly the same in Uruguay and, whilst there, also met several from Brazil all of whom were genuinely warm hearted, kind and great fun.

      Punta del Este tends to be spoken of in hushed tones. For our part, perhaps because it is all relatively new and made up principally of featureless apartment blocks, it did not really appeal to us and, we imagine, would not largely be to your liking. That said, the beach is wonderful and the summer climate superb.

      Take care and do keep warm.

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  40. What a delightful surprise to see you back on my page this morning, and Welcome Back, Jane and Lance. Montevideo looks like the perfect tonic after difficult times: I am so sorry that you have been unwell, and to hear of the disappointment with someone who must be 'unfriended' in the new parlance. Jane, I adore your polka-dot dress, and the paddling picture is a gem. Happy New Year!!

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    1. Patricia, this is so very kind of you and we are so happy to be back in circulation once more.

      After some rather grim months leading up to Christmas we were glad to be able to have a complete break and really believe that the warmth and rest have helped considerably. Now even the Hungarian winter does not seem so bad.

      Seldom in life have we been let down by friends so when such a thing occurs it comes as something of a shock, particularly where unpleasant, devious tactics are concerned.

      We both send you every good wish for the year ahead and thank you so much for taking the time and trouble to comment.

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  41. Happy new year to you both and may 2015 bring good health and happiness. :-)

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    1. And we wish you the same, Matthew, together with every success in all that you do.

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  42. Lovely to have you both return and posting.
    I do hope your visits to hospital will soon be done and dusted and behind you, for you both to enjoy your days more fully.
    There is nothing like being near or at the sea for a holiday.
    Take care,
    Margaret

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    1. Thank you so much, Margaret, and we are delighted to be back once more.

      In the main our hospital visits are drawing to a close, hopefully, but unfortunately some remain as will always, so we are told, be the case. But that we can live with and we are now more than ready to pick up with life again and to enjoy all that lies ahead.

      We send you our very best wishes for 2015.

      Delete
  43. It's so nice to see you both again. I hope you are feeling well. Happy New Year!

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    1. And a very happy and peaceful New Year to you, Jennifer. Thank you, the warmth of Uruguay has done us both a power of good.

      Delete
  44. It's lovely to see you back on my screen. I enjoy reading about your travels - but I think I'd enjoy reading about an afternoon of sitting in your garden - I simply like your style.
    Montevideo is one of my favourite cities. I have an old map of the harbour on a wall in my house. I'll never forget the heat, the friendliness of the people and the wonderful smell of the grills in the large market near the harbour. I'm glad that you are well enough to venture out to find the sun, and hope that you continue to soak up the Vitamin D and regain your health.

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    1. It is so kind of you to say this, and very generous too. Thank you so much.

      How splendid that you know and like Montevideo too. We found the Old Town in particular to be totally fascinating on our last visit and the market near to the harbour is exactly as you describe. This time we stayed in Pocitos, a residential suburb, but with the advantage of the beach within a minute's walk from our hotel.

      We send our best wishes to you for a peaceful and joyous 2015.

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  45. Happy New Year to you both, Jane and Lance, even though 2015 is already 10 days "old"! And welcome back to Blogland, where so many have missed you and your always fascinating posts.

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    1. And a very Happy New Year to you, Meike. Your kind and thoughtful words are greatly appreciated, thank you. For our part it is so good to be back once more.

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  46. I just knew you two were up to something happy and fun~hope you are feeling well and off to creating a healthy and happy 2015 start!

    Jane x

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    1. For us travelling outside of Europe, Jane, is a huge and exciting adventure. And whilst we do not particularly care for the long flight, the end destination is most certainly worth it as was the case this time.

      Best wishes to you for 2015. Happy New Year!

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  47. I just wanted to wish you both a very Happy and prosperous new year. I haven't been in blogland much this past year but when I do check in its always nice to see a post from you I enjoy reading about your visits. Best wishes to you both, Dee :-)

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    1. Dear Delia,

      We cannot possibly say how very touched we are that you should take the time and trouble to comment. Thank you SO much.

      That you do not really post much any more is a disappointment both to ourselves and to many, many others. But we do understand. What we so much hope is that everything is working out well for you and we send you our very best wishes for a happy, peaceful and successful 2015.

      Delete
  48. "Sometimes you put walls up not to keep people out, but to see who cares enough to break them down." Socrates
    Welcome back, your photos brighten up a cold, gray day.
    Happy new year!
    Olympia

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    1. And how we concur with Socrates.

      Thank you so much, Olympia. We are happy to be back and in touch once more with so many of our friends in the Blogosphere. We send you our very warmest wishes for the year which lies ahead.

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  49. I was delighted to see your note about a comment I'd left at Paul K's tribute to his grandmother -- and scurried here to assure myself you had escaped The Hospital. It is good to see you warming and healing in such a lovely place!

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    1. How nice of you to take the time and trouble to comment. We found the Paul K tribute to be most moving and touched us greatly.

      Happily The Hospital, if not entirely behind us, is now more manageable and the warmth of Uruguay has certainly set us up to cope. And now we are once more looking forward to the year ahead and especially to reconnecting with all of our friends in the Blogosphere. Happy New Year!

      Delete
  50. Sanatoriums of Switzerland? I spent 6 weeks in one of those places and still own the straitjacket to prove it!

    It is so wonderful to see your exciting travels and that you are both well enough to travel again: my chauffeur/butler, Juan (from Rio de Janeiro) was mesmerised by the strikingly beautiful images of Jane Hattatt on my computer screen as I read your latest entry this morning.

    You look absolutely beautiful, Jane, in these latest photographs.

    I also love the photos of Pocitos, particularly the extraordinary colours of the houses, compared with the drab shopfront of the Supermercado WinDixie: the dazzling hues remind me of my 2012 trip to the Bo-Kaap neighbourhood in Cape Town, as well as the pastels of Ellerman House where I lodged, and the 'all-the-colours-in-the-rainbow' sea-anenomes I glimpsed at the lovely, lonely Sandy Bay.

    I would love to know more about Uruguayan beaches. I wonder what items one could buy within the Supermercado Windixie and if you even dared to venture inside given its forboding appearance?

    You are both in my thoughts a lot, and I am so happy that you're both feeling better and have travelled to the Southern Hemisphere to 'winter' there; the Northern Hemisphere, particularly here in northwest Buckinghamshire, is absolutely as bleak and cold as you could possibly imagine.

    Happy New Year, darlings! May everything you wish for come true in 2015.

    Lots and lots of love to you both,
    Fanny xxx

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    1. Darling Fanny,

      How absolutely dreadful to have been incarcerated in a straitjacket in a Swiss sanatorium for all of that time. You poor darling. But how deliciously exciting too! And what wonderful dinner party stories it must make. We are tempted to make up something similar about ourselves. Does consumption, which is most likely appalling but sounds so very romantic, merit such treatment?

      As far as Juan is concerned, we are both mesmerised!! How divine! And how splendid he must look when driving the Royce.

      We too loved all the colours of Montevideo and the vitality which lies behind the bland frontages of the apartment blocks which line the sea/River Plate front. The Pocitos beach is wonderful and beautifully sandy but, alas, without any shade. This does not appear to present a problem to the South Americans who disport themselves, half naked, for hours on end in full sun. And yes, we did brave the little supermarket on two occasions to purchase goodies for picnics on the beach.

      We are, thank you, so very much better and now ready to face all that 2015 has to offer. Take care of yourself in the bleak mid-winter of North Buckinghamshire and stay warm. As it happens, we have friends who live very close to Chequers so one day we might just come knocking at your door!!

      We both send our best love and every good wish for the year which lies ahead.

      J&L, xxx

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  51. Glad the convalescence is going well. It looks as if you had a very invigorating holiday in Montevideo.

    Strange, the guy at El Viejo y Querido looks the spitting image of the guy bottom right at La Dulcería. Are they by any chance brothers?

    Oops, I read "taking the waters" as "taking the waiters". I think not!

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    1. We are, thank you, Nick, feeling much, much better and are really happy to be connecting with everyone. Montevideo was wonderfully warm and enormous fun.

      As it happens it is Luciana [bottom right at La Dulceria] but we do blame the mistaken identity on our camera which is, believe us, of the most basic kind. As far as we are aware she is no relation to the waiter at El Viejo y Querido. But who knows? It is a country with a very small population.

      And no, we did not 'take' the waiters!!!

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  52. Dear Lazy Tarts - I'm pretty sure that the Hattat's being lazy, is what most of the world call being on holiday!! How lovely to hear from you and read about your latest adventure in South America. I'm glad you followed your Doctors orders to relax. Here's hoping the New Year brings you health, happiness, a whole lot of fun, surrounded by friends who don't let you down!
    Looking forward to reading all about it.
    Sending you some good old Aussie sunshine
    Wren x

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    1. Dear Wren,

      We really are the laziest of all possible Tarts and if you were to know the truth of it you would probably despise us instantly!!

      But it is so lovely to hear from you and, once more after a far too prolonged absence, mostly of necessity, to be back in touch with everyone again.

      South America was wonderful and so lovely to have a period of real sunshine after the bleakness of the Hungarian winter. Now we are a little envious of you enjoying your summer months.

      Thank you so much for your kind good wishes. In return we wish you and your family a joyous, peaceful and successful 2015.

      J&L, xxx

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  53. So pleased to hear from you and know that you are doing well. Here is to a healthy and happy 2015. Take care Diane

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    1. This is so very kind of you, Diane. For our part we wish you every possible joy and success throughout 2015 and beyond. It is so good to be back in touch.

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  54. Happy New Year! It was so nice to see your post and to hear that you are both doing better and had the opportunity to be able to enjoy your recovery in such a charming, warm and enjoyable setting.

    Enjoyed the photos, especially the one of Jane wadding, too cute!

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    1. And a very Happy New Year to you, Adrienne, and may it bring you all that you could wish for. Thank you so much for your concern. The warmth of South America did, we feel, do us both enormous good and a complete change from the Hungarian winter. The paddling, in what is after all the mouth of the River Plate, was huge fun!!

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  55. Dear Jane and Lance,
    I'm glad that you are back again, and well.
    My best wishes for a Happy 2015! Britta

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    1. Dear Britta,

      How really kind. Thank you. We both trust that all is well with you and wish you and your family peace, good health and joy in the year which lies ahead.

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  56. Dear Jane and Lance,
    Thank you for sharing these beautiful moments and stories of your stay in Uruguay.
    I love the pictures and they conjure up memories of my childhood and teenage years.

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    1. Dear Julia,

      One of the great joys of 'sharing' one's experiences and adventures in this way is that it puts one in touch with people such as yourself which serves so much to enrich our own lives. We wish you much peace and joy throughout 2015 and beyond.

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  57. What lovely post! I am glad that you are both well and happy!
    Happy 2015 to you both.
    Wish I could see you walking on the pier at Brighton one day!

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    1. Thank you so much, Kay. This is both very kind and generous of you. And we wish you every happiness throughout the year which lies ahead.

      Perhaps one day we may well be on Brighton pier; it is not unheard of!!

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  58. Dear Jane and Lance
    Welcome back to the land of the living. It looks as though your soujourn to Montevideo is doing you the world of good. Here's wishing you a healthy and happy 2015.
    Elaine

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    1. Dear Elaine,

      Thank you so much. It really is good to be back and we have missed you all. But, as with all good friendships, the passage of time never matters. We both send you our warmest wishes for the year that lies ahead.

      J&L

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  59. Lance and Jane, I am so happy to see you back... I have been thinking about you and praying that everything was good for you. I was super thrilled to see that you posted when I pulled up my list of blogs.

    I want to wish you the happiest New Year ... I hope it is a great one for you both. I look forward to all your new adventures, you continually make me smile with all your pictures and adventures you have lived...

    Once again, it is so good to hear you are doing well.. xox

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    1. What can we possibly say, Launna? This is so exceptionally kind of you and so much appreciated. We are, of course, so pleased to be 'back', a return made all the more joyous by comments such as yours here.

      For our part we really trust that you will find peace and happiness in the year as it unfolds and will, as always, be able to draw on that great inner strength which we know you possess. J&L, xxx

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  60. I was so pleased to see a post from you both. I'm delighted that you are back to health and out and about again. You seem to have found some wonderful places to eat and drink...a lovely friendly group indeed!

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    1. Thank you so much. It is indeed good to be back in touch with everyone again. We much enjoyed what was our second time in Montevideo and met so many very wonderful people.

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  61. Hello Hattats! How wonderful to see you again. I'm so glad to hear your recuperation is well underway and I'd just like to re-iterate Andrew's above comment that you really do spread goodwill one restaurant at a time!
    What unusual places you get to! Uruguay looks wonderful and the people lovely.
    Looking forward to many more of your posts in the New Year. Arohanui, Jody

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    1. This is so very kind of you, Jody, but as we all know, and since we are so recently returned from South America, it takes two to tango!

      It was our second visit to Uruguay where, once again, we found the people to be exceptional and, even allowing for our dismal lack of Spanish, we made so many wonderful connections and friends. It is a fascinating country and, to our eyes, so very different from Europe.

      For now, we both wish you peace, joy and success in this coming year.

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  62. Dear Jane and Lance,
    It is so very nice to see you both again. I hope your trip was rejuvenating, Uruguay is a lovely place filled with lovely people, I guess that's why you kee going back! Welcome home!

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    1. Thank you so much for this warm welcome home, Amelia. Yes, you are right, we do so much like Uruguay for the wonderful, outgoing, warm hearted people who live there as well as for the life and strangeness of a country so very different from our own.

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  63. How bona to varda your dolly ecafs again. I thoroughIy enjoyed reading your bucolic seaside frolic of Uruguay. Have you tried the health benefits of Benidorm? Wish you both a very happy New Year you deserve it.

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    1. Lanzarote, Benidorm and Rimini are, as you may imagine, at the top of our wish list [sigh] but as yet these are pleasures which must remain a dream. Uruguay is huge fun and inhabited by the most wonderful people but we doubt that it could compare with Scunthorpe!!

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  64. Dear Jane and Lance, what a joy to find this post from you all. Even if January has now advanced across a selection of 2015 calendar pages, I think that I will now offer a New Year's toast to you all.

    May 2015 nourish your joie de vivre and glorious gifts for adventure! xo

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    1. Believe us, Frances, it is so good after such a prolonged absence, largely of necessity, to be back in touch with everyone once more and to catch up with all the comings and goings of so many who, like yourself, we regard as friends. May we, in return, raise a virtual glass to you for peace, happiness and success throughout the year which lies ahead? Happy New Year! xxx

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  65. So sorry to read that you have been unwell I hope the sunshine has restored your health and spirits and 2015 will be good for you. Sarah x

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    1. Thank you so much. We are indeed much, much better and with fewer hospital visits lined up life is certainly improving. The warmth of a South American summer proved to be an excellent tonic.

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  66. My dearest Jane and Lance,

    Welcome back! If I were beside you, I feel as if I should give you a big hug for bringing Eden back again in our world. Your convalescence period in Montevideo was absolutely exquisite and I am sure that it was also restful and beneficial. Oh my dears, your holiday pictures exude sunlight, elegance (you both travel in style) and warmth. It seems everything is so verdant, smiling and balmy - so consoling and resting-place for the wearied spirits - even the sight of dear Jane paddling in the river is happiness. Your radiance spreads calmly among the barren mountains of our lives.

    I wish you both a very happy New Year.

    With best wishes,

    ASD

    PS. During your absence, I believe I might have cultivated a few acquaintances with some of your devoted readers.

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    1. Dearest ASD,

      This is so much more than a little kind of you. We have, largely of necessity, been away for far too long and now, refreshed and warmed by the summer suns of South America, we are back once more.

      Montevideo is a city of huge variety; an old town, historic, colourful buildings, street markets, strange museums, modern apartment blocks, small squares and parks, cafés and restaurants and, of course, a long, long frontage to the River Plate at the point where it meets the South Atlantic. All such fun and totally different from Europe.

      We both join in wishing you good health, peace and joy throughout 2015 and beyond. And how lovely that we are gathering friends together!

      Delete
  67. There you are.....i miss you...That must be a great Tine....happy new year...love from me Ria...x!

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    1. Thank you so much, Ria. We too have missed everyone, and not least yourself. A belated Happy New Year.

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  68. Like everyone who knows you and follows your blog, I'm thrilled to see this post (and thanks for the e-mail) and to know you were able to enjoy your South American adventure, despite some ups and downs! Great pics too.

    Healthy, joyful days in this new year - we still hope to see you come Spring!
    Hugs - Mary

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    1. It is truly wonderful to be 'back', Mary, and to be reconnected with so many of our friends in the Blogosphere. South America was a splendid tonic and we have returned all the better for the break in the warmth and sunshine of South America.

      We do so hope that all is well with you and wish you peace, joy and good health throughout the year and beyond.

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  69. Welcome back. It is very good to see you again and to know you are both well. Here's to a healthy and happy 2015 and many more adventures.

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    1. It is, Elizabeth, so very good to be back and catching up with everyone once more. A belated Happy New Year to you too.

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  70. Good to see you back! I was wondering what had happened to you and was sorry to see you had been ill (both of you?). NOthing too desperately serious, I hope. I too have had a spell in hospital in the loving arms of the NHS - very loving, in my case, but am now restored thank goodness. Happy New Year.

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    1. We are so sorry to hear that you have been unwell too, Stephanie, and really hope that you are back to normal once more. Despite bad publicity, in our view the NHS cannot be faulted and we are able to say the same for the Hungarian Health Authority from whom we have received remarkable care. A belated Happy New Year to you too.

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  71. Jane... So nice to see you here. There is little that the warmth of the sun, a sea breeze in your face, and the company of interesting people won't cure. Your recuperative trip sounds wonderful. You are so kind to share. May good health and contentment be the standard for you and Lance in 2015!

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    1. Thank you so much, Susan. After some very grim weeks leading up to Christmas we really feel that our time of recuperation in South America has done us a power of good - a touch of summer in the midst of winter, so to speak!

      We too wish you all the very best for this year.

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  72. Glad to have you back and we look forward to many more posts in 2015.

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    1. And it is really good to be back in touch with everyone once more. The start of the New Year is always an exciting time.

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  73. Dear Jane and Lance,

    Firstly I am very sorry I missed your post and to hear that you had been unwell. Welcome back and so lovely to see you here again.
    What a lovely place to take a little trip away in the sunshine and at the beach - looks like a gorgeous place.
    Do hope that 2015 will be a great year for you both - wishing you all the very best with good health and happiness.
    Sending hugs
    Carolyn

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    1. Please do not apologise for anything, Carolyn, and thank you so much for the warm welcome back.

      It was our second time in Montevideo and so we are now starting to feel that we know something of that most interesting city. Besides all else it was wonderful to capture a few weeks of summer in the middle of our winter.

      We too wish you peace, joy and good health throughout 2015 and beyond. xxx

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  74. Dearest Jane and Lance,
    How wonderful that you got the chance to go to Montevideo .. Paraguay...
    It all sounds so wonderful.... the Hattatt way... You so enjoy life and visit so many interesting places.. meeting all the lovely people.
    You are both looking good.
    Its wonderful to see you.
    May2015 be a very happy one for you both.
    val xx

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    1. Certainly, Val, we think of ourselves as most fortunate to have the opportunity to travel and we enjoyed our Christmas/New Year break in South America enormously. What is more, the sunshine really was a tonic.

      We send you our warmest possible wishes for this new year and are so happy to be back in touch once more.

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  75. Wishing you a glorious New Year full of sunshine and travels!
    Sx

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    1. Thank you. And we most certainly wish the same to you. xxx

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  76. It's nice to see you back here. Happy New Year!

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    1. And, thank you, Jane, it is so very good to be back in touch with everyone again.

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  77. How strange, only last week I was wondering what you were up to (and getting a bit concerned) and now, here you are. And what a stunning place you are in. Your photos tell me that you are both doing well. Therefore, I will wish you many more adventures in 2015.

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    1. This is most kind of you and thank you for your concern. Although our time in Montevideo was somewhat different from how we had originally planned, we could not have had a better time and in the event met with so many genuine and warm hearted people.

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  78. Hello Jane and Lance, lovely to see you back in Blogland by way of South America. Sounds like the perfect place to convalesce and come back to yourselves. Sorry to hear about your young friend, that sounds very upsetting. I can tell how much you liked him, so it must have hurt. Montevideo sounds lovely. My aunt and uncle lived there for a few years and I always regretted not making it out there.

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    1. How amazing that your uncle and aunt lived for a while in Montevideo and what a pity that you never had the opportunity to visit them there. It really is a fascinating city with a life and culture very different from that which we know in Europe and, doubtless, the United States.

      As we know to our cost, it is very difficult to deal with those who lack any kind of integrity or morality.

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  79. Yey!......the travellers are back in 'adventureland' again. I do hope you are recovered.

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    1. Thank you, Gary. We are certainly 'back' and very much better than we were in the months leading up to Christmas.

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  80. How interesting, what a great trip! You always seem to do the most fascinating things xxx

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    1. Uruguay is, we feel, a most fascinating country and representative of so very much previously unknown to us. Above all, the people are exceptionally welcoming and warm hearted.

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  81. Oh dearest Jane and Lance, I knew that you had plans for Uruguay again and that it would be a solo adventure. Bravo for you both!! I am thrilled that your health had improved so you could make the trip. Friends? You two are like magical velvet magnets (can you imagine such a thing?) and attract people of all places into your circle. Looking at the photos, I can tell that it was a "great crowd!" (wink)

    Although it is still winter in Budapest, the warm sun, sand beaches, and clear waters of Uruguay should sustain you until the crocus appear in Budapest. You are on my mind often, and I must have checked a hundred times to see if you had posted again.

    Be well with continued happiness in 2015. I adore you both. Please send my regards to Timea, to Maté, to Uri, Teddy, and the ever elusive Richard.

    gros bisous,
    Genie

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    1. Dearest Genie,

      Even up to the point of departure for Montevideo, there was some doubt as to whether we should be able to go. In the event we are so glad that we did for it was wonderful to snatch some summer sun in the midst of a Hungarian winter and we really had an exceedingly enjoyable, although frightfully lazy, time.

      Of course [why would we not?!!!] we met up with a 'great crowd' [at this point wave hand casually in the air] but it would have been made all the greater had you and Alexa been with us.

      Thank you so much for your concern. The months before Christmas were not easy but, hopefully, we are over the worst. And neither you nor Alexa must ever consider coming to Europe without spending time with us here. For now we are reminded daily of you both by your lovely, and most generous, gifts.

      All you messages will most certainly be given to Tímea, Máté, Ari, Teddy, Edward, andthe 'elusive' Richard!!

      Our very best love as always, J&L, xxx

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    2. Montevideo was a wonderful destination for you adventurous travelers. Although you had been there before it is quite different when you are on your own and you do not speak the language. I know that your spirits were lifted to breath in the warm moist air of summer. You can hardly claim to be Lazy Tarts but I do love the term! Hummmm... lazy tarts with a great crowd.

      Sorry for missing slightly on Ari's name.

      I can still close my eyes and conjure every moment of our magnificent visit.

      Love to you both, you "lazy tarts"!
      Genie

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    3. You are absolutely right when you say that Montevideo is the perfect choice for us. Summer when it is Winter here in Budapest and all slightly crumbly and a little on the wild side.And, it does feel adventurous or, should one say, slightly scary when one does not speak the language and there is very little English spoken there. But the people are so very warm and friendly and always seem genuinely concerned to give one a good time.

      Do believe us, dearest Genie, when we say that we have degrees....no, doctorates in Lazy Tarting. We have made an art of it! But it does afford us the most wonderful opportunities for people watching....which we do....endlessly!

      Mate will give his next exhibition at Ari's gallery in March. We shall definitely be thinking of you and Alexa then.

      All love from us both,

      J and L xx

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  82. Wishing you both a happy and healthy new year, Jane and Lance, what an interesting and exotic holiday.

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    1. Thank you so much. In return we send you our very warmest wishes for this year, 2015, and beyond.

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  83. How reassuring to see you among us once more, dear Jane and Lance, and with your usual unpredictability and predilection for showing up in far-flung places: far be it from you to sit at home watching the world go past. I'm glad you have shaken off betrayal and illness and are keeping the cultural boat afloat again, and making friends, as ever, where you go. May it be the best of years for you!

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    1. Dearest Mise,

      How it cheers us to see you pop into the comment box.

      As we get older we get more nervous about taking on adventures that we would not have given second thoughts about in our youth. Still, somehow we always live 'on the edge' as we really do not know how to do otherwise.

      Of all the things in life which we find difficult to cope with, unkindness hurts us more than we can say. But, one must guard against never trusting again since there are countless friendships which we have made which have endured decades. This encourages us to try, try again!

      One day our cultural boat must sail to Ireland for there is so much that intrigues and entices us there. One day we may well knock on the door of your Aga warmed kitchen and settle ourselves on the pink sofa......if we are allowed. A joy beyond compare!

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  84. I am glad to hear you two are up and traveling and well again. I like the way you describe the relaxation you enjoyed in Uruguay, and I admire the colorfully painted houses. You have the right attitude, when betrayed, still trust others, friends old and new.

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    1. The architecture of Montevideo is absolutely fascinating and very varied across each of its districts. Sadly, much of the shoreline looks the same with modern apartment blocks but, just a street behind, there are wonderful examples of Art Nouveau architecture. In the Old Town there are so many fabulous buildings just waiting to be saved....

      It is, as you say, important not to lose trust in all one's friends because of the actions of a single person. However, this is easier said than done. Having few family members, friends are very important to us and we do treasure them.

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  85. Just the word Montevideo sounds exciting......I am envious of your travels to exotic parts, more adventures is something I'd like to rectify in my own life this year!!

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    1. When we were working and had a large garden to attend to, we rarely ventured very far from home. But, nowadays, without these responsibilities, we love to discover new places. It is absolutely true, we feel, that travel does broaden the mind.

      That said, we also like to return to places in order to have a deeper experience than that of a one off tourist visit. This year was our second visit to Montevideo and it was good to feel rather more familiar with this exciting but, at times, wild place! We intend to return.

      May 2015 bring you too great travel adventures.....after all, you are young at heart!

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  86. Can't begin to tell you how glad I am to see you back and blogging! Assumed you had gone of to Uruguay as planned, but still couldn't help worrying—especially given the state of your health lately. But you look quite fit and happy in the photos. Just wish Genie and I could come and hear all about your Montevideo adventures in person. Meanwhile, trust you are continuing to take good care of each other. Warm greetings to Maté (who is also much better, I hope), Timea, and Ari—and extra large hugs to both of you. XOXO
    (Blanche Dubois sends bisous to Edward and Teddy.)

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    1. Darling Alexa,

      Without a doubt Montevideo with the company of you and Genie would have been at least four times the fun! But, the stories can wait until we are all next assembled in the same country together, something that we wish will happen sooner rather than later.

      The warmth of the sun and the fresh sea air were just the tonics we needed although adjusting to the freezing temperatures of Budapest on our return has been difficult.

      Edward and Teddy have not been the same since Blanche's visit. She quite turned their heads and even Coppelia at the Opera House could not console them!

      Hoping that 2015 has begun well for you and that it continues to bring you joy, peace and success. All love from us both, J and L xx

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  87. That place looks idyllic. I especially like the colorful street. Makes me want to live there. :)

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    1. We certainly find much of interest in Montevideo and on this, our second visit, we enjoyed it even more.

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  88. Jane and Lance, it was such a surprise to see you again! I have recently found you two again from the fabulous Tabitha. This post reminds me of my favorite motto" Live! Live! Lifes a banquet, and some sorry sons of bitches are starving to death!" The line is from Auntie Mamie with Rossnlad Russell. You two definitely enjoy the banquet, and much can be learned here, by hanging back, looking, and enjoying life's treats. Your trip looks heavenly. Take care till next time! Xoxo

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    1. Darling Maddie,

      How simply divine that we have the terrific Tabs in common. Now there can be house parties in Blogtopia. What fun!

      What a delicious line from Auntie Mame. It sounds just as if our friend, Richard, is right here with us now who is capable of reciting off by heart everything from the Golden Age of Hollywood. We suspect that, possibly, you can too!

      Montevideo was great fun and was definitely needed to sort our health issues out. And, you too will soon be jetting off to some luxurious resort. We do so hope you have a wonderful time. Hurry back!

      Thank you for becoming our latest follower. We know that riotous times lie ahead!

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  89. It's a relief to hear that you are both doing better. What a marvelous place to rest and relax!

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    1. Sarah, thank you so much for your concern. Montevideo was indeed the tonic we badly needed. We do not 'do' water but the sea air and the sunshine worked wonders.

      Hoping that all is well in your corner of the world and that the latest novel will soon be off the printing presses. May 2015 bring peace, joy and continued success.

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  90. My dear Hattats, how the devil are you? I read between the lines that things were a little tricky, I do hope that all is well now after your wonderful looking and sounding trip to Montevideo. I hope that 2015 is filled with magic and romance, fun and frolics, good health and good friends. It is lovely to be back in touch with you. All my love, Linda xx

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    1. Linda, we are all the better for hearing from you. Indeed, how the devil are you too?!

      You read correctly between the lines. Things have been somewhat difficult on a number of fronts but, hopefully, the worst is now behind us. It was so good to have the sun and sea air although a return to the cold of Budapest has been something of a shock to the system.

      And, you have been away for so long too. We do miss our blog chums when they are not around. We do so hope that you and your family are well and that it has only been good things which have kept you absent for so long.

      Still, albeit virtually, we are together now and we take this opportunity to wish you peace, joy and prosperity in the coming year. Love from us both, J and L xx

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    2. Thank you so much for that lovely message and for the one you left on my blog. It has been too long, I agree. Hopefully you will not be in the cold for too long before you are off on one of your fabulous adventures, but until then, keep warm and stay happy. All my love, Linda x

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    3. We seem to have spent far too long just recently staring at the ceiling of a plane so, for now at least, we shall stay at home and immerse ourselves in the cultural life of Budapest, something that is definitely missing in Montevideo.

      You are an absolute artist with flowers, Linda, no wonder you are so much in demand. Take care. J and L xx

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  91. What a nice post. I am sorry that I missed it when it first appeared. I am really only just getting back into the blogging groove, and am not very far back into it! Uruguay is a place I had hardly any thoughts about. One of those places that was just a name. Your pictures and words have brought it to life. How interesting it sounds. Another place I would like to visit, now. Always nice to know people when you visit a place, though I am sorry that your friends were ultimately disappointing. . Happy New Year!

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    1. It is generally true, Jenny, that knowing people in a place makes it come alive so much more. However, we did find on our second visit alone that our 'guide' had, in fact, known little about his native country. So, left to our own devices we fared rather better and connected with the local people who were, without exception, wonderfully kind and welcoming.

      Yes, Uruguay is possibly somewhere which you may enjoy exploring. We think that it is generally undiscovered amongst Europeans but it holds much of interest for the visitor. And, to swap Winter for Summer is deliciously good!

      Wishing you a joyful New Year.

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  92. It's so good to hear from you both again! The Hattatt's are back, this is excellent news! A very late Happy New Year to both of you! and from a fellow Lazy Tart, I'm so glad you both relaxed and enjoyed your beautiful surroundings, a life without naps is hellish hehe! it's one of my fundamental beliefs! here's to a magnificent 2015 (sadly it's to early to clink a glass of anything alcoholic, boo, I hope a robust cup of tea will do!) x x x

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    1. Thank you for your wonderfully spirited welcome back, Sandra. It is so good to return to the Land of Blog and see what all our chums are up to.

      We hesitate to confess that rarely is it too early for something alcoholic if only a tipple will do......and only one of us drinks tea. So, a virtual glass of champagne us raised to you and your family for a splendid 2015.

      We look forward to hearing of your adventures.....we never know what is coming next!

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  93. So glad to hear that you are on the mend and that your South American adventure was more than worth it, despite the let down by your 'friend'.

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    1. Yes, the trip was just what the doctor did not order.....but it was exactly what we needed. Sun and sea air......two of the best tonics.

      Thank you for your kind words. They mean a lot. Wishing you all joy for 2015 and trust that all is well with you in your corner of the world.

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  94. I was hoping that you two would pop up again. I just know that the sunshine there must have warmed your very souls. Great choice of pictures. Love the brightly colored houses. janey

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    1. Yes, Janey, you are absolutely right. The sun and sea air really did work their magic on us.

      The architecture of Montevideo is incredibly varied and, for that, most intriguing. Alas, all along the seafront one sees any number of unmemorable apartment blocks, but, just one street behind,there are the most wonderful treasures hidden from view and waiting to be discovered. Art Nouveau of the highest quality and, as you point out, the brightly coloured houses are a joy.

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  95. Just seeing your sunny shots of Uruguay is enough to add warmth to my frosty English evening. Good to have you back in Blogland and hope the holiday has been a tonic for you both.

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    1. Certainly we are missing the warmth and light of Uruguay having returned to a cold, grey and somewhat damp Budapest. But it is so good to be connecting with everyone once more.

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