The White Cliffs of Dover

As I mentioned in my last post, today is the two week mark of my return from England.

My thoughts are with my Dad and the day I spent in Dover.

Thanks to my friend who drove to Eastbourne in the morning to get me, and then to Dover, Deal, and delivered me back again that same night, I was able to enjoy the experience of being in the place where my paternal ancestry lived.

However, I know I need to follow what my father's advice would be regarding my 'platonic' friendship with this man.

As much as I like his company, I feel no 'chemistry' as he does, and to be fair, I can no longer enjoy the friendship as I once did when I was 'unaware' of his attraction to me.

Another loss, yet I believe it is a necessary one for both of us. I thank my friend for what he has brought to my life, and I wish him well in his life and love.

That day in England, I walked the Dover pier where my first 'sign' that my father was with me appeared before my feet.

The 'ladybug' has a special significance for my daughters and me regarding my Dad. It not only brings 'luck', but also carries a message of his 'presence'.

The ferries frequenting Calais, Boulogne and other French and British ports of call were captured by my lens as I stood on the pier.

The morning fog lifted by early afternoon, enabling me to see the country 22 miles from where I stood at the Dover cliffs.

France is home to the Normans, of whom my father and I in turn descend, who invaded England, changing the course of history, including my own.

I have not stood on that French ground yet; however, now I have seen it.

I acquired a piece of 'chalk' from the cliffs, as well as a perfect lone 'snail' shell which appeared intact at my feet while I stood there.

Snail shells are mostly made from calcium carbonate, the same as the 'chalk' which form the white cliffs of Dover.

Thank you . . .