Chapter 2 - Early days

When one embarks on a completely new way of life, one where you have no previous knowledge or experience, you rely heavily on professionals who can hold your hand and get you on your way.

We were blessed. Our solicitor, Emma, Donaldson & Dunstall was absolutely marvellous and not only did she execute her part of proceedings brilliantly but pointed us in the direction of Simon of SWG designs, who has manfully taken on the daunting job of designing our building for us and doing all the technical stuff, building regs, planning permission etc.

Meanwhile, I am happily walking about a bit, introducing myself to the fellow traders on our street and getting to know our new town.

First impressions. Well, it’s not love at first sight. Of course there are some very big plusses. The iconic de la Warr pavilion, the long stretch of pebbly beach, the wonderful expanse of sky and sea, the fresh air to name but a few, but this is where we will live and I will have my shop. I need to get to grips with the ‘every day’ not the ‘trip for the day’.

Can we focus on seagulls?

Both the husband and I are great lovers of creatures in general and, I have to say we are developing a grudging respect for the population of seagulls. They are very clever. You can almost hear them talking to one another. I say this having already had our first dive bombing encounter. Husband, on the phone to me, phone and McDonalds in one hand. A loud cry, a lot of muffled noises and swearing. Two seagulls on the attack. Clearly recognised the logo and went for it. Never try and part a husband from his McDonalds! They left empty handed.