Day #12 – Rain takes us inside

The viking display goes through the glass to the front!

Goofing around in the gift shop!

Today was a nice, leisurely morning.   Most everyone was up by 10, and we were eating a big English breakfast by 11 (baked beans, bacon, eggs and sausages) – thank you Nicola!  After a quick cleanup, we were ready to leave the house. Nicola and Isaac had to go back to Douglas for his second performance, so the rest of us headed to Peel. As it was still raining nonstop, we spent the early part of the afternoon in the House of Manannan.  It’s another museum that gives the history of the island and it’s settlers.  It was very hands-on and interactive.  One point of interest was the Viking replica ship that was built and sailed from Norway to Isle of Man in 1979 to commemorate the Millennium of Tynwald.  It’s a beautiful ship on display now. We spent a few hours in the museum (and, of course the museum gift shop!) before heading across the street to The Creek Inn for drinks and a snack.

After a quick stop back home, we were headed to the house of a friend for an evening party.  Originally Isaac’s school was supposed to have a picnic, and Chris’ band, The Inconceivables, was supposed to play.  Once the picnic was cancelled due to the weather, Chris had asked if anyone would like to host a party so they could still play.  One of their friends said yes, and so there we were!

The Inconceivables!

We enjoyed an afternoon of meeting people, visiting, and hearing the incomparable Inconceivables!  The family had a Wii, so all the kids that came also had a grand time. It was a fun evening, and we enjoyed meeting everyone and dancing to Chris’ band. At the potluck I had an amazing dessert called Eton Mess, which is basically berries and merengue smashed together.  I must find a recipe!

We came home, bathed the youngest children, and put them to bed.  We then watched a movie called “Keeping Mum” which was filmed predominantly on the Isle of Man, and even features a cameo by the Jagus family’s own Isobel!  It stars Maggie Smith, Rowen Atkinson and Patrick Swayzee and is very funny.  I recommend it highly!

After the movie, we retired for the evening.  We are supposed to go to the Calf of Man tomorrow for an overnight (an uninhabited island with no electricity, nothing except a cabin structure, wood and a deck of cards!).  It’s in question now because it continues to rain.  We’ll make a decision tomorrow morning when the weather is more accurate (we hope!)