The last few weeks have been particularly trying. Ear infections, sleepless nights, bed wetting incidents, spilled milks etc.

Fortunately, we had a little break from it all. Yesterday was our 8th wedding anniversary, and my niece came to look after the rascals while we eloped to a nice meal at a Moroccan restaurant.

It was a lovely evening: fantastic food, a beautifully arranged table complete with candles and rose petals, laughter and planning for next getaway - and a little surprise from my ever- so-thoughtful husband. Some very nice vintage champagne.

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1999 - it was a very good year.

Eight years ago we were packing our bags to get on a long flight to our honeymoon destination, La Reserve on the island of Praslin, Seychelles. The island is famous for its beaches often ranked among the best in the world, the incredible Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve with its huge coco de mer trees and wild orchids, and gorgeous reefs for snorkeling.

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View from the hotel beach, the jetty restaurant at left.

We have such fond memories of our ten days on the island. Beachcombing on the pristine white beaches, snorkeling with hawksbill turtles, leisurely afternoon naps during rain showers. Incredibly romantic meals under the stars in the jetty restaurant. Beautiful discoveries of fruit never tasted before every morning at breakfast.

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                         Sunset on Grande Anse, one of Praslin's many beaches.

Unfortunately our planned 5-day vacation in October is not quite long enough for a visit to the Seychelles. But someday, we will definitely go back.