THE HOUGHTON BEACH PARTY

HUGO DE GROOT

2010-05-16T01:59:00.000Z

"Shun this tomb, ye who do not burn with love of knowledge and liberty". The epitaph of ancestor, Hugo de Groot (1583-1645). Jurist and Philosopher, his book 'Concerning War and Peace' is regarded
as the founding work on international law as practised today.

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=10287

2010-05-04T07:28:00.002Z

Its a Double Whammy today.

'Happy Birthday'

to Maria'

and

'Happy Wedding Anniversary'!

Tim & Maria

2010-05-03T07:22:00.000Z

PETER HOUGHTON

(Cousin to Annette and the late Houghton brothers: Adrian, Christopher & Jonathan)

86th Birthday

Monday 3 May

in Sydney Australia

We all hope you had a

"G'day mate"

[Annette was going to try and telephone you last year when I visited her in September. Did she ever get around to it?]

2010-04-28T01:18:00.002Z

28 April 28 April 28 April 28 April

SAM & INDIA'S

SECOND BIRTHDAY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

28 April 28 April 28 April 28 April

2010-04-23T10:04:00.001Z

23 April

Happy Birthday Kate

2010-04-15T10:57:00.003Z

13 APRIL 2010

CONGRATULATIONS

ON THE WEDDING

KARLA & ALEX

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING ERN

2010-04-05T12:38:00.004Z

Please welcome

Ern Unwin

(son to Abigail (Houghton) and Joe Unwin).

Ern arrived on

Easter Saturday, 3 April 2010.

Congratulations to Mum and Dad.

Lets hope they call his brother "Eric".

I suppose if its a sister she could be an "Erica"

MINISTERING AND DEMENTIA

2010-03-22T11:12:00.003Z

Many of us will have to deal with the scourge of dementia. I recently read an article written on ministering to dementia patients. A passage that stood out for me was this:

"...I may not be able to affirm you, to remember who you are or whether you visited me. But you have brought Christ to me. If I enjoy your visit, why must I remember it? Why must I remember who you are? Is this just to satisfy your own need for identity? So please allow Christ to work through you. Let me live in the present. If I forget a pleasant memory, it does not mean it was not important for me. .’

No matter the outward appearance of a person's mental state, we should always assume that although 'the lights are out, there may still be someone at home'.

If you want to read the whole article, see it on my friend's blog by clicking the following link: Communion & Dementia.

HENRY VAVASOR SAUNDERS DAVIDS

2010-03-04T10:36:00.004Z

I have recently been doing some research on this ancestor. I have not got far, but I thought I would post what I have. I will add more information as it comes to hand.

Born 6 September 1852, Colchester, Essex
Died 30 June 1921, Devonport, Devon
Married Brigitte Constance Henriette de Groot

British Consul, Batavia 14 December 1896 to 1 April 1902 when he retired.

THE LONDON GAZETTE, 11 OCTOBER, 1921. page 8011

The above link is an article covering the death and execution of the will. Note his addresses are listd as:

Hillier House
Hillier Road
Guildford
Surrey and,

North Corner
Saltash
Cornwall

Google Earth shows Hillier Almshouses which appear to be sheltered accommodation for elderly ladies now. Its not clear if this was the location of Henry's home described in the Gazette. I found no "North Corner" in or around Saltash.

The solicitors acting for the estate were:
Foyer, White, Borrett & Black
26 Essex Street
Strand
London WC2

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENTS

2010-03-01T03:31:00.001Z

13 April 2010 Karla Janette Tandy to Alex Willows
21 August 2010 Dorian Carlos Knight to Allyson Oates

2010 !!

2009-12-31T05:16:00.002Z

Can you believe it?
2010 !!

A
VERY
HAPPY, HEALTHY
PROSPEROUS (WELL WE KNOW THAT'S NOT GOING TO HAPPEN)
HOUGHTON
NEW YEAR !

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-24T14:54:00.001Z

A very merry Christmas to all the Houghtons out there - wherever you are.

Lets make a resolution to expand the Blog membership in 2010.

Happy Christmas

2009-12-24T09:54:00.002Z

Hi Everyone!

We hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2010!

Joe and I are spending Christmas Eve at home in Bristol, will be our first Christmas here so we are looking forward to lighting the fire and snuggling up in front of the Christmas tree this evening. Today, I'm going to visit the church where we married to say a prayer and light a candle to remember my dear Dad and to say thanks for everything we've been blessed with this year. The baby bump is growing, due April 8th, and Joe and I are very excited about our new arrival. We have discovered from the scan that bump is a boy! Tomorrow we're off to see our families in Hampshire and eventually Devon on the 30th so hopefullly we will see lots of you soon.

Nic-hope you have a great time in the Phillipines, thinking of you too!

Anyway, hope you all have a peaceful and joyous time!

Abi xx

SKYPE CONFERENCE CALL

2009-12-12T03:56:00.001Z

I would like to try a family Skype conference call over the Christmas holiday.
Let me know if you are interested.

www.skype.com

2009-11-29T02:00:00.001Z

+++++

GRAHAM RAWLINGS'

BIRTHDAY
TODAY!

+++++

Graham officially became a member of the Houghton ''Bumble'' when he married Sally on 26 September this year

2009-11-21T04:41:00.001Z

***

BIRTHDAY GREETINGS

AUNT MARGARET

PORTSMOUTH
21 November

***

It's a boy!

2009-11-11T21:48:00.002Z

Hello all! We hope everyone is keeping well. Joe and I had our second scan of the baby last week and discovered we are expecting a baby boy! We are very excited and looking forward to his arrival, due on April 7th. All was well according to the scan pictures and we were very lucky to get some great photos to take away with us. Our new house is lovely and we are settling in nicely! Our new address is 99 Furber Road, St George, Bristol BS5 8PT. Mobile numbers remain the same. Take care and hope to see some of you at Christmas or sooner! x

VISIT TO SOLVA

2009-10-29T05:08:00.002Z

During my recent visit to UK I was able to make a journey to S W Wales and visit with Uncle Peter and Aunt Annette in their beautiful home in Solva for a few days. They were perfect hosts. Aunt Annette and I took a few walks and chatted at length about family. We even paid a visit to the archive in Haverfordwest to try and learn more about the Davids family to which we are linked. We also took a look at St Davids Cathedral. Its an impressive structure for such a small place and in its day must have been of extreme importance.
Uncle Peter's art is displayed in every room of their house.
Aunt Annette had only recently had her arm out of plaster. She fell over and broke her arm. Yes, it was an alcohol related accident, but only in that she fell over a case of wine that had been left on the living room floor.
We attended the local church on the Sunday where Aunt Annette was able to play the organ for the first time since her accident.
I spent a delightful few days in Solva. The walks, the talks or just sitting in the conservatory enjoying a pot of tea and the views over the sea, nodding or waving to the walkers that periodically walk past on their way along the coastal path.

WEDDINGS GALORE

2009-10-17T03:16:00.002Z

Also married on 26 September was Christian Hatton (son of Annette Houghton) in Oxford. Christian shares the exact same birthday as Nic and now shares a wedding anniversary with Sally.

SALLY JEANNE GETS HITCHED

2009-09-28T14:21:00.004Z

The Houghton Beach Party welcomes Graham Rawlings and his family.
Sally and Graham were married in Woodbury Salterton on Sally's birthday, Saturday 26 September 2009. They held a reception at The Digger's Rest pub.

The photos may be seen at:
http://gallery.me.com/COOKSFARMER#100030&bgcolor=black&view=grid

SUNDAY WITH MUM

2009-09-14T10:47:00.001Z

Mum took a shine to my hat. I thought I would never get it back.

Mother & Daughter

Mother & Son

Going home

A visit to Bude

2009-09-14T08:45:00.002Z

Saturday 12th September, Joe, Becky and I headed South from Bristol to make a visit to our cousins in Bude for the weekend. We stopped to pay my Dad's tree a visit on the way and found that it was still growing well, and produced several berries this year although most of them had gone over. We planted some daffodil bulbs for the Spring which hopefully will pop up around Dad's birthday in March. The next time we visit, there may well be a new member of the family joining us! I was pleased to tell Dad the news that I am expecting a baby in April, although I'm sure he already knew!!

We had a nice lunch sitting outside in the garden at the Roase and Crown before heading on to Bude.

We had a lovely BBQ at Sam's house and enjoyed playing with her two daughters, Isla and Mischa, 4 and 2 years old. Isla starts school on 14th Sept so good luck Isla!!

Julia, Tanya, Amber, Sam and India also came along and it was lovely to see everyone, and we enjoyed the sunshine late into the evening. Gareth did a fine job of cooking the food which Sam had prepared earlier!

Claire arrived later on, after travelling back from Wales with her two dogs and partner Keith, in their camper van. Bobby and Ruby (dogs) are both very sweet and are lucky to have found such a wonderful, loving home with Claire and Keith.

2009-08-28T14:36:00.004Z

28 AUGUST 28 AUGUST 28 AUGUST 28 AUGUST

DOUBLE TROUBLE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

TANIA AND JOE

28 AUGUST 28 AUGUST 28 AUGUST 28 AUGUST

2009-07-31T01:00:00.000Z

31 JULY 31 JULY 31 JULY 31 JULY 31 JULY 31 JULY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HARRY

31 JULY 31 JULY 31 JULY 31 JULY 31 JULY 31 JULY

2009-07-18T02:45:00.005Z

17 JULY 17 JULY 17 JULY 17 JULY 17 JULY

JON HOUGHTON
ITS YOUR BIRTHDAY

Have a good one!

17 JULY 17 JULY 17 JULY 17 JULY 17 JULY

2009-07-18T02:39:00.002Z

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
MISCHA
(Sam's daughter)

15 July 2009

KEEPING COOL

2009-07-02T02:10:00.001Z

For all you poor people in UK who are suffering from this temporary heat wave I have a message from my former GP in London.

Dr Rosemary Leonard gives advice on how to stay cool.

2009-06-26T00:01:00.000Z

HAPPY

10th WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

JULIAN & TANIA

26 June 2009

2009-06-24T19:37:00.007Z

Better late than never - back in May 2009 I had the priviledge of participating in a flower festival in Westminster Abbey - we finished creating this design at 2.30am - very spooky in the Abbey at night!

2009-06-22T20:29:00.003Z

Tims 40th birthday, campin in boarhunt, 19th june 2009, here are some photos.

2009-06-22T02:42:00.004Z

22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE

CONGRATULATIONS

ITS

TIM'S BIRTHDAY

ALL DAY TODAY!

22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE-22JUNE

NATHAN'S DEDICATION, JUNE 2009

2009-06-22T01:48:00.004Z

Here are some photographs of the event courtesy of Great Aunt Sally:

NATHAN

Nathan with his mother, Uncles Dorian and Jonathan and Great Aunt Sally

Nathan & Great Aunt Sally

Nathan with Mummy & Daddy

2009-06-21T07:10:00.003Z

Its mid-summer's day (in the north)

which means its

Karla's birthday

She was born in

Swaziland

29 years ago today

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KARLA !

A visit to Solva, Pembrokeshire

2009-06-09T15:51:00.006Z

Sally, Graham, Joe and I decided to pay Auntie Annette and Uncle Peter a visit on Saturday 23rd May and arrived at their beautiful home in Solva just in time for a wonderful afternoon tea, carefully prepared by Annette.

We enjoyed a lovely spread of cucumber sandwiches, strawberries and chocolate cake, as well as some delicous scones and tea!

It was a sunny, clear day, so after tea, we sat in the conservatory and enjoyed the view over the sea and into Solva Harbour. As you can see from the picure, it really is a stunning view!

Annette and Peter showed us their wedding photographs (from the year 1950) and we enjoyed seeing our parents and grandparents in their younger days along with Uncle Adrian and Uncle Chris! Sally kindly brought her photos for Annette and Peter to see, which included a photo from her parent's wedding and her childhood. Annette was very pleased to see these as after her mother died, she didnt manage to retreive many of the family photos and hadn't seen many pictures of her mother or father, apart from her wedding photos.

It was a very special day and we all enjoyed hearing tales from Annette about her youth and growing up in London where she lived in Stratford on the Green until retiring to Solva with Peter in 1986. Annette commented on how she dearly loved her mother and reffered to her as a 'darling lady whom I miss to this day'. She has a strong beleif that we will all meet again in the afterlife and a real faith in this, as our Dad also had. Sally and Graham visited Dad's grave before coming to Wales and there is a photo of the tree in full bloom!

2009-06-06T00:01:00.000Z

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

HAPPY

EIGHTH BIRTHDAY

TO AMBER

Saturday, 6 June 2009

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

2009-05-04T09:01:00.004Z

Its a Double Whammy today.

Say

'Happy Birthday'

to Maria'

and then ... wish

Tim & Maria

'Happy Wedding Anniversary'!

WANTED: UK STORAGE SPACE

2009-05-04T05:54:00.000Z

Since leaving UK in September 2007 my household effects have been stored in a garage in Eastbourne. The owner now wants to sell the garage and I need to vacate.

I have two choices:

Ship to Philippines or

Find new storage space.

There is stuff that I definitely want here (family silver, heirlooms, photographs, CD collection, books etc), but there is much that I can now do without. So, before I ship I need to weed. In the meantime, I must find approximately 10 cu metres of new storage space. It should be secure and dry. I am prepared to pay. Can anyone help?

2009-05-03T11:01:00.001Z

PETER HOUGHTON

(Cousin to Annette and the late Houghton brothers: Adrian, Christopher & Jonathan)

Celebrates 85 years

Sunday 3 May

in Sydney Australia

We all hope you had a

"G'day mate"

2009-04-28T09:23:00.003Z

SAM & INDIE'S

FIRST BIRTHDAY

Tuesday 28 April

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

2009-04-23T00:01:00.005Z

++++++ ++++ +++++ ++++ ++++

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

KATE

Thursday 23 April, 2009

St. George's Day

++++++ ++++ +++++ ++++ ++++

THE FISHERMAN'S COT

2009-03-19T15:08:00.003Z

Abi mentioned her visit to The Fisherman's Cot.

I thought I would post a picture of this beautiful venue for readers who are unfamiliar with the place.

From Paddy Burt's review in The Telegraph:

The Fisherman's Cot, on the bank of the River Exe, is where (so it's said) Paul Simon wrote Bridge Over Troubled Water. If this is true, it's easy to see why he was inspired. Beneath the ancient grey stone bridge, the River Exe is flowing so fast that its foamy waves are a mini weir.

Visit to Brean

2009-03-15T18:41:00.002Z

Joe and I went for a day trip to Weston super Mare today and took these photos of some cows at Brean beach. They were in a field of sand and seemed to be having a lovely afternoon! Today has been the hottest day of the year so far and it was a great day to visit the sea side.

Visit to Great Bradley Cottage 13/3/09

2009-03-15T18:31:00.002Z

Joe and I visited Dad's grave in Devon today and planted a new plant called an Aureomarginata which we bought on the way from a garden centre. The man there was very helpful and assisted us in choosing a suitable plant which was hardy enough to withstand the strong sun and wind on the hill where Dad's buried. It has strong smelling purple/red flowers in March and then red berries in April to match the Rowan tree, which, as you can see, is doing well! Above is a picture of the daffodil Nic planted last year which David and Linda had left for Dad.

After the planting of the new plant, we said goodbye and went for lunch to the Fisherman's Cot in Bickleigh where Dad loved to go, and saw 'The bridge over Troubled Water'. We then drove on to Exeter, passing Burrow Combe farm and Stockleigh Mill.

The new plant

Me and the Tree!

A CANDLE FOR DAD

2009-03-14T02:01:00.003Z

We attended the 5.30pm Mass and lit a candle for Dad on Friday afternoon.

Dad loved dogs so it was perhaps no surprise to see one taking a snooze between the Cathedral pews.

THIRD ANNIVERSARY

2009-03-13T03:00:00.008Z

Virac Cathedral

Dad left us three years ago today at the age of 75. Elvie suggested a visit to Virac Cathedral to light a candle for him. We shall be doing that later today. I believe Abi is planning to visit Dad's grave at the natural burial site in Devon. She will report on her visit and on the Rowan tree that we planted for him.

For pictures of Dad click on the 'Jonathan F K Houghton' link under 'PHOTOS' in the left margin.

Eastbourne Trip

2009-03-10T17:46:00.004Z

Here are a couple more photos from our trip to Eastbourne, featuring the gorgeous baby Nathan, Jono, Alison (Dorian's partner) and me!

Visit to Eastbourne

2009-03-08T22:41:00.002Z

Joe and I travelled down to Eastbourne this afternoon and met up with Dorian, Jonathan and D's partner, Alison at their house at the harbourside. We were very pleased to meet their new addition, Harvey, the Springer Spaniel and really enjoyed playing ball!

We then all went on to Betty's house and enjjoyed a delicious lunch with her, Karla and baby Nathan. What a sweetheart he is! I felt very proud to hold the newest member of the family, and felt very emotional thinking about how he'd be my father's first great grand son! He certainly had a Houghton look about him, and gave me the most wonderful smile I've ever seen from any baby. Very lovely!

Joe and I were sad to leave at 5pm, but had to get back to Bristol. We felt very happy to have seen everyone and were amazed to see Karla looking so well and trim after having a 9 pound baby only weeks ago. We look forward to another visit hopefully soon and will post more photos here when Joe downloads them from his phone. Here is one for now though......from my camera, taken just before we said goodbye!

2009-02-27T00:01:00.002Z

++++++++++

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

ABI

Friday 27 February, 2009

++++++++++

The Big Freeze!

2009-02-08T22:19:00.003Z

Well, we have had a rather cold and snowy week here in Bristol! As you can see from the picture, Joe and I have been making the most of the white stuff and been making a snow man!

NATHAN KNIGHT

2009-01-26T17:08:00.005Z

A Karla Houghton Film

A Warrior With Heart Production

Introducing

Nathan Knight

No little people were harmed in the making of this film

Monday's Child is Fair of Face

2009-01-21T07:26:00.004Z

Nathan is a popular Christian name for a boy. It has been a popular name since the birth of Christianity. It is a Hebrew word and its literal translation is "God Has Given". It can also mean "A Gift". Nathan was also the name of a Prophet in the times of David and Solomon. Nathan the Prophet was present during the reign of both Solomon and David, and therefore wrote histories about their reign. The feast day for this prophet is celebrated on 24th October. Eight other men of the same name have been in the Hebrew bible too. Nathan is also a word in the Tamil language. Its literal translation is "Son Of God". This word has been derived from the Sanskrit word "Naath/Naatha). It is also used as a name for a boy among the Tamilians

WE ARE A GRANDFATHER!

2009-01-20T03:10:00.001Z

My daughter Karla, gave birth to Nathan Knight, 9lbs in Eastbourne at 10pm GMT on Monday 19 January

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2008-12-31T15:46:00.001Z

Its approaching midnight here in the Philippines and time to wish readers of this Blog the happiest, healthiest and most prosperous of years in 2009.

Happy Christmas

2008-12-22T12:00:00.002Z

Happy Christmas everybody! We hope you all have a great holiday and a Happy New Year!

With lots of love

Abi and Joe

THE GENOGRAPHIC PROJECT

2008-12-21T01:16:00.001Z

A Landmark Study of the Human Journey

Where do you really come from? And how did you get to where you live today? DNA studies suggest that all humans today descend from a group of African ancestors who—about 60,000 years ago—began a remarkable journey.

Read more about the project at this link and learn how you may take part in the study.

Graham's Father

2008-12-01T13:10:00.002Z

I just wanted to send my best wishes to Graham, whose father had a stroke recently and is experiencing internal bleeding. I hope that he gets better very soon and makes a good recovery. Also to let Graham know that we are thinking of him and his family too.

2008-11-27T08:43:00.003Z

***

Belated

BIRTHDAY GREETINGS

AUNT MARGARET

PORTSMOUTH

for 21 November

***

Belated because I have been offline for 10 days or so.

Still, I am not the only one that can post on here.

Dad's tree

2008-11-26T11:55:00.003Z

This is long overdue, but here is a photo we took of Dad's tree when we visited his grave in March 2008 and planted some daffodils. As you can see, it was not the dryest of days!

2008-11-26T11:52:00.001Z

Congratulations Joe!

You are now an official qualified teacher of English! Rather you than me!

Abi xxx

BBC REMEMBRANCE WALL

2008-11-10T15:12:00.002Z

Add a soldier from your family to the BBC's Remembrance site.

RNVR

2008-11-10T01:19:00.006Z

I contacted the Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve (RNVR) about grandfather when there was no record of him in their

list of officers. He has now been found and a record can be seen at this link. Some of the information gathered

came from the obituary that I attached with my email (a copy appears in an earlier post on this blog). Below is the text of the RNVR's reply:

Re: F.J. Houghton RNVR‏

From:	J.N. Houterman (j.n.houterman@wxs.nl)
Sent:	Sunday, November 09, 2008 5:38:53 PM
To:	Nicholas Houghton (nic_houghton@hotmail.com)

Found him as Temporary Lieutenant (Special Branch) at HMS Victory III in late 1941. Will gladly add an entry for him.

Regards,

Hans Houterman
www.unithistories.com

If anyone has a photograph of grandfather it would be nice to let the RNVR have it for their site.

2008-11-05T23:59:00.003Z

* * *

HAPPY 30th BIRTHDAY

DORIAN

* * *

Born Santiago, Chile

6 November 1978

Houghton - The Cumbria Outpost

2008-10-24T22:48:00.003Z

Don't know how many Houghtons there are in the UK but it would be good to have pictures of Houghtons at Houghtons . Sally x

LITTLE SHIPS

2008-10-07T02:10:00.004Z

Dad used to speak of his father's boat taking part in the Dunkirk rescue. I did ask him the name of the boat, but stupidly I did not write it down and I have forgotten it. Does anyone have any recollection of the name? Is there a photograph anywhere?

The Association of Dunkirk Little Ships has a website and the list of craft taking part can be found here:http://www.adls.org.uk/

MY BIRTHDAY

2008-10-04T02:47:00.007Z

My birthday yesterday, was spent on the beach. The dogs loved it and were plain tuckered out last night. You can see why....

Blooms from the trees along the shoreline

A grand day out and a lovely way to celebrate my 54th birthday.

2008-09-26T15:12:00.001Z

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

SALLY

26 September 2008

ANOTHER GENERATION

2008-09-24T04:02:00.002Z

The news is in Karla's Facebook area and so firmly in the public domain:

We are to become a grandfather early in the new year.

2008-08-27T23:30:00.003Z

* * *

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

+ T A N I A +

28 August 2008

* * *

2008-08-15T15:31:00.005Z

Congratulations

Joe & Abi

To see Nic & Elvie's message from the Philippines, follow the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHvF21jngCE

ABI'S WEDDING

2008-08-13T07:18:00.008Z

If like me, you cannot attend Abi's wedding this coming Friday you may like to know

that Jonathan will be posting "live" images of the event as it happens (more or less).

View the images on Flickr at the following website:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/angelos-knight/

ANNIVERSARY

2008-05-03T07:43:00.002Z

4 May

Its come around again folks.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

TIM & MARIA

Oh, and Happy Birthday to Maria too

VISITING DAD'S GRAVE

2008-04-02T14:47:00.007Z

On Saturday 15 March Abi, Joe and I met at the Rose & Crown pub at Calverleigh (tel: 01884 256301, EX16 8BA). We held the wake for father here. It was a wet miserable day, so it was nice to have a leisurely lunch sat in the cosy surroundings by the fire and chat over a few drinks.
Eventually we ventured forth. I had bought some rainwear from Mole Valley Farmers at Cullompton that morning and was glad of the protection. However my footwear got soaked in the long grass.
We planted the daffodils left by Linda. I retied the support strap lower on the rowan tree so that it can flex. If this isn't done the trunks grow weak and the tree will not grow strong and straight.
Joe took a photograph of Abi and I. I remarked that I had yet to see a photograph taken at the site where the subjects are not clad as if arriving at the summit of Mount Everest or the North Pole.
Returning the trowel and fork to the receptacle at the gate we said our farewells to Dad and to one another.

To find the buriel site from the pub:
Leave the car park and turn right. After a few minutes take the road leading off to the left. Climb the hill all the way to the top. At the top take the right fork and look for a 5 bar gate facing you on the left. This is the small car park.
Leave the car and walk through the other gate keeping right near the hedge, Dad is about 40 yards down on the left. Look for the Rowan tree. Each grave is marked with a discreet up-turned plaque.
Tools can be found near the entrance. Please remember that this is a green buriel site, so only leave bio-degradeable material.
Take fotos and post them here - especially if it is sunny!
Thank you.

NIC IN UK

2008-03-14T20:05:00.002Z

I am in UK for a while. I have been staying with a good friend in London whilst I sort out some personal admin. Tomorrow I journey down to Devon. I am meeting Abi in the afternoon at our Father's grave. Thursday marked 2 years since his death (two days after his 75th birthday).
I shall stay at my Mother's home which is currently on the market following her recent admission to a nursing home.
I shall return to London after Easter and prepare to fly back to The Philippines.
If family or friends wish to chat they can call me on mobile telephone no.: 07958 400 122.

2007-12-31T15:20:00.000Z

***

WITH LESS THAN ONE HOUR TO MIDNIGHT HERE IN THE PHILIPPINES,

ITS TIME FOR ME TO WISH EVERYONE

VERY

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

***

2007-11-21T01:55:00.000Z

***

BIRTHDAY GREETINGS

GO TO

AUNT MARGARET

PORTSMOUTH

TODAY

***

SYDNEY CLOCK

2007-11-05T02:57:00.000Z

In recognition of Pete in Australia I thought it high time we added a clock for the region.
Keep posting everybody. I am sure you have lots to say, and we want to hear it.
Nic

Joyce - Mum of Nic and Sally, Grandmother of Jonathan, Dorian and Karla

2007-10-22T13:00:00.001Z

Hello all

Unfortunately Mum has had a stroke and was taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on 9 October. She is still there waiting for a transfer to Budleigh Salterton Hospital for rehabilitation.

She suffered a significant episode which has resulted in quite a high level of disability. She can move all her limbs but has no strength. The most worrying aspect is her mental health. Mum was beginning to display signs of confusion before this happened but the stroke seems to have magnified this problem enormously. She is very distant and talks mainly in the past. She does recognise me and knows who I am. She requires assistance with feeding and can only manage liquidised foods. Because of the confusion the opinion is at the moment that a return home will be unlikely. However, we always remain optimistic and her home is waiting for her. This is probably everyones worst nightmare for themselves or someone they love. It is a very cruel way to spend the evening of your days and we have a different Mum and grandmother now to the one we had two weeks ago.

Will keep you posted.

On a happier note, Big G and I are really well and looking forward to some cosy winter evenings! Great news about Abi and Joe and we look forward to the wedding next year - (I am assuming we are invited!). Look forward to seeing you all before too long although as time races by it is looking increasingly unlikely in 2007 - where has it gone? Another year of big birthdays, births, engagements, mega moves to overseas adventures and other lovely things that hopefully will outweigh the negatives that I am sure we have all experienced this year.

Love you loads

Sally xxx

BRISTOL HALF MARATHON

2007-10-01T12:00:00.000Z

SPONSOR JOE

CLICK HERE

The oldest living relation to John Frederick

2007-09-29T00:39:00.001Z

First, thanks Ami for introducing me to the Houghton blog!

I was born in 1924 in London to Geoffry Ambrose Houghton, brother to Jack Houghton, dad to Adrian and Annette and Christopher and Jonathan - Abi's dad.

I have lived in Sydney Australia for the past 50 years. I lost my wife Pat 4 years ago to Leukemia, so now live alone, but not far from my Daughter Gerry (Geraldine), Grandson Nigel and great Grand children James, Joel and Sarah the latest edition and four weeks old!

No more for now, we all congratulate Ami on her forthcoming marriage and wish her a lifetime of happiness. One Glden Rule, never go to bed without making up, my dad taught me that and it works, he gave us two glasses on our Wedding Day to toast one another after an argument.

Hi to all the family, those I know and those I don't.

NIC IN THE PHILIPPINES

2007-09-28T11:38:00.001Z

For those wishing to follow my progress in the Philippines, there is a link in this Blog's 'link' section.
Note the Blog is 'closed'. If you want an invitation to join, let me have your email address.
My Philippine mobile number is : +63 915 2628 186

A big thank you to everyone that helped me with my move.
I received practical help and morale encouragement from family and friends. When the task sometimes felt bigger than me, you should not underestimate your contributions made.
Thank you all.

Nic
x

Nic's last weekend

2007-09-22T19:42:00.000Z

Click here to see the full album

provisional wedding date 16th August 2008

2007-09-20T09:13:00.000Z

Joe and I have a provisional booking on 16/8/08 for our wedding! It will be at St Mary Redcliffe Church in Bristol so please keep this date free. Will be sending out invitations once all is confirmed and we've organsied the reception etc....

Abi x

2007-09-10T10:56:00.000Z

LADIES GET YOUR HATS OUT!!

I am pleased to announce that Joe proposed last night and I have said yes!!

No dates set yet, but watch this space! We are both very excited, and consumed a good deal of champagne last night to celebrate the occasion. He also completed the marathon in 1 hour and 49 minutes so all round, a very good sunday!!

Abi x

STOCKLEIGH MILL

2007-09-08T20:16:00.000Z

THE WESTERN TIMES & GAZETTE

FRIDAY 1 MARCH, 1957

STOCKLEIGH MILL

"Chickens roost where the mill once ground"

The photograph shows Joyce Houghton and son Nicholas (2yrs 5m) in the doorway of the mill.

The farm was the birthplace of Sally Jeanne Houghton (26.9.56).

Joyce reported seeing ghosts in the farmhouse.

Topsham Connection Grandpa

2007-08-31T22:08:00.000Z

How interesting that Grandpa lived in Topsham in the early '60's I wonder where he lived... Retreat Road would be very spooky...
Another Photo for the collection ..Jonathan holding Phoebe last week

2007-08-30T15:44:00.000Z

PS) Joe is still doing the Bristol Half Marathon on Sunday 9th September so not too late if anyone wants to sponser him, please click on the link Nic has put on the blog above, thanks xx

New Job!

2007-08-30T14:59:00.000Z

Hello Everybody!

Glad to hear Julian had a fantastic birthday party you all look pretty 'happy' in the photos! Ha ha!! I'm amazed we all managed to keep it a secret to be honest, it wasn't easy not to let the cat out of the bag! Very sorry I couldn't attend, never one to miss a good party, but we were away in France. Had a great holiday, we stayed in Joe's parents cottage near La Rochelle in the country side, miles away from civilsation and drank lots of red wine and I ate double own body weight in croissant!! Weather was sunny for most of the time so lots of trips to the beach and BBQ's in the evening. We spent a very interesting night with Claude and Ya Ya (Joe's parents friends who speak NO English) when they kindly invited us for a 6 course meal at their house. We managed to converse in something like French for more than 5 hours, pretty amazing as neither Joe or I really speak very much French at all. Think the Bordeaux vin rouge assisted somewhat!!

Anyway, now back in Bristol and looking forward to starting a new job for the Royal British Legion as an Employment Adviser. Will start on 01/10/07 and means I will be working from home and driving out to people in their work places to try and assist them with things they need to stay in work if they have health problems or disabilities. Can't wait to start, maybe will get a dog if possible now I won't be in an office all day! Also. will need some company as Joe is off to the south coast on Sunday to start his teacher training! He will be back at weekends though, so hopefully we won't pine for eachother too much. Although I think we will!! Ah!!

Anyway, hope all is well with everybody and Sally, are you having another party this year? Nic, when are you leaving the country? Must see you before you go!!!

Big hugs to you all

Abi xxxx

F J HOUGHTON - Obituary

2007-08-26T09:49:00.001Z

This is the newspaper obituary for Jonathan Frederick Houghton. Father to Adrian, Christopher, Jonathan and Annette.
He was born on 1 November 1894. He was commissioned into the Royal Leicestershire Regiment before WW1 and as a captain was severely wounded on the Somme in 1916. He lay unattended in no-man's land for three days.
He drove Lagondas at Brooklands between the wars and was a partner in a garage in Guildford.

Click to enlarge

In WW2 he was a Lieutenant in the RNVR until 1942 when he was seconded as an inspector of landing craft.
In 1947 he took a farm at Burrowcombe. His first wife died in 1954. Later he married May Gill and moved to Topsham before moving to Tiverton in 1963.

‏

JULIAN'S SURPRISE 40TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

2007-08-12T09:29:00.000Z

Well it certainly seemed to be a surprise to Julian when he was directed not to Clare's house, but to the Bude Band Hall last night. And aren't we all relieved that it is out in the open and we don't have to keep it secret anymore.
Well done to everyone that was involved in the organisation, but especially to Tania who was the leading light behind the whole thing.
Graham, Sally and Nic were delighted to be a part of the celebrations. It was good to see you all as ever and to meet the newest addition to the family.

HBP GATHERING CANCELLED

2007-07-20T16:45:00.000Z

The HBP gathering for 21 July in Devon has been cancelled.
No attendances from Portsmouth were expected and the new mother and child in Bude would not be able to travel easily Jonathan is also away in Greece.
Nic suggested that the gathering might be rescheduled for September before his departure on 25th

BURNOUT PARADISE

2007-07-18T22:21:00.000Z

Jonathan has been working on EA's Burnout Paradise game. If you are into that sort of thing click on the link to watch the trailer.

NEW ADDITION!

2007-07-15T17:01:00.001Z

ESS+STOP PRESS+STOP PRESS+STOP

SAM

had a

BABY GIRL

3.20 am this morning

Sunday 15 July 2007.

8lb 8oz

No name yet, but all doing well

EMIGRATING

2007-07-10T18:58:00.000Z

I booked my flight last night
and leave UK on 25 September.

NIC IS MOVING

2007-07-04T18:56:00.000Z

I don't suppose anyone will read this, but don't say I did not tell you.

I am moving to The Philippines in September. This may be for a few months or it could be more permanent.

So now you know.

I hope I will get the chance to see as many of you as I can before I go so you can buy me a farewell drink.

Visit this link for photographs of where I am heading:

http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/nicknight2000/album?.dir=218bre2&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph//my_photos

Nic

ANOTHER DATE FOR THE DIARY

2007-06-09T15:17:00.000Z

Sally, clever though she is, has still not grasped the skill of posting to the Blog. She has gone off to Corsica for two weeks and asked me to Post the following:

HBP GATHERING

SATURDAY

21 JULY 2007

Noon

Sally's Place

Woodbury Salterton

[Phone for directions: 01392 879225]

If you cannot make Saturday, you are welcome on Sunday

NEW PARTY DATE!

2007-05-12T21:22:00.000Z

Hello All!

havent checked in lately so a few new posts since last! Gosh Joe, well done you for commiting to doin the half marathon. We most definalty will be sponsoring you. You're going to have to sleep a week before and after surely?!
I know I posted a message a little while ago about a surprise party for Julin - well hopefully its still happening but now on a different date. its actually going to be Saturday 11th August. I have an absolutly brilliant funky live band booked so it should be worth the trip down for a good knees up! It would be handy if I could have anybody postal address as I will send out some invites nearer the time.

Alls well here in Bude. Hope everyone is well. Take Care Ju Tan & Amber x

BRISTOL HALF MARATHON

2007-05-10T20:07:00.000Z

Hi folks,
Just a quick note to let you all know that me and my mate Dave are running the Bristol half marathon on Sunday 9th September 2007.
Dave's god-daughter is deaf and has had loads of help from The Ear Foundation, so we thought it would be a good idea to get together and see how much we can raise, so that they can continue to help people with hearing problems and add to the tremendous work which they have done so far.
If you want to sponsor us (any amount will be gratefully received) then please go to the following website:
http://www.justgiving.com/DaveandJoe
I know that you lot are all lovely people and that the cause is a good one, so I've no doubt that we'll raise quite a tidy sum!
Thanks for your support and if you want to come and laugh at us on race-day, I'll be the one in the ambulance.
Thanks,
Joe

2007-05-04T23:59:00.001Z

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

4 MAY

THE HOUGHTON BEACH PARTY

CONGRATULATES

TIM & MARIA

ONE WHOLE YEAR

MARRIAGE

Psst! It's also Maria's birthday

I moved to Belfast

2007-05-03T22:38:00.000Z

Hello everyone. Just a quick post to let you all know that I have moved to Belfast. I hope everyone is well, and I apologise in advance that it may not be easy in future for me to attend family gatherings.

Love Karla x

VISIT TO PORTSMOUTH

2007-05-03T19:33:00.000Z

Following a routine call on a Bridgecraft stockist I found time to pay a visit to Aunt Margaret. Once I had got by the vicious guard dog (Milo), Aunty M put the kettle on and made me a welcoming mug of tea and got out the cake. It was not long before the house was thronging with Denny, Jenny and the children. The adults sat around chatting about this and that, until it was time to leave.

Aunty M showed me her new lap top computer. Soon she expects to be wired up to the internet and blogging with the rest of us (such as we are).

I mentioned my visit to Dad's (Jonathan F.K.) grave and how the Rowan tree is doing. I have posted pictures of my visit last Tuesday in the Album (link in the Blog margin).

Nic