The long weekend gave us our last opportunity to make some time for the children, following the unavoidable summer events. We took full advantage of the dry weather, which has eluded us all this summer.

Newcastle was a fine choice for Thursday, because it was cold when we left home and grim when we got back as far as Lisburn. The beach was however warm enough to sit for an hour and pleasant enough to want ice cream before we left.

Craigavad was the venue for Saturday, enjoying Claire's work's party. The family fun included a bouncy castle and a water slide. More dubious features included Christopher's barbequed food.

On Sunday night we entertained Jennifer with chateaubriand ("pink beef") and a Chardonnay, and we managed a couple of evening meals out too.

Friday night we tried the Smugglers Cove in Carrickfergus, where excellent ribs are on offer. Don't expect haute cuisine, but do expect lots of fish and the prow of a boat built out of the floor.

Monday we went to the former McDonald's in Larne, which has now been converted into the New Four Seasons serving chinese and thai. No need for a children's menu here: little people tucked right into the prawns and beef.

All in all, this was the ideal end to a turbulent summer.