Day 8
Sunday 24th August
Today was probably our most interesting day. We set off from Falmouth wishing we could have stayed longer, but as soon as we arrived at Sandwich, we were completely entranced by the village. The streets were tree lined providing an ambient temperature, there were lots of incredibly old and historic buildings within a small area and it was as though the whole place had been planned like an American theme park, but it wasn't.
A relaxed walk round the village brought the time round to 1.00pm when all the museums opened. I had set my heart on visiting the Glass Museum and we were not disappointed. As well as an interesting demonstration of glass blowing, we were treated to a re-enactment of how life used to be courtesy of engaging holograms. There was even a short film about the history of the light bulb - all very interesting.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Early Pressed Plate, Glass Museum, Sandwich, Massachusetts
Here is a link to the Sandwich Glass Museum website
The Mayflower II, Plymouth, Massachusetts
On our way once again, we had a short stop at Plymouth where the Mayflower originally docked. Being a Sunday afternoon there was a craft fair there and lots of interesting stalls to look at. We did go over the Mayflower 11, built in 1959 to re-enact the journey of the Plymouth Brethren, and decided that to have survived the journey was no mean achievement...
Massachusetts State House, Boston
After a very full day we arrived in Boston. Not wanting to waste a minute, we went out for a walk to catch some of America's most auspicious buildings after dark...
Falmouth Beach, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Day 7
Saturday 23rd August
Falmouth was a small town with lots on offer: beach, boats, shops, museums, history - you name it, it had it! We decided we walk to the beach, which on a hot morning became quite hard work. However, we got to see the whole of the area and even stumbled across a yard sale and bought a brooch for $1 - which we later discovered is part made of gold!
Saturday 23rd August
Falmouth was a small town with lots on offer: beach, boats, shops, museums, history - you name it, it had it! We decided we walk to the beach, which on a hot morning became quite hard work. However, we got to see the whole of the area and even stumbled across a yard sale and bought a brooch for $1 - which we later discovered is part made of gold!
True Blue...
In the evening we went in search of a spectacular sunset - which we missed, but found a beautiful lighthouse instead...
Walking Out With Marylyn...
Day 6
Friday 22nd August
First we had a short walk around Stamford. The town is dotted with lots of life-size figures of well known American celebrities and stereotypes.
Friday 22nd August
First we had a short walk around Stamford. The town is dotted with lots of life-size figures of well known American celebrities and stereotypes.
Don, Pat And Graham, Greenwich Point
Don and Pat collected us from the hotel and took us on a long walk around Greenwich Point. This is a beautiful promontory where only locals are allowed. Having worked up an appetite, we had a lovely lunch at a nearby restaurant (I made use of a large amount of ice to subdue an insect bite on my finger). Afterwards, we again said our 'good-byes' and made for Greenwich Point for a look around the village - making sure that we didn't leave it too late to set off on our next leg of our journey to Cape Cod...
Brooklyn Bridge
Day 5
Thursday 21st August
Another beautiful sunny hot day. First we had a walk over Brooklyn Bridge (not the whole way) a look at one of Graham's 'famous' photographic shops and lunch outside overlooking Pier 17.
Back at the hotel we collected all our luggage, had a stress-free taxi trip to the airport and after a few tears Robert and Lucy made their way onto a plane bound for Bristol and Graham and I descended to the hire-car area of the airport and picked up a small chevrolet to begin the second leg of our adventure...
Thursday 21st August
Another beautiful sunny hot day. First we had a walk over Brooklyn Bridge (not the whole way) a look at one of Graham's 'famous' photographic shops and lunch outside overlooking Pier 17.
Back at the hotel we collected all our luggage, had a stress-free taxi trip to the airport and after a few tears Robert and Lucy made their way onto a plane bound for Bristol and Graham and I descended to the hire-car area of the airport and picked up a small chevrolet to begin the second leg of our adventure...
Last Glimpse Of Manhattan Skyline
It was with sadness we said 'good bye' to New York, but new adventures beckoned... a long, long wait in a traffic jam en route to Stamford!
Eventually we arrived and were immediately collected by Graham's work colleague, Don and his wife, Pat and whisked off for a very pleasant evening meal with his daughter and her husband at a local restaurant. The evening ended at Don's daughter's house where we met her two daughters. Bit of a late night...
Eventually we arrived and were immediately collected by Graham's work colleague, Don and his wife, Pat and whisked off for a very pleasant evening meal with his daughter and her husband at a local restaurant. The evening ended at Don's daughter's house where we met her two daughters. Bit of a late night...
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Decisions...Decisions...
Day 4
Wednesday 20th August
Today it was Lucy's turn to suggest where to visit. She chose the zoo in Central Park. I can't say I was looking forward to it, but it actually turned out to be a fun thing to do.
First we had to wait in an orderly queue, but before long we were inside and dodging pushchairs and other small people!
Wednesday 20th August
Today it was Lucy's turn to suggest where to visit. She chose the zoo in Central Park. I can't say I was looking forward to it, but it actually turned out to be a fun thing to do.
First we had to wait in an orderly queue, but before long we were inside and dodging pushchairs and other small people!
Beautiful Plumage...
First we visited the Tropical Bird House ( it was marginally cooler in here than outside). The birds were stunningly beautiful, but difficult to photograph as all the foliage made it quite dark in there.
On the way out, we saw Gold-Faced monkeys, turtles basking in the sun, sea lions, penguins....the list goes on...
On the way out, we saw Gold-Faced monkeys, turtles basking in the sun, sea lions, penguins....the list goes on...
Polar Bear Plays In The Water, Central Park Zoo, New York
The highlight of our visit was the Polar Bears. This one you can see spent the whole time we were there swimming from one end of the enclosure to the other on his back. I do hope he wasn't too bored, he was just so entertaining - and it looked so relaxing, especially in the heat. Here is my video
After we left the zoo, Robert had decided to visit the Museum of Modern Art, which was within walking distance. Luckily across the road was a delicatessen where we chose from the wide variety of food and paid by weight. I had salmon, mashed potatoes and a selection of vegetables.
Lucy and I walked down to Bryant Park, window shopping on the way. Graham went straight there to relax in the sunshine. Later he and I went to the New York Museum of Photography which was surprisingly disappointing - very few photos were on show and those that were, you couldn't help but ask - "So what's interesting about that?"
After we left the zoo, Robert had decided to visit the Museum of Modern Art, which was within walking distance. Luckily across the road was a delicatessen where we chose from the wide variety of food and paid by weight. I had salmon, mashed potatoes and a selection of vegetables.
Lucy and I walked down to Bryant Park, window shopping on the way. Graham went straight there to relax in the sunshine. Later he and I went to the New York Museum of Photography which was surprisingly disappointing - very few photos were on show and those that were, you couldn't help but ask - "So what's interesting about that?"
Have Piano...Will Pay My Way...
When Robert eventually showed up (he'd had such a good time at the MOMA) we set off to see Greenwich Village.
Nowadays its known for being the home of David Blaine, the illusionist, but it certainly has a lot of character in its own right together with lots of interesting buildings.
Nowadays its known for being the home of David Blaine, the illusionist, but it certainly has a lot of character in its own right together with lots of interesting buildings.
Escape...?
We had a lovely walk round and then back to near Grand Central Terminal for a slap up meal at an Irish Pub
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
A Working Holiday...
Day 3
Tuesday 19th August
As we neared the breakfast room, we were met by a long queue, so as Graham had promised us a breakfast in a diner, we walked out of the hotel, across the road and had our breakfast watching people passing by. Robert and Lucy then went off in the direction of Central Park to visit Strawberry Fields and we returned to the hotel. I washed my hair while Graham put on his work clothes and got ready for a meeting which just happened to have fallen during our time in New York...
We met up with Robert and Lucy at the entrance to Central Park around 11.00am. It was already very hot and it seemed a little unfair that we could all dress in suitable clothing while Graham had on a suit. (His choice entirely) Descending into the hot and steamy subway we didn't think it could get any hotter - but the subway is always like that.
After that Grand Central Terminal was a cool delight, not to mention a photographer's dream. Graham met up with his colleagues under the clock at 12 noon - (how romantic) and after exchanging pleasantries we parted company. Robert went off on his own to see a selection of museums and Lucy and I after having some lunch, decided to 'hit the shops'!
Tuesday 19th August
As we neared the breakfast room, we were met by a long queue, so as Graham had promised us a breakfast in a diner, we walked out of the hotel, across the road and had our breakfast watching people passing by. Robert and Lucy then went off in the direction of Central Park to visit Strawberry Fields and we returned to the hotel. I washed my hair while Graham put on his work clothes and got ready for a meeting which just happened to have fallen during our time in New York...
We met up with Robert and Lucy at the entrance to Central Park around 11.00am. It was already very hot and it seemed a little unfair that we could all dress in suitable clothing while Graham had on a suit. (His choice entirely) Descending into the hot and steamy subway we didn't think it could get any hotter - but the subway is always like that.
After that Grand Central Terminal was a cool delight, not to mention a photographer's dream. Graham met up with his colleagues under the clock at 12 noon - (how romantic) and after exchanging pleasantries we parted company. Robert went off on his own to see a selection of museums and Lucy and I after having some lunch, decided to 'hit the shops'!
A Few Of My Favourite Things...
First stop was the Chrysler Building, which is not a shop, but just happens to be my favourite building in New York. You are allowed into the foyer which seems to be triangular in shape and clad with a rich array of red/gold marbles.
Next we visited every beads shop along Fashion Avenue (6th) - there are about eight and then on to Macy's which I have to say was disappointing - more like a poor man's Harrods than the premiere department store. However, both Lucy and I bought a bag there which we were very happy with.
Next we visited every beads shop along Fashion Avenue (6th) - there are about eight and then on to Macy's which I have to say was disappointing - more like a poor man's Harrods than the premiere department store. However, both Lucy and I bought a bag there which we were very happy with.
Going Up...
Outside Macy's you get a brilliant view of The Empire State Building. By this time Lucy was feeling very much the worst for wear, so we back tracked to Bryant Park where we 'chilled out' with the rest of New York and waited for Robert and then Graham to meet us.
Graham's work mates also met us there and once assembled we walked down along 44th Street to a Ribs and Steak restaurant.
Graham's work mates also met us there and once assembled we walked down along 44th Street to a Ribs and Steak restaurant.
A Late Night Adventure...
Fuelled by a wonderful meal of ribs and chicken we said our good-byes to Alistair and Sam and decided on one more adventure before the day was out.
Down to the subway and then a short ride to The Rockefeller Centre to see New York by night...
Down to the subway and then a short ride to The Rockefeller Centre to see New York by night...
The City That Never Sleeps...
It was about 9.30pm by the time we arrived, it wasn't busy, but there was no shortage of people. The queue made its way down in the first instance past an amazing Swarovski chandelier to the pay kiosk and then up to the next floor to await the lift. Now we've all been in lifts, but this was an experience I shall never forget. 70 stories in less than a minute - you don't really feel the speed, but if you're feeling brave you can watch the floors go by by looking up at the transparent ceiling, I wasn't. Once there the doors opened and everyone spilled out, excitement was in the air. It was surprisingly windy at the top, but that wasn't the only thing to take your breath away, the view was awesome...
Coming back down to earth with a bump (no, not really) we walked through the rest of the building which was quite impressive and then on a few more blocks back to the hotel. Did a conquer my fear of heights? no, but I'm glad I can say I've been "to the Top Of The Rock".
Coming back down to earth with a bump (no, not really) we walked through the rest of the building which was quite impressive and then on a few more blocks back to the hotel. Did a conquer my fear of heights? no, but I'm glad I can say I've been "to the Top Of The Rock".
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Seeing The Sights...
Day 2
Monday 18th August
After a hearty breakfast, we took the subway to near Battery Park and bought tickets for a boat trip to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Graham had taken me to see these sights last time, but I couldn't wait to see them again, this time with Robert and Lucy. It's hard to imagine now how hot it was that morning standing in an interminable queue, but after about an hour we were on the boat with the sea breeze in our hair, jostling with others to take the 'best' picture.
Monday 18th August
After a hearty breakfast, we took the subway to near Battery Park and bought tickets for a boat trip to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Graham had taken me to see these sights last time, but I couldn't wait to see them again, this time with Robert and Lucy. It's hard to imagine now how hot it was that morning standing in an interminable queue, but after about an hour we were on the boat with the sea breeze in our hair, jostling with others to take the 'best' picture.
On Liberty Island
There isn't much to see on the island, except the view towards Manhattan Island (which is worth the trip in itself), a large souvenir shop and a couple of small restaurants. We had our lunch there, of shredded pork in barbecue sauce, which didn't exactly stand up to the wonderful illustration on the board!
After our meal it was back to the queue to wait in line for the next boat to Ellis Island.
After our meal it was back to the queue to wait in line for the next boat to Ellis Island.
Ellis Island And A Family Story...
With Graham's obsession for finding all of our ancestors, (he's actually very good at it, if anyone needs any help) this year's visit to Ellis Island was all the more piquant as we were able to look up one of my relations who entered the United States Of America via Ellis Island. Margaret Groat Batchelor arrived here on 24th July 1920 as a fresh faced 21 year old book keeper from Dundee, Angus in Scotland. She had paid for her passage on the Olympic- the sister ship to The Titanic and had come to find fame and fortune. We know that she returned to Scotland, but came back in 1924 and married my maternal great uncle, William Frank Wynn in 1926. Frank ( as he was known), was a painter and decorator by trade and was known to be working on ships, so they may have met during the voyage. By 1930, they had settled in Burbank, California and later, Long Beach. We stayed with Auntie Peggie in 1967/8 on our way to New Zealand - I can still remember her beautiful big house (bungalow) which had a 'den'. She took us to see The Glendale Rose Parade on new Year's Day 1968 - we had to get up at 5.30am to be there on time and we sat high up on tiered seating. I was in awe of all the huge floats all made out of rose petals and of all the people who rode on them waving...
Frank had died of cancer in 1965, but Peggie survived until 1987, although I never saw her again.
Frank had died of cancer in 1965, but Peggie survived until 1987, although I never saw her again.
'Superman In The Park'
After a quick trip back to the hotel, we had another treat in store. Bryant Park is a wonderful place, every time I go there it seems to metamorphose into a different venue, it can be a park, an exhibition Centre and Monday night it had taken on the role of cinema. People had been arriving all afternoon to take their places in front of a large screen. At 8 o'clock and the sun having just set, the movie 'Superman' started. It didn't matter that we'd all seen it loads of times, it was just great to be there with everyone else - to cheer and clap at memorable scenes and to find the funny moments even funnier with someone else to laugh with. We lasted half an hour standing at the back, straining to watch it over the heads of others and sought refuge in the restaurant at the edge of the park, still able to see the screen intermittently.
Until The Fat Lady Sings...
The evening still wasn't over. After our lovely meal, we walked along 42nd Street to see Times Square. It too is an amazing place, but disappointingly it isn't a square or any kind of shape, it's just where 42nd Street crosses Broadway.
A few pictures later, it was back to the steamy subway and a short walk to a welcome hotel bed.
A few pictures later, it was back to the steamy subway and a short walk to a welcome hotel bed.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Eight Short Hours...
DAY 1
Sunday 17th August
After a restless night, we left my parent's home before 7am and arrived at Bristol Airport around 9. The plane left just before 11am and with the help of films, games and reading material, we whiled away the 8 hours it took to cover the 3579 miles...
Once there we took a taxi to our hotel - the strangest journey I'd ever been on, but we eventually arrived safely and almost in one piece!
We were all eager to check out our new surroundings, so after a quick 'turn around', we were off to Central Park, about two blocks away.
This was one of the first photos I took. The 'world' stands just above the subway and opposite the entrance to Central Park.
Sunday 17th August
After a restless night, we left my parent's home before 7am and arrived at Bristol Airport around 9. The plane left just before 11am and with the help of films, games and reading material, we whiled away the 8 hours it took to cover the 3579 miles...
Once there we took a taxi to our hotel - the strangest journey I'd ever been on, but we eventually arrived safely and almost in one piece!
We were all eager to check out our new surroundings, so after a quick 'turn around', we were off to Central Park, about two blocks away.
This was one of the first photos I took. The 'world' stands just above the subway and opposite the entrance to Central Park.
Top Class Entertainment
These are Afrobats, acrobats guaranteed to entertain with their skill and wit. Here is the link to my video on You Tube - there are lots to watch
The Obligatory Trip To The Apple Store...
...and on the way back to the hotel, a quick look inside the Donald Trump Building 'Trump Plaza'.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
London Calling...
Monday 11th August
Robert had been 'umming and arring' for the past week over whether to take his work to London to be displayed in some firm's foyer for the week. The plan was that 'heads' of different firms would be invited to see a 'select showing' of recent graduates' work with the view of offering them if not a job, then at least an interview. In reality, the organiser didn't quite achieve his objective and nothing came of it. Robert did however get to meet up with his fellow graduates and was given some new leads to follow up.
I followed on a later train thinking that by the time I arrived Robert would have finished setting up and we could spend the rest of the day seeing some exciting sights in London. I arrived quite a bit later as I'd managed to forget my train pass and had to go home for it. Ooops!
Robert had been 'umming and arring' for the past week over whether to take his work to London to be displayed in some firm's foyer for the week. The plan was that 'heads' of different firms would be invited to see a 'select showing' of recent graduates' work with the view of offering them if not a job, then at least an interview. In reality, the organiser didn't quite achieve his objective and nothing came of it. Robert did however get to meet up with his fellow graduates and was given some new leads to follow up.
I followed on a later train thinking that by the time I arrived Robert would have finished setting up and we could spend the rest of the day seeing some exciting sights in London. I arrived quite a bit later as I'd managed to forget my train pass and had to go home for it. Ooops!
Richard Rogers, The Architect...
We met up at The Barbican and had a disappointing lunch. Then off to The Design Museum to see an exhibition of the models of Richard Rogers' buildings. Pretty impressive....
Tim Walker In Vogue?...
Not quite as exciting was a photography exhibition by Tim Walker. Some of his work is truly iconic as this image shows, but I'm not a fan of pictures taken of rooms filled with balloons/and or animals (I'm making this up) just for the sake of it...
Millennium Bridge, London
After The Design Museum, we walked along to The Tate Modern with its suggestive paintings on the outside of its walls (enough said...) and picked a leaflet which guided you through 'Urban Art' in nearby streets. Although we had a map, the art proved to be very elusive - "Is that light bulb hanging over there meant to be the art installation?" We were heard to say. We walked through some very 'dodgy' places, and this was in daylight - many of the installations were meant to be viewed at night. The highlight of the tour was a gallery we stumbled across and on viewing its works went to see a short movie - we had a choice of two, one of which carried a warning about containing some sexually graphic material. You can guess - we managed to go to the wrong one and then by the time we'd worked out which one it was, it was too late...
Saturday, September 20, 2008
My Photos In Exhibition At Nottingham 15th - 27th September 2008
Just borrowing this poster from Psychic Crow in case anyone is going over to Nottingham this week.
Putting your photos on Flickr is great for viewing, but having them printed up is wonderful, especially if it's organised by someone else - takes all the stress away!
Or if you can't visit here are the entries
Putting your photos on Flickr is great for viewing, but having them printed up is wonderful, especially if it's organised by someone else - takes all the stress away!
Or if you can't visit here are the entries
Sunday, September 14, 2008
IN BRIEF
Tuesday 5th August
Jewellery Workshop at Marston's Brewery 1-2pm. Great bunch of people, but I didn't make a good impression arriving late/very 'on time' ( a main road in Burton was closed and I got completely lost!) Even managed to get lost on the way home!
Wednesday 6th August
Robert still working hard on his freelance work, but I persuaded him to come with me to visit John in Belper - someone Graham used to work with. John left work to follow his dream in Photography and now lectures in it at Derby University while also working towards a PhD. He lives in an old converted factory which once housed rows of knitting machines. It a wonderful space with kitchen and dining room/work space downstairs and living room, bedroom and bathroom upstairs. Robert fell in love with it straight away, probably because John is a very tidy person! After a quick tour round the house, we went out to lunch (everywhere is within walking distance) and then back to see the photos he's been printing for his exhibition. The exhibition will be at Derby Museum and Art Gallery 6th September - 26th October and he'll be giving a talk on Thursday 16th October.
Thursday 7th August
Another outing, this time to visit our 'old' neighbour in Borrowash. We haven't seen Judith since her cochlear implant in April and were excited to see how she is getting on. As Robert's final year project was for a device to help deaf people, he sought her advice when designing it. The first thing she did was show us how big the implant is. You can easily feel it under her hair, passing up past the ear extending to about 5 inches in length. The outside part clips onto her ear like an ordinary hearing aid but then is attached to the implant by means of a small flat round magnet. It still very early days - each time she goes back to the hospital they adjust the sounds she hears. At the moment background noises seem far louder than speech and she still can't differentiate between male and female voices. It takes the brain a while to understand what it is hearing.
After a cup of tea and a good chat we left to meet Lucy in town and go shopping
Friday 8th August Robert's Birthday
Much has been made of the 8th of August this year, as it is deemed a very luck day 08.08.08. The Chinese have chosen this lucky day to be the start of their Olympics. Robert unfortunately still spent the majority of the day at his computer, hard at work. Graham came home from work at lunch time and we adjourned to The Spotted Cow at Holbrook. The quality of the meat there is just 'out of this world' and worth every penny. Then back home for more work. Around 6.00pm we set off to Milford to start a lovely walk to Belper along North Lane or 'The Chevin Way'. The wind had died down a bit and it stayed mild for the duration. We went up past a field of deer, along the top of a hill adjacent to a golf course and then followed a gentle slop down to near the East Mill and back along the road. After picking up the car we headed back into Belper for fish and chips a lovely end to a very reasonable day
Tuesday 5th August
Jewellery Workshop at Marston's Brewery 1-2pm. Great bunch of people, but I didn't make a good impression arriving late/very 'on time' ( a main road in Burton was closed and I got completely lost!) Even managed to get lost on the way home!
Wednesday 6th August
Robert still working hard on his freelance work, but I persuaded him to come with me to visit John in Belper - someone Graham used to work with. John left work to follow his dream in Photography and now lectures in it at Derby University while also working towards a PhD. He lives in an old converted factory which once housed rows of knitting machines. It a wonderful space with kitchen and dining room/work space downstairs and living room, bedroom and bathroom upstairs. Robert fell in love with it straight away, probably because John is a very tidy person! After a quick tour round the house, we went out to lunch (everywhere is within walking distance) and then back to see the photos he's been printing for his exhibition. The exhibition will be at Derby Museum and Art Gallery 6th September - 26th October and he'll be giving a talk on Thursday 16th October.
Thursday 7th August
Another outing, this time to visit our 'old' neighbour in Borrowash. We haven't seen Judith since her cochlear implant in April and were excited to see how she is getting on. As Robert's final year project was for a device to help deaf people, he sought her advice when designing it. The first thing she did was show us how big the implant is. You can easily feel it under her hair, passing up past the ear extending to about 5 inches in length. The outside part clips onto her ear like an ordinary hearing aid but then is attached to the implant by means of a small flat round magnet. It still very early days - each time she goes back to the hospital they adjust the sounds she hears. At the moment background noises seem far louder than speech and she still can't differentiate between male and female voices. It takes the brain a while to understand what it is hearing.
After a cup of tea and a good chat we left to meet Lucy in town and go shopping
Friday 8th August Robert's Birthday
Much has been made of the 8th of August this year, as it is deemed a very luck day 08.08.08. The Chinese have chosen this lucky day to be the start of their Olympics. Robert unfortunately still spent the majority of the day at his computer, hard at work. Graham came home from work at lunch time and we adjourned to The Spotted Cow at Holbrook. The quality of the meat there is just 'out of this world' and worth every penny. Then back home for more work. Around 6.00pm we set off to Milford to start a lovely walk to Belper along North Lane or 'The Chevin Way'. The wind had died down a bit and it stayed mild for the duration. We went up past a field of deer, along the top of a hill adjacent to a golf course and then followed a gentle slop down to near the East Mill and back along the road. After picking up the car we headed back into Belper for fish and chips a lovely end to a very reasonable day
IN BRIEF
Monday 28th July
Nice surprise today, dialled up my emails to find I'd been asked to choose 'Theme Of The Week' on one of the Flickr groups I belong to. No great accolade, but nice to asked... The Theme I chose was 'Something Magical', hoping that the interpretation is wide enough to encourage more people to post an image.
Trying to think of something to do, we decided to go the the cinema. We'd heard such good reports of the new Disney film that Lucy and I went and got our tickets early while we were on a quick trip to Morrisons. Back we (Robert, Lucy and I) trouped at 10 to 8 and took up our premiere seats only to discover that everyone had gone else where. By the time the film started there was a grand total of 7 adults and one child.... the film was very good and the parting song was written and sung by Peter Gabriel, who if you are as old as me you will recognise the name as the lead singer of Genesis...
Friday 1st August
Is it August already?
Lucy came with me to the dentist, but I was soon out complete with new tooth. It felt very odd which was quite upsetting - I thought it would all feel fine straight away (it did settle down by the end of the afternoon) Then off we went to Berkley Garden Centre, the other side of Burton on Trent, on a quest to get the beads I needed for next week's jewellery workshop. Managed to get the beads I wanted, but no findings which was disappointing.
Sunday 3rd August
Graham arrived home about 9 am, not too much the worse for wear. I'd planned a day trip to see my parents as I'd been promising a visit for ages and it just hadn't happened. I'd thought that as Graham usually spends most of his first day home in bed asleep, he wouldn't miss us. However, he decided he didn't want to be left out, so with Robert driving we packed up and left as soon as we could. My father has recently been diagnosed with Carpel Tunnel Syndrome which for someone who spends all his spare time tinkering and making things has been a devastating blow. He really didn't look well, (it has prevented him from being able to sleep at night) but seemed cheerful enough during our stay. After a lovely home cooked lunch it was time for the Grand Prix (which meant that Graham could doze and no one notice) and then it was tea time and time to leave. Robert drove back as far as the M42 and then I took over for the remainder of the journey.
Monday 28th July
Nice surprise today, dialled up my emails to find I'd been asked to choose 'Theme Of The Week' on one of the Flickr groups I belong to. No great accolade, but nice to asked... The Theme I chose was 'Something Magical', hoping that the interpretation is wide enough to encourage more people to post an image.
Trying to think of something to do, we decided to go the the cinema. We'd heard such good reports of the new Disney film that Lucy and I went and got our tickets early while we were on a quick trip to Morrisons. Back we (Robert, Lucy and I) trouped at 10 to 8 and took up our premiere seats only to discover that everyone had gone else where. By the time the film started there was a grand total of 7 adults and one child.... the film was very good and the parting song was written and sung by Peter Gabriel, who if you are as old as me you will recognise the name as the lead singer of Genesis...
Friday 1st August
Is it August already?
Lucy came with me to the dentist, but I was soon out complete with new tooth. It felt very odd which was quite upsetting - I thought it would all feel fine straight away (it did settle down by the end of the afternoon) Then off we went to Berkley Garden Centre, the other side of Burton on Trent, on a quest to get the beads I needed for next week's jewellery workshop. Managed to get the beads I wanted, but no findings which was disappointing.
Sunday 3rd August
Graham arrived home about 9 am, not too much the worse for wear. I'd planned a day trip to see my parents as I'd been promising a visit for ages and it just hadn't happened. I'd thought that as Graham usually spends most of his first day home in bed asleep, he wouldn't miss us. However, he decided he didn't want to be left out, so with Robert driving we packed up and left as soon as we could. My father has recently been diagnosed with Carpel Tunnel Syndrome which for someone who spends all his spare time tinkering and making things has been a devastating blow. He really didn't look well, (it has prevented him from being able to sleep at night) but seemed cheerful enough during our stay. After a lovely home cooked lunch it was time for the Grand Prix (which meant that Graham could doze and no one notice) and then it was tea time and time to leave. Robert drove back as far as the M42 and then I took over for the remainder of the journey.
Friday, August 15, 2008
A Foot Path With A Difference...
Saturday 26th July
Lucy was at work all day, so we planned to have a picnic tea as the weather was so lovely. Once we'd collected her, we came home and then threw anything edible we could find into the car. I chose a point on my Ordinance Survey map and off we drove. As it was a hot day, I'd chosen a footpath which crossed a weir hoping that we'd feel the benefit of being near water. When we arrived I couldn't believe my eyes! There was a notice saying that the footpath was closed due to a collapsed culvert! Supportive as ever, Robert and Lucy said they enjoyed a challenge and anyway the notice did state that it would be mended between the 8th and the 29th July - we thought we were safe to assume that it would be OK by the 26th! So after a picnic tea off we went.
The walk was a voyage of discovery, first a field of blue flowers, then a steep incline, the water at the bottom was still and everywhere you looked a beautiful reflection.
Lucy was at work all day, so we planned to have a picnic tea as the weather was so lovely. Once we'd collected her, we came home and then threw anything edible we could find into the car. I chose a point on my Ordinance Survey map and off we drove. As it was a hot day, I'd chosen a footpath which crossed a weir hoping that we'd feel the benefit of being near water. When we arrived I couldn't believe my eyes! There was a notice saying that the footpath was closed due to a collapsed culvert! Supportive as ever, Robert and Lucy said they enjoyed a challenge and anyway the notice did state that it would be mended between the 8th and the 29th July - we thought we were safe to assume that it would be OK by the 26th! So after a picnic tea off we went.
The walk was a voyage of discovery, first a field of blue flowers, then a steep incline, the water at the bottom was still and everywhere you looked a beautiful reflection.
The Old Water Mill...
Then as we crossed the water we met a dad and two sons just climbing back over the fence having spent their evening fishing there. When we turned back we saw the 'chocolate box' picture of an old Water Mill - it was so photogenic! Climbing up the opposite incline we almost got mixed up with two tractors busy bringing in a silage crop - they seemed slightly incongruous in this tranquil setting.
Painted By Constable...
Old Tree In Evening Light, Osmaston Park, Near Ashbourne, Derbyshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis
The Excitement and Despair Of Getting Lost...
Village Cricket Team, Osmaston Park, Near Ashbourne, Derbyshire
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis
Then we began our descent, the sun set, the dew rose and we suddenly became aware that our path had disappeared. Walking in the general direction of the car, we drew comfort from the fact that this path appeared to follow the line on our map, but as we entered a forest the path didn't fit the map. We thought we'd take a short cut to the top of the wood, but half way up we came across a pheasant enclosure, where all the birds had roosted for the night in the trees. As we approached the pheasants they flew scarily off their perches and as we didn't want to disturb them we had to retrace our steps - which was becoming increasingly difficult in the dark. We continued to make our way through the forest with only the light from Robert's mobile phone (which was low on battery), then on through several fields hoping that we would meet a road. Eventually our prayers were answered and we could see a road, but there seemed no way of getting to it. To cut a long story short we ended up going through someone's yard, across their orchard and over their locked front five bar gate. Unfortunately that wasn't the end of the story. We were so relieved at having reached a road that we then managed to mis-read the map and set off in the wrong direction and had covered a mile before we realised our mistake. Having again retraced our steps we at last reached the safety of the car, the time was now 11.25pm...
IN BRIEF
Thursday 24th July
Robert and I went on a walk to Cumberhill Farm in Duffield. We were shocked to see an emaciated horse looking so ill you could see every body bone in its body. I was so shocked I resolved to ring the RSPCA first thing tomorrow.
Friday 25th July
First I rang the RSPCA and had to give all my details and very little about the horse. It's not something I would normally do, but the morning after, I still felt I had to do something to make sure the horse wasn't in any sort of discomfort. Then I spent the rest of the morning organising for a taxi to take my parents to the hospital for a check up with the doctor. I went to see my new consultant in the afternoon. I am loads better than I was, I know that things are improving, BUT at this point I do not think I will ever be back to where I was. I will always
have to be careful about how much I carry, how many times I bend forward and I will never be able to push open or pull open fire doors or any doors which show any kind of resistance. But - as the experts have all repeatedly said, there is nothing else they can do. It's like agreeing to disagree... So that is what I conveyed to the consultant, I am much improved, the magic cream has been a great help, the TENS machine is there when I need some relief and that it how it will always be. That said, I was signed off - I'm on my own now...
Later in the afternoon, the RSPCA rang back to say they knew about this horse as they'd called out a vet to it last Friday. The chap was really nice (just like the ones you see on TV) and having agreed that he too was shocked at the state of the horse, but the vet had assured everyone that at 35 years old she was well past her prime and not suffering, just having difficulty eating due to her lack of teeth.
Thursday 24th July
Robert and I went on a walk to Cumberhill Farm in Duffield. We were shocked to see an emaciated horse looking so ill you could see every body bone in its body. I was so shocked I resolved to ring the RSPCA first thing tomorrow.
Friday 25th July
First I rang the RSPCA and had to give all my details and very little about the horse. It's not something I would normally do, but the morning after, I still felt I had to do something to make sure the horse wasn't in any sort of discomfort. Then I spent the rest of the morning organising for a taxi to take my parents to the hospital for a check up with the doctor. I went to see my new consultant in the afternoon. I am loads better than I was, I know that things are improving, BUT at this point I do not think I will ever be back to where I was. I will always
have to be careful about how much I carry, how many times I bend forward and I will never be able to push open or pull open fire doors or any doors which show any kind of resistance. But - as the experts have all repeatedly said, there is nothing else they can do. It's like agreeing to disagree... So that is what I conveyed to the consultant, I am much improved, the magic cream has been a great help, the TENS machine is there when I need some relief and that it how it will always be. That said, I was signed off - I'm on my own now...
Later in the afternoon, the RSPCA rang back to say they knew about this horse as they'd called out a vet to it last Friday. The chap was really nice (just like the ones you see on TV) and having agreed that he too was shocked at the state of the horse, but the vet had assured everyone that at 35 years old she was well past her prime and not suffering, just having difficulty eating due to her lack of teeth.
Fancy Meeting You Here...
Went to town shopping in the afternoon and had my eyes tested as I know they have deteriorated over the last six months. The optiton assured me that I do need glasses for reading - that's lucky as I then don't need glasses as I don't read... the £75 is what really holds me back, especially as the prescription stated things like +0.25, what exactly does that mean? My eyesight was good enough to see a long queue in the middle of The Westfield Centre, but not why it had formed. It turned out to be a book signing with Katie Price. I did have my camera, but had left it in the car. Robert very kindly agreed to go and fetch it and by the time he got back Katie was now standing and having her photograph taken with some of the last people to buy her book. By sharpening my elbows, I did manage to get some quite reasonable shots!
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