Taken on 6th January, this is one of my favourites.
It doesn't look like this today...
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Sunday, January 24, 2010
January 2010
04.01.10: The first Monday of a New Year, an apt time to send off a job application for a different kind of job. Unfortunately knowing you are capable of something doesn't mean that it will always fall into your lap. By Friday I had a 'sorry you have not been short listed' email. Lesson learned? Get your CV updated and polished and maybe next time...
Rest of week spent working on the website and trying to get up to date with this blog - only 8 months to fill in...!
09.01.10: Lucy came with me to Belper for the afternoon. Stopped off between Little Eaton and Milford to take some photos of some hardy ponies in the snow.
11.01 10: First class of the term, you never quite know what to expect, so two students was better than no students at all, but 6 short of a running class...
12.01.10: In view of the weather and the fact that only 5 students had enrolled, today's class at Alfreton was cancelled and a rain check taken until next Tuesday. All but one of my piano pupils cancelled and even Tap class was cancelled.
13.01.10: Weather still kept one piano pupil away and one was ill so that left two today.
14.01.10: Big UKHKA meeting in London. New snow last night meant that everyone took their car to work this morning and consequently I missed the 9 o'clock train.The 18 minutes past got me in to St Pancras by 11.06 and had I had an underground ticket, I probably would have made the 11.30 deadline. As it was, by the time I opened the big oak doors to a sea of unknown faces 10 minutes later, they were only just doing the introductions. Meeting was informative and revealing and I got to talk everyone through the relevant pages of the website, something I didn't think I could do - but it was fine ... when can I do it again... Home 7.30pm.
15.01.10: First Jewellery class at Village Centre. There were only 6 present, one missing and the hope that the 2 from Monday will join next week. Relief - one of my three classes will be running!
17.01.10: Sunday afternoon Graham and I went out for a long walk from Holbrook down to Belper and back. Still some snow on the ground and very chilly by the time we got back to the car.
18.01.10: Spent a lot of the morning on the phone trying to get hold of the RNIB to see if they can offer some support to my mum, especially as she is due to have a cataract operation at some stage this year.
Chris phoned to say she has been invited to the launch of The Wool Project, which will be in the presence of Prince Charles. She will be on holiday, so has nominated our contact at The Crafts Council
19.01.10: Finally was rung back by a very nice lady called Steph. You have to have a 'Sight Assessment' first before they can help you, so that is the next step.
Have received the new logo for the UKHKA. It's great having a new logo, but the website will need a colour change which is a bit daunting. Will need to book some time with Bob.
Chris phoned to ask if I am free next Tuesday - contact at The Crafts Council can't attend either, although they are sending someone else.
21.01.10: Email received this morning inviting me to attend The Wool Project - ahhh can I cope? Rang Graham who was tied up, so rang Chris who talked me through everything. Main problem is that the launch is being held near Royston near Cambridge. Felt a bit calmer after a long chat with Chris and even calmer when Graham said he'd come with me and we can go down the night before. Luckily I do have something suitable to wear, but am in a state of panic about it. In the same room as Prince Charles - there's a first...
Popped into Rycote Centre to take latest CRB form. Told my Line Manager and she was thrilled as Prince Charles is one of her heroes!
22.01.10: Back to earth and Jewellery Class. Thought today's project would be ideal for two of the students - and they were both absent.
Had hair cut in the afternoon, then collected Lucy from the station and went shopping.
23.10.10: Second night with no sleep. Graham also having trouble sleeping, but he has more reason than me (a reason that I will soon be able to announce). Reasonably easy journey, pheasant for lunch. Lucy and I took a trip to Bourton to have a look round the shops but got caught up with the Hunt and then our favourite shop was closed! Then off to Stow to do some food shopping for my mum and dad. Home around 8.30pm
24.01.10: Catch up day spent at home.
25.01.10: Sarah's Birthday. Graham home from work at 4.00pm, set off for Cambridge about 20 to 5 and arrived just before 7. Nice meal in the hotel restaurant and a quick stroll outside - which was a little bizarre as there didn't seem to be any footpaths and it was freezing cold.
26.01.10: Left the hotel by 8.45 and arrived at Wimpole Home Farm 9.20am. Graham dropped me off and collected me around 2.00pm. Full story above.
27.01.10: Catch up on the website, five piano lessons and another Safeguarding Training Session, this time at Derby Conference Centre off London Road. (6.30pm - 9.30pm)The chap was very knowledgeable having worked (and I think still does) in child care for Social Services. He was lovely, but kept apologising for everything - I wanted to give him a shake and say: "Be more assertive!" Home at last and then watched 2 episodes of Mad Men.
28.01.10: 4 piano lessons.
29.01.10: Jewellery Class at Village. Graham's last half day at work for Delta Rail. He has taken 'early retirement' - anyway we get to keep our free Rail Travel and he has an interview for a new job next week...
30.01.10: Sunny, but very cold. Ended up at Dovedale - walked up Thorpe Cloude. Had my TENS machine on me and managed the walk without too much bother. Watched a chap trying to cross the stepping stones at Dovedale which were covered in water. The first time he fell off up to his knees, the second time up to his chest - hope he had a wet-suit on under his jacket! Full moon was spectacular on way home.
31.01.10: Graham and I went up to Alport Heights to try and capture the moon. When we eventually got there, we'd missed the sunset and were too early for the moon rise. Bit of a shame as we had a Canon 5D to play with, but nothing to photograph - one day we'll get it right...
To The End And Beyond...
03.01.10
More likely to be a title of a book somewhere, perhaps someone will enlighten me...?
More likely to be a title of a book somewhere, perhaps someone will enlighten me...?
With Fan Club...
Sunday 3rd January 2010
Another freezing cold day, but beautifully sunny. As it was Robert's last day at home and the last day he would be driving my car, we took a quick trip to Butterley Reservoir, Ripley before lunch. We walked all the way round the perimeter, me taking photos and he throwing lumps of ice across the frozen lake. There was a collection of birds on the lake, this swan knew how to put on a photogenic pose...
Another freezing cold day, but beautifully sunny. As it was Robert's last day at home and the last day he would be driving my car, we took a quick trip to Butterley Reservoir, Ripley before lunch. We walked all the way round the perimeter, me taking photos and he throwing lumps of ice across the frozen lake. There was a collection of birds on the lake, this swan knew how to put on a photogenic pose...
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
New Year Trip To The Yorkshire Sculpture Park
01.01.10
For anyone who has never visited the YSP, I urge you to put it on your list to visit this year. There is something for everyone, exhibitions, crafts, walks, things indoors, things outdoors and even a wonderful choice of great food at affordable prices at the upstairs cafe.
We had lunch first and then went for a long walk and still had time for a cup of tea and sticky bun when we got back.
Great place for taking photos at any time of the year. Just make sure you have suitable footwear, or not mind if people laugh when you loose a shoe in the mud ... mentioning no names... Lucy
For anyone who has never visited the YSP, I urge you to put it on your list to visit this year. There is something for everyone, exhibitions, crafts, walks, things indoors, things outdoors and even a wonderful choice of great food at affordable prices at the upstairs cafe.
We had lunch first and then went for a long walk and still had time for a cup of tea and sticky bun when we got back.
Great place for taking photos at any time of the year. Just make sure you have suitable footwear, or not mind if people laugh when you loose a shoe in the mud ... mentioning no names... Lucy
Nottingham Contemporary Gallery...
30.12.09
Nottingham is lucky to have a newly built art gallery. To celebrate its opening no expense has been spared (as in no expense) and there is an exhibition of David Hockney's work. I took Robert along and he was really impressed. I, on the other hand was disappointed not with the gallery, but with the exhibition. Am I the only one brave enough to speak out and question Mr Hockney's ability? Does a splash of paint, poorly executed really constitute the essence of a wave? In the adjacent gallery, they must have known I was coming and constructed the painting in this photo, it said:"There will also be things that I don't like that I don't like"...
Nottingham is lucky to have a newly built art gallery. To celebrate its opening no expense has been spared (as in no expense) and there is an exhibition of David Hockney's work. I took Robert along and he was really impressed. I, on the other hand was disappointed not with the gallery, but with the exhibition. Am I the only one brave enough to speak out and question Mr Hockney's ability? Does a splash of paint, poorly executed really constitute the essence of a wave? In the adjacent gallery, they must have known I was coming and constructed the painting in this photo, it said:"There will also be things that I don't like that I don't like"...
Lighten my Darkness...
Christmas may become more predictable and boring each year, but I will never tire of the beautiful lights.
Here at Nottingham is such a example.
Here at Nottingham is such a example.
Saturday, January 09, 2010
Friday, January 08, 2010
Daybreak 15th December 2009
A rare occurrence, me seeing daybreak!
Worth it though to witness these colours.
Worth it though to witness these colours.
Clothes Show Live NEC 2009
04.12.09
I'm quite proud of this photo as it was hand held. The theme of the main Fashion Show was 'Christmas' so there was less fashion, just lots of dancing in what looked like costumes.
We witnessed the launch of new Boy Band, Vice. Strange we haven't heard more about them...
It was very LOUD!
I'm quite proud of this photo as it was hand held. The theme of the main Fashion Show was 'Christmas' so there was less fashion, just lots of dancing in what looked like costumes.
We witnessed the launch of new Boy Band, Vice. Strange we haven't heard more about them...
It was very LOUD!
December 2009
01.12.09: Last Card Class at Alfreton. Class has gone well over all , but numbers have dwindled to just 4. One student had her baby early, one was moving house, one was on holiday etc, etc...
Went to tap class
03.12.09: Jewellery Class at Lakeside, collected Lucy from train.
04.12.09: Lucy and I went to The Clothes Show. We had complimentary tickets because of new links recently forged between the UKHKA and the organisers of The Clothes Show.
08.12.09: After tap class went to a Christmas Fuddle at Rycote. Was very touched as a past student of mine gave me a small Christmas gift. Had a good chat to lots of tutors there. Amazing how relaxed the atmosphere was.
10.12.09: New adult piano pupil came for introductory session. Last Jewellery Class at Lakeside, evaluation sheets all had positive comments.
12.12.09: Craft Fair at The Quad 10.00am-8.00pm. Graham just back from America that morning, came with us to help carry everything in and then went home to bed. (In truth he played with his motorbike bits...) Thanks to everyone who came and supported me, Deborah, Mary, Gillian, Irene, Judith, Gail, Tina et alia... We saw Father Christmas drive past on his motorbike! Came home tired, but happy at 7.00pm, it was a very long day...
14.12.09: Found time to go to town and pick up some Swiss francs.
15.12.09: Early start to catch a plane to Geneva. Left the house at 5.00am. Disappointingly dull and freezing cold in Geneva. Luckily we hired a car and kept warm.
16.12.09: My birthday! Snowing in Geneva, so took a gamble and headed for the mountains where the clouds rose and the sun came out revealing the mountains with an icing of snow - magical. Thanks to Graham for making it all happen!
17.12 09: Up early again to be at the airport for 8.00am and catch the flight back. Unfortunately we were delayed as three of the passengers were left behind at the terminal and we had to wait for them. Surprised to get back home and then it snowed...
18.12.09: Back to Rycote for a 'One to One' meeting with my Line Manager. Took two hours to go through things all positive. Popped into see Mig, but she wasn't at home and then had to go back to hand in my pay claim!
20.12.09: Robert came home for a Christmas break. The way things have been going at work for him, he was glad to be able to make an escape. We had his company for almost two weeks and he had the use of my car...
21.12.09: Another one of my ambitions has always been to have a concert of my piano pupils and raise some money for a good cause. I haven't ever broached the subject with my students before as I thought I'd get a negative response. In fact, the response I got was 100% positive - so as an introduction to playing in front of people, I thought that we'd have a Christmas Musical Evening and make it into a party. It all went very well, we were all equally hopeless... However, everyone said how much they had enjoyed it and that we should do it again in the summer. Many thanks for Graham for doing the cooking (and lots of tidying), Robert for helping out and Gail for providing us with a Musical quiz.
22.12.09: More Christmas festivities, a meal at Le Pierre Bistro with my tap buddies. Nice evening, good food and good company...
23.12.09: Took Robert for a check-up at the dentist.
24.12.09: Robert drove us down to my parents for Christmas. Stopped off at my sister's in Solihull for a cup of coffee and then again in Warwick for some late lunch - just like old times again... Graham was still at work and so came under his own steam later. Just before we got there we received a request to collect the turkey en route. How could we refuse, it was Christmas Eve. Having made a detour through snowy Longborough and down the treacherous hill at Luckley - (not forgetting the thick fog), we eventually arrived at my uncle's farm buildings to find we had just missed him. (it was 10 to 5) I was not particularly happy to be expected to find said turkey in the dark. However, Alistair, my cousin, came to the rescue and all was made well. Needless to say when we arrived at our destination, Graham had already arrived!
25.12.09: Christmas Day. It's a sad fact that as you get old, your parents age too. So it was disappointing that they could not be persuaded to accompany us, as in previous years to attend the church service up at Stow. We nearly didn't get there as the snow made it impossible to get out of the drive - we would have been stuck there had it not been for the help of some passing walkers in digging us out. The service - a few carols, not all of them known, and a dreary sermon which lacked originality and content ( apologies for criticism, but where was the forethought and inspirational content?!) fell way short of the mark. Then off to my uncle's - except he'd phoned up after we'd left to say he wouldn't be there...
Excellent Christmas dinner, well done to all the 'cookers' and then a long walk with Robert, (can't remember why no-one else came) and finally, as the sun set, we were allowed to open lots of lovely presents. Great day, hope we can all be together again next year...
26.12.09: Got to see my uncle and aunt and hear all about their recent holiday to South Africa (and see the photos), pity there wasn't time to tell them what we'd been doing...
Took Robert on another long walk, one which I don't think I've been on since I left home nearly 30 years ago. Once we'd negotiated the Boxing Day Hunt (no horses, just dogs and lots of people racing along the road in their cars), and the blind hill, where we had to scurry over someone's field until it was safe to go back to the road, we came to Upper Slaughter the' back way'. What memories it evoked...
27.12.09: Time to pack up and leave, but not to go home. We headed in the opposite direction and went to Cheltenham to visit Graham's mother, who always goes to his brother Dave's for Christmas. Unfortunately his brother was out, but this gave us the opportunity to speak with his wife Marj, who usually has to take a 'back seat'. Lovely to see Doreen, happy and healthy once again... Graham drove home with Lucy and I went with Robert, home again by 8.00pm and before the next fall of snow.
30.12.09: Had planned to go to London, but in view of the cold and damp weather, it would have been pretty miserable. Instead we three went to Nottingham and looked round the sales. I hobbled as I'd somehow hurt my foot. Robert and I went to the new Contemporary Gallery. Beautiful new venue, which I could think of something complimentary to say about the main exhibition. Suffice to say David Hockney doesn't do anything for me, perhaps if he'd managed to finish some of the paintings? As with all the exhibitions I go to with Robert, there were lots of pictures of nude men, a change from nude women...
31.12.09: My foot was still very poorly, so although we three went to Allestree Park for a walk, I stayed in the car and listened to my Christmas CD (Michael Buble) and read a magazine. I did manage a short walk, but it was soooo cold!
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Derby Roundhouse
16.11.09
I think I've been taking photos of this building for the past 30 (nearly) years. How nice it has now been renovated to its former glory.
Can't wait to see inside...
I think I've been taking photos of this building for the past 30 (nearly) years. How nice it has now been renovated to its former glory.
Can't wait to see inside...
German Christmas Market, Birmingham
16.11.09.
This chap was selling his puppets. Look closely and you'll see one of them move...
This chap was selling his puppets. Look closely and you'll see one of them move...
November 2009:
03.11.09: Card Making Class at Alfreton, tap class
05.11.09: New Jewellery class at Lakeside School in Derby. 9 young mums eager to learn how to make jewellery, lovely group. Can now collect Lucy from the station each week at 3.30pm
06.11.09: Jewellery Class at Village.
08.11.09: Graham went to America
10.11.09: Card Class Alfreton, tap class. had confirmation from The Quad in Derby that I'd been accepted to have a stall at their 'Don't Panic' Craft Bazaar. Quite why it was given that title, I'm not quite sure - as it was me panicking; how would I have time to make things...
12.11.09: Jewellery class at Lakeside School
13.11.09: Jewellery Class at Village.
16.11.09: Graham home from America. Went to Birmingham to have a guided tour of the 'Taking Time' Exhibition at the main Art Gallery. Sarah had invited me to come along after receiving the invitation through work. By coincidence, it contained work of one our Knitting Artists (Shane Waltener) from the website, so it was useful to have some more photos. Pity there was hardly any one there. The Christmas Market from Germany was next to the Bull Ring, so it was good to see that while I was there.
17.11.09: Card Class Alfreton, tap class.
18.11.09: Jewellery workshop at Marston's, made a beaded star.
19.11.09: Jewellery class at Lakeside School
20.11.09: Jewellery Class at Village. Was due to go to the Design and Technology show at the NEC, but had to make at trip to the doctor's instead.
23.11.09: Back to see the nurse for tests.
24.11.09: Card Class Alfreton, tap class.
26.11.09: Jewellery class at Lakeside School.
27.11.09: Last Jewellery Class at Village this term. Safeguarding Training at Kedleston Road 1.30pm-4.30pm. Great to see other tutors and have a chat. (Sandra and Piotr)
28.11.09: Has been asked to do Christmas Crafts at Alfreton today, but when it emerged that another tutor had also been asked, I was only too happy to stand down as I needed to spend every available moment making things for the Craft Fair.
Plas Brondanw, The Home Of Clough Williams-Ellis
02.11.09
A visit to the Williams-Ellis family home rounded off our trip to Wales.
A visit to the Williams-Ellis family home rounded off our trip to Wales.
Am Ambition Achieved...
01.11.09
Every since we first visited Portmeirion when Lucy was little, it has always been an ambition of hers to stay in the village. On a whim I had promised that I would make her dream come true, not believing that I could actually make it happen as I never thought I'd be well enough to drive all the way and back. Well, I said we'd go while Graham was in America in the 'low' season and we did...
Every since we first visited Portmeirion when Lucy was little, it has always been an ambition of hers to stay in the village. On a whim I had promised that I would make her dream come true, not believing that I could actually make it happen as I never thought I'd be well enough to drive all the way and back. Well, I said we'd go while Graham was in America in the 'low' season and we did...
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
October 2009
01.10.09: Took Lucy to Leicester to register and move into her new flat. Difficult to find anywhere to park while she was registering, but this only took 5 minutes. Her new flat is within the university complex and we could leave the car in the residence parking while we unloaded. She'll be living with Dominic who is a technician at the university studying for his Phd. Really nice lad, the sort of person you couldn't not get on with. I'm sure Lucy will enjoy her time in this flat. Home by 2.00pm.
02.10.09: Jewellery Class at Village.
03.10.09: We all went to see my mum and dad for the day. Lovely weather - took some photos.
04.10.09: Took Lucy to the station to catch the train to Leicester for the first time this term.
05.10.09: Robert broke his arm while playing football. Was in goal and went to save the ball and it struck his forearm very hard. Had just completed the first day of a three day First Aid Course.
06.10.09: Card Class Alfreton, tap lesson.
08.10.09: Had hair cut at March Hair in Little Eaton, took photos of Horsley Castle and Coxbench.
09.10.09: Jewellery Class at Village
10.10.09: Lucy and I went to Alexandra Palace for the Knitting and Stitching show. Took photos of the Knitted Textile Awards and had a long 'catch up' with Chris. Went home tired but happy after a productive day.
13.10.09: Card Class Alfreton, tap lesson.
14.10.09: Glass Painting workshop at Marstons, made a suncatcher on acetate.
16.10.09: Jewellery Class at Village.
17.10.09: Graham went to Stafford bike show and met up with Les. lucy and I ended up at Longnor, bit boring.
18.10.09: We three went to Motorbike Museum for a Bead Fair. Graham went round the museum for the first time since the fire at a reduced rate as we went to the Bead Fair. Had nice lunch there, very generous portions.
19.10.09: Graham went to America.
20.10.09: Card Class Alfreton, tap lesson.
22.10.09: Thornton's AGM at The Assembly Rooms. Yet again had to go on my own. Shame there doesn't seem to be any recognisable people on the committee any more. At least they now have one woman. Waited for Lucy to arrive from Leicester (comes home on a Thursday as no lectures on a Friday) went round the Continental Market, rained heavily. Derby Wheel still up.
23.10.09: Jewellery Class at Village.
24.10.09: Lucy and I went to London and met up with Robert and his broken arm in green plastic. We went to Portobello Market, something Lucy wanted to do for her birthday. Rained most of the time. Had nice lunch at Gormet Burgers. Robert bought Lucy another umbrella for Christmas and she bought Robert some Lego cufflinks. I bought some coloured balls which swell up when placed in water - and then you add flowers...
25.10.09: Clocks went forward.
28.10.09: Half Term week, went to see Mig for coffee on the Wednesday.
31.10.09: Went to Halloween Party along the Lane. Excellent food, but didn't stay long as packing to go away tomorrow.
September 2009
05.09.09: Marston's Open Day. Lovely day organised by Marstons for all their employees at all the different depots in Burton, Wolverhampton, Mansfield and Witney. They had a live band, stalls and free lunch and drink vouchers. I made earrings with visitors at £2.00 a time. Didn't make a fortune, but had a good time.
07.09.09: Enrolment Session at Allen Park. I saw three enthusiastic potential learners.
08.09.09 Tutor meeting at Rycote
09.09.09: Tutor meeting at Community House Long Eaton. Couldn't open their door.
Balloon flew over house early evening.
10.09.09: Sunny day, so went over to Ripley to take some photos for All Things Local magazine.
11.09.09: Enrolment session at Village. Kate came for introductory piano lesson. Lucy and I went to Ikea for tea - amazing sunset, got quizzed by security guards for taking photographs.
13.09.09: Lucy and I went to Melbourne Arts Festival. Not as good as last year, but still interesting. Cold and windy, nice pork cob for lunch.
14.09.09: Jewellery Class at Allen Park, 5 students
15.09.09: Start as I mean to go on. Although Hermione has not been happy ever since we got back from Italy, I decided I would go back to tap class. Much to my surprise, I received a rapturous reception with everyone asking how I was and how were things in general. How lovely everyone was to make me feel so welcome. Came home a bit stiff, but not so bad considering.
16.09.09: Lucy went off at 7.00am this morning on her way to spend three days in Paris. As Graham was in America we booked a taxi.
Jewellery workshop at Marston's, made a handbag charm.
17.09.09: Another new adult piano pupil, Luke came for introductory session.
18.09.09: Jewellery Class at Village, 11 enrolled so far. Have three deaf learners.
19.09.09: Lucy back from France, didn't enjoy her time there having fallen out with her old friends, but managed to make some new ones.
20.09.09: Graham back from America.
21.09.09: Jewellery Class at Allen Park, now have 7 students. New piano pupils today, mother and daughter Bridget and Ellen.
22.09.09: Card Class at Alfreton, 8 students, no learning difficulties, hooray! Second tap class...
23.09.09: Went to Phillipa's house in Belper for coffee. Hermione didn't like sitting on kitchen chair.
25.09.09: Jewellery Class at Village
26.09.09: Went into town on own as Lucy at work and then at Reptonia's Leaving Do. Took photos of Derby Wheel, nice weather for a change.
27.09.09: Graham and I went for a walk round Calke Abbey
28.09.09: Last Jewellery Class at Allen Park as we only have 7 learners not 8!
29.09.09: Card Class at Alfreton, tap class.
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
21.08.09
Shopping in New York during the morning, then after lunch Graham drove us all to the airport and we put Robert and Lucy on a plane back to Blighty. Took for ever to drive back through New York and on to our next destination which was Long Island. Eventually arrived at our hotel and then we were off again shortly in search of some tea. We picked a Diner and I have to say that I have never been served with so much food. I think I had a whole salmon and some more, wonderful!
22.08.09
Graham had set his heart on visiting Montauk Point , so although it took us most of the day and we had difficulty finding anything for lunch, it was well worth it once we got there. We walked up the famous Light House and then I spent ages taking photos of the Pacific Ocean until it was just too dark. If you get the opportunity it should be on everyone's list of places to visit.
23.08.09
I, on the other hand had set my heart on visiting the house of The Great Gatsby, yes, I know it doesn't exist, but a house that has floor to ceiling windows that open inwards and have floaty translucent curtains...unfortunately all we found was one of Getty's houses, which just had to do.
Another lunchtime missed, and then a long drive around the edge of New York and finally reaching Philadelphia at sunset. Dinner was at a French restaurant, where we had cocktails and good food then on the way back to the hotel there were cockroaches to negotiate at every step - different.
24.08.09
A day in Philidelphia with lots to see and history to absorb. First we visited a textile museum (at my insistence) where we viewed a full sized fabric whale which had been made with such detail, it even had barnacles. It was unfortunate, but we weren't allowed to touch. Lunch was at the local market, turkey sandwich, delicious. Then we saw the Liberty bell and finally waited patiently to be shown round the Government Offices. Graham fell in love with the guide - it must have been the uniform, or was it the fact she was over 6 foot tall and a bit of an authoritarian...? Our last visit was to another museum where we watched a very interesting video about the life and works of Dale Chihuly - fascinating.
25.08.09
Morning spent in Philadelphia, I wanted to go back to the market and buy Robert some lego candy - which was very much appreciated when he eventually received it some months later. Then on to Washington. We had another fantastic room on the top floor with an annex room. A long walk followed taking in the Washington Monument and The White House. I still can't believe that The White House is right in the middle of the city. When you see it on the news it always looks to me as though it is on a hill, set away from everything else, but it isn't! We almost missed tea, finally finding a Subway open at 10.30pm having made it back to the hotel first to find they stopped serving at 9pm.
26.08.09
My mum's 81st birthday. I hope Graham still drags me off places when I'm 81...
A very hot day seeing the sights. First we took the underground to Capitol Hill to see The Capitol. It is just utterly breathtaking, so white, so big, so detailed, expletives cannot to it justice... It was so hot we took refuge in the visitor's centre underground where it was cool. I managed to leave my handbag on a seat, but it was safely retrieved before anyone else noticed. Then we walked down the hill in front of the Capitol, Graham went to see the Space Museum and I went to the Art Museum where I saw the only Leonardo Da Vinci in the whole of America. It is quite beautiful (as in very).
Meeting up, we had to beat a retreat to the hotel to recover and then came out again under cover of darkness to see the Vietnam War Memorial and The Lincoln Memorial. Again we ended up in Subway at 10pm.
27.08.09
First a quick trip to see the main station where I was allowed a quick look at some shops then back to the hotel and off Charlottesville, stopping off on the way to visit a farm being run as it was in the 1600s with the main crop being tobacco. Tummies rumbling, we hoped to find somewhere for lunch, but having found a lovely park next to the Potomac River all we found were hot dogs. I ate half and then had an ice cream - I hope I never have to eat another...
There were vantage places to watch the rapids, which was great, especially when we saw there were some canoeists coming down.
28.08.09
Our only truly wet day, so to spite the weather we visited the Luray Caverns which were absolutely spectacular. The icing on the cake (literally) being at the end where the stalagmites had been wire up to be played like an organ. On the way back we paid a huge sun to drive on the Ridge Parkway. A bit of a disappointment as it was misty and cold, we had a few deer jump out at us, but as for seeing any views it was a wash out.
We had dinner in Charlottesville where it felt the whole of the town had turned out for a Friday Night's 'knees up'.
29.08.09.
The day I had been waiting for, our trip to Walton's Mountain. We arrived early and with the sun shining to herald our arrival. I know if I was pleased or disappointed, only that it wasn't quite as I had expected. A High School given over to a museum of the Waltons. Good in a way because the now closed school still has a purpose, but everything was a bit amateurish. Precious newspaper cuttings, pinned to noticeboards were ageing with no protection. There were lots of photos of the actors and detailed autobiographies. It was more about the television programme than the actual characters. All very interesting all the same. The house where Earl Hamner lived was across the road and really rather small having recently been sold and renovated to a standard never before achieved. There was no 'real' Walton's Mountain, but hey, does that really matter?
The afternoon was spent in another park with a long walk to see a natural bridge of stone and a waterfall at the end. Also some snakes sunning themselves on the wall, but the least said about them the better and the Amish girls who frightened them back into the wall...
The evening ended with another drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, with spectacular views...
30.08.09
Spent the night in another lovely hotel at Roanoke. Having arrived late last night we had a delicious steak at Applebys. Was allowed to run riot in a craft shop, great fun! Explored some of the old part of town and had burgers at a busy restaurant where the live music was so loud we had to move outside.
Drove to a far away lake late afternoon, which was lovely, but didn't like the way areas were designated to you were only allowed to do certain things in certain areas - like swim or sail. Didn't affect as we arrived at closing time... Finally got the photos I wanted of sunset behind The Blue Ridge Mountains - even if the telegraph poles got in the way!
01.09.09
Running our of puff at this stage in the holiday, all I wanted to do was go home! On our travels today we ended up at a gemstone panning station. All good fun, you bought your bag of swag, a mixture of gem stones and road building stone then decanted into a steam of running water and extracted the pretty stones. Froze our fingers doing it, Hermione wasn't too happy either. Followed a truck back down the mountain with its brakes full on..
Day ended at a grotty hotel in Charlottestown next to the airport ready for an early flight back to New York the next morning.
02.09.09
Flight was on a small airplane which bucked and wiggled in the air. Even the pilot felt the need to tell when he'd 'found' some smooth air - I was not impressed...
With a few hours to spare we took the train into New York, had a burger at an Irish pub, caught the train back and eventually boarded the plane home.
Great holiday, just a bit long...
Holiday In America
16.08.09: Flight out long and uneventful. So much better now you can spend the time watching films. Had taxi from the airport to our hotel. Not as scary as last year. Walked to Central Park taking in a craft fair on the way. Was so hot had to keep out of the sun! Pleasant walk around the park and back to the hotel. Ate at hotel and went for another walk before turning in for the night.
17.08.09
Had a tour around NBC studios. Not a lot going on, but interesting all the same. Very cold inside! Had evening meal in Bryant Park whilst watching Close Encounters Of The Third Kind
18.08.09: Lucy and I 'did' the bead shops and got as far as the Flat Iron Building (where it rained for a while.) Graham and Robert visited a museum. Met up in Bryant Park where we saw them filming an episode of 'The Goodbye Girl' (?) Went back to the hotel. Came out later and visited Times Square in the dark. Robert and Lucy elsewhere.
19.08.09: Robert and Lucy got up early and took the train to Washington for the day. (Graham accompanied them to Penn Station. We caught a train and spent a leisurely and very pleasant day the the Botanical Gardens - very hot. Met Robert and Lucy from the train at 10.30pm
20.08.09: Graham went to the airport and picked up a hire car and drove to Stamford. We three took the train and met him there. Spent the morning with Don, we went for a walk around Greenwich Point while Robert and Lucy swam in the sea. Had lunch and spent the afternoon driving round until we all met up for dinner with Don, Pat, David, Marie and Samantha.
August 2009
01.08.09
Lucy's 21st Birthday Party. Lucy had organised a party at Condicote Village Hall so that all of Graham's relations could come as well as my parents. Graham's relations came early and stayed until the end and had a good time. My parents stayed for about an hour which was disappointing, as was the short time Kimberley and Andy stayed having travelled all the way up from Weymouth. However, considering the weather, it rained heavily the whole day, it was a miracle that anyone one came, so belated thanks to all...
Special thanks to Ted and Chris who in true stalwart fashion stayed and helped us tidy up afterwards. It was a long day...
06.0809: Family Learning at Hatton Centre, 10am-1pm. Interesting morning with children and parents making patterns with Calligraphy pens to form a border around their names. Missed UHKA meeting in London.
11.08.09: Jewellery workshop at Marstons in Burton. Made a beaded ring. Looked fab, but was a lot of work.
July 2009
14.07.09: Morning spent at Village Centre learning the correct way to use a smart board
16.07.09: More training at Kedleston Road learning how to upload to Reflect, the website for IFL.
19.07.09: Our 29th Wedding Anniversary...
21.07.09: Tutor Network Meeting at Rycote
24.07.09: Phillipa came over for coffee.
28.07.09: Lucy and I went to Nottingham to buy a special lamp from Habitat Robert had requested for his birthday. Also bought beads and had tea at Nandos, rained...
30.07.09: Graham back from the US.
31.07.09: Hermione playing up.
Last Day Of Holiday In Italy
11.07.09.
Catching a later flight than in previous years gave us an opportunity to stop off in Bologna, visit the market and buy some local nougat.
Catching a later flight than in previous years gave us an opportunity to stop off in Bologna, visit the market and buy some local nougat.
Palazzo Vecchio, Florence
10.07.09
Today was spent driving up into the mountains near Bagni Di Lucca. Visited Vagli Sotto, but the road across the bridge was blocked off, so carried on up to a village. I can't remember the name, but it was a village made from the marble of the mountain it stood on. Inhabited only in summer while livestock fed off the grass, it now receives coach loads of school children on Outward Bound Courses.
Today was spent driving up into the mountains near Bagni Di Lucca. Visited Vagli Sotto, but the road across the bridge was blocked off, so carried on up to a village. I can't remember the name, but it was a village made from the marble of the mountain it stood on. Inhabited only in summer while livestock fed off the grass, it now receives coach loads of school children on Outward Bound Courses.
Beautiful Florence...
09.07.09
Another day trip to Florence. Managed to park in the suburbs and walk in without incident this year. Wonderfully hot day, ambient temperature, delightful place. Looking forward to our next visit.
Another day trip to Florence. Managed to park in the suburbs and walk in without incident this year. Wonderfully hot day, ambient temperature, delightful place. Looking forward to our next visit.
Duomo, Pisa, Tuscany
08.07.09
We had planned to arrive at Pisa and take advantage of the evening light. We could only stand in awe as the sun set and brought out the magnificent colours of these buildings...
We had planned to arrive at Pisa and take advantage of the evening light. We could only stand in awe as the sun set and brought out the magnificent colours of these buildings...
Certosa di Calci Monastery, Near Pisa, Tuscany, Italy
08.07.09
Took a tour (all four of us) around this ancient monastery where every room was painted with Trompe Loeil. Tony Blair once had a meal there with the local Rotarians. Pity we didn't understand anything else the guide told us...
Took a tour (all four of us) around this ancient monastery where every room was painted with Trompe Loeil. Tony Blair once had a meal there with the local Rotarians. Pity we didn't understand anything else the guide told us...
Volterra, Tuscany
07.07.09
Day trip to Volterra. Very windy while we were there and the sun went in! Otherwise, lots to see and walk around. Visited the Etruscan Guarnacci Museum which was full of funereal urns...
Day trip to Volterra. Very windy while we were there and the sun went in! Otherwise, lots to see and walk around. Visited the Etruscan Guarnacci Museum which was full of funereal urns...
Montecarlo, Tuscany
06.07.09
Visited a vineyard at Montecarlo near Lucca and had a wine tasting before purchasing some bottles of local wine.
Visited a vineyard at Montecarlo near Lucca and had a wine tasting before purchasing some bottles of local wine.
Piazza Anfiteatro, Lucca, Tuscany, Italy
06.07.09
An evening visit to Lucca and a meal in the Piazza Anfiteatro. Not as nice a meal as last year, but you can't have everything...
An evening visit to Lucca and a meal in the Piazza Anfiteatro. Not as nice a meal as last year, but you can't have everything...
Church, Collodi, Tuscany, Italy
06.07.09
Visited Collodi, home to a Pinocchio theme park. His creator's uncle used to live here. It was an extremely steep walk up to this church, but well worth the effort.
Visited Collodi, home to a Pinocchio theme park. His creator's uncle used to live here. It was an extremely steep walk up to this church, but well worth the effort.
Evening Walk
Took a lovely walk up past the spas of Bagni di Lucca, up over the top and back to the centre of Bagni late evening.
Our Little Friend...
05.07.09
Experienced rain and thunderstorms on our first day at the holiday house. The thunder was so fierce that it set of the cooker - making a clicking noise it should make when the gas lights. Stuck it for a night then had to call in the husband of the lady who looks after the house. He and Graham worked on it for over an hour, eventually managing to disconnect the noise.
Experienced rain and thunderstorms on our first day at the holiday house. The thunder was so fierce that it set of the cooker - making a clicking noise it should make when the gas lights. Stuck it for a night then had to call in the husband of the lady who looks after the house. He and Graham worked on it for over an hour, eventually managing to disconnect the noise.
Rimini
03.07.09
Travelled down to Longoio via Rimini. Stayed in a hotel which overlooked the beach and had a large balcony. Had dinner on the top floor of the hotel, amazing food, amazing views. Had a walk round the old part before dinner, then a stroll along the sea front after dinner. You could still go and watch performing seals at 10.30pm. Quite magical.
04.07.09.
Walked round the market in Rimini in the morning and then drove on to Longoio arriving around 7pm.
Travelled down to Longoio via Rimini. Stayed in a hotel which overlooked the beach and had a large balcony. Had dinner on the top floor of the hotel, amazing food, amazing views. Had a walk round the old part before dinner, then a stroll along the sea front after dinner. You could still go and watch performing seals at 10.30pm. Quite magical.
04.07.09.
Walked round the market in Rimini in the morning and then drove on to Longoio arriving around 7pm.
Summer Holiday In Italy
01.07.09
Flew to Venice late on Wednesday 1st July. Stayed two nights in Hotel next to the station at Quattro D'Altino. Amazingly you couldn't hear any trains as they are electric and very quiet.
02.07.09
Went to Venice on the train and spent the day walking round drinking in the beauty of the place. Frighteningly hot mid afternoon. Visited the Betty Guggenheim Museum, Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, for some respite from the heat.
Flew to Venice late on Wednesday 1st July. Stayed two nights in Hotel next to the station at Quattro D'Altino. Amazingly you couldn't hear any trains as they are electric and very quiet.
02.07.09
Went to Venice on the train and spent the day walking round drinking in the beauty of the place. Frighteningly hot mid afternoon. Visited the Betty Guggenheim Museum, Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, for some respite from the heat.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)