Slight change of routine this year. With New Year's Eve being on Sunday our usual celebratory trip to London to see a musical was brought forward a day. Lucky really as there is a train strike today! Caught the 11.00am train and no trouble with seats, in fact London not exactly busy with bargain hunters, or did we just visit the wrong places? On arrival we made our way to New Bond Street to see an exhibition of photographs of Marilyn Monroe by Eve Arnold. There'd been mention of this exhibition in the Sunday Telegraph magazine a couple of weeks ago and as Marilyn's spell seems to affect us all, thought it would make interesting viewing. There weren't many photos, but those there were impressive, more impressive were the prices people were prepared to pay to own a print. Prices started at around £1200... Downstairs were other paintings for sale and interestingly three originals of L.S. Lowry. In our family, legend has it that he used to stay with his aunt in Carterton (near Brize Norton) and buy apples from my great aunt. Apparently he gave one of his paintings to his aunt, but none of our family ever got to see it...
Sunday, December 31, 2006
`I think I should understand that better,' Alice said very politely, `if I had it written down: but I can't quite follow it as you say it.'
The weather was not helpful in my photographic quest for another London subject, so without proper lighting, I had to decide on 'today's angle'. Hit upon shop fronts with the vague excuse that Lucy might be able to use them in her research into fashion buying, or something! Anyway, put together on Flickr, I am reasonably pleased with results. Unfortunately, by the time we got to the end of New Bond Street, Lucy's new umbrella was proving indispensable and it was clear that a winning photograph was not to be. It was at this point that I decided that we would head straight to the theatre and spend any time left over in a near-by coffee bar sampling the delights of a home-made muffin. Having split from 'the boys' earlier, I had kept the map of London, but not, as it was to prove, a clear idea of where the theatre was situated. Charing Cross Road, in my head had been misinterpreted as Charing Cross station, so those of you with a better geographic knowledge than me, will know I leading Lucy up (down?) he road to disaster. In the rain we passed Piccadilly, turned down Regent Street and across at Pall Mall and found ourselves at Trafalgar Square where preparations for the New Year's Eve celebrations were in progress. On to Charing Cross station and time for a quick call to see exactly which theatre we were due at. Now we would have been OK if it hadn't been for O2 messing up our mobile phone accounts last week - to cut a long story short, my bill had remained unpaid and as it turned out my phone was now barred. By the time I got through to Graham, using Lucy's phone it was well passed 3.30pm and a few expletives were exchanged when we realised where we were and where we should have been. Somehow, we managed to arrive at the theatre with about 6 minutes to spare, so that was early for me, eek!! The show, 'Blood Brothers' was thoroughly enjoyed by all, although I have to say I wish someone had warned me how emotional it becomes at the end and how I would be sure to need a handkie!!
Got soaked running for the train, but made up for it by having a superb meal at 'Frankie and Benny's' once we were back in Derby.
Got soaked running for the train, but made up for it by having a superb meal at 'Frankie and Benny's' once we were back in Derby.
Friday, December 29, 2006
IN BRIEF
Friday 22nd
Amazing change in the weather today, fog disappeared and was replaced with sunshine and blue sky. The hoar frost of two days was still attached to everything and made for some very photogenic scenes. Hoped to be off to collect Robert for 10.00am, but knew I would only have this opportunity for a short time, so dashed out armed with camera. Really pleased with results. Apologises to everyone who saw my photos and were impressed with the images, but not the spelling!
The journey to Cambridge down the M1 was pretty clear, but the nearer we got to the town, the foggier it became. Parking up where Robert lodges, he soon arrived on his bike, complete with the last bottle of wine he had been given from work, in his rucksack - well they are heavy to carry all at once! Off then into Cambridge to do some last minute Christmas shopping. Robert also thought it good to show us, or rather lead us round King's College, where the carols would later be broadcast live. By this time the fog was so thick we couldn't even see the famous stained glass window of the chapel from the path. We paused at the bridge over the canal and were asked to take a photo of some hardy Japanese tourists and peering over the side we spied a group 'enjoying' a trip in a punt. Rather them than me! All this and we managed to clock up £7.00 car parking charge. Before leaving I thought it best to check the tyre pressures, as my car decided on the journey down, it was going to pull to the left . Having found a garage, I read the instructions and decided that with Robert's help we could pump the tyres up well within the 3 minutes allotted for 50p. Next followed a scene not dissimilar to 'Jeux Sans Frontiers' in the dark - Robert entrusted to pumping up the tyres being encouraged (by me) to fit the end on on the valve in the shortest time possible - we're still speaking, just...
Saturday 23rd
'Early' start to take Lucy to work and surprise, surprise a husband chez-nous when I got back home at last from America! Lunch out which was good, but no turkey in sight, Graham nodding off on the way home (I was driving as his knee still 'playing up'), so Robert and I went off to do yet more last minute Christmas shopping while he had a snooze. Went to town later.
Sunday 24th
Nearly ready for Christmas, so found time for short trip out and walk along Tissington Trail after lunch. Managed to find coffee shop open in nearby Ashbourne and a generously given a free cup of tea when it was inadvertently missed off our order, well... it was Christmas...
Monday 25th
Are Christmases disappointing or is it just me? Much in need of reminding of true meaning of Christmas, perhaps we should have sung more carols. Had short walk out after Christmas lunch to local hotel where Lucy's friend was holding the fort, then back for 'pressies' and far too many 'eats'. Nice presents, lovely jewellery from Graham, best present: music score from 'About a Boy' by Badly Drawn Boy from Robert. Robert's ulterior motive is that I will teach him how to play it when I've worked it out. The score looks straight forward, but like all good 'pop' tunes, involves rubbing your stomach and patting your head at the same time (in musical terms). Relatively easy to play, but got so involved was accused of being antisocial... didn't mean to spend so long, it's just such good fun to have something musical to 'get your teeth into'.
Tuesday 26th
Lucy spent most of day with Ben (boyfriend) and his family. The day was only marginally better weatherwise, but we did make it to The Stone Centre at Wirksworth and a walk up and down the incline, which helped to increase the heart rate and burn off a few of yesterday's extra calories. Afterwards on to Matlock Bath for afternoon tea and yet another sticky bun (also for Graham to have his 'fix' of motorbikes).
Wednesday 27th
Trip to see parents. All packed and ready to go before 11.00am. First stop to see Sarah and marvel how she managed to sleep 11 people in the house without a full set of carpets, plaster on the kitchen wall or a surround for new bath. Kathryn, is having a year out, but couldn't quite make out what she is doing...She has a place at Coventry University to study music composition (envy, envy...) Left there and headed to Stratford to find somewhere for lunch and a quick stroll to drink in the ambience. After large meal, headed for Lakeland Plastics and 'bumped into' Judy Dench (about to star in " Merry Wives - The Musical") on a shopping spree with a nice young man to 'protect' her from us lesser mortals...would have loved to have asked for autograph, but felt it too much of an intrusion.
Thursday 28th
Lucy's special lunch of roast pheasant was followed by a trip to Cheltenham to see Graham's mum who was spending the festive season with his brother, Dave. Dave and his wife made us very welcome with numerous cups of tea, assorted sandwiches and a chocolate cake to die for! Graham, in his quest for tracing family ancestry, cleared up a few discrepancies with his mum about her mum's name. Shock horror, she was born out of wedlock and seems to have been punished for it for much of her life (odd). Dave regaled us with stories of civil engineering feats interspersed with jokes like: "I went to Specsavers yesterday, guess who I bumped into?...Everyone...ho, ho!!" On the way back we went through Cheltenham to see their Christmas lights. (I think Heanor put on a better show!)
Friday 29th
Quick trip to Condicote to exchange Christmas presents with Ted and Chris (my aunt and uncle). May have helped if Ted had told Chris of our imminent arrival (which he forgot), but we did see her for 5 minutes just before we needed to leave. Packed our things and departed about 2.30pm and home before 4.30pm - I drove most of the way. Good to be home, hopefully no more packing and unpacking, although Robert and Graham will be back at work on 2nd, just as we were getting used to all being together again.
Friday 22nd
Amazing change in the weather today, fog disappeared and was replaced with sunshine and blue sky. The hoar frost of two days was still attached to everything and made for some very photogenic scenes. Hoped to be off to collect Robert for 10.00am, but knew I would only have this opportunity for a short time, so dashed out armed with camera. Really pleased with results. Apologises to everyone who saw my photos and were impressed with the images, but not the spelling!
The journey to Cambridge down the M1 was pretty clear, but the nearer we got to the town, the foggier it became. Parking up where Robert lodges, he soon arrived on his bike, complete with the last bottle of wine he had been given from work, in his rucksack - well they are heavy to carry all at once! Off then into Cambridge to do some last minute Christmas shopping. Robert also thought it good to show us, or rather lead us round King's College, where the carols would later be broadcast live. By this time the fog was so thick we couldn't even see the famous stained glass window of the chapel from the path. We paused at the bridge over the canal and were asked to take a photo of some hardy Japanese tourists and peering over the side we spied a group 'enjoying' a trip in a punt. Rather them than me! All this and we managed to clock up £7.00 car parking charge. Before leaving I thought it best to check the tyre pressures, as my car decided on the journey down, it was going to pull to the left . Having found a garage, I read the instructions and decided that with Robert's help we could pump the tyres up well within the 3 minutes allotted for 50p. Next followed a scene not dissimilar to 'Jeux Sans Frontiers' in the dark - Robert entrusted to pumping up the tyres being encouraged (by me) to fit the end on on the valve in the shortest time possible - we're still speaking, just...
Saturday 23rd
'Early' start to take Lucy to work and surprise, surprise a husband chez-nous when I got back home at last from America! Lunch out which was good, but no turkey in sight, Graham nodding off on the way home (I was driving as his knee still 'playing up'), so Robert and I went off to do yet more last minute Christmas shopping while he had a snooze. Went to town later.
Sunday 24th
Nearly ready for Christmas, so found time for short trip out and walk along Tissington Trail after lunch. Managed to find coffee shop open in nearby Ashbourne and a generously given a free cup of tea when it was inadvertently missed off our order, well... it was Christmas...
Monday 25th
Are Christmases disappointing or is it just me? Much in need of reminding of true meaning of Christmas, perhaps we should have sung more carols. Had short walk out after Christmas lunch to local hotel where Lucy's friend was holding the fort, then back for 'pressies' and far too many 'eats'. Nice presents, lovely jewellery from Graham, best present: music score from 'About a Boy' by Badly Drawn Boy from Robert. Robert's ulterior motive is that I will teach him how to play it when I've worked it out. The score looks straight forward, but like all good 'pop' tunes, involves rubbing your stomach and patting your head at the same time (in musical terms). Relatively easy to play, but got so involved was accused of being antisocial... didn't mean to spend so long, it's just such good fun to have something musical to 'get your teeth into'.
Tuesday 26th
Lucy spent most of day with Ben (boyfriend) and his family. The day was only marginally better weatherwise, but we did make it to The Stone Centre at Wirksworth and a walk up and down the incline, which helped to increase the heart rate and burn off a few of yesterday's extra calories. Afterwards on to Matlock Bath for afternoon tea and yet another sticky bun (also for Graham to have his 'fix' of motorbikes).
Wednesday 27th
Trip to see parents. All packed and ready to go before 11.00am. First stop to see Sarah and marvel how she managed to sleep 11 people in the house without a full set of carpets, plaster on the kitchen wall or a surround for new bath. Kathryn, is having a year out, but couldn't quite make out what she is doing...She has a place at Coventry University to study music composition (envy, envy...) Left there and headed to Stratford to find somewhere for lunch and a quick stroll to drink in the ambience. After large meal, headed for Lakeland Plastics and 'bumped into' Judy Dench (about to star in " Merry Wives - The Musical") on a shopping spree with a nice young man to 'protect' her from us lesser mortals...would have loved to have asked for autograph, but felt it too much of an intrusion.
Thursday 28th
Lucy's special lunch of roast pheasant was followed by a trip to Cheltenham to see Graham's mum who was spending the festive season with his brother, Dave. Dave and his wife made us very welcome with numerous cups of tea, assorted sandwiches and a chocolate cake to die for! Graham, in his quest for tracing family ancestry, cleared up a few discrepancies with his mum about her mum's name. Shock horror, she was born out of wedlock and seems to have been punished for it for much of her life (odd). Dave regaled us with stories of civil engineering feats interspersed with jokes like: "I went to Specsavers yesterday, guess who I bumped into?...Everyone...ho, ho!!" On the way back we went through Cheltenham to see their Christmas lights. (I think Heanor put on a better show!)
Friday 29th
Quick trip to Condicote to exchange Christmas presents with Ted and Chris (my aunt and uncle). May have helped if Ted had told Chris of our imminent arrival (which he forgot), but we did see her for 5 minutes just before we needed to leave. Packed our things and departed about 2.30pm and home before 4.30pm - I drove most of the way. Good to be home, hopefully no more packing and unpacking, although Robert and Graham will be back at work on 2nd, just as we were getting used to all being together again.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Birthdays and Tulips from Amsterdam
There comes a time around the age of about 13 or so, when birthdays begin to loose their magic and surprises almost cease to exist except on maybe a few occasions. Coupled with the fact that my birthday is near Christmas (16th) and always overshadowed by the build up, my birthday needed to be 'reinvented'. We knew this time had come when for my 40th, we couldn't even find a restaurant at lunch time and ended up having fish and chips! I don't think I shall ever get over the disappointment! In the last three years Graham has surpassed himself by finding exciting places to visit (this coincides with being able to book on the internet) First year we visited Paris for the week-end. We spent my birthday in the Louvre, which is just amazing. It's an incredible place, but once in, it's touch and go whether you will ever find your way out. Unfortunately the weather was freezing and although dry on the first evening, it was lucky that we spent the majority of my birthday in the museum as outside it was cold wet and pretty miserable. The following year we visited Amsterdam. (we had to go a week early as Graham was best man for his mate's wedding the day after my birthday) Again it was freezing cold, but bright and sunny during the day. I wasn't very well, trying to cope with the pain in my side, but the upturn was, once I'd put my pictures on Flickr, a travel agents from Bulgaria asked if they could use my photos to promote their tours - fame at last!!
Off To Rome
This year Graham thought it would be nice to go somewhere 'warm' or 'warm' relative to the cold we were used to experiencing, so we decided on Rome. There's only one stumbling block with this sort of activity, the fact that you need to fly and I really don't enjoy flying. However, having said that, the flight out was remarkably smooth and the one back almost as good. The only drawback being the early start, leaving the house at 6.30am, which in my book is still the middle of the night. We arrived at Campanini airport at 12.30pm and didn't have to wait too long for the connecting bus to take us to the main train station- Termini. Unfortunately we were targeted by some unscrupulous individuals who thought we were fair game to be mugged. They sprayed something pretty revolting on Graham's trousers and then one came to 'help' him, the idea being that in the confusion its easy to lift your wallet/camera. Graham had been warned of this happening, so the incident passed with me being confused and Graham making sure they didn't get anything. We stopped at Termini to have something to eat and were very careful with our possessions. One word 'pollo' and and lots of pointing was all that was needed. Finding our way on the underground was a little confusing at first, but once we'd worked out which direction we needed, it was quite straight forward. Metro tickets on the Rome Underground can be used for the train or bus rides. The only proviso is that once the ticket is 'clocked' it only lasts for 75 minutes - but you can go a long way in 75 minutes and all for 1 Euro!! The last part of the journey was the worst. Once we'd arrived at the nearest Metro station it took us another hour to walk to the hotel, it was a long way.
Trip To Vatican City
Once there, we took a quick look at the view of the swimming pool had a cup of tea and then went off out again, this time minus the suitcase. Armed with a little more information supplied by the hotel, we hopped on a bus back to the Metro made our way to Vatican City. Again it was quite a walk from the underground, but there were lots of exciting shop fronts to look at and being dark everything looked so inviting lit with bright lights. As we passed through the side entrance of the Vatican Courtyard, we had no idea what treats awaited us. As you can see the fountain and border of columns were a feast in themselves, but nothing prepared us for the delight of what lay ahead. As we edged forward, photo by photo, we caught a glimpse of what must be St Peter's. The magnificent marble facade fronts the actual church. I have never seen such a beautiful building and the number and quality of the statues was simply breathtaking. We thought we had time to go through and see Michelangelo's Dome, but as we made our way nearer to the entrance we could see the last of the day's visitors being gently herded out and the tall metal gates being shut firmly behind them. As we backed away we felt the true majesty of the building rising above us and we could only look in awe. Our progress down the main street was still painfully slow as we needed to take one more photo and then another. Just across the road was a castle, now a museum, Castel Sant Angelo. There semed to be lots of people milling around, but we couldn't work out why. This building was just next to the river and so gave us an opportunity to take lots of reflections in the water. Graham for once took advantage of the street traders about and bought a tripod for 20 Euros, increasing the probability of perhaps achieving an even better photo. It was beginning to get a bit chilly now, so we headed back to the Metro and our 1 Euro ticket and eventually arrived backed at the hotel for steak and chips after an interminally long wait for a bus.
A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum...
Saturday dawned bright, but not sunny. Lucy had given me two presents to take with me. A hand wound musical box of 'Happy Birthday' and a pair of tiny silver earring, thanks Lucy, they're lovely. After a breakfast of a little of everything, (except all the different cheeses!) we headed off for the bus again. First stop was The Palantine area where Rome was founded. It took ages to work out where we were and then for ever to find a way in, but we persevered and were eventually rewarded. I think where we ended up was The Forum, but it was more like a Roman salvage area. You could just imagine someone walking in and saying: "Right, I need three Ionic columns, a statue of a Vestal Virgin and if you could throw in an arch or two..." It was fascinating, you felt transported back to when these huge buildings commanded the area and desperate to know the story behind each stone which now lay strewn and neglected. It was a bit like walking through a graveyard of buildings. At one end were steps which lead up the hill and back to the 'posh' buildings the other side. It was here that I came across a newly married couple who were being filmed as part of their wedding video. I couldn't help thinking what a truly romantic place to get married, lucky them...
When In Rome...
A change of scenery was needed, so we began walking towards The Colosseum we could see in the distance, not quite knowing what to expect. I have to say after the buildings in The Forum, I was not as impressed as I'd hoped to be. There's only one side complete and that is black and sooty from years of car fumes. Having said that, you have to remember that The Colosseum was built in the first century AD by the emperor Flavian in memory of Nero after whom it is called. The Name comes not from it's gigantic size, but from the name of a huge bronze statue of Nero, which used to stand outside known as The Colossus. Luckily there was hardly any queue to get in and we walked round with a audio guide phone stuck to our ears. There's only so much information you can take in, so if any of what I've reported is incorrect, please let me know. By the end of the tour it was getting on for 3.00pm and we were wilting for lack of food. Opposite The Colosseum was a small restaurant so we went over and sat down outside. It may have been December and not exactly warm, but the air was so still everyone is still able to eat/drink al fresco!
In Search Of The Pantheon
Next port of call was The Pantheon, passing the Musei Capitolini which is a magnificent building and has to rank as one of my favourtites, if not 'the' favourite. The size, pure white colour of the marble, statues, fountains...just amazing. After a bit of getting lost we came across The Pantheon right in the middle of shops and houses, but with only the tiniest of squares to admire if from. We were flagging a bit at this stage and as night descended, we weren't quite sure whether to plod on to the next 'colossus' or call it 'a day'. Walking towards the nearest Metro we crossed a bridge and came across a different view of St Peter's at The Vatican, but only just got the shot before a barge rippled all the water and spoilt the reflection. As if by magic we found ourselves outside a Patisserie, bustling with people and with our noses pressed up against the window we eyed the cakes with our mouths watering. We couldn't quite work out the protocol, but a very kind waitress took pity on our ineptitude and explained how to go about choosing our cakes while she prepared us a welcome pot of tea. As a Birthday tea it couldn't have been better. Once more refreshed we found our last Roman site, Piazza Del Popolo and headed home.
Homeward Bound
The next morning we got up early and left the hotel by 8.30am. Took a taxi to the Metro and were at Termini by 10 past 9. At last, a few moments to peruse some shops. Being a lover of Yves Rocher products, I couldn't help treating myself to a gift box of bath scrubber and Chevrefeuille bubble bath - forgetting the restrictions at the airport and innocently carrying it through the checking in point. Hope someone made use of it! We had been instructed to be at the station to catch the connecting bus at 10.15am, so at 10.00am we made our way outside just in time to see our bus pull away full. I took this very badly and began to panic with lots of 'what if' thoughts about not catching the plane. Fortunately someone was 'looking after' us and when the next bus rolled up 5 minutes later, they took pity on us small group of travellers and let the bus go with no more than half a dozen occupants. Collecting a few 'unchoice' items at the duty free shop we were soon winging our way back home, our brief, but oh so memorable birthday treat over for another year...
Monday, December 18, 2006
IN BRIEF
Monday 11th
Last 'teaching' Monday this year. Group at Sinfin said how much they'd enjoyed doing crafts and that they'd much rather carry on with me than do the computer class planned for next term. Nice to be appreciated, but feel they will have forgotten me by 12.31pm. (I left at 12.30pm) Almost a full house at Jewellery class down the road. Won't miss the rush from one site to the other next year. Class is 'safe' for rest of year which is very comforting. Hope for new students come January and advert in new Bead magazine. Eventually managed to get through to wish my dad a Happy Birthday about 9.00pm.
Tuesday 12th
Day on website and general 'catch-up'. Last tap class of the year included 'fuddle'. We had a joint class with the previous class (beginners), so the tap steps were less challenging than normal. Did lots of sequences of 'crossing over' in various forms in anticipation of steps needed for Arts Festival entry next year. Made New Year's Resolution to get my new 'taps' fitted, so I can make as much tap noise as the next person!
Wednesday 13th
Determined to get all my Christmas cards written today. Decided to realise an ambition this year of making all my own cards. I usually hand make a few for aunts, god-mother and 'old gentlemen' who I know will appreciate them. Collected Lucy from school and did some shopping in Heanor. Had 'incident' in the car park when I had to get out of the car and tell some silly woman where to go, so the rest of us could get out. (Lucy hid) Funny when over!! Had lunch in Nandos in Derby and more Christmas shopping. Just about completed cards by end of the day, 9.30ish!
Thursday 14th
Panic on today to get last few jobs done and be ready to set off tomorrow. Graham flew back from New York for 7.00am and went straight to work. Eventually arrived home for lunch (his breakfast) about 1.00pm. Went to Rycote Centre to drop off video for my class to watch when I'm not there tomorrow. Almost had the offer of a 'quicky' under the mistletoe, but luckily ran out of time. Visited the class I had been invited to take over, but they are unlikely to be able to change their day - probably a good thing. Other class in Kirk Hallam confirmed for 10 weeks. Went Christmas Shopping with Lucy after school, managed to find some new comfortable shoes to take with me over the week-end. Pity they couldn't be stylish too! Was packed and ready by 10.00pm
Monday 11th
Last 'teaching' Monday this year. Group at Sinfin said how much they'd enjoyed doing crafts and that they'd much rather carry on with me than do the computer class planned for next term. Nice to be appreciated, but feel they will have forgotten me by 12.31pm. (I left at 12.30pm) Almost a full house at Jewellery class down the road. Won't miss the rush from one site to the other next year. Class is 'safe' for rest of year which is very comforting. Hope for new students come January and advert in new Bead magazine. Eventually managed to get through to wish my dad a Happy Birthday about 9.00pm.
Tuesday 12th
Day on website and general 'catch-up'. Last tap class of the year included 'fuddle'. We had a joint class with the previous class (beginners), so the tap steps were less challenging than normal. Did lots of sequences of 'crossing over' in various forms in anticipation of steps needed for Arts Festival entry next year. Made New Year's Resolution to get my new 'taps' fitted, so I can make as much tap noise as the next person!
Wednesday 13th
Determined to get all my Christmas cards written today. Decided to realise an ambition this year of making all my own cards. I usually hand make a few for aunts, god-mother and 'old gentlemen' who I know will appreciate them. Collected Lucy from school and did some shopping in Heanor. Had 'incident' in the car park when I had to get out of the car and tell some silly woman where to go, so the rest of us could get out. (Lucy hid) Funny when over!! Had lunch in Nandos in Derby and more Christmas shopping. Just about completed cards by end of the day, 9.30ish!
Thursday 14th
Panic on today to get last few jobs done and be ready to set off tomorrow. Graham flew back from New York for 7.00am and went straight to work. Eventually arrived home for lunch (his breakfast) about 1.00pm. Went to Rycote Centre to drop off video for my class to watch when I'm not there tomorrow. Almost had the offer of a 'quicky' under the mistletoe, but luckily ran out of time. Visited the class I had been invited to take over, but they are unlikely to be able to change their day - probably a good thing. Other class in Kirk Hallam confirmed for 10 weeks. Went Christmas Shopping with Lucy after school, managed to find some new comfortable shoes to take with me over the week-end. Pity they couldn't be stylish too! Was packed and ready by 10.00pm
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
To A City Paved With Gold and Lined With Pantomimes
Graham went off to New York again on Saturday, so I took the opportunity to travel to London and meet up with Robert for the day. Unfortunately I don't have any funny/exciting/strange stories to relate, but we did have good day. I was hoping that Robert had done his homework and looked up some places to visit. Rule number one, 'never expect anyone else to be more organised than you'. I'd had a quick look on the internet the night before, but couldn't remember anything specific (sign of old age?...please feel free to protest) I did remember that The Barbican had a photographic gallery, so as Robert had never been there before, we jumped on the first Underground train to pass and soon found ourselves at that destination. It's a strange sort of place, like a rambling art gallery where people also live in high rise flats. Not exactly homely as everything is set in blocks, but interesting with an air of expectation. At first opportunity, out came the cameras. First trip to London for my new replacement Canon IXUS 800 (thank you , Amazon) Robert having to make do with one of Graham's 'cast offs' ( a very serviceable Minolta DiMAGE A2). We finally met up at the entrance to the centre about half an hour later, thankful that there was somewhere to go and thaw out. I'd had a very close encounter with a squirrel, but just missed 'photo of the week' as someone came past at the crucial moment. I have a record of its tail, but don't think you'd be impressed! Robert took lots of reflection images, so I'm looking forward to seeing them on Flickr. We round our way round the Barbican Centre, but decided against paying a rather hefty entrance fee to visit the Photographic Gallery, in favour of a posh lunch. (Wished we'd spent it on the gallery in hindsight) What we didn't realise until we nearly got trampled under foot ,was that there was a Pantomime being staged at The Barbican and there were lots of very eager children and lots of rather less than eager adults in a sort of stamped to get to the theatre. Beating a hasty retreat back to the Underground Station, we witnessed a trail of strangely attired big people and little people who resembled something akin to a trail of ants following a plentiful food source.
Tiffany Exhibition
Next stop was Temple Underground Station and a short walk to Somerset House where an exhibition of Tiffany Jewellery is currently being held. Entrance to this was a bargain in London terms, £5.00 for adults and free for full time students. Not only do you get to see some amazing pieces of jewellery, but all the other galleries of The Gilbert Collection too. The first gallery you walked through was an exhibition of pietre dure and for me the highlight of the visit. To see gemstones at any time is always exciting in my book, but here were examples of what were to all intents and purpose paintings using this technique, where the children's faces laughed and the pet dogs portrayed playful expressions as good as any from the brush of a painterly artist. At the Tiffany exhibition everyone was given a magnifying glass which did help to view the exquisite detail in designs and settings. Many of the items were breathtakingly beautiful, but at the same time would you ever dare wear any of them? The biggest disappointment was the Tiffany diamond. It was big and yellow with a million facets, but for some unknown reason had a daft bird set above it.
Next stop was Temple Underground Station and a short walk to Somerset House where an exhibition of Tiffany Jewellery is currently being held. Entrance to this was a bargain in London terms, £5.00 for adults and free for full time students. Not only do you get to see some amazing pieces of jewellery, but all the other galleries of The Gilbert Collection too. The first gallery you walked through was an exhibition of pietre dure and for me the highlight of the visit. To see gemstones at any time is always exciting in my book, but here were examples of what were to all intents and purpose paintings using this technique, where the children's faces laughed and the pet dogs portrayed playful expressions as good as any from the brush of a painterly artist. At the Tiffany exhibition everyone was given a magnifying glass which did help to view the exquisite detail in designs and settings. Many of the items were breathtakingly beautiful, but at the same time would you ever dare wear any of them? The biggest disappointment was the Tiffany diamond. It was big and yellow with a million facets, but for some unknown reason had a daft bird set above it.
Time for Tea
By this time it was mid afternoon, 3.30pm and the sun was beginning to set. As luck would have it we were next to a bridge and managed to scramble up the steps just in time to capture the last vestiges of a coloured sky as it disappeared behind The Houses of Parliament. Sustenance was required, so passing up tea at The Savoy (it looked a bit busy) we headed for Pret A Manger and relaxed with a cup of tea and what can only be described as an or*a*mic chocolate croissant (yummee). With our fix of chocolate we made it to Trafalgar Square and The National Portrait Gallery. The gallery we wanted to see of Dutch Winter Landscapes was closed due to strike action (bit odd) and even odder was Holbein's The Ambassadors which wasn't in the 'Holbein Exhibition', but in its usual place in the gallery. It's an absolute must to see this painting. First it looks so fresh, as though it was painted yesterday and every time you see it, you notice one more little detail that you can't believe you missed last time. Then, to walk from one side to the other and see the skull change from elongated form to 3-D is just amazing.
Almost Home Time
Outside it was now pitch black providing an ideal opportunity to take some night time pictures. Unfortunately Robert was followed around by a homeless person asking for money, but eventually he managed to shake him off. Have you visited Trafalgar Square recently? I knew that they were making a sculpture of the lady with reduced arms and legs who had a baby. We've all seen the television programmes about her and her little boy and what a brilliant mum she is. However, it did come as a bit of a shock to find the giant size nude sculpture of her on a plinth outside the National Gallery. They've been knitting scarves for the lions there recently and I think she could do with a large jumper to keep her warm!
Six o'clock rang out from somewhere and it was time to find the nearest Underground and head back to St Pancras. My train was waiting for me and I was back in Derby early, but as all good things have to come to an end the points failed and it was another half an hour before we could alight onto the platform. Hey ho...
Six o'clock rang out from somewhere and it was time to find the nearest Underground and head back to St Pancras. My train was waiting for me and I was back in Derby early, but as all good things have to come to an end the points failed and it was another half an hour before we could alight onto the platform. Hey ho...
Monday, December 11, 2006
IN BRIEF
Saturday 2nd
The Importance of being...
Ernest, one of Graham's work mates came to pick up some bits and it turns out that music, or rather playing the trombone in a band is the love of his life (he's only been playing for 10 years). It was lovely being able to talk to someone about music again. He mentioned Bruck's violin concerto (my absolute favourite) and we discussed the difference between Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet.
Tuesday 5th
Spent an hour at the dentist having two root fillings filled. You know the cavern they've just rediscovered in The Peak District? Well, I think my dentist has found two more. I'm think of applying to The Guinness World Records as they are both 19mm. Is this a record?
Wednesday 6th
Craft session at local school, bit of a flop as only two turned up. They were very appreciative and enthusiastic, but the potential 5 week course has been shelved in the short term.
Thursday 7th
Had phone call from Adult Ed in Ilkeston. They need someone for a 5 week craft session at Kirk Hallam after Christmas, looks promising...
Friday 8th
Bus syndrome... Line Manager offered me a 15 week course teaching Crafts to people with Mental Health problems (same day, same time), que faire? feel I have to stick with my provisional acceptance of 5 week course which will pay less money. Much gnashing of teeth - and they're only just beginning to feel better...
Saturday 2nd
The Importance of being...
Ernest, one of Graham's work mates came to pick up some bits and it turns out that music, or rather playing the trombone in a band is the love of his life (he's only been playing for 10 years). It was lovely being able to talk to someone about music again. He mentioned Bruck's violin concerto (my absolute favourite) and we discussed the difference between Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet.
Tuesday 5th
Spent an hour at the dentist having two root fillings filled. You know the cavern they've just rediscovered in The Peak District? Well, I think my dentist has found two more. I'm think of applying to The Guinness World Records as they are both 19mm. Is this a record?
Wednesday 6th
Craft session at local school, bit of a flop as only two turned up. They were very appreciative and enthusiastic, but the potential 5 week course has been shelved in the short term.
Thursday 7th
Had phone call from Adult Ed in Ilkeston. They need someone for a 5 week craft session at Kirk Hallam after Christmas, looks promising...
Friday 8th
Bus syndrome... Line Manager offered me a 15 week course teaching Crafts to people with Mental Health problems (same day, same time), que faire? feel I have to stick with my provisional acceptance of 5 week course which will pay less money. Much gnashing of teeth - and they're only just beginning to feel better...
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
The three Mouseketeers
I've been wondering whether to relate the tale (remember word - it becomes appropriate - tail) of our 'house mice'. Graham was working two days in London last week, so the minute he'd gone, I discovered that we'd had a visit from a furry friend or two during the night. For those of you who are squeemish, read no further, but if you can cope with a guide of how to regain tenancy of your own biscuit cupboard, read on. First there's no point in thinking that mice will get tired of scampering in through the air brick of your house to their new found food store. The best you can hope for is that they eat so much that they'll be too big to squeeze through, but that's going to take years!! You need planning and strategy and something quick and relatively humane. The most reliable is a metal trap which is armed with a large chunk of Tunnuck's Wafer - chocolate and caramel, their favourite. The following night the trap was set off, but luck or judgement meant that 'he'd' had a lucky escape. However, he made (naughty mice are obviously male) the mistake of returning during the day and taking the easy route under the oven. Visitations during the day are just not allowed, so I had to step up my campaign. Once I'd realised that if I placed the trap under the oven there was no room for it to go off, I left it on the kitchen floor and went back to my work. There's one thing setting a trap, but an entirely different matter when you have to deal with the mouse actually taking advantage of this 'quick way out'. To cut a long story short there were three amigos all together, who are now wondering what it was, that was just that little bit quicker than they were...
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