Saturday 19th July
Today was our 28th Wedding Anniversary. Graham has been so busy catching up at work , he hadn't had a chance to organise anything, so just for once, with Lucy's help I have planned a special day, so fingers crossed it all goes to plan. First we headed for The Yorkshire Sculpture Park, a favourite with us, if only for the quality of the lunches they provide. A while back we had venison pie there and it was delicious, so when I saw venison burgers I knew I had to order it even though it meant a bit of a wait. (Robert chose it too) We were so glad we did, the burger arrived in a homemade bread roll and lots of interesting salad - just wonderful. After lunch there was time for a short stroll to see the galleries and then back up the hill to the car park. Then off again in a northerly direction. Just for once I was glad we had the Tom Tom as Bradford has always proved difficult to navigate around.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Canal Trip On Jack...
Eventually we arrived at Skipton just before 5.00pm. As this was a surprise for Graham, Robert took him on a short walk while I moved the car to a car park nearer our goal. Graham had always expressed a liking to spend some time on a narrow boat. I have to confess that it was one of the least favourite things I wanted to try, but an afternoon in a boat seemed a good compromise.
Robert And Lucy At The Helm...
As it turned out we all had a really lovely time, if we forget the instance I caught my head on the metal opening as I as swapping ends of the boat and for the length of time it absolutely tipped with rain and Graham (who was steering so that we could all keep dry) got soaked.
Push Harder...
Robert and Lucy had great fun opening and closing the bridges along the way and Graham had great fun trying to keep up with the three blondes who had strawberries and champagne on their boat. We too had a wonderful spread all carefully organised by Lucy who also did all the 'leg-work' in renting the boat.
We arrived home just after midnight, very tired, but vey happy after our little adventure...
We arrived home just after midnight, very tired, but vey happy after our little adventure...
IN BRIEF
Sunday 13th July
Not feeling too jet lagged today. Managed some catch up
Monday 14th July
Big day spent catching up on website, house, garden etc.
Tuesday 15th July
Had appointment at the Pain Management Clinic at 9.30am. Lucy accompanied me, rising at 9.00am and in the car for 9.05am. They took the TENS machine back off me which made me feel very anxious, but also gave me the information of where to buy one identical. Came home and spent the rest of the morning composing a letter to Canon in the hope that they might like to provide some kind of sponsorship for the Photocamp Leeds 2008.
In the evening I had to attend a training session on Racial Equality. I was a bit reticent about going, and was one of the few people to make it on time! The young chap who took the session was really enthusiastic about his subject and made it all very interesting, so that by the end of the evening I was glad I'd gone. (Besides the fact that I was able to tell everyone I'd just won a photographic competition!)
Wednesday 16th July
As well as all the usual things to do, this week has been taken over by a jewellery workshop I'm running as part of a fundraiser for someone raising money to go and walk part of The Great Wall Of China (she's raising money for the Meningitis Fund). She's expecting over 20 people, so this meant a trip to Nottingham to buy all the beads. It all worked out well as Robert has his first interview tomorrow and needed a suit. Lucy helped me chose the beads and then we all went and helped Robert chose a suit. As the suit needed altering, we found a Nandos and had our tea, collected the suit and were home for 7.30pm.
Robert drove there and back as Hermione had decided that I shouldn't.
Thursday 17th July
We all got up early and took Robert to the station for 9.00am. Then I took Lucy to work and waited for someone to come and unlock the shop. I was hoping to get on with some work as soon as I arrived back, but this was not to be as I'd forgotten that I had a piano pupil. Then I rang my mum, so all in all a bit of a short morning.
Lucy arrived home from work at 10 to 6. Washed her hair and had her tea and came with me to help out at the jewellery workshop at 20 to 7. Workshop went very well, but was really hard work. I was still helping people to finish off at 11.00pm. So by the time we were home, Robert was too tired to relate any of his day in detail- other than the fact that he was not very impressed by the firm...
Friday 18th July
Just when I thought I had some time to catch up, instead I had to visit the dentist to have the first session towards having a crown fitted to one of my wonky teeth. 45 minutes in the dentist chair is quite daunting, there was lots of drilling and impressions of teeth taken. I get to have the crown fitted next Friday (and pay the total cost £200!)
Came home and made soup for my lunch. Caught up on the website and then spent the rest of the afternoon in town shopping.
Sunday 13th July
Not feeling too jet lagged today. Managed some catch up
Monday 14th July
Big day spent catching up on website, house, garden etc.
Tuesday 15th July
Had appointment at the Pain Management Clinic at 9.30am. Lucy accompanied me, rising at 9.00am and in the car for 9.05am. They took the TENS machine back off me which made me feel very anxious, but also gave me the information of where to buy one identical. Came home and spent the rest of the morning composing a letter to Canon in the hope that they might like to provide some kind of sponsorship for the Photocamp Leeds 2008.
In the evening I had to attend a training session on Racial Equality. I was a bit reticent about going, and was one of the few people to make it on time! The young chap who took the session was really enthusiastic about his subject and made it all very interesting, so that by the end of the evening I was glad I'd gone. (Besides the fact that I was able to tell everyone I'd just won a photographic competition!)
Wednesday 16th July
As well as all the usual things to do, this week has been taken over by a jewellery workshop I'm running as part of a fundraiser for someone raising money to go and walk part of The Great Wall Of China (she's raising money for the Meningitis Fund). She's expecting over 20 people, so this meant a trip to Nottingham to buy all the beads. It all worked out well as Robert has his first interview tomorrow and needed a suit. Lucy helped me chose the beads and then we all went and helped Robert chose a suit. As the suit needed altering, we found a Nandos and had our tea, collected the suit and were home for 7.30pm.
Robert drove there and back as Hermione had decided that I shouldn't.
Thursday 17th July
We all got up early and took Robert to the station for 9.00am. Then I took Lucy to work and waited for someone to come and unlock the shop. I was hoping to get on with some work as soon as I arrived back, but this was not to be as I'd forgotten that I had a piano pupil. Then I rang my mum, so all in all a bit of a short morning.
Lucy arrived home from work at 10 to 6. Washed her hair and had her tea and came with me to help out at the jewellery workshop at 20 to 7. Workshop went very well, but was really hard work. I was still helping people to finish off at 11.00pm. So by the time we were home, Robert was too tired to relate any of his day in detail- other than the fact that he was not very impressed by the firm...
Friday 18th July
Just when I thought I had some time to catch up, instead I had to visit the dentist to have the first session towards having a crown fitted to one of my wonky teeth. 45 minutes in the dentist chair is quite daunting, there was lots of drilling and impressions of teeth taken. I get to have the crown fitted next Friday (and pay the total cost £200!)
Came home and made soup for my lunch. Caught up on the website and then spent the rest of the afternoon in town shopping.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Time To Say Good Bye...
Day 11: Saturday 12th July
The next morning, although we were up bright and early Jane had organized for the grass to be cut and the chaps were hard at work before 7.00am! We left at 8 o’clock and had a long and generally uneventful journey back to Venice airport.
The next morning, although we were up bright and early Jane had organized for the grass to be cut and the chaps were hard at work before 7.00am! We left at 8 o’clock and had a long and generally uneventful journey back to Venice airport.
Time For A Picnic...
Luckily there was no big delay passing through the peage, so we went a little further and had packed lunch by the side of a very posh marina. Again, it was incredibly hot and with little shade we were glad we needed to get to the airport in plenty of time.
Landing at just after 6, it wasn’t cold for England, but it sure wasn’t the same temperature we’d left in Italy.
See you next year…
Landing at just after 6, it wasn’t cold for England, but it sure wasn’t the same temperature we’d left in Italy.
See you next year…
Sunday, August 10, 2008
With A Fresh Coat Of Paint...
Day 10: Friday 11th July
Today was meant as a leisure day. A lie in after a late night, time to admire our surroundings before another heart-wrenching departure and time not to think about tomorrow. We had a walk along the rough track down the road to the local church. Longoio is a hamlet and doesn’t have a church, but the village seems to have adopted one that was built in the woods about a mile away. Tucked away as it is we were surprised to find two workmen busy putting the final touches to what appeared a complete renovation. It looked stunning with its newly painted white walls and was sporting a brand new roof.
Having made our way back to the house we grabbed what we had for a picnic, lobbed it all in the car and headed off for Lucca. We visit Lucca every year as it is a lovely walled town and every year there is something new to discover and explore. This time we managed to park in a completely different part of the town and with map in hand, headed to Piazza Napoleone. Each year Lucca plays host to concerts by really well known rock stars. The first year we came, Elton John had just played here and this year they've booked more big names like Sheryl Crow, Mick Hucknall, Chicago and will finish with Leonard Cohen who by all accounts has just caused a storm with his brilliant concert at the O2 Arena (I heard it first hand from someone who went)
Today was meant as a leisure day. A lie in after a late night, time to admire our surroundings before another heart-wrenching departure and time not to think about tomorrow. We had a walk along the rough track down the road to the local church. Longoio is a hamlet and doesn’t have a church, but the village seems to have adopted one that was built in the woods about a mile away. Tucked away as it is we were surprised to find two workmen busy putting the final touches to what appeared a complete renovation. It looked stunning with its newly painted white walls and was sporting a brand new roof.
Having made our way back to the house we grabbed what we had for a picnic, lobbed it all in the car and headed off for Lucca. We visit Lucca every year as it is a lovely walled town and every year there is something new to discover and explore. This time we managed to park in a completely different part of the town and with map in hand, headed to Piazza Napoleone. Each year Lucca plays host to concerts by really well known rock stars. The first year we came, Elton John had just played here and this year they've booked more big names like Sheryl Crow, Mick Hucknall, Chicago and will finish with Leonard Cohen who by all accounts has just caused a storm with his brilliant concert at the O2 Arena (I heard it first hand from someone who went)
'Eat Your Heart Out', Leonard Cohen Is Coming To Lucca...
We spent the day walking around and trying to keep in the shadows, it being a very hot 34 degrees. Having migrated back to Piazza Napoleone, I left Graham to take pictures of people and I went off on my own to peruse the nearby shops. As I headed back, I could hear the band for the evening starting their sound check. It began with a relentless drum beat, so hard and so loud it hurt. However, eventually the whole band joined and although it was far too loud for Hermione and me, we did get to hear a preview of tonight’s concert being given by Enzo Avitabile. We now know one of his songs – well part of it… off by heart, we did hear it enough times!!
My Favourite Place In Lucca...
All too soon it was time to leave, Lucca, "I love you", especially the hand made leather shop in the Anfeteatro. Back at the house we did just a little tidying and waited for Jane to come and inspect for any damage and give us back our deposit of 140 Euros. For our last walk after our meal we walked round Longoio as dusk settled and the moon came out. Our first encounter was not with any wildlife, but a motorbike whizzing through the narrow streets making us take shelter in someone’s doorway. Afterwards when the dust had settled we saw, as we did last year, the luminous tails of fireflies glowing on and off like mini airplanes crossing the sky.
Again, it was a magical experience, like finding there are fairies at the bottom of the garden…
Again, it was a magical experience, like finding there are fairies at the bottom of the garden…
The Roof Tops Of Florence...
Day 9: Thursday 10th July
Graham was up bright and early and feeling so much better for having a rest day yesterday. After a leisurely morning and another home cooked lunch, we headed off for Florence about 2.15pm. All went well until we tried to get on to the motorway, took a wrong turning and needed to turn round. This wouldn’t normally have been a problem, but unfortunately Graham had failed to notice that there was a three foot ditch at the side of the road, until that was, we had one of the front wheels over the edge. Then the car stalled –luckily for us, the car managed to pull itself out. It was what I would call a ‘heart stopping’ moment, similar to being pelted with hail stones, when you imagine having to explain yourself to a foreign insurance company how it happened… Off on our way again, all was fine until we tried to get to the centre of Florence. After half an hour of going round the same one way streets, we decided to give up and park and walk the extra half a mile, with all the road works, even with Boris’ help, we didn’t stand a chance.
I had hoped to go and visit the shoe museum, but by the time we had walked in, it was getting late and instead we headed for the Pitti Palace with its Boboli Gardens, which we’d not seem before. We decided to pay and go in, but managed to choose all the wrong options as the exhibits we saw weren’t exactly awe inspiring. We did however have access to the Gardens, which were enormous, but for the most part up a steep hill which in the heat (warmest day so far at 34 degrees) was a bit of a struggle! But it was worth it for the view we achieved over half of Florence…magnificent. Half past six was chucking out time, so we wending a tortuous way out of the gardens and the main building and walked back towards Ponte Vecchio. As it was early evening the numbers of visitors was subsiding and this gave the illegal traders a chance to put their counterfeit handbags and prints down on the ground. You can’t blame then trying to catch the passing trade, but in Italy and I think France, if you’re caught having bought some of these goods, the police will impound them and destroy the items. As we sauntered over the bridge, there was a loud kerfuffle behind us – I thought someone had been mugged or worse, but the Polizia had turned up unexpectedly and the noise and jostling was the traders grabbing their wares and running up the street. So there we were, hearts thumping and a Polizia on his motorbike in the middle of the bridge having serious words with a teenage girl. We think he must have seen her about to or buying a handbag. Anyway, it soon calmed down again and my lasting image is of a member of the public trying to hand over one of the bags to the Polizia and him having eventually to accept it and ride off with the offending item dangling from his handlebars…
Graham was up bright and early and feeling so much better for having a rest day yesterday. After a leisurely morning and another home cooked lunch, we headed off for Florence about 2.15pm. All went well until we tried to get on to the motorway, took a wrong turning and needed to turn round. This wouldn’t normally have been a problem, but unfortunately Graham had failed to notice that there was a three foot ditch at the side of the road, until that was, we had one of the front wheels over the edge. Then the car stalled –luckily for us, the car managed to pull itself out. It was what I would call a ‘heart stopping’ moment, similar to being pelted with hail stones, when you imagine having to explain yourself to a foreign insurance company how it happened… Off on our way again, all was fine until we tried to get to the centre of Florence. After half an hour of going round the same one way streets, we decided to give up and park and walk the extra half a mile, with all the road works, even with Boris’ help, we didn’t stand a chance.
I had hoped to go and visit the shoe museum, but by the time we had walked in, it was getting late and instead we headed for the Pitti Palace with its Boboli Gardens, which we’d not seem before. We decided to pay and go in, but managed to choose all the wrong options as the exhibits we saw weren’t exactly awe inspiring. We did however have access to the Gardens, which were enormous, but for the most part up a steep hill which in the heat (warmest day so far at 34 degrees) was a bit of a struggle! But it was worth it for the view we achieved over half of Florence…magnificent. Half past six was chucking out time, so we wending a tortuous way out of the gardens and the main building and walked back towards Ponte Vecchio. As it was early evening the numbers of visitors was subsiding and this gave the illegal traders a chance to put their counterfeit handbags and prints down on the ground. You can’t blame then trying to catch the passing trade, but in Italy and I think France, if you’re caught having bought some of these goods, the police will impound them and destroy the items. As we sauntered over the bridge, there was a loud kerfuffle behind us – I thought someone had been mugged or worse, but the Polizia had turned up unexpectedly and the noise and jostling was the traders grabbing their wares and running up the street. So there we were, hearts thumping and a Polizia on his motorbike in the middle of the bridge having serious words with a teenage girl. We think he must have seen her about to or buying a handbag. Anyway, it soon calmed down again and my lasting image is of a member of the public trying to hand over one of the bags to the Polizia and him having eventually to accept it and ride off with the offending item dangling from his handlebars…
Serenade Me...
It was a perfect temperature to walk around the streets taking in the atmosphere, if a little noisy as everyone made their way home from work on a tiring hot day. The lure of the shops beckoned still and having seen a handbag on Saturday, I found myself unable to resist buying a bright pink one made from local leather. Graham suggested we stop for dinner and we found what looked to be a very pleasant restaurant in Florence’s oldest square. Unfortunately, the food didn’t match up to its surroundings and had to be put down to ‘experience’. On the way back to the car we passed several musicians, one playing a violin and another a flute. On a rainy day in England, the music may have been perceived as particularly corny, but on a balmy night in Florence it was euphoric…
Another late night after another almost perfect day…
Another late night after another almost perfect day…
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Rest Day...
Day 8: Wednesday 9th July
This was another very late morning for me, but we did have rather a late night, the night before. Otherwise I felt fine. Graham on the other hand was showing signs of general wear and tear which worsened through the day until I left him after lunch so that he could catch up on some sleep!
Late in the afternoon, we ventured out towards Barga, stopping off to walk around Ghivizzano where many of the inhabitants kept beautiful caged birds outside above their front doors and then onto Coreglia where the majority of the streets were incredibly steep. After that we headed for the local superstore for a few provisions including some much needed milk.
On the way home I suggested we stop for another picnic as I’d spotted a large lake next to the road we were traveling along. The lake turned out to be a huge reservoir and to get to any parking you had to go through two short tunnels cut into the rock. This would have been fine, but in true Italian style the tunnels were barely one car width and it was impossible to see if anything was coming in the opposite direction! The rest of the evening we spent watching Ocean’s 12 in our own little cinema…
This was another very late morning for me, but we did have rather a late night, the night before. Otherwise I felt fine. Graham on the other hand was showing signs of general wear and tear which worsened through the day until I left him after lunch so that he could catch up on some sleep!
Late in the afternoon, we ventured out towards Barga, stopping off to walk around Ghivizzano where many of the inhabitants kept beautiful caged birds outside above their front doors and then onto Coreglia where the majority of the streets were incredibly steep. After that we headed for the local superstore for a few provisions including some much needed milk.
On the way home I suggested we stop for another picnic as I’d spotted a large lake next to the road we were traveling along. The lake turned out to be a huge reservoir and to get to any parking you had to go through two short tunnels cut into the rock. This would have been fine, but in true Italian style the tunnels were barely one car width and it was impossible to see if anything was coming in the opposite direction! The rest of the evening we spent watching Ocean’s 12 in our own little cinema…
First Impressions...
Day 7: Tuesday 8th July
Last year we visited San Geminiano and I was just a little disappointed that such a special place with such an interesting history had been taken over by tourists to the extent that it had a strangely false atmosphere. When Graham had suggested we visit Siena this year, I’d looked it up and thought it looked very like SM and wondered if I would be disappointed. However, we had to get there first and we did have a slight disagreement as to the route between the three of us (Boris included). We finally arrived after three hours and grabbed a quick bite for lunch at the motorway service station, pollo grille – which tasted wonderful!!
Last year we visited San Geminiano and I was just a little disappointed that such a special place with such an interesting history had been taken over by tourists to the extent that it had a strangely false atmosphere. When Graham had suggested we visit Siena this year, I’d looked it up and thought it looked very like SM and wondered if I would be disappointed. However, we had to get there first and we did have a slight disagreement as to the route between the three of us (Boris included). We finally arrived after three hours and grabbed a quick bite for lunch at the motorway service station, pollo grille – which tasted wonderful!!
Duomo, Siena, Italy
First we parked in an underground car park, which although expensive, meant that the car would be cool when we arrived back. Siena was not particularly hot as there was a breeze blowing, which again was to our advantage. Our first impression of the city was good and it just got better. There were lots of streets and alleyways to explore and having discovered the Baptistry, we decided to walk around and see the Duomo first, which was breathtaking! For the first time ever Graham agreed to stand in a queue to pay money to have a look round. Inside it was amazing looking as though it had been made of liquorice… well, all the columns were striped white and black which seemed an odd combination, but striking all the same. Although there were lots of things that you couldn’t do inside, you could take photos as long as you didn’t use a tripod or flash, which seemed very generous. We were just about to leave when I saw a room I hadn’t yet visited. Inside this bright room, the walls were lined with glass cases and inside the cases, laying opened were illuminated manuscripts from the 1500s, all looking as fresh as though they had been written yesterday. Many of the pages showed neumes (earliest know forms of written music) well for me, it was very much a ‘died and gone to heaven’ experience – the ceiling was a delight too!!
Piazza del Campo...
Outside again, we headed for the next most well known feature of Siena, the Piazza Del Campo … Here twice a year (2nd July and 16th August) they have bare back races around the edge of the raked Piazza. They cover the surface with sand as it must be very slippy for the horses. The first race was only last Wednesday, but there wasn’t a trace of sand or anything else to show that the race had been held. Here we sat and had our afternoon ice cream, balancing on a stone seat at the side of the walkway, which led down to the main area. I took loads of photos to make into panoramas to try and convey the shape of the area. I not sure any will work, as the tower looked as though it could fall over! After resting our legs we set off again to explore the surrounding streets. As we made it back to the Piazza, Graham pleaded to be left to take photos of people and I went off in the opposite direction to look at all the shops. While I was away, I did miss a wedding, but found a group of boys being schooled in flag twirling!
The Art Of Flag Twirling...
We left about 7.00pm and decided to make for Monteriggioni (a nearby medieval walled village) as a picnic stop for tea. We arrived just as the sun was going down, but didn’t manage any spectacular sunset shots, everything was just a bit hazy. The journey home was relatively swift and uneventful, keeping to the ‘motorway’ we skirted round Florence and much to Boris’ annoyance came off at our usual junction at Capannori, pulling into the homestead around 10 past 11.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Friday, August 01, 2008
Day 6 Lunedi: 7th JulyThe day began with a visit from the neighbouring dog, now I don’t like dogs or cats, dogs especially as in England they always bark/bite me, but over in Italy I can pass any dog and they never turn a hair – it’s great. Tommy is no exception, he very friendly as he comes for food (of course) and will eat literally anything. He had all the chicken we had saved for the local cat who we were expecting a visit from and a couple of bread rolls, whose only use would have been to smash china!
Also some excitement. Graham had downloaded his emails to find one from Lucy. In it she’d sent a link to the blog of PhotoCamp Leeds, a day of general photographic discussions and explorations all happening on September 6th. I’d seen about it on one of the Flickr discussion groups I belong to and when they’d asked for submissions of photos to be used in the promotion, I’d thought ‘why not’ and sent three along. Imagine my surprise (and frustration) to discover that my image has been chosen…I was in a daze for hours!!
We set off about half past 10, stopped by the local shop for prochuttio cotto and pane and some drink and then off in the direction of the local seaside resort of Viareggio where to go on the beach you must pay, but get a lounger and sun shade in exchange. We arrived at Torre del Lago just after 12. Here Giacomo Puccini had his summer residence for over 30 years and is where he wrote much of his music. The setting is idyllic, right by the side of a huge lake the whole area oozes calm and we spent a very restful 2 and a half hours there, waiting for the museum to open at 3pm. There is a huge open air theatre there where all his operas are staged and for the princely sum of €160 you can buy a ticket and take part in this experience.
Just before 3, just on cue we had a sharp shower of rain which just managed to wet the pavement and moderate the outside temperature. The house was really interesting, but we seemed to be ‘whizzed’ through it with the help of the curator and the audio guide. Apparently, at the time Puccini had his house built, the lake came right up to the garden gates, but at some time a power company had bought the lake and used the peat at the bottom of the lake for fuel – lowering the lake level and taking the edge of the lake about 50 metres away. There were two pianos in the house, neither of which I’d ever heard of. He used to compose most of his music at night ‘when it was quiet’ how could it ever be noisy there? -while his friends stayed playing cards in the same room. He died in 1924 in Milan having traveled there for an operation on his throat. His body (and that of his wife and son) lies in a chapel converted from a room in the house by his son.
Celebration Meal In Lucca...
From Torre del Lago we headed for Viareggio and walked along the harbour wall and watched the people fishing and sunbathing and everything else to do with the seaside. It was really windy there, but at least this meant it didn’t feel quite so hot. We had thought we’d have our dinner there as we have in previous years, but as the evening began, we were feeling rather tired and decided to make for home and see how we felt nearer home. We arrived in Lucca just as the sun was setting and found a parking space. Graham took his camera and went to check out the restaurants. The restaurant he chose was in the Anfiteatro Romano and we had a wonderful modest meal there in the most delightful surroundings. As we left the sky was an inky blue and just to add to its beauty the moon rose from behind the houses.
A perfect ending to a near perfect day…
A perfect ending to a near perfect day…
Flora And Fauna...
Day 5: Domanica 6th July
On waking up, I was surprised to find I’d been asleep for nearly 10 hours! It was back to the ‘old’ routine – and what a thrill it was to find that all the times I had wishes myself back and here I was at last. First I opened the shutters as I knew Graham would be at the table on the patio reading his new book (about Spitfires!) to say ‘good morning’. Unfortunately for Graham, the book was resting on the table and he was busy catching up with work emails. Trying not to disturb him (I do tend to be a little distracting with my ‘come and see this’, ‘come and see that’ 5 year old attitude) so once dressed and armed with my camera I decided to take photos of the local flora and fauna. Many of the wild flowers are the same, but they colours look so much more appealing in the bright sunshine. I also fell in love with a tiny moth this year, they were just so cute with their round furry bodies and long legs. They looked so gawky at about 1cm across and quite difficult to see until I could recognize the annoying hum they made. Anyway, there are a few which came out well.
On waking up, I was surprised to find I’d been asleep for nearly 10 hours! It was back to the ‘old’ routine – and what a thrill it was to find that all the times I had wishes myself back and here I was at last. First I opened the shutters as I knew Graham would be at the table on the patio reading his new book (about Spitfires!) to say ‘good morning’. Unfortunately for Graham, the book was resting on the table and he was busy catching up with work emails. Trying not to disturb him (I do tend to be a little distracting with my ‘come and see this’, ‘come and see that’ 5 year old attitude) so once dressed and armed with my camera I decided to take photos of the local flora and fauna. Many of the wild flowers are the same, but they colours look so much more appealing in the bright sunshine. I also fell in love with a tiny moth this year, they were just so cute with their round furry bodies and long legs. They looked so gawky at about 1cm across and quite difficult to see until I could recognize the annoying hum they made. Anyway, there are a few which came out well.
Always A Photographic Opportunity...
Lunch on the patio consisted of chicken, wedgy potatoes cooked in olive oil (found in the cupboard) and fresh rosemary, lettuce and grated carrot. The afternoon was spent sunbathing and reading up on places to visit. About 5 o’clock, I persuaded Graham to go for a drive and off we went down the winding hill (and when I say winding, I mean winding, such as you will never find in the UK!) down to Bagni di Lucca, across the river and surprise, surprise up another winding road on the other side of the valley. We stopped for a walk round at Bennabbio and then on to the next village until we arrived at the largest village around, Vallia Basilica. From there I was hoping that we’d wend our winding way back to Bagni, but it didn’t quite work out that way, and after an hour we were actually back at Vale Bassica having found the end of a major jamboree at the top of our winding way and our way barred. Luckily Graham accepted the situation stoically and off we went. Our reward was to be at the top of a small mountain just as the sun was setting behins a range of picturesque mountains with the moon above – it really was ‘one of those moments’ difficult to capture it’s full beauty without being there yourself…
On arrival and after ‘tea’ we settled down to watch a DVD on Graham’s Power Book (there’s no television in the house) and sample the delights of the local fruit I’d bought the day before.
On arrival and after ‘tea’ we settled down to watch a DVD on Graham’s Power Book (there’s no television in the house) and sample the delights of the local fruit I’d bought the day before.
IN BRIEF
Friday 1st August
Hi Everyone,
It feels at the moment as though I'll never be up to date, so I've decided to try and get the rest of my holiday posted as soon as possible. (We've now been home for three weeks). I'm a bit stuck as I've reached the end of the photos I have on Flickr, but I can always use last year's images and perhaps change them at a later date. (she added hopefully) We seem to have done so much since; Canal trip to celebrate our 28th (how many?!) wedding anniversary, Robert's Graduation, numerous walks and even a visit to Derby by Katie Price! - not to mention that Graham has spent the last two out of three weeks in America visiting New York, Toronto, Los Angeles (he was there when the earthquake struck) and San Francisco.
Please bare with me, or bear with me here
Friday 1st August
Hi Everyone,
It feels at the moment as though I'll never be up to date, so I've decided to try and get the rest of my holiday posted as soon as possible. (We've now been home for three weeks). I'm a bit stuck as I've reached the end of the photos I have on Flickr, but I can always use last year's images and perhaps change them at a later date. (she added hopefully) We seem to have done so much since; Canal trip to celebrate our 28th (how many?!) wedding anniversary, Robert's Graduation, numerous walks and even a visit to Derby by Katie Price! - not to mention that Graham has spent the last two out of three weeks in America visiting New York, Toronto, Los Angeles (he was there when the earthquake struck) and San Francisco.
Please bare with me, or bear with me here
Thursday, July 31, 2008
DAY 4: Saturday 5th July
After a very restful night, (I think we were practically the only ones in the hotel) we carried on with our journey and headed to our holiday home just out of Bagni di Lucca. The motorway from Bologna to Florence is pretty scary, or is that pretty and scary. Because we had plenty of time we decided to stop off for lunch and head for a nearby lake. On the same turn off, there just so happened to be a Designer Outlet and I managed to persuade Graham that at least there we were sure to find something to eat. The shopping centre was like walking into a film set, beautifully laid out with bridges to cross and piped soft music. Not very Italian I know, but we did have some Italian food, which although we couldn’t quite work out what it was, tasted good and filled the gap in our stomachs!
After a very restful night, (I think we were practically the only ones in the hotel) we carried on with our journey and headed to our holiday home just out of Bagni di Lucca. The motorway from Bologna to Florence is pretty scary, or is that pretty and scary. Because we had plenty of time we decided to stop off for lunch and head for a nearby lake. On the same turn off, there just so happened to be a Designer Outlet and I managed to persuade Graham that at least there we were sure to find something to eat. The shopping centre was like walking into a film set, beautifully laid out with bridges to cross and piped soft music. Not very Italian I know, but we did have some Italian food, which although we couldn’t quite work out what it was, tasted good and filled the gap in our stomachs!
The Lure Of Florence...
On then to Florence and here we had our first major disagreement with Boris the satilite navigator. He decided to send us right round to the south on the city and get us stuck in a traffic jam, I was not impressed! Half an hour later we were parked up at our usual car park and within sight of Ponte Vecchio. With only an hour and a half to saunter around we took in the sights of Florence. It is a gorgeous city with a river, bridges, piazzos and of course the newly cleaned Duomo looking like an ice cream cake. All too soon (after another ice cream) it was time to pack up and head for ‘home’, picking up provisions for the next couple of days on the way at the local shop. There was a new house down the road, but other than that nothing appeared to have changed and the key was waiting for us under a garden stone!
Red, Red And More Red...
DAY 3: Friday 4th July
The heat met us as we left the hotel and left for Bologna and we were relieved that we would be spending the majority of the day in our air conditioned car. The countryside isn’t very memorable from Quarto d’Altino to Bologna, but you know you have arrived as the crickets can be heard from within the car.
First stop was a small shopping centre for some ‘proper’ food. I had Pollo and palate and Graham had breaded veal. Not the best quality, but very welcome all the same. Then off to the hotel, with a grumpy manager and very stiff fire doors. The afternoon was spent in Maranello, near Modena, where the Ferrari Factory is situated. Everything in the town has some connection with Ferrari, on every street corner there are Ferrri posters and shops and once out of the car, we could hear the racing cars being run on a nearby racing track. We had hoped for a similar experience as the Ducati Factory in Bologna which we visited last year, but whereas everything was bright and red, it was all pretty modern with no cars earlier than 1950s (so I’m told). I took lots of photos, hoping that some would come out well as my little camera said that flash was required, but, I think I proved it wrong as generally I was quite pleased with the results. Strolling back to the car (it was too hot to ‘walk’), we met lots of workers coming home from the factory, all in their red uniform. Everything was red, red cars, red clothes, red hot!
The heat met us as we left the hotel and left for Bologna and we were relieved that we would be spending the majority of the day in our air conditioned car. The countryside isn’t very memorable from Quarto d’Altino to Bologna, but you know you have arrived as the crickets can be heard from within the car.
First stop was a small shopping centre for some ‘proper’ food. I had Pollo and palate and Graham had breaded veal. Not the best quality, but very welcome all the same. Then off to the hotel, with a grumpy manager and very stiff fire doors. The afternoon was spent in Maranello, near Modena, where the Ferrari Factory is situated. Everything in the town has some connection with Ferrari, on every street corner there are Ferrri posters and shops and once out of the car, we could hear the racing cars being run on a nearby racing track. We had hoped for a similar experience as the Ducati Factory in Bologna which we visited last year, but whereas everything was bright and red, it was all pretty modern with no cars earlier than 1950s (so I’m told). I took lots of photos, hoping that some would come out well as my little camera said that flash was required, but, I think I proved it wrong as generally I was quite pleased with the results. Strolling back to the car (it was too hot to ‘walk’), we met lots of workers coming home from the factory, all in their red uniform. Everything was red, red cars, red clothes, red hot!
Next we headed back to Modena, for a walk round. The town itself was pleasant enough, not a very impressive place, but right in the centre was a palace of gigantic proportions. We sampled tiny cakes from the local patisserie and eventually found a toilet in the local library which luckily was still open at 6.30pm. Afterwards, we treated ourselves to what was to become our daily ice cream, handed to us in the shape of a rose, very pretty. Here too was where I received my first mosquito bite, ouch!!
Venice Here We Come!
DAY 2: Thursday 3rd July
Thursday, I was awake before Graham, conscious of the fact that the last morning train to Venice left at 11.00am. Breakfast hadn’t changed since our last visit. Tinned fruit masquerading as the healthy option, circular toasting machine that refused to turn anything the palest shade of brown and the fruit juice machine which dispensed bright liquids that would make a dull penny shine!
Graham decided we shouldn’t rush, so headed out of the hotel in the opposite direction to the station to take the scenic route to the station. The train, was as with previous years, had no seats until the next stop, then once we arrived I headed for the toilets (you never know where the next ones will be), whilst Graham took ‘work photos’ of the trains, pantographs and anything that looked like a sanding machine underneath.
Thursday, I was awake before Graham, conscious of the fact that the last morning train to Venice left at 11.00am. Breakfast hadn’t changed since our last visit. Tinned fruit masquerading as the healthy option, circular toasting machine that refused to turn anything the palest shade of brown and the fruit juice machine which dispensed bright liquids that would make a dull penny shine!
Graham decided we shouldn’t rush, so headed out of the hotel in the opposite direction to the station to take the scenic route to the station. The train, was as with previous years, had no seats until the next stop, then once we arrived I headed for the toilets (you never know where the next ones will be), whilst Graham took ‘work photos’ of the trains, pantographs and anything that looked like a sanding machine underneath.
Homage To Caneletto...
Out of the station the scene bustled; hundreds of people of every nationality sitting, standing, queuing, walking or simply riding past in a boat. They all had one thing in common, a happy smile on their faces, everyone glad to be in one of the world’s most beautiful places. Along with everyone else, we queued in the heat for our ticket for the water taxi and were soon on our way to Piazza San Marco. Last year we caught a taxi and were disappointed that we seemed to be going the wrong way round the industrial area of Venice, but at the last moment glimpsed the familiar tower and the photos we took then, were probably our best. This year the taxi took the ‘scenic’ route and we were spoilt for choice of all the charismatic facades to photograph. I could imagine myself being Caneletto, streaming along the waterways, wondering which view to paint next, beauty, colour and texture in abundance. Not sure how the metal sculpture of the skull fitted in, but it was intriguing all the same. So we spent a happy day walking the streets and drinking in the atmosphere. It seemed lots busier than on previous visits, so by 5 o’clock we were ready to catch the train home and go in search of more peaceful scenes.
Again, after a quick turn around when I washed my hair, we headed off in the direction of Caorle, what we thought would be a quiet seaside town. We didn’t arrive until 9.00pm when it was beginning to get dark and were surprised that even at that time it was near impossible to find anywhere to park. It seemed as though the whole town was out, promenading, everyone from babies to grannies. We had our picnic tea and made our way through the throng. It was a balmy evening and strolling along the sea wall even with everyone else was a magical experience. We walked miles, to the hubbub in the centre and back. It was a very calming in the evening breeze and the dark. Back at the hotel we had our customary nightcap and off to bed.
DAY ONE OF OUR HOLIDAY: Wednesday 2nd July
The day had finally arrived. Everything was packed and all that was left to do was have a quick cup of coffee and jump in the car. Today we had a chauffeur… Robert had a new hat on now that having passed his test, (and was insured to drive my car) there is one less thing to organize when going to the airport. He dropped us off and then texted to say he had arrived home safely…. also to say that after all, he had gained a first in his BA degree at Loughborough University. It was as though we had all won a prize, brilliant news!!
The flight over to Venice was mostly smooth, quiet and full of geriatric holiday makers (us included!). Apparently, the main runway is out of action and under refurbihment, so having approached it from another direction we missed seeing the wonderful buildings on our way down. Stepping off the plane, it was just as I remembered – like being wrapped in a warm blanket, how I had longed for that feeling again!
We collected the car (Fiat Grand Punto) and arrived at our hotel in Quarto d’Altino in record time, did a quick turn around and were out again by 6 o’clock. I picked a name from the map, towards the nearest mountains and Graham dialed it in to the satellite navigation system we’d brought with us. After about an hour, we stopped to have the sandwiches we’d brought with us. The mountains that I’d so hoped to see were proving to be quite elusive, this probably had something to do with the sky darkening and ominous drops of rain began to fall on the windscreen. We set off again hoping this was to be a passing shower…how wrong could we be! The raindrops increased their size until visibility became also impossible, even with the windscreen wipers on their fastest setting and then the hail began… it wasn’t ordinary hail, this was ‘serious’ hail where the noise was so deafening that it became impossible to speak to one another and so heavy that we feared for our safety. We passed a bridge and the cars that had parked both sides in an attempt to gain shelter. Turing round, we hoped for a space there too, but we were just too late. After about ten minutes, the storm did lessen and the cars began to drive off, so we followed only to find that the gods had not been appeased and we were under attack again. This time there was no shelter, we could only stop and pray… My lasting vision of this episode will be of a lady, who, caught out on her scooter, had taken refuge in a bus shelter…if only there had been room for two!
The day had finally arrived. Everything was packed and all that was left to do was have a quick cup of coffee and jump in the car. Today we had a chauffeur… Robert had a new hat on now that having passed his test, (and was insured to drive my car) there is one less thing to organize when going to the airport. He dropped us off and then texted to say he had arrived home safely…. also to say that after all, he had gained a first in his BA degree at Loughborough University. It was as though we had all won a prize, brilliant news!!
The flight over to Venice was mostly smooth, quiet and full of geriatric holiday makers (us included!). Apparently, the main runway is out of action and under refurbihment, so having approached it from another direction we missed seeing the wonderful buildings on our way down. Stepping off the plane, it was just as I remembered – like being wrapped in a warm blanket, how I had longed for that feeling again!
We collected the car (Fiat Grand Punto) and arrived at our hotel in Quarto d’Altino in record time, did a quick turn around and were out again by 6 o’clock. I picked a name from the map, towards the nearest mountains and Graham dialed it in to the satellite navigation system we’d brought with us. After about an hour, we stopped to have the sandwiches we’d brought with us. The mountains that I’d so hoped to see were proving to be quite elusive, this probably had something to do with the sky darkening and ominous drops of rain began to fall on the windscreen. We set off again hoping this was to be a passing shower…how wrong could we be! The raindrops increased their size until visibility became also impossible, even with the windscreen wipers on their fastest setting and then the hail began… it wasn’t ordinary hail, this was ‘serious’ hail where the noise was so deafening that it became impossible to speak to one another and so heavy that we feared for our safety. We passed a bridge and the cars that had parked both sides in an attempt to gain shelter. Turing round, we hoped for a space there too, but we were just too late. After about ten minutes, the storm did lessen and the cars began to drive off, so we followed only to find that the gods had not been appeased and we were under attack again. This time there was no shelter, we could only stop and pray… My lasting vision of this episode will be of a lady, who, caught out on her scooter, had taken refuge in a bus shelter…if only there had been room for two!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
IN BRIEF
Monday 23rd June
Graham flew off to the US this morning for one week.
Highlight of the day was attending a Deaf Awareness training session (all morning). It was interesting, but I'm not sure I really learned anything. Again it was good to go and meet other tutors. The chap who took the session was my Line Manager for a term during Autumn 2005, although we didn't exactly have much contact. Because he is deaf, I thought he'd be interested to read about Robert's final year project. He's gone down in my estimations now, as he didn't even bother to acknowledge my email...
Took Lucy to wholesaler in the afternoon to buy more buttons - great to have an excuse!
Tuesday 24th June
Today we took part in another Family Learning session - (Lucy and I) only this time it was held in the Darwin Suite at The Assembly Rooms and was said to involve around 250 children. It did get a bit hectic, but with my ace helper we got through unscathed!
Went home to the relative calm of three piano lessons.
Thursday 26th June
Last Jewellery Class this term. Of the eight students there, they all said they intended to come back next term. Hadn't the heart to tell them that I'll be at another venue without creche facilities (thanks to the person who runs the centre who has effectively banned me. She refused to let her staff help me, even to the point of banning the clerk from walking the 10 feet required to go the the cabinet and get my register for me - to save me having to open the heavy fire doors - am I bitter and upset... you bet!!)
Friday 27th June
Had a sleepless night worrying about my tooth (which still hurts) as the filling (put in a week and a half ago) feels as though it is about to disappear if I bite on it. Rang up at 8.30 and was offered 12.00 o'clock appointment which was great as I had another training course to attend this morning and felt that by 12 o'clock I would have completed enough not to get into trouble for missing the end. The dentist eased the filling out, rather than drilled it, as it hadn't set properly due to my gum bleeding from having had half the tooth removed after it had split last time (sorry too much information). Next stop is a crown for £200.
Saturday 28th June
Drove to Loughborough and back twice during the afternoon and early evening to pick up Robert's belongings from his house. Was concerned that I wouldn't manage all the driving, but Hermione was relatively quiet the whole time.
Monday 23rd June
Graham flew off to the US this morning for one week.
Highlight of the day was attending a Deaf Awareness training session (all morning). It was interesting, but I'm not sure I really learned anything. Again it was good to go and meet other tutors. The chap who took the session was my Line Manager for a term during Autumn 2005, although we didn't exactly have much contact. Because he is deaf, I thought he'd be interested to read about Robert's final year project. He's gone down in my estimations now, as he didn't even bother to acknowledge my email...
Took Lucy to wholesaler in the afternoon to buy more buttons - great to have an excuse!
Tuesday 24th June
Today we took part in another Family Learning session - (Lucy and I) only this time it was held in the Darwin Suite at The Assembly Rooms and was said to involve around 250 children. It did get a bit hectic, but with my ace helper we got through unscathed!
Went home to the relative calm of three piano lessons.
Thursday 26th June
Last Jewellery Class this term. Of the eight students there, they all said they intended to come back next term. Hadn't the heart to tell them that I'll be at another venue without creche facilities (thanks to the person who runs the centre who has effectively banned me. She refused to let her staff help me, even to the point of banning the clerk from walking the 10 feet required to go the the cabinet and get my register for me - to save me having to open the heavy fire doors - am I bitter and upset... you bet!!)
Friday 27th June
Had a sleepless night worrying about my tooth (which still hurts) as the filling (put in a week and a half ago) feels as though it is about to disappear if I bite on it. Rang up at 8.30 and was offered 12.00 o'clock appointment which was great as I had another training course to attend this morning and felt that by 12 o'clock I would have completed enough not to get into trouble for missing the end. The dentist eased the filling out, rather than drilled it, as it hadn't set properly due to my gum bleeding from having had half the tooth removed after it had split last time (sorry too much information). Next stop is a crown for £200.
Saturday 28th June
Drove to Loughborough and back twice during the afternoon and early evening to pick up Robert's belongings from his house. Was concerned that I wouldn't manage all the driving, but Hermione was relatively quiet the whole time.
Friday, July 18, 2008
That Special Day...
It's been a very long time since we were invited to a wedding, but today we helped celebrate the wedding of my first cousin Adrian Wynn (aged 45) who married Rachael Creighton (25). The wedding was held in the same church as Graham and I were married in almost 28 years ago (Condicote near Moreton in Marsh), so it was disappointing not to be invited to the actual ceremony, but understandable as we don't exactly keep in touch.
The weather was even worse than 19th July 1980, (not thought previously possible!), but at least the rain kept off during the festivities, it was just very dark.
The weather was even worse than 19th July 1980, (not thought previously possible!), but at least the rain kept off during the festivities, it was just very dark.
Cutting The Cake...
Time came to cut the cake and someone suggested that Adrian would be more at home with his chain saw than a knife, so he popped across the road to get it.
Renewing Old Acquaintances...
It was lovely to catch up with people I hadn't seen for probably 30 years (makes me feel so old!) but the surprise meeting was between Graham and Rachael's uncle who he'd worked with over 20 years ago!
Verrroom!
Adrian's 'pride and joy' was also on display during the reception.
Notice the registration...
Notice the registration...
VERY BRIEF: 16th - 20th June
This week has just flown by and I suppose I have very little to say about it.
Thursday 19th June
I taught my Jewellery Class my favourite polymer clay technique - Millefiori, means 1000 flowers in Italian, but if I said it's the same principal as letters in a stick of rock, that might make more sense.
Friday 20th June
As well as everything else we have to attend 14 hours of training during the year, only 3 of which are paid (for attending the Tutor Conference) Today I had to sit through 2 hours of 'Integrating Students With learning Difficulties'. It could have been really useful as I have many students with Learning Difficulties, but it was presented in such a way that left me with one word: 'dire'. On a lighter note I did make friends with a Polish bloke who is over here doing an MA and financing himself by teaching ESOL.
This week has just flown by and I suppose I have very little to say about it.
Thursday 19th June
I taught my Jewellery Class my favourite polymer clay technique - Millefiori, means 1000 flowers in Italian, but if I said it's the same principal as letters in a stick of rock, that might make more sense.
Friday 20th June
As well as everything else we have to attend 14 hours of training during the year, only 3 of which are paid (for attending the Tutor Conference) Today I had to sit through 2 hours of 'Integrating Students With learning Difficulties'. It could have been really useful as I have many students with Learning Difficulties, but it was presented in such a way that left me with one word: 'dire'. On a lighter note I did make friends with a Polish bloke who is over here doing an MA and financing himself by teaching ESOL.
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