This time of year sees little opportunity for traveling to different places; it's cold, wet, dark - and the coffers are somewhat depleted after Christmas! So, instead I've been staying at home, watching detective videos, catching up with my family history research, updating my perosnal wiki and my work wiki, and buying things! A thirst for visiting Wales is having to be satisfied with buying and perusing books, mainly those of old photographs of favourite areas, and few specialist ones on the industrial history, or geological make-up. Of course, the novels I had for Christmas have already been devoured and now I'm onto books on favourite hobbies as well, like stick weaving!
On the odd occasion I have managed to venture outside, I have been pleased I did. Our area didn't suffer too badly with the recent snowfalls, but on a recent a trip to Leicestershire, more specifically Bradgate Park, I was astounded and thrilled to see loads and loads of snow. Lots had been compacted down so there was a lot of sledging going on, but some areas were untouched - 8-10 inches of the stuff, cold but wonderful to walk in. Of course, all this snow mean that the kite flyers I had expected to see were not much in evidence; I think I spotted one or two on my way out, but there was certainly nothing doing in the sky!
So, where next? Undecided!
See you soon.
Thursday, 12 February 2009
Saturday, 10 January 2009
Christmas
No time for the usual trip to Tenby at Christmas-time this year, so went in September instead. Absoulutely amazed to see people sunbathing and swimming in the sea. In fact it was so busy was really worried about finding somewhere to eat, but as usual Fecci's did us proud! Had a good old wander round, and then spent a day in Narberth as well, visiting the superb food festival. Spotted Sophie Grigson and tried and bought some rather ace Welsh food and drink. Found a lovely antique shop where bought a pretty Portmeirion tea cup and saucer, and a rather smashing piano stool that is proving very useful for sitting on to play the piano and for storing some of the music!
So, Christmas was spent in Cornwall! Well, a couple of days after Christmas anyway. Stayed in the most beautiful Georgian hotel, the Penmere Manor Hotel, just outside Falmouth and had a wonderful day looking around Falmouth and walking along the coastal path from a car park on Swanpool Road to Gyllyngvase Beach, which had a lovely cafe, The Gylly Beach Cafe, (a bronze award winner in the Cornwall Tourism Awards, 2008), a great looking hotel, The Falmouth Beach Resort Hotel, and was overlooked by Pendennis Castle! Cold, but invigorating.
In the evening we had a good meal at the Gweek Inn - in Gweek! The Christmas lights twinkling on the River Helford and in the trees were simple but effective. Didn't make it to the seal sanctuary but their good work still goes on.
Now for the long haul of January!
Happy New Year!
So, Christmas was spent in Cornwall! Well, a couple of days after Christmas anyway. Stayed in the most beautiful Georgian hotel, the Penmere Manor Hotel, just outside Falmouth and had a wonderful day looking around Falmouth and walking along the coastal path from a car park on Swanpool Road to Gyllyngvase Beach, which had a lovely cafe, The Gylly Beach Cafe, (a bronze award winner in the Cornwall Tourism Awards, 2008), a great looking hotel, The Falmouth Beach Resort Hotel, and was overlooked by Pendennis Castle! Cold, but invigorating.
In the evening we had a good meal at the Gweek Inn - in Gweek! The Christmas lights twinkling on the River Helford and in the trees were simple but effective. Didn't make it to the seal sanctuary but their good work still goes on.
Now for the long haul of January!
Happy New Year!
Thursday, 27 November 2008
Still in Conwy
So impressed with Conwy that went back again another evening and had a fantastic retro Italian meal in Alfredo's! Brilliant service, and the food was superb - just like we used to get in our favourite restaurnat in the 80s!
Also went back for the Conwy Food Festival. Amazing that such a small place could be so transformed! The smallest house in Britain was hidden behind a huge beer tent in which a group was giving it their all, especially their violinist! Unfortunately I didn't catch their name.
The mussel museum was closed, but as it was the start of the mussel season, and Conwy being famous for mussels, we did get to see some being cleaned and some being cooked, and we got to taste some too.
Watched a couple of celebtrity chefs do some cooking, and was very excited to talk to Bryn about cooking, after his demo! His young assistant was only about 15, but quite talented. Must try and go to more of these - quite interesting trying out different foods, but it can end up being quite expensive!
Also went back for the Conwy Food Festival. Amazing that such a small place could be so transformed! The smallest house in Britain was hidden behind a huge beer tent in which a group was giving it their all, especially their violinist! Unfortunately I didn't catch their name.
The mussel museum was closed, but as it was the start of the mussel season, and Conwy being famous for mussels, we did get to see some being cleaned and some being cooked, and we got to taste some too.
Watched a couple of celebtrity chefs do some cooking, and was very excited to talk to Bryn about cooking, after his demo! His young assistant was only about 15, but quite talented. Must try and go to more of these - quite interesting trying out different foods, but it can end up being quite expensive!
Thursday, 20 November 2008
Still in North Wales
Well, the trip to Conwy through the Sychnant Pass has to be one of the most spectacular drives I've ever done! Up through autumn-shaded trees, past the Fairy Glen and the Austrian restaurant and down the other side into Conwy itself, with its spectacular town walls and castle.
Just about managed to cover everything of interest in two visits! Walked all the way round the castle wall - a bit scary in places, but mostly a very beautiful walk, looking out over the town and surrounding areas. Spotted interesting things that I wouldn't have done from the ground, like the Welsh restaurant.
Spent quite a lot of time wandering around the castle, again, looking at the stunning views all round: the three bridges, the bowling green, the waterfront, spotting yet more places to visit.
Visited the toll keeper's cottage at the end of the suspension bridge; lovely little place, but hardly big enough to swing the proverbial cat!
Walking back into the town from the suspension bridge stopped at a fish and chip restaurant for lunch; sat upstairs overlooking Aberconwy House, so just had to go in and have a look around. All the rooms were arranged to show how they would have looked down the ages - fascinating.
Just up the road was the rather impressive looking Ty Mawr, the merchant's house. This had a very mediterranean feel, with light stonework, small courtyards etc., numerous rooms to look through - stunning!
To be continued!
Just about managed to cover everything of interest in two visits! Walked all the way round the castle wall - a bit scary in places, but mostly a very beautiful walk, looking out over the town and surrounding areas. Spotted interesting things that I wouldn't have done from the ground, like the Welsh restaurant.
Spent quite a lot of time wandering around the castle, again, looking at the stunning views all round: the three bridges, the bowling green, the waterfront, spotting yet more places to visit.
Visited the toll keeper's cottage at the end of the suspension bridge; lovely little place, but hardly big enough to swing the proverbial cat!
Walking back into the town from the suspension bridge stopped at a fish and chip restaurant for lunch; sat upstairs overlooking Aberconwy House, so just had to go in and have a look around. All the rooms were arranged to show how they would have looked down the ages - fascinating.
Just up the road was the rather impressive looking Ty Mawr, the merchant's house. This had a very mediterranean feel, with light stonework, small courtyards etc., numerous rooms to look through - stunning!
To be continued!
Thursday, 30 October 2008
North Wales
Any visit to North Wales wouldn't be complete without a trip to the magnificent castle at Caernarvon. This is where the current Prince of Wales was invested way back in about 1969. The castle really is charming with lots of towers to walk up and walkways to amble across. Lovely views all round as well, Menai Straits to one side, lots of ancient rooftops to the other. There were one or two interesting shops in the town, and we finished our trip with a visit to Celtica, the Welsh shop. On our way out of Caernarvon we went and had a walk around the Roman barracks at Segontium; very like those at Caerleon in South Wales.
Many years ago I was offered a job in the North Wales town of Bangor, so we went and had a look round. Not quite sure why, but we didn't go into the cathedral, but I think we should have done. Did manage to walk all the way to the end of the lovely pier though, with stunning views over the Menai Straits, and looking across into Beaumaris where we had been earlier in the week.
Llanfairfrechan, with it's lovely little cafe, proved a good place to meander down along the seafront, watching the waves lapping on the shore.
Many years ago I was offered a job in the North Wales town of Bangor, so we went and had a look round. Not quite sure why, but we didn't go into the cathedral, but I think we should have done. Did manage to walk all the way to the end of the lovely pier though, with stunning views over the Menai Straits, and looking across into Beaumaris where we had been earlier in the week.
Llanfairfrechan, with it's lovely little cafe, proved a good place to meander down along the seafront, watching the waves lapping on the shore.
Tuesday, 28 October 2008
Wales does it again!
Wales has again managed to surprise me! A week of wonderful weather; the rain came down during the nights, but the days were as clear and bright as any summer day! Stayed in a beautifully converted old school house in a lovely little village, Dwygyfylchi, near Penmaenmawr.
Llandudno was the first stop. Up the Great Orme on the tram - nearly got blown away it was so windy! Followed by a leisurely walk down the lengthy pier and lunch in a beautifully restored theatre. Passing Venue Cymru I was so tempted to spend the evening with Max Boyce, but the others didn't really share my enthusiasm!
I'd never really considered the possibility of my ever going to Anglesey, but I popped over the famous bridge and spent a day on the island. Bought a three-day explorer ticket for CADW at Beaumaris Castle, Beaumaris being a lovely little place with an interesting castle on the flat overlooking the Menai Straits. Walked down the dinky little pier and had a quick look at an art exhibition (which funnily enough, had some paintings of St Ives!). Stopped off at the station with the longest place name in Britain: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. Hadn't realised it had been made into a shop, so spent a few minutes looking around before heading off to use the NT card to go to Plas Newydd, a huge stately home - very grandiose.
There is more to come ...
Llandudno was the first stop. Up the Great Orme on the tram - nearly got blown away it was so windy! Followed by a leisurely walk down the lengthy pier and lunch in a beautifully restored theatre. Passing Venue Cymru I was so tempted to spend the evening with Max Boyce, but the others didn't really share my enthusiasm!
I'd never really considered the possibility of my ever going to Anglesey, but I popped over the famous bridge and spent a day on the island. Bought a three-day explorer ticket for CADW at Beaumaris Castle, Beaumaris being a lovely little place with an interesting castle on the flat overlooking the Menai Straits. Walked down the dinky little pier and had a quick look at an art exhibition (which funnily enough, had some paintings of St Ives!). Stopped off at the station with the longest place name in Britain: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. Hadn't realised it had been made into a shop, so spent a few minutes looking around before heading off to use the NT card to go to Plas Newydd, a huge stately home - very grandiose.
There is more to come ...
Thursday, 16 October 2008
It's autumn - let's talk about summer!
Well, here I am again, a couple of months after the last post! The nights are drawing in, and thoughts naturally turn to hot summer nights - not that we had many of those!
After a couple of brilliant weeks in St Ives, I spent some time trotting across the country - Hereford to Portsmouth, to home - all in one day, so no time to enjoy the countryside nor the seaside! The lead up to the August bank holiday saw me in Peterborough for a day. Hadn't been for quite some time, and the place was fairly buzzing! Had a lovely meal in a traditional little Italian restaurant in an arcade; very busy, very good food, and a good price. I think it was called Fratelli Tavolacalda.
A visit to Stamford followed. It never ceases to amaze me how many interesting shops there are in this small town, and just how many churches there are in close proximity to each other! Spent a wonderful night in the George Hotel. Fabulous room! Breakfast was good too - lots of stuff on display in huge Portmeirion bowls!
During the evening went to see a perfomance of Romeo and Juliet at the outdoor theatre just down the road from Stamford. This was wonderful. Had a gorgeous picnic first, washed down with lashings of elderflower cordial and then spent a fantastic couple of hours gripped by the play. The audience were actually under cover of sorts, but the actors were out there in the fresh air, rushing between trees! First time I've seen a bat in action too - chasing moths!
Next day headed off to Norwich, and I must say I was so surprised at the size of the place - much bigger than I had thought. Went for a wander in the cathderal - quite spectacular. Must say I was a bit bemused by the visitor who asked where the elephant was, and was directed to it by the verger. Needless to say, I followed! The council had set up an elephant trail, and had put about 50 odd ornamental elephants throughout the city!
Visited some great shops and there was a lovely market too, as well as some fabulous architecture. I suppose I now ought to learn how to add pictures to my blog so if you haven't already been to these places, you have some idea of what to expect.
Looking forward to the next joruney - the last part of Wales, meaning I've been to all the other parts (except Swansea - I've not really spent any time there).
See you soon!
After a couple of brilliant weeks in St Ives, I spent some time trotting across the country - Hereford to Portsmouth, to home - all in one day, so no time to enjoy the countryside nor the seaside! The lead up to the August bank holiday saw me in Peterborough for a day. Hadn't been for quite some time, and the place was fairly buzzing! Had a lovely meal in a traditional little Italian restaurant in an arcade; very busy, very good food, and a good price. I think it was called Fratelli Tavolacalda.
A visit to Stamford followed. It never ceases to amaze me how many interesting shops there are in this small town, and just how many churches there are in close proximity to each other! Spent a wonderful night in the George Hotel. Fabulous room! Breakfast was good too - lots of stuff on display in huge Portmeirion bowls!
During the evening went to see a perfomance of Romeo and Juliet at the outdoor theatre just down the road from Stamford. This was wonderful. Had a gorgeous picnic first, washed down with lashings of elderflower cordial and then spent a fantastic couple of hours gripped by the play. The audience were actually under cover of sorts, but the actors were out there in the fresh air, rushing between trees! First time I've seen a bat in action too - chasing moths!
Next day headed off to Norwich, and I must say I was so surprised at the size of the place - much bigger than I had thought. Went for a wander in the cathderal - quite spectacular. Must say I was a bit bemused by the visitor who asked where the elephant was, and was directed to it by the verger. Needless to say, I followed! The council had set up an elephant trail, and had put about 50 odd ornamental elephants throughout the city!
Visited some great shops and there was a lovely market too, as well as some fabulous architecture. I suppose I now ought to learn how to add pictures to my blog so if you haven't already been to these places, you have some idea of what to expect.
Looking forward to the next joruney - the last part of Wales, meaning I've been to all the other parts (except Swansea - I've not really spent any time there).
See you soon!
Friday, 8 August 2008
St Ives does it again!
Have recently spent two whole weeks down in sunny St Ives!
Visited the Minack Theatre twice and thankfully neither day was so scorchingly hot as to be uncomfortable! The Newport Playgoers performed a fabulous account of UnderMilk Wood, the Dylan Thomas play for voices. Just the right amount of action to support the text, and some great acting! In the second week we saw Surrey Opera perform The Merry Wives of Windsor. Front row seats meant we could almost see the singers' vocal chords! Again a brilliant performance!
Unfortunately the play we were going to see in St Ives itself was postponed due to illness in the cast, but we did manage to see a spectacular performance of Cole Porter's Anything Goes by Kidz R Us on the opening night. Their staging of Aladdin was also brilliant, with some very simple, but clever stage effects.
Another highlight for me was the trip on the Scillonian to the Scilly Isles, St Mary's specifically. Beautiful, tranquil with stunning views and birds so tame they will eat out of your hand! The ferry trip itself was fascinating, especially to be able see places we'd been to from a completely differnet angle!
A trip to St Michael's Mount was also quite a treat as the day I went there were lots of bands playing, a shcool choir and orchestra, the Mount's Bay Singers, a barbershop quartet and the Apollo Male Voice Choir, amonsgt others - and all for free. A walk up to the house itself, an icecream and live music - all in all a perfect day out!
Visited the Minack Theatre twice and thankfully neither day was so scorchingly hot as to be uncomfortable! The Newport Playgoers performed a fabulous account of UnderMilk Wood, the Dylan Thomas play for voices. Just the right amount of action to support the text, and some great acting! In the second week we saw Surrey Opera perform The Merry Wives of Windsor. Front row seats meant we could almost see the singers' vocal chords! Again a brilliant performance!
Unfortunately the play we were going to see in St Ives itself was postponed due to illness in the cast, but we did manage to see a spectacular performance of Cole Porter's Anything Goes by Kidz R Us on the opening night. Their staging of Aladdin was also brilliant, with some very simple, but clever stage effects.
Another highlight for me was the trip on the Scillonian to the Scilly Isles, St Mary's specifically. Beautiful, tranquil with stunning views and birds so tame they will eat out of your hand! The ferry trip itself was fascinating, especially to be able see places we'd been to from a completely differnet angle!
A trip to St Michael's Mount was also quite a treat as the day I went there were lots of bands playing, a shcool choir and orchestra, the Mount's Bay Singers, a barbershop quartet and the Apollo Male Voice Choir, amonsgt others - and all for free. A walk up to the house itself, an icecream and live music - all in all a perfect day out!
Wednesday, 18 June 2008
Technology and the shop.
So, as out-of-town shopping centres did for town centres, so online shopping has had the same effect.
Shops selling unique, individual items seem to be closing down, more quickly than the cost of fuel is going up! Our local second-hand bookshop closed a little while ago, as did our second-hand bric-a-brac shop. Our local antique shop has disposed of all its antiques and gone into the new furniture market. The local charity shops have cottoned on that they can sell some of their second-hand goods at higher prices than previously.
Admittedly, it is great to be able to buy without having to leave your armchair, to see glossy pictures of what you are about to buy and to keep warm and dry, but you loose the thrill of being able hunt through piles of stuff, checking the condition, handling the stuff and actually seeing what you are handing over your hard-earned dosh for!
One of the defining things about modern-day life is the concept of choice: let's keep it that way.
Shops selling unique, individual items seem to be closing down, more quickly than the cost of fuel is going up! Our local second-hand bookshop closed a little while ago, as did our second-hand bric-a-brac shop. Our local antique shop has disposed of all its antiques and gone into the new furniture market. The local charity shops have cottoned on that they can sell some of their second-hand goods at higher prices than previously.
Admittedly, it is great to be able to buy without having to leave your armchair, to see glossy pictures of what you are about to buy and to keep warm and dry, but you loose the thrill of being able hunt through piles of stuff, checking the condition, handling the stuff and actually seeing what you are handing over your hard-earned dosh for!
One of the defining things about modern-day life is the concept of choice: let's keep it that way.
Blogging!
Just been to an interesting session on blogging and how to do it - and discovered I'm doing it all wrongly!
In reality I suppose webpages are better transfered to a wiki - so I have one of those too! I haven't done much work on it, but do intend to populate it with all those things that I used to have on my webpages - provided I am still interested in those things.
Happy days!
- I don't have a target audience!
- I don't use the conventional way of hyperlinking!
- I don't post regularly enough!
- My posts are too long!
- I don't have anything new or interesting to say!
- etc.
In reality I suppose webpages are better transfered to a wiki - so I have one of those too! I haven't done much work on it, but do intend to populate it with all those things that I used to have on my webpages - provided I am still interested in those things.
Happy days!
Saturday, 3 May 2008
More village walking in Wales!
Back again? Me too! This time I'm off to another little village near Abergavenny: Gilwern, population 2,352!
Nestled between Govilon and Clydach, this little village runs alongside the Heads of the Valley Road, which is currently being widened. This should make the journey between Abergavenny and Neath a little easier and quicker.
Fabulous little chip shop on the main street; Welsh rissoles are not always easy to come by, but these were delicious!
The Abergavenny-Brecon canal passes through Gilwern making for some interesting walks. Many of the old buildings have been pulled down, but the main street still has some quaint little cottages, churches, halls and pubs.
One of the main churches in Gilwern is the one on Llanelly Hill, dedicated to St Ellyw, or St Elli. So busy is this little church, that it's graveyard has expanded over the years to cover 4 different fields, and planning permission is currently being sought for a change of use of another large field. On his website, Jeffrey L. Thomas tells us all about the church.
From Gilwern head off to the pretty village of Crickhowell, or over to Bryn Mawr.
See you soon.
Nestled between Govilon and Clydach, this little village runs alongside the Heads of the Valley Road, which is currently being widened. This should make the journey between Abergavenny and Neath a little easier and quicker.
Fabulous little chip shop on the main street; Welsh rissoles are not always easy to come by, but these were delicious!
The Abergavenny-Brecon canal passes through Gilwern making for some interesting walks. Many of the old buildings have been pulled down, but the main street still has some quaint little cottages, churches, halls and pubs.
One of the main churches in Gilwern is the one on Llanelly Hill, dedicated to St Ellyw, or St Elli. So busy is this little church, that it's graveyard has expanded over the years to cover 4 different fields, and planning permission is currently being sought for a change of use of another large field. On his website, Jeffrey L. Thomas tells us all about the church.
From Gilwern head off to the pretty village of Crickhowell, or over to Bryn Mawr.
See you soon.
Saturday, 26 April 2008
Village walking in Wales
So, here I am again, ambling through small Welsh villages around Abergavenny, armed only with a camera! Ok, so I've donned the walking boots, but I've no intention of hiking through miles of rough terrain, just hard tarmac pavements! Hoping to discover snippets of information, to stumble upon striking countryside and get a bit of fresh air and exercise at the same time.
A couple of miles from Abergavenny lies the small village of Govilon. Little windy roads run off to the left and right of the main road. A picturesque lane runs down towards the Heads of the Valley road, passing some beautiful cottages, a brook whose origins are at Keeper's Pond on the Blorenge, and a very narrow little humped-back bridge on the way. Large houses at the top of the road, belie the beauty of the tiny tiny stone cottages on either side of the meandering lane, with lovely names like "Cherry Cottage".
Heading right off the main road, by the side of the brook, past the forge, either fork to the right, past the Bridgend Pub and head up towards the canal bridge. Join the canal towpath, heading right towards Gilwern or left towards Llanfoist and Abergavenny. This beautiful canal, about a 34 mile stretch which doesn't lead to any other waterway, is usually busy, allbeit with slow-moving narrow boats, but today it stands empty following a devastating breach last October, that caused mayhem on the surrounding roads and villages. According to Roger Williams ((Shadow Minister (Rural Affairs), Environment, Food & Rural Affairs; Brecon & Radnorshire, Liberal Democrat) http://www.theyworkforyou.com/whall/?gid=2007-12-11b.11.2:
"The canal runs from Brecon to Pontypool; it used to run to Newport. Its purpose originally was to take limestone to the steelworks and bring back slag and other materials for agricultural use in the more agricultural areas. It had fallen into disrepair by the 1930s, and only through the intervention of British Waterways and the Brecon Beacons national park was it brought back into use."
He relayed that it had been suggested to him that repairs would cost about 1.5 million. Recent news from the BBC suggests that figure is nearer 7.5 million. Gosh, what a lot of money! Hopefully, the restoration won't take as long as that of the Montgomery canal, but who knows.
Anyway, I digress! Forking right instead of left takes you on a wander through some newer housing leading eventually up to the old infant/junior school, past the old railway line, opened in 1862, closed to passengers in 1958 and now a footpath. Follow this road round to get to the foot of the Blorenge mountain, famous for its "fiddler's elbow", Keeper's Pond and the grave of the race horse, Foxhunter. On your way to Bleanavon and the Big Pit, pick some wimberries (aka blueberries, or braeberries) for tonight's pudding!
Govilon Heritage have spent much time creating and erecting noticeboards around the village that follow specific trails that they've devised. Although I saw the boards, I had no idea about their work in digitally preserving Govilon's heritage, so the route I took was of my own making, but next time I shall buy their 20pence leaflets and do their guided walk!
See you soon!
A couple of miles from Abergavenny lies the small village of Govilon. Little windy roads run off to the left and right of the main road. A picturesque lane runs down towards the Heads of the Valley road, passing some beautiful cottages, a brook whose origins are at Keeper's Pond on the Blorenge, and a very narrow little humped-back bridge on the way. Large houses at the top of the road, belie the beauty of the tiny tiny stone cottages on either side of the meandering lane, with lovely names like "Cherry Cottage".
Heading right off the main road, by the side of the brook, past the forge, either fork to the right, past the Bridgend Pub and head up towards the canal bridge. Join the canal towpath, heading right towards Gilwern or left towards Llanfoist and Abergavenny. This beautiful canal, about a 34 mile stretch which doesn't lead to any other waterway, is usually busy, allbeit with slow-moving narrow boats, but today it stands empty following a devastating breach last October, that caused mayhem on the surrounding roads and villages. According to Roger Williams ((Shadow Minister (Rural Affairs), Environment, Food & Rural Affairs; Brecon & Radnorshire, Liberal Democrat) http://www.theyworkforyou.com/whall/?gid=2007-12-11b.11.2:
"The canal runs from Brecon to Pontypool; it used to run to Newport. Its purpose originally was to take limestone to the steelworks and bring back slag and other materials for agricultural use in the more agricultural areas. It had fallen into disrepair by the 1930s, and only through the intervention of British Waterways and the Brecon Beacons national park was it brought back into use."
He relayed that it had been suggested to him that repairs would cost about 1.5 million. Recent news from the BBC suggests that figure is nearer 7.5 million. Gosh, what a lot of money! Hopefully, the restoration won't take as long as that of the Montgomery canal, but who knows.
Anyway, I digress! Forking right instead of left takes you on a wander through some newer housing leading eventually up to the old infant/junior school, past the old railway line, opened in 1862, closed to passengers in 1958 and now a footpath. Follow this road round to get to the foot of the Blorenge mountain, famous for its "fiddler's elbow", Keeper's Pond and the grave of the race horse, Foxhunter. On your way to Bleanavon and the Big Pit, pick some wimberries (aka blueberries, or braeberries) for tonight's pudding!
Govilon Heritage have spent much time creating and erecting noticeboards around the village that follow specific trails that they've devised. Although I saw the boards, I had no idea about their work in digitally preserving Govilon's heritage, so the route I took was of my own making, but next time I shall buy their 20pence leaflets and do their guided walk!
See you soon!
Saturday, 19 April 2008
Walking in Wales
Now, don't get me wrong,walking is fine, but I like to take the easy ones, driving to a village or town and then discovering its secrets on foot, which is what I've been doing over the last couple of weeks in South Wales.
Abergavenny, the gateway to Wales and the Brecon Beacons, a staging post for those enthusiastic walkers, hikers and campers, ticks all the boxes for me! Ok, so the castle isn't quite up to the standard of Raglan, Caerphilly or Pembroke (these are the ones I've visited - I'll talk about Caernarvon later in the year after I've been there), but what's left is steeped in history and has lovely views over the River Usk. The museum inside the 19th century keep is also quite interesting, telling the history of Abergavenny from pre-historic times to the present day.
A little way up from the castle is a fantastic little music shop, Abergavenny Music, stocking CDs of all types of music, a small selection of sheet music, and a handful of music-related gifts. Lots of useful adverts for music teachers and local perfomances, as well as free catalogues from the various record labels. Unfortunately, they are not taking web orders at the moment, but keep checking back.
There seems to be something going on in the market hall every day: a general market (Tuesdays); an antiques and flea market (Wednesdays); a craft market (Thursdays). Attached to the side of the market hall is the Borough Theatre, showing a variety of local and national acts. The little side street that runs at right angles to the market hall houses a variety of shops in an interesting setting. Carry on down this road and you get to the cattle market.
Carry on up the main street and just off it, on Flannel Street, you will see a little butcher, H J Edwards, on the left who sells all sorts of things including Welsh blue Caerphilly cheese - delicious! Down at the far end Frogmore Street you'll find W M Nicholls, which used to be a "country" store selling waterproof jackets, wellies, woolly jumpers etc., but which now seems to sell trendy glassware and designer clothes (like Joules from Market Harborough), as well as having a lovely cafe with glass roof at the back of the shop. Of course, despite the individual retailers, Abergavenny has its fair share of regular high street stores - Waterstones, Woolworths, Boots, Smiths, Dorothy Perkins, Iceland etc..
I could wax lyrical about this small market town for hours, but real life beckons! Drop by again soon and read about some of the other Welsh towns and villages I've visited recently!
Abergavenny, the gateway to Wales and the Brecon Beacons, a staging post for those enthusiastic walkers, hikers and campers, ticks all the boxes for me! Ok, so the castle isn't quite up to the standard of Raglan, Caerphilly or Pembroke (these are the ones I've visited - I'll talk about Caernarvon later in the year after I've been there), but what's left is steeped in history and has lovely views over the River Usk. The museum inside the 19th century keep is also quite interesting, telling the history of Abergavenny from pre-historic times to the present day.
A little way up from the castle is a fantastic little music shop, Abergavenny Music, stocking CDs of all types of music, a small selection of sheet music, and a handful of music-related gifts. Lots of useful adverts for music teachers and local perfomances, as well as free catalogues from the various record labels. Unfortunately, they are not taking web orders at the moment, but keep checking back.
There seems to be something going on in the market hall every day: a general market (Tuesdays); an antiques and flea market (Wednesdays); a craft market (Thursdays). Attached to the side of the market hall is the Borough Theatre, showing a variety of local and national acts. The little side street that runs at right angles to the market hall houses a variety of shops in an interesting setting. Carry on down this road and you get to the cattle market.
Carry on up the main street and just off it, on Flannel Street, you will see a little butcher, H J Edwards, on the left who sells all sorts of things including Welsh blue Caerphilly cheese - delicious! Down at the far end Frogmore Street you'll find W M Nicholls, which used to be a "country" store selling waterproof jackets, wellies, woolly jumpers etc., but which now seems to sell trendy glassware and designer clothes (like Joules from Market Harborough), as well as having a lovely cafe with glass roof at the back of the shop. Of course, despite the individual retailers, Abergavenny has its fair share of regular high street stores - Waterstones, Woolworths, Boots, Smiths, Dorothy Perkins, Iceland etc..
I could wax lyrical about this small market town for hours, but real life beckons! Drop by again soon and read about some of the other Welsh towns and villages I've visited recently!
Friday, 4 April 2008
Recent travels
Well, over the last three months I've done quite a bit of travelling to other towns in the UK, although sometimes I haven't been able to go into the towns themselves as I've gone for other reasons (like bowling matches)!
Did manage to get a look around Grantham, the birthplace of Margaret Thatcher and where Issac Newton went to school. Enjoyed looking around the museum, which was well laid out and had some interesting exhibits. Also had a brilliant art exhibition of cartooons from a cartoonist for the local paper. Since visiting, I have discovered that Grantham was home to the first public library - wish I'd gone in now, instead of passing by!
Was really excited when I went into the Fabric Warehouse - the shop seemed to keep on going back and back and back, with so much stock it was overwhelming! Had always meant to go to the one in Nottingham, but never got round to it so finding this one in Grantham was a real bonus!
Spent a very pleasant day in Lichfield and had a wonderful lunch in the Chapters. I probably go to Lichfield a couple of times a year, and it never fails to impress me, especially the cathedral, of which I am a friend (even though I don't manage to get to any events, as it really is a bit too far to go!)
Am looking forward to going to Boston (Lincs) sometime soon. Spent a brilliant afternoon in the indoor bowling rink, but going to Boston reminded me of the time I sang in the "Stump" with the Nottingham Choral Trust a few years ago.
Visited Melton Mowbray recently - another place that I always find up-lifting, and with musical connections (apart from the Rotary young musicians competition that we were attending)! Finished off with a trip to the farm shop which is always good!
More to come in a moment ...
Did manage to get a look around Grantham, the birthplace of Margaret Thatcher and where Issac Newton went to school. Enjoyed looking around the museum, which was well laid out and had some interesting exhibits. Also had a brilliant art exhibition of cartooons from a cartoonist for the local paper. Since visiting, I have discovered that Grantham was home to the first public library - wish I'd gone in now, instead of passing by!
Was really excited when I went into the Fabric Warehouse - the shop seemed to keep on going back and back and back, with so much stock it was overwhelming! Had always meant to go to the one in Nottingham, but never got round to it so finding this one in Grantham was a real bonus!
Spent a very pleasant day in Lichfield and had a wonderful lunch in the Chapters. I probably go to Lichfield a couple of times a year, and it never fails to impress me, especially the cathedral, of which I am a friend (even though I don't manage to get to any events, as it really is a bit too far to go!)
Am looking forward to going to Boston (Lincs) sometime soon. Spent a brilliant afternoon in the indoor bowling rink, but going to Boston reminded me of the time I sang in the "Stump" with the Nottingham Choral Trust a few years ago.
Visited Melton Mowbray recently - another place that I always find up-lifting, and with musical connections (apart from the Rotary young musicians competition that we were attending)! Finished off with a trip to the farm shop which is always good!
More to come in a moment ...
What's in a number?
Three?
I can hardly believe that it's been three months since I last made an entry in this blog! It seems like only yesterday I was getting excited about SnapShots!
Trying to think what I've been up to over the last three months reminded me that in the space of three days, I experienced three accidents!
First off, someone reversed into the side of my car! Didn't do very much damage, but it's always such a hassle phoning the insurance companies, the repairers and organising alternative transport while your own vehicle is off the road. Anyway, all sorted now - and they cleaned the car too, so it's quite pleasant to be in - for the time being!!
Then, woke early one morning to find the bathroom and the kitchen under a couple of inches of water. The shower had broken inside the shower unit itself and was chucking water out over the side of the bath. It would probably have been ok if the shower head or something had broken and had leaked into the bath, but life's never that simple, is it! Anyway, spent ages clearing up the mess, had a new shower fitted and decorated the bathroom! Luckily, the kitchen escaped too much damage, apart from the rug, so that bit was easier.
Of course, there had to be a third thing, didn't there! We experienced a small earthquake! At the time (1.30 in the morning) we had no idea what it was; all I heard was running water so, given the previous experience with the shower, I was convinced the boiler had blown up, or the radiators had burst!! Luckily, all that had happened was a small earthquake which shifted a mirror off the shelf above my bedside table which smashed a glass of water as it fell - hence the sound of rushing water in my ear!
Why do these things happen in threes?
I can hardly believe that it's been three months since I last made an entry in this blog! It seems like only yesterday I was getting excited about SnapShots!
Trying to think what I've been up to over the last three months reminded me that in the space of three days, I experienced three accidents!
First off, someone reversed into the side of my car! Didn't do very much damage, but it's always such a hassle phoning the insurance companies, the repairers and organising alternative transport while your own vehicle is off the road. Anyway, all sorted now - and they cleaned the car too, so it's quite pleasant to be in - for the time being!!
Then, woke early one morning to find the bathroom and the kitchen under a couple of inches of water. The shower had broken inside the shower unit itself and was chucking water out over the side of the bath. It would probably have been ok if the shower head or something had broken and had leaked into the bath, but life's never that simple, is it! Anyway, spent ages clearing up the mess, had a new shower fitted and decorated the bathroom! Luckily, the kitchen escaped too much damage, apart from the rug, so that bit was easier.
Of course, there had to be a third thing, didn't there! We experienced a small earthquake! At the time (1.30 in the morning) we had no idea what it was; all I heard was running water so, given the previous experience with the shower, I was convinced the boiler had blown up, or the radiators had burst!! Luckily, all that had happened was a small earthquake which shifted a mirror off the shelf above my bedside table which smashed a glass of water as it fell - hence the sound of rushing water in my ear!
Why do these things happen in threes?
Monday, 31 December 2007
Snapsots now available!
I've added snapshots to my blog! Still in its infancy and needs quite a bit of refining, but could be useful to see where a link will take you before you actually chose to go there!
Thursday, 27 December 2007
Back from South West Wales!
Wales! Seems to be a favourite destination of mine! Just got back from visitng South West Wales! Stopped off in Abergavenny on the way, to see relatives, and then tootled down to Llanteg, a regular haunt of mine, to stay in a wooden house ( http://www.llanteglos-estate.com/ ). Over the years have seen all sorts of weathers, but this year was the coldest time ever!
While there, visited Tenby and Saundersfoot, stopped briefly at Amroth, and spent a day at Folly Farm ( http://www.folly-farm.co.uk/ ). Don't worry, there are plenty of things for adults to do there, like the adventure playground, the go-karts, the funfair, and of course, looking at the animals!
On the way back, called in at the shopping centre in Bridgend ( http://www.bridgenddesigneroutlet.com/consumer.asp ) and went to see the Golden Compass at the cinema. Quite a treat!
Spent a night in Hereford before heading back home! Am now contemplating what 2008 might hold in store, and am determined to uphold those resolutions I'll be making on 1st Jan!
Have a gr8 2008, folks!
While there, visited Tenby and Saundersfoot, stopped briefly at Amroth, and spent a day at Folly Farm ( http://www.folly-farm.co.uk/ ). Don't worry, there are plenty of things for adults to do there, like the adventure playground, the go-karts, the funfair, and of course, looking at the animals!
On the way back, called in at the shopping centre in Bridgend ( http://www.bridgenddesigneroutlet.com/consumer.asp ) and went to see the Golden Compass at the cinema. Quite a treat!
Spent a night in Hereford before heading back home! Am now contemplating what 2008 might hold in store, and am determined to uphold those resolutions I'll be making on 1st Jan!
Have a gr8 2008, folks!
Thursday, 1 November 2007
North Wales
Well, have just returned from a week in North Wales. The most glorious weather we've ever had on a late October holiday, and not a spot of rain until the very last evening, so raincoats and wellies remained clean and dry!
This was a very busy, and very exciting holiday, going to places I'd heard of, but never been to before and visiting as many tourist attractions as we could fit into a week! Stopped off in Oswestrey on the way down - a lovely little Shropshire town - and found a fantastic secondhand bookshop with loads of sheet music. Needless to say, I couldn't resist buying some of it, and trying it out as soon as I got home; some of it is just so beautiful, but not too taxing on small fingers like mine - just the way I like it!
Used the sat-nav to get to Wales, and was getting a bit worried when we were sent down some very steep and narrow lanes, but we did eventually get to our destination - via the beautiful Lake Bala. Found our holiday cottage quite easily, all things considered, and while it was still light we were able to gasp at the view over the Glaswyn estuary.
The cottage we stayed in was of particular interest to me as Bertrand Russell lived there from 1955 until his death in 1970, my interest in him being partly because he was born in Trellech, the same village as some of my great-great grandparents. The cottage was also a very short walk away from Portmeirion, which we visited the next day. Such a beautiful, relaxing place, especially on the walk down to, and across the beach. Couldn't resist buying lots of postcards (despite taking loads of photographs) and managed to get one of another hero of mine, Frank LLoyd Wright, meeting with Clough Williams-Ellis, the creator of Portmeirion.
The following day saw us travel to Barmouth, via the toll road to Harlech. Harlech castle was quite stunning and the village was quiet and quaint, although I suspect in the summer it would be rather bustling with visitors. The land surrounding the castle was flat and covered with loads of green, static caravans!
We had a lovely walk along the beach at Barmouth, before visiting the local library (such a helpful lady there, from whom I should learn a lesson!) and looking in the shops. No identikit high street shops here, all small local traders with interesting stock! Had a lovely meal in a Chinese restaurant, before heading home.
Llechwedd slate mine was our destination for the next day. I confess, I was somewhat bothered by this as, having agreed to go down the tin mine at Geevor in Cornwall, and then rushing out on discovering that the tunnels were so small and claustrophobic, I knew I would fret about being underground! Fortunately, this mine was rather like King Arthur's Labyrinth at Corris, although I do appreciate how awful the conditions were for the miners who worked underground. We did the deep mine tour and the surface tour and really had a very enjoyable time. When we'd finished at the mine we drove to Blaenau Ffestiniog and had a quick look at the railway and the town.
The middle of the week saw us travel to Snowdon. We stopped on several occasions on the way there, to admire the view, like lots of the other travellers! We arrived at about 11 o'clock and headed off to the train station to get tickets to go up on the train, but were put off by the price (63 pounds for all of us), the fact that the train only went 3/4s of the way up, and that the next available train was 3.30 in the afternoon! Obviously, all the other holiday-makers wanted to see from the top of Snowdon on such a beautiful day! So, we walked up! We agreed that wherever we had got to by 3pm (bearing in mind it was about noon by the time we started out, and from quite some way down the road, too, as all the car parks were full) we would then turn around and come back down, as it being autumn, the weather could turn at any time. Well, it was incredibly beautiful, all around, the sky, the lakes, the rocks, the other mountains ... A good time was had by all.
On the way back we called in at Beddgelert, and found Gelert's grave, before heading off to the Union Inn in Tremadog for a super evening supper!
On our penultimate day we visited Criccieth Castle. This is one of the most beautiful castles I've been to; I was stunned by the 360 degree views around the castle, across the beaches and sea! We sat here for a while and absorbed the glorious atmosphere, before moving on to the LLoyd George museum, in Llanystumdwy. A strange coincidence, but on the morning news I heard that a statue of Lloyd George was being unveiled in Parliament Square, London! This was a lovely little museum, with knowledgable staff and an interesting display of fact boards and artefacts. Fascinating, also, to be able to visit the little house in which Lloyd George was brought up.
From here we drove on to Pwllhelli where we walked along the beach and stopped off in a coffee shop in the town.
Our last day saw us ride the Ffestiniog steam train! With about 7 different steam lines to chose from, we couldn't resist taking a ride on one! We walked from the cottage down to the train station in Porthmadog, across the cob and passed a peaceful, but spectacular 3 hours riding through the Welsh countryside. We got off at our local station, Minffordd, and walked home for a late lunch, before setting off for a quick visit to Dolgellau. This was one of those places I'd heard of but never been to, and really I had no idea what to expect! Bought some Welsh gold cufflinks and visited the Quaker museum, upstairs in the tourist informaiton centre. Coming back, we stopped in Porthmadog for tea in an extremely busy little Indian restaurant, before arriving home to pack.
On our final day we stopped off in Porthmadog to buy some postcards and treats for work and to visit the outdoor clothing centre which we'd spotted on one of our trips out. Then, we made our way to Llangollen where we spent ages driving around looking for somewhere to park before watching the canoeing while eating our lunch by the riverside, and watching the Thomas the Tank Engine steam train trundle back and forth. Found an absolutely fantastic bookshop in which we spent hours, before driving the 3 miles to see the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, along which we walked. Pretty scary being so high up, but again, spectacular.
Roll on the next holiday - going to do the last leg of Wales and stay in LLandudno! Can't wait!
This was a very busy, and very exciting holiday, going to places I'd heard of, but never been to before and visiting as many tourist attractions as we could fit into a week! Stopped off in Oswestrey on the way down - a lovely little Shropshire town - and found a fantastic secondhand bookshop with loads of sheet music. Needless to say, I couldn't resist buying some of it, and trying it out as soon as I got home; some of it is just so beautiful, but not too taxing on small fingers like mine - just the way I like it!
Used the sat-nav to get to Wales, and was getting a bit worried when we were sent down some very steep and narrow lanes, but we did eventually get to our destination - via the beautiful Lake Bala. Found our holiday cottage quite easily, all things considered, and while it was still light we were able to gasp at the view over the Glaswyn estuary.
The cottage we stayed in was of particular interest to me as Bertrand Russell lived there from 1955 until his death in 1970, my interest in him being partly because he was born in Trellech, the same village as some of my great-great grandparents. The cottage was also a very short walk away from Portmeirion, which we visited the next day. Such a beautiful, relaxing place, especially on the walk down to, and across the beach. Couldn't resist buying lots of postcards (despite taking loads of photographs) and managed to get one of another hero of mine, Frank LLoyd Wright, meeting with Clough Williams-Ellis, the creator of Portmeirion.
The following day saw us travel to Barmouth, via the toll road to Harlech. Harlech castle was quite stunning and the village was quiet and quaint, although I suspect in the summer it would be rather bustling with visitors. The land surrounding the castle was flat and covered with loads of green, static caravans!
We had a lovely walk along the beach at Barmouth, before visiting the local library (such a helpful lady there, from whom I should learn a lesson!) and looking in the shops. No identikit high street shops here, all small local traders with interesting stock! Had a lovely meal in a Chinese restaurant, before heading home.
Llechwedd slate mine was our destination for the next day. I confess, I was somewhat bothered by this as, having agreed to go down the tin mine at Geevor in Cornwall, and then rushing out on discovering that the tunnels were so small and claustrophobic, I knew I would fret about being underground! Fortunately, this mine was rather like King Arthur's Labyrinth at Corris, although I do appreciate how awful the conditions were for the miners who worked underground. We did the deep mine tour and the surface tour and really had a very enjoyable time. When we'd finished at the mine we drove to Blaenau Ffestiniog and had a quick look at the railway and the town.
The middle of the week saw us travel to Snowdon. We stopped on several occasions on the way there, to admire the view, like lots of the other travellers! We arrived at about 11 o'clock and headed off to the train station to get tickets to go up on the train, but were put off by the price (63 pounds for all of us), the fact that the train only went 3/4s of the way up, and that the next available train was 3.30 in the afternoon! Obviously, all the other holiday-makers wanted to see from the top of Snowdon on such a beautiful day! So, we walked up! We agreed that wherever we had got to by 3pm (bearing in mind it was about noon by the time we started out, and from quite some way down the road, too, as all the car parks were full) we would then turn around and come back down, as it being autumn, the weather could turn at any time. Well, it was incredibly beautiful, all around, the sky, the lakes, the rocks, the other mountains ... A good time was had by all.
On the way back we called in at Beddgelert, and found Gelert's grave, before heading off to the Union Inn in Tremadog for a super evening supper!
On our penultimate day we visited Criccieth Castle. This is one of the most beautiful castles I've been to; I was stunned by the 360 degree views around the castle, across the beaches and sea! We sat here for a while and absorbed the glorious atmosphere, before moving on to the LLoyd George museum, in Llanystumdwy. A strange coincidence, but on the morning news I heard that a statue of Lloyd George was being unveiled in Parliament Square, London! This was a lovely little museum, with knowledgable staff and an interesting display of fact boards and artefacts. Fascinating, also, to be able to visit the little house in which Lloyd George was brought up.
From here we drove on to Pwllhelli where we walked along the beach and stopped off in a coffee shop in the town.
Our last day saw us ride the Ffestiniog steam train! With about 7 different steam lines to chose from, we couldn't resist taking a ride on one! We walked from the cottage down to the train station in Porthmadog, across the cob and passed a peaceful, but spectacular 3 hours riding through the Welsh countryside. We got off at our local station, Minffordd, and walked home for a late lunch, before setting off for a quick visit to Dolgellau. This was one of those places I'd heard of but never been to, and really I had no idea what to expect! Bought some Welsh gold cufflinks and visited the Quaker museum, upstairs in the tourist informaiton centre. Coming back, we stopped in Porthmadog for tea in an extremely busy little Indian restaurant, before arriving home to pack.
On our final day we stopped off in Porthmadog to buy some postcards and treats for work and to visit the outdoor clothing centre which we'd spotted on one of our trips out. Then, we made our way to Llangollen where we spent ages driving around looking for somewhere to park before watching the canoeing while eating our lunch by the riverside, and watching the Thomas the Tank Engine steam train trundle back and forth. Found an absolutely fantastic bookshop in which we spent hours, before driving the 3 miles to see the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, along which we walked. Pretty scary being so high up, but again, spectacular.
Roll on the next holiday - going to do the last leg of Wales and stay in LLandudno! Can't wait!
Saturday, 6 October 2007
Oh my goodness! This is a hopeless case! It's now been over a month since I last visited! Life seems just so hectic, and there never seems gto be any let-up. Well, I guess I'd have a lot to complain about if I never did anything, never got out and never read, did crosswords, sewed, played the piano or any of those other things I like to do, over and above scribbling in a blog!
One of the most exciting things I've done recently is a visit to Whitby, in North Yorks.. Never been before but had heard it was a lovely little place to visit! I should have know really, shouldn't I, when I tried to book a hotel months in advance and they were all full! I should have guessed how busy it would be! Busy? I nearly got trampled upon! Eventually managed to book into a haunted hotel http://www.bagdale.co.uk/ and had a lovely four-poster bed, and a fabulous meal in the dining room!
We parked at the Abbey http://www.whitbyabbey.co.uk/ and spent some time looking round there before heading off into the town and from there onto the beach, before taking the lift to go up the cliff and walking back down to the hotel. On the way home we stopped off at Sandsend, a pretty little place, Robin Hood's Bay, a quaint little place, and Scarborough, a big, busy place!
Now gearing up to the next holiday when we're off to Minffordd! Can't wait for that!
See you round!
One of the most exciting things I've done recently is a visit to Whitby, in North Yorks.. Never been before but had heard it was a lovely little place to visit! I should have know really, shouldn't I, when I tried to book a hotel months in advance and they were all full! I should have guessed how busy it would be! Busy? I nearly got trampled upon! Eventually managed to book into a haunted hotel http://www.bagdale.co.uk/ and had a lovely four-poster bed, and a fabulous meal in the dining room!
We parked at the Abbey http://www.whitbyabbey.co.uk/ and spent some time looking round there before heading off into the town and from there onto the beach, before taking the lift to go up the cliff and walking back down to the hotel. On the way home we stopped off at Sandsend, a pretty little place, Robin Hood's Bay, a quaint little place, and Scarborough, a big, busy place!
Now gearing up to the next holiday when we're off to Minffordd! Can't wait for that!
See you round!
Thursday, 30 August 2007
Goodbye summer - hello autumn!
The schools starting back after the long summer break really signals to me the end of summer and the beginning of autumn, but this year it seems that that mother nature agrees with me, with tree leaves turning red, conkers falling and the blackberries nearly over!
Summer holidays invariably reduce my stress levels enormously (despite the stress of packing!) and the ensuing four weeks, with less hours at work, really make me relax and go with the flow. Notwithstanding the need to go slow, I managed to pack in rather a lot this summer, with a visit from a nephew, numberous trips to the cinema, several museum trips, a number of visits to swimming pools, a couple of concerts a few meals out etc..
Now I find myself home alone (sob!) I've managed to have a spring clean, learned how to create a customised search engine using Google and added it to my iGoogle page (thanks to my ten-year old for help with customising my Google page) and added another book to my librarything catalogue! Wow! Cataloguing, blogging and now using Google creatively - whatever next! Better get on and update that wiki next!
See you round!
Summer holidays invariably reduce my stress levels enormously (despite the stress of packing!) and the ensuing four weeks, with less hours at work, really make me relax and go with the flow. Notwithstanding the need to go slow, I managed to pack in rather a lot this summer, with a visit from a nephew, numberous trips to the cinema, several museum trips, a number of visits to swimming pools, a couple of concerts a few meals out etc..
Now I find myself home alone (sob!) I've managed to have a spring clean, learned how to create a customised search engine using Google and added it to my iGoogle page (thanks to my ten-year old for help with customising my Google page) and added another book to my librarything catalogue! Wow! Cataloguing, blogging and now using Google creatively - whatever next! Better get on and update that wiki next!
See you round!
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