Biodegradable teaspoons are not the best things in the world as this video shows. Just how exactly are you meant to make a cup of tea?!!
Sunday, 17 October 2010
Monday, 6 September 2010
Competative? Me?
Apparently i'm really competative when it comes to games. Me? Really?
I never thought I was but six out of seven people playing cards last
night would argue that I am.
When I was younger it was always my friend Lindsay who was the
competative one and would regulary get worked up over a game
especially if my Dad was sat next to her. He would often hand her a
'plus four' before laying down his final card.
At the Newton residence we regulary play the Set and Series card game
and last night I learnt just how competative I am.
Seven of us were playing which meant that there were more of us
fighting over the discarded un wanted cards. This, in my defence, was
a little fraustrating as you watch the card you need to finish being
snatched by another player. So ok I was a little rough and squealed a
bit during the game but you have to if you have any chance of winning!
I didn't win! :(
I never thought I was but six out of seven people playing cards last
night would argue that I am.
When I was younger it was always my friend Lindsay who was the
competative one and would regulary get worked up over a game
especially if my Dad was sat next to her. He would often hand her a
'plus four' before laying down his final card.
At the Newton residence we regulary play the Set and Series card game
and last night I learnt just how competative I am.
Seven of us were playing which meant that there were more of us
fighting over the discarded un wanted cards. This, in my defence, was
a little fraustrating as you watch the card you need to finish being
snatched by another player. So ok I was a little rough and squealed a
bit during the game but you have to if you have any chance of winning!
I didn't win! :(
Saturday, 31 July 2010
SAFE part 3 - Final festival
And now the end is near and so we face our final curtain. The final festival is upon us. We work so hard all week in rehearsals, building up for this moment which comes all too soon.
It was a brilliant evening. The delegates really did everyone proud. From the beginning with 'A Jubilant Song' to 'The Big Boat' musical, the delegates put their hearts and soul into the festival and really did everyone proud. At the end there was a standing ovation which they truly deserved.
A video of 'A Jubilant Song' can be found at http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=1560154683406&oid=18489442328
It was a brilliant evening. The delegates really did everyone proud. From the beginning with 'A Jubilant Song' to 'The Big Boat' musical, the delegates put their hearts and soul into the festival and really did everyone proud. At the end there was a standing ovation which they truly deserved.
A video of 'A Jubilant Song' can be found at http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=1560154683406&oid=18489442328
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| The choir |
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| The drama |
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| The timbrels |
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| The band |
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| The musical |
SAFE part 2 - The highlights
There is so much I could say and bore you all with but I'll try and keep to the just the highlights.
Sing along a Sister Act
Sing along a Sister Act
Following on from the success of Sing along a ... Sound of Music, Grease and Mama Mia it was time for Sister Act. The real highlight is the fancy dress competition, the film just fills up the time. Those that take part really go to town with their costumes. There were those that cheated (Christine and I were just two) who bought a costume from Amazon. Those that made use of black bin bags and plastic aprons plus lots of sticky tape. Then those who had made their own before hand.
The winner was David (front row, first on the left) whose Mum made him the priest outfit worn in the film. I think the glasses really make it!
Steam museum and Shopping
Not sure if the others would call this a highlight especially the Steam Museum but my delegates loved it. Each year we have a day out and we try to have something different each year but I don't think this museum is somewhere we'll return to. In my opinion it was ok. I'm not interested in trains or shopping for that matter. There was one interesting fact I learnt about Swindon train works and that is in the carpentry workshop along with making train carriages they made artificial limbs for employees in case there was an accident. Can you imagine going to the store saying you had lost a right foot but for them to say that they were all out of right feet but would a left foot do? Ok just me who thinks that's funny.
The best part of the day was sitting down in Costa with a Frappachino and a muffin after a busy time shopping at the Cadbury Shop. In fact we took over one half of Costa and the staff were really good and patient with our delegates.
Talent Show
Always a highlight as you never know what you are going to get. New boy David was first up with his Grease Megamix (performing all the parts!). Oh my word this lad is enthusiastic. I can't explain it really. All I can say is that I'm glad I'm not Lyndon! There was singing, dancing, clowns and 'The Trumpet Voluntary' on a harmonica! Simon Cowell would mock them all but we just love them.
Football Match
Each year the girls play the boys at football and for the last 5 years or so the girls have retained the cup, this is due to the fact that we haven't been able to play for various reasons for the last 5 years. This year the pitch was clear of rubbish, was not waterlogged and ready for the chaos that is the SAFE football match. To add to the excitement THQ's sport ministry department were filming it for a new video about the 2012 Olympics, interviewing some of the delegates who are involved in sports. Not sure what they were expecting especially when the Ref appeared in her riot gear. As usual the game was controversial. The boys claimed that not all of the girls were girls, that the girls were playing dirty and the ref was biased. They even claimed that the second half was longer than the first which resulted in a 4-4 draw! They even challenged that decision. However I believe it was a fair game, the ref is always right and that the first goal by the girls was amazing! But then I scored that one! Due to the draw the girls retained the cup for another year. Not quite sure how that decision is made. Maybe we should introduce penalties, then again maybe not!
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| The Ref! |
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| All girls? |
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| Final goal - 4-4 |
Disco time
I'm not a dancer and get embarrassed by my dancing however I love this night. Cheesy songs are the order of the evening and if it's an action song then even better. YMCA, Superman and even the Birdie song (dedicated to Lyndon due to a story about a seagull that flew into his car whilst driving) are just a three that made the play list.
My delegates
Kate and Alex are brilliant. Usually no trouble at all (except when they phone me to say they've gone for a walk in the dark, alone) and just make me laugh especially Kate who is always smiling. I enjoy taking care of them and know their routine pretty well after having them for the last 6 years. They can both dance and Kate is a brilliant swimmer and I struggle to keep up with her when we have a race but then she has won medals at the Special Olympics! I know I'll have them again next year but I would love to have an en-suite room just once but you only get one of those if your delegate is a wheel chair user.
Other highlights
I should mention that there is of course the rehearsals which can have fun moments plus the speakers who come each day to chat about their work. Mike and Jenny Clarke led the Sunday worship. Julian Bright did a variety of music and comedy followed by a very moving moment. Adam, Gemma and Hope Bonner also joined us for the day. It was great to share with my friends from church just what we get up to and why we get excited when talking about it. Adam spoke about Livibility, the organisation that he works for and who a number of delegates have used whether it be their holiday centres or colleges. Gemma lead a dance workshop which I missed but heard that she did a great job and the dance they learnt for the talent show was brilliant. Hope was just her cute self, leading a workshop on the joys of being 2.
Also this year we had small groups for the first time. These seemed to go down really well. Groups were made up by ability and gave an opportunity for delegates to share their thoughts as well as learn and ask questions. I do hope we have them again next year.
Saturday, 24 July 2010
SAFE part 1
Can it really be a year since the last SAFE summer school? Er.. Yes!
This week is just one of the highlights of my year and I really look forward to it. It's a lot of hard work followed by little sleep but it just an amazing week which is hard to express in words and I can only recommend that people come along to it to really understand it.
Last year I vowed that I wouldn't be the administrator again. I couldn't handle the pressure of people complaining to me all through the week as well as organising the travel arrangements and doing the announcements each meal time. Doesn't sound much but I found this all very scary and stressful as I am not a public speaker. But on the Friday I realised that I could do it and saw it as an opportunity to improve my confidence. I had a disability that I could overcome. So this year I was ready, I was prepared and I was scared!
But SAFE is safe. A time for anyone to try things new that they wouldn't do or can't do in their home churches. This includes singing, playing in the band, timbrels, dancing, drama and much more. It's a shame that some churches see the disability and not the ability so don't give them the opportunity to take part.
This year's theme was the X Factor (or rather the cross factor). Highlighting biblical characters who were seen as nothing because of their jobs (Peter) or their size (David). Sharing that Jesus can still has a purpose for us and that we have the X factor in His eyes.
So let the madness begin. That is usually when the staff and escorts arrive. I tend not to have trouble with the delegates, the real mischievous ones are the escorts. The arrival is full of noise and laughter as we all haven't seen each other in a year and there is so much catching up to do. For those who are new it can all be rather scary but they soon feel at home and by the end of the week are just as loud and mischievous as the next person.
This week is just one of the highlights of my year and I really look forward to it. It's a lot of hard work followed by little sleep but it just an amazing week which is hard to express in words and I can only recommend that people come along to it to really understand it.
Last year I vowed that I wouldn't be the administrator again. I couldn't handle the pressure of people complaining to me all through the week as well as organising the travel arrangements and doing the announcements each meal time. Doesn't sound much but I found this all very scary and stressful as I am not a public speaker. But on the Friday I realised that I could do it and saw it as an opportunity to improve my confidence. I had a disability that I could overcome. So this year I was ready, I was prepared and I was scared!
But SAFE is safe. A time for anyone to try things new that they wouldn't do or can't do in their home churches. This includes singing, playing in the band, timbrels, dancing, drama and much more. It's a shame that some churches see the disability and not the ability so don't give them the opportunity to take part.
This year's theme was the X Factor (or rather the cross factor). Highlighting biblical characters who were seen as nothing because of their jobs (Peter) or their size (David). Sharing that Jesus can still has a purpose for us and that we have the X factor in His eyes.
So let the madness begin. That is usually when the staff and escorts arrive. I tend not to have trouble with the delegates, the real mischievous ones are the escorts. The arrival is full of noise and laughter as we all haven't seen each other in a year and there is so much catching up to do. For those who are new it can all be rather scary but they soon feel at home and by the end of the week are just as loud and mischievous as the next person.
Friday, 23 July 2010
Another year older!
Birthdays can be really stressful. A time to get all depressed about getting another year older. This year mine had the added stress of being financially approved for a housing association flat! However it turned out to be one of the best birthdays ever!
I love making my birthday last as long as it can. So the Friday before I went out with some of my closest friends for a drink at my favourite bar in Sutton, The Ivory Lounge. A grown up sort of bar, music not too loud and not too packed either. It was just a nice evening to sit and chat to friends and have a laugh together. We discovered just how piggy Sara and Katie can be. They order 8 tapas dishes between them which is usually for 4 people. The boys, Andy and Jon could only manage 6! They say they were watching their waistlines but I think they just wanted to prove a point about how greedy the girls were. However Sharon and I didn’t mind as they came with a free bottle of wine. Sadly age caught up on us and we all started to feel the pressure at around 10 plus Sharon was unwell so home we went to watch the classic film, Ghostbusters. How cool were we?!
The first of the presents was opened on Monday night as I wouldn’t be seeing Katie and Andy on Tuesday. They always know what to buy me. A travel book, Muppets DVD and, best of all, a fleecy blanket with arms. I have wanted one of these for ages. I think they are really practical as you can keep your arms warm on a cold day and you don’t need to expose them to have a cup of tea or reading a book if you were using a blanket. An opinion not shared by my housemates. Can’t think why?
My actual birthday on the Tuesday was a day I wasn’t getting excited about due to the finance interview but as I said at the beginning of this entry it turned about to be one of the best. When I arrived at the office it was just a normal day that is until I turned on my computer to discover someone had hacked into my computer and left a message on my screen. See below.
I had only spoken to one person that morning which was Sarah just 2 minutes before turning on my computer when she arrived at work. I wasn’t expecting it and it was such a nice surprise as I had no idea who did it or when! After much quizzing of everyone in the office it turned out that it was Martin who was actually on holiday. He logged into my computer the night before from home and changed it!
Next my very good friend Kylie phoned from Oz, which was another surprise and delayed me from starting work however I didn’t mind and work didn’t either so bonus! It was great catching up with her and I only wished it could have lasted longer but I had my interview coming up plus I needed to catch up with my line manager.
Then the interview happened. Why was I stressing? It went great and I was approved for the flat! I just have 6 weeks to sort out everything from solicitors to mortgages and I could be moved in 8 weeks! So double celebration. Thank you to all my friends and colleagues who were understanding and praying. Keep it up!
From then on I had to work but was by now was in a celebratory mood. Sarah took me for a birthday Starbucks, chocolates were left on my desk by Vicky, the office helped to celebrate my birthday with Krispy Kreme donuts (usually it just a Sainsbury cake!) and Kevin bought me a bottle of Baileys! I’m still overwhelmed by it all and can't help smiling as I write.
But the day didn’t end there. Oh no! Being the good church and band member that I am I headed to church to do the accounts with Foxy and Richard who had bought me a chocolate cake! Could this be the best birthday ever? My waist line is the only one complaining. This was followed by band practice where for the first time ever I was able to play some new pieces without struggling. Is my sight reading improving? I doubt it as these pieces were meant for kid bands. For some it may seem an unsual way to spend a birthday but I spent it with my best friends on Friday and more friends on Tuesday.
I even got a phone call from my brother on the actual day which makes a change as he usually forgets or calls days later. However I missed the call and when I called him back at 9.55pm he was asleep in bed and didn’t want to talk to me! Oh well it’s the fact that he called that counts!
The week of celebrations was finished off nicely with a Chinese takeaway with Katie. Now the question is how can next year improve on this year? Just a year to wait and see!
I love making my birthday last as long as it can. So the Friday before I went out with some of my closest friends for a drink at my favourite bar in Sutton, The Ivory Lounge. A grown up sort of bar, music not too loud and not too packed either. It was just a nice evening to sit and chat to friends and have a laugh together. We discovered just how piggy Sara and Katie can be. They order 8 tapas dishes between them which is usually for 4 people. The boys, Andy and Jon could only manage 6! They say they were watching their waistlines but I think they just wanted to prove a point about how greedy the girls were. However Sharon and I didn’t mind as they came with a free bottle of wine. Sadly age caught up on us and we all started to feel the pressure at around 10 plus Sharon was unwell so home we went to watch the classic film, Ghostbusters. How cool were we?!
The first of the presents was opened on Monday night as I wouldn’t be seeing Katie and Andy on Tuesday. They always know what to buy me. A travel book, Muppets DVD and, best of all, a fleecy blanket with arms. I have wanted one of these for ages. I think they are really practical as you can keep your arms warm on a cold day and you don’t need to expose them to have a cup of tea or reading a book if you were using a blanket. An opinion not shared by my housemates. Can’t think why?
My actual birthday on the Tuesday was a day I wasn’t getting excited about due to the finance interview but as I said at the beginning of this entry it turned about to be one of the best. When I arrived at the office it was just a normal day that is until I turned on my computer to discover someone had hacked into my computer and left a message on my screen. See below.
Next my very good friend Kylie phoned from Oz, which was another surprise and delayed me from starting work however I didn’t mind and work didn’t either so bonus! It was great catching up with her and I only wished it could have lasted longer but I had my interview coming up plus I needed to catch up with my line manager.
Then the interview happened. Why was I stressing? It went great and I was approved for the flat! I just have 6 weeks to sort out everything from solicitors to mortgages and I could be moved in 8 weeks! So double celebration. Thank you to all my friends and colleagues who were understanding and praying. Keep it up!
From then on I had to work but was by now was in a celebratory mood. Sarah took me for a birthday Starbucks, chocolates were left on my desk by Vicky, the office helped to celebrate my birthday with Krispy Kreme donuts (usually it just a Sainsbury cake!) and Kevin bought me a bottle of Baileys! I’m still overwhelmed by it all and can't help smiling as I write.
But the day didn’t end there. Oh no! Being the good church and band member that I am I headed to church to do the accounts with Foxy and Richard who had bought me a chocolate cake! Could this be the best birthday ever? My waist line is the only one complaining. This was followed by band practice where for the first time ever I was able to play some new pieces without struggling. Is my sight reading improving? I doubt it as these pieces were meant for kid bands. For some it may seem an unsual way to spend a birthday but I spent it with my best friends on Friday and more friends on Tuesday.
I even got a phone call from my brother on the actual day which makes a change as he usually forgets or calls days later. However I missed the call and when I called him back at 9.55pm he was asleep in bed and didn’t want to talk to me! Oh well it’s the fact that he called that counts!
The week of celebrations was finished off nicely with a Chinese takeaway with Katie. Now the question is how can next year improve on this year? Just a year to wait and see!
Sunday, 18 July 2010
Doing it His Way
Last weekend it was Mum and Dad's retirement do at Torquay Corps after 17 years as Salvation Army officers. It was a lovely small do led by close friends Alan and Caroline Read, who have had a big influence on their ministry. The hall was packed with folk from past and present corps, some of who gave moving tributes about their leadership over the years.
There was a few embarrassing moments (like the timbrels) and some in jokes which went over the heads of many in the congregation. Probably a good thing. They will never know why my mother was sent a pair of silk stockings from the Sergent Major at Tadley!
The evening ended with a duet by my parents! Now my dad singing is fine but my mum? However it summed up their ministry perfectly. They did it His Way!
There was a few embarrassing moments (like the timbrels) and some in jokes which went over the heads of many in the congregation. Probably a good thing. They will never know why my mother was sent a pair of silk stockings from the Sergent Major at Tadley!
The evening ended with a duet by my parents! Now my dad singing is fine but my mum? However it summed up their ministry perfectly. They did it His Way!
(Apologies that the sound isn't great. I hope to get a better copy from someone else)
The things you get up to in a YHA
I was deleting stuff off my mobile the other day such as pictures and videos to make space when I came across this video.
A couple of years ago Kylie and I were staying in a hostel in the Yorkshire Dales. One evening we were the only ones in so we were messing around in the dining room. Kylie found a teddy and performed a beautiful and moving song with it.
Hope you enjoy!!!
A couple of years ago Kylie and I were staying in a hostel in the Yorkshire Dales. One evening we were the only ones in so we were messing around in the dining room. Kylie found a teddy and performed a beautiful and moving song with it.
Hope you enjoy!!!
Monday, 21 June 2010
Water OAP
Forget water babies, the OAP's are taking over! My mum at the age of 60 has finally learnt to swimming and she's not alone either.
After years of watching us from the poolside she bravely took the plunge and join an over 60's swimming class last year. Prior to this she was too scared to enter water, only buying a cosie a few years ago whilst on holiday so she could cool off in the pool.
Since learning her confidence has grown and the staff at the local pool have been great and very supportive even cheering her on when she completed her 20 meters length, and some were very disappointed to have missed it.
She proudly showed us her new skill at Centre Parcs. Slightly competing with Jacob (6) at who was the better swimmer. But more importantly she was able to join in the fun and do things with Jacob and Emily that she missed out on when Gary and I were their age.
My mum is now making up for it, spending most days at the pool and joining the aqua aerobics. Plus just like a child my mum has displayed her certificates on the fridge.
On enquiring at Poole leisure centre about lessons when she moved there, she was told that she would be in the advance class! Well done Super Gran!
After years of watching us from the poolside she bravely took the plunge and join an over 60's swimming class last year. Prior to this she was too scared to enter water, only buying a cosie a few years ago whilst on holiday so she could cool off in the pool.
Since learning her confidence has grown and the staff at the local pool have been great and very supportive even cheering her on when she completed her 20 meters length, and some were very disappointed to have missed it.
She proudly showed us her new skill at Centre Parcs. Slightly competing with Jacob (6) at who was the better swimmer. But more importantly she was able to join in the fun and do things with Jacob and Emily that she missed out on when Gary and I were their age.
My mum is now making up for it, spending most days at the pool and joining the aqua aerobics. Plus just like a child my mum has displayed her certificates on the fridge.
On enquiring at Poole leisure centre about lessons when she moved there, she was told that she would be in the advance class! Well done Super Gran!
Sunday, 20 June 2010
Poole Rocks!
It's not long now until Mum and Dad retire and move to Poole.
So last weekend Mum and I went to Poole to hit the shops and select some pieces of furniture and furnishing. This also included accessories and little touches for the house. 10 hours and £4,000 later we were tired but happy.
Poole is a happening place in the summer. Tuesday nights is bike night, which my dad is looking forward to. Friday is theme & classic car night. This may sound boring to some but for Mum and Dad it's perfect. Plus there are other events such as weekly fireworks, Polo and occasional an invasion of scouts. But last weekend was Harry Paye day!
Harry Paye was a 15th century pirate who lived in Poole and regularly robbed French ships. Some French folk joined forces and attacked Poole in retaliation for Paye's stealing. The locals fought back and drove the invaders out. Apparently Paye wasn't even in town at the time.
To celebrate Paye the town hold a charity fun day every year. Everyone, and I mean everyone, dress up as pirates. I felt very out of place along the quay. Those that take part every year have invested money in good quality costumes which will last and they looked great.
There was live music and games such as tuck of war all along the quay front. The shop owners dressed their shops with skull & crossbones and other pirate stuff. Everyone seems to get involved and there is a real party atmosphere. I even spied a Captain Jack Sparrow look alike or was it Jonny Depp?
Alas I didn't have my camera and we didn't 't have the time to join in due to the shopping but i plan to go down again next year so I'm sure I'll blog about Harry Paye again!
So last weekend Mum and I went to Poole to hit the shops and select some pieces of furniture and furnishing. This also included accessories and little touches for the house. 10 hours and £4,000 later we were tired but happy.
Poole is a happening place in the summer. Tuesday nights is bike night, which my dad is looking forward to. Friday is theme & classic car night. This may sound boring to some but for Mum and Dad it's perfect. Plus there are other events such as weekly fireworks, Polo and occasional an invasion of scouts. But last weekend was Harry Paye day!
Harry Paye was a 15th century pirate who lived in Poole and regularly robbed French ships. Some French folk joined forces and attacked Poole in retaliation for Paye's stealing. The locals fought back and drove the invaders out. Apparently Paye wasn't even in town at the time.
To celebrate Paye the town hold a charity fun day every year. Everyone, and I mean everyone, dress up as pirates. I felt very out of place along the quay. Those that take part every year have invested money in good quality costumes which will last and they looked great.
There was live music and games such as tuck of war all along the quay front. The shop owners dressed their shops with skull & crossbones and other pirate stuff. Everyone seems to get involved and there is a real party atmosphere. I even spied a Captain Jack Sparrow look alike or was it Jonny Depp?
Alas I didn't have my camera and we didn't 't have the time to join in due to the shopping but i plan to go down again next year so I'm sure I'll blog about Harry Paye again!
A Father's Love
Today is Father's Day. Most people will be sending a card to their Dads with 'You're the best Dad in the world!' or 'Dad, you're my hero'. I'm never that organise but at least he did get a pressie this year. Yes, my Dad is a hero to me but I just had to share this video of a real hero.
Dick Hoyt is so devoted to his son, Rick, that he has run marathons, triathlons and has taken part in ironman competitions along with his son. Next year Dick will be 70 and they still continue to run together.
Watch the video here. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z22s5DzqQdQ&feature=related. Be warned you may need tissues!
Race history
234 - Triathlons (6 Ironman distances, 7 half Ironman)
21 - Duathlons
67 - Marathons
89 - half marathons
plus small races. In total 1009 (as of September 2009)
Read the full story here, http://www.teamhoyt.com/
Dick Hoyt is so devoted to his son, Rick, that he has run marathons, triathlons and has taken part in ironman competitions along with his son. Next year Dick will be 70 and they still continue to run together.
Watch the video here. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z22s5DzqQdQ&feature=related. Be warned you may need tissues!
Race history
234 - Triathlons (6 Ironman distances, 7 half Ironman)
21 - Duathlons
67 - Marathons
89 - half marathons
plus small races. In total 1009 (as of September 2009)
Read the full story here, http://www.teamhoyt.com/
Monday, 31 May 2010
Nice day out ruined by unprovoked attack
South London has some hidden treasures. Such as the Wandle River which meanders through Carshalton, Morden Hall, up to Merton Abbey mills and on to Wandsworth where it joins the Thames. It's hidden amongst housing estates, over grown tow paths, industrial estates and common ground. The council has attempted to promote the river by creating a trail with sign posts and information points.
Sharon and I decided to head off from Beddington park one sunny Sunday afternoon to the half way point at Merton Abbey Mills approx 6 miles away. The path was well signed posted to begin with and there were times, due to housing, that we were unable to follow the river exact.
But the walk was interesting as it varied in so many ways. We arrived at Merton Abbey Mills, a quirky market with of lots restaurants within the old mill yard.
After some refreshments we spent some time enjoying the atmosphere and shops before heading home. Neither of us could have no what laid ahead.
We entered a wooded area and followed the path when suddenly swoosh. What was that? Just ahead of us, chirping away was a beautiful coloured bird, a Jay bird. We commented how lovely it was, the colours etc and walked on. Then swoosh! The Jay bird was again ahead of us. Was it following us? We carried on and again in swooped in on us. Feeling a little nervous we walked a little faster, turning right along the river, whilst the other path carried straight on. Well now we'll see. Swoosh. That Jay bird was still following us or was he attacking us? We speed up again and the next thing I know is the bird hitting into me, hard! I screamed and gave Sharon a fright who thought I had fallen. The Jay was attacking us! Only one thing for it... Run to open ground!
As we reached open ground we glanced back and sure enough the Jay was there looking for us. Thankfully he didn't spot us and went back into the trees.
Both of us were in shock and felt a little stupid running through the wood being chased by a bird but found the funny side. My head was fine but was a little tender.
What did we do? When we got back we looked Jays up on the Internet. Everything we read said that they are timid birds who only attack if you disturb their nests. Well we didn't see any nests and the fact that it followed us for at least a half a mile makes us think it had an alternative motive!
It may seem silly and you may want to make fun of me but I am not alone. Other people I know have been attacked in their gardens where there are no nests.
You have been warned!!!
Sharon and I decided to head off from Beddington park one sunny Sunday afternoon to the half way point at Merton Abbey Mills approx 6 miles away. The path was well signed posted to begin with and there were times, due to housing, that we were unable to follow the river exact.
But the walk was interesting as it varied in so many ways. We arrived at Merton Abbey Mills, a quirky market with of lots restaurants within the old mill yard.
After some refreshments we spent some time enjoying the atmosphere and shops before heading home. Neither of us could have no what laid ahead.
We entered a wooded area and followed the path when suddenly swoosh. What was that? Just ahead of us, chirping away was a beautiful coloured bird, a Jay bird. We commented how lovely it was, the colours etc and walked on. Then swoosh! The Jay bird was again ahead of us. Was it following us? We carried on and again in swooped in on us. Feeling a little nervous we walked a little faster, turning right along the river, whilst the other path carried straight on. Well now we'll see. Swoosh. That Jay bird was still following us or was he attacking us? We speed up again and the next thing I know is the bird hitting into me, hard! I screamed and gave Sharon a fright who thought I had fallen. The Jay was attacking us! Only one thing for it... Run to open ground!
As we reached open ground we glanced back and sure enough the Jay was there looking for us. Thankfully he didn't spot us and went back into the trees.
Both of us were in shock and felt a little stupid running through the wood being chased by a bird but found the funny side. My head was fine but was a little tender.
What did we do? When we got back we looked Jays up on the Internet. Everything we read said that they are timid birds who only attack if you disturb their nests. Well we didn't see any nests and the fact that it followed us for at least a half a mile makes us think it had an alternative motive!
It may seem silly and you may want to make fun of me but I am not alone. Other people I know have been attacked in their gardens where there are no nests.
You have been warned!!!
Saturday, 24 April 2010
Bucket list
Now I know that these are usually created by the old or the terminally ill but at least if I start mine now then I have more time and money to do as many as i can.
Firstly it's advisable not to create one if you have had a drink or two as you may never know why you agreed to some things.
So I blame Sara for starting me thinking about this and helping me create a list after telling me all about her's one evening on the South Bank.
It's quite a useful exercise too. It gets you thinking about life and where you want to be heading. Mine is mainly travelling so my holidays are now sorted for the next few years. There are other ones to do with achievement and then there are ones which could potentially be embarrassing.
You'll just have to watch this blog as I'm sure I'll be writing about each one as and when they happen!
Here are just some of the things that have made it so far!
Firstly it's advisable not to create one if you have had a drink or two as you may never know why you agreed to some things.
So I blame Sara for starting me thinking about this and helping me create a list after telling me all about her's one evening on the South Bank.
It's quite a useful exercise too. It gets you thinking about life and where you want to be heading. Mine is mainly travelling so my holidays are now sorted for the next few years. There are other ones to do with achievement and then there are ones which could potentially be embarrassing.
You'll just have to watch this blog as I'm sure I'll be writing about each one as and when they happen!
Here are just some of the things that have made it so far!
- Visit Australia
- Walk the Inca Trail
- Sound of Music tour
- Visit every major city in Europe
- Visit Iona
- Climb all 4 peaks in UK and Ireland
- Orient express or something similar
- Abseil down major building
- Learn a language
- See New York
- Visit Monet's House At Giverny
- Appear on a proper stage
- Learn to sing
- Have a street artist do my portrait
- Go to an Olympic event
- Make my own Muppet (it can be done)
- See a full eclipse
- Catch a fish and then eat it
- Canal trip
- Have a proper Scandinavian and Turkish sauna in that country
- Watch an England rugby match at Twickenham
- Camp out at Wimbledon and have a seat at Centre Court
- Skinny dip
- Bungee jump
- Get a tattoo or belly pierced or maybe even both
- See a Shakespeare play at Stratford
- Walk the Coast to Coast, West Highland Way, North & South Downs
- Road trip across America
- Vi st Glastonbury
Sunday, 28 February 2010
You're not from round here, are you?
So you head off for a long walk through a wood and across a frozen lake, passing the odd cross country skier, making sure you don't head off the track in case there is thin ice. You decide to stop for refreshments in a village on the edge of the lake.
So, do you feel safe?
The owner approaches, stirs the fire and adds some more wood. He smiles and gets out his torch.
Ok a little nervous now.
He bends down and suddenly you hear... Jamie Cullum singing 'What a difference a day makes' on the cd player. His smile broadens and asks 'English?' at which we relax and then spend a lovely couple of hours chatting with the barman, drinking some amazing hot chocolate and eating Belgian waffles. We wished we had found the place earlier in the week instead of the last day.
The only place open is a wooden lodge which on closer inspection is the local bar and restaurant.
You open the door and enter a dark corridor which leads to the bar.
The bar is dark and lite by a dying fire, candles on the table and a light over the bar. The walls are decorated with skulls of animals. Above the chimney breast is a stuffed black bear and on a ledge is a stuffed wolverine.The owner gives you a look of 'you're not from round here, are you?' as do the customers.
So, do you feel safe?
The owner approaches, stirs the fire and adds some more wood. He smiles and gets out his torch.
Ok a little nervous now.
He bends down and suddenly you hear... Jamie Cullum singing 'What a difference a day makes' on the cd player. His smile broadens and asks 'English?' at which we relax and then spend a lovely couple of hours chatting with the barman, drinking some amazing hot chocolate and eating Belgian waffles. We wished we had found the place earlier in the week instead of the last day.
Saturday, 27 February 2010
Trains, planes and automobiles. Forget that try reindeer, snowmobile and husky!
There are so many ways to get around Lapland. Some traditional and some for speed. As Andy had recently frozen broken his leg and I had never skied before we took advantage of the trips laid on by the tour company.
Our first was very traditional. Reindeer! The sami people breed them and the number you have is a sign of wealth. However it is rude to ask how many they have.
The White reindeer are very sacred. The sami believe they are the reincarnation of ancestors and treated with respect.
Our trip was slightly uncomfortable affair as our sledge which was at least a century old creaked it's way across a lake and through the forest. Reindeer are unpredictable. They can be very fast or very slow! The three on our trip were happy to plod, occasionally attempting to over take each other but never succeeding. The lead reindeer had a small passenger so the owner purposely chose a slow reindeer which was slow.
The only time we had speed was near the end when the reindeer saw the farm and their reward.... Food.
Our first was very traditional. Reindeer! The sami people breed them and the number you have is a sign of wealth. However it is rude to ask how many they have.
The White reindeer are very sacred. The sami believe they are the reincarnation of ancestors and treated with respect.
Our trip was slightly uncomfortable affair as our sledge which was at least a century old creaked it's way across a lake and through the forest. Reindeer are unpredictable. They can be very fast or very slow! The three on our trip were happy to plod, occasionally attempting to over take each other but never succeeding. The lead reindeer had a small passenger so the owner purposely chose a slow reindeer which was slow.
The only time we had speed was near the end when the reindeer saw the farm and their reward.... Food.
Time for speed! Snowmobiling! A very popular way of transportation. Sadly I was unable to drive one as I didn't have a driving license. I therefore put my life and trust into the hands of Katie. These snowmobile's are fast and we really wanted to go top speeds. My job as passenger was to relay signals from our guide to everyone behind. Slow down, stop, etc. A 60km round trip through the forest, across lakes and again stopping at a Kota for lunch.
However it wasn't all fun. There was a scary moment coming down a steep hill. Katie and I battled to keep the mobile upright. We were probably going a little too fast up the hill not realising the steep drop the other side. We were very lucky, the mobile behind wasn't. Another couple behind us and in front of Andy and Bernice crashed into a tree and were thrown from the mobile. For a few minutes it looked serious, but thankfully they were able to walk away but visibly shaken. Amazingly they wanted to continue. A trailer was called for so we could carry on our journey.
Lunch was soup, a sandwich (which needed to be defrosted in the fire) and a cup of tea or berry juice. Our entertainment was a French Canadian who was studying tourism in Helsinki and was working for the snowmobile company. When asked why he chose Finland he simply answered 'a girl, there is always a girl involved'. By this time the couple who had crashed had recovered and started to enjoy themselves as well as being able to joke about the cost they had to pay. The wife even made her husband travel back in the trailer whilst she rode on the back of our tour guide's mobile saying 'well I wasn't the one who crashed'. And costly it was. It cost them 500 euros!
Feeling a little husky? Husky dogs aren't native to Finland but the terrain is ideal for racing them. The huskies at the centre weren't pure bred either. Too slow apparently plus there is the risk of degenerative diseases. So the owner has bred them with other breeds to create a faster husky. From the start these are cute dogs which love their job. They become very excited at the sound of the coach as they know it could mean a chance for a run around the block.
There was no skill needed to steer the sledge as the dogs could do the trek blind folded. They have also been taught to stop if you shout 'mush' at them! They will only race for their masters and understand that this is just exercise time.
Ours seemed to go fast at the start but soon slowed to a jogging pace. Funny moment came when one of the eight dogs took a mouthful of snow for a drink only to trip up. The others just looked at him with 'what an idiot' expression. He was ok and was soon back in his stride, I even thought I saw him blush!
Tips for when visiting a husky farm. Don't stick your gloves through the cage as they love a good game of tug of war especially if you have any dangling bits. Just ask Katie! More importantly... avoid yellow icicles!
Tuesday, 23 February 2010
There's snow business like snow shoe business!
This was truly the funniest day of our holiday. We could have hit the slopes like the average holiday maker but we wanted to look cool... so we hired snow shoes!
The point of snow shoes is to help distribute your weight whilst walking through deep snow. Yeah right! I don't think so. With the exception of Bernice we all kept sinking and occasional getting stuck.
The best thing about snow shoes was that it gave us the opportunity to go off piste and explore the mountain. It was so quiet except for our trudging and laughing. I felt like I was walking in Narnia, hoping to find the lamppost and Mr Tumnus.
Occasionally we would come across the ski run where all the skiers we met were very jealous of are mode of transport, they didn't need to tell us, you could tell by their looks. We were only out done by snowboarders and stunt skiers performing amazing stunts at the snowpark.
A welcome site was the Kota, a hut with an open fire in the middle, where we could cook our lunch, sausages, and warm up. Sausages taste better when cooked in this way.
The photos below show just some of the sites and fun we had.
The point of snow shoes is to help distribute your weight whilst walking through deep snow. Yeah right! I don't think so. With the exception of Bernice we all kept sinking and occasional getting stuck.
The best thing about snow shoes was that it gave us the opportunity to go off piste and explore the mountain. It was so quiet except for our trudging and laughing. I felt like I was walking in Narnia, hoping to find the lamppost and Mr Tumnus.
Occasionally we would come across the ski run where all the skiers we met were very jealous of are mode of transport, they didn't need to tell us, you could tell by their looks. We were only out done by snowboarders and stunt skiers performing amazing stunts at the snowpark.
A welcome site was the Kota, a hut with an open fire in the middle, where we could cook our lunch, sausages, and warm up. Sausages taste better when cooked in this way.
The photos below show just some of the sites and fun we had.
Sunday, 21 February 2010
Finland, Finland, Finland! The place where I want to be!
Why?!!!! That was the response I got when I told friends I was off on holiday to Finland with my friends Katie, Andy and Benice. Well why not? We had a great deal with a holiday firm, lots to do as well as skiing and it's somewhere completly different to the usual winter destinations. There is one big draw back... It's cold! Not just cold, freezing!
On arrival at Kittali airport it was -24! Just a few days before heading out there a friend told me that your nose hair starts to freeze at -17. Well I can confirm it does! It's a very weird sensation. However the bracing dry cold air was very refreshing. The temperature averaged at about -18 for the rest of the week, the warmest it got was -12.
Finland is a beautiful country with very friendly people. The scenary is truly breathtaking and I could have spent all day just looking at it. Andy and I tried our best to capture it with our cameras but I recommend that you really need to be there to really experience and appreciate it.
On arrival at Kittali airport it was -24! Just a few days before heading out there a friend told me that your nose hair starts to freeze at -17. Well I can confirm it does! It's a very weird sensation. However the bracing dry cold air was very refreshing. The temperature averaged at about -18 for the rest of the week, the warmest it got was -12.
Finland is a beautiful country with very friendly people. The scenary is truly breathtaking and I could have spent all day just looking at it. Andy and I tried our best to capture it with our cameras but I recommend that you really need to be there to really experience and appreciate it.
It was an amazing holiday with experiences that may never be repeated although I hope that many will be.
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