Harthside

The Coal Bunker is finished and operational!!

2011-02-27T16:58:00.004Z

The bunker went into service last Friday, with the delivery of
1,100 Kg (1.08 Tons) of coal! The coal merchant was a
happy chappy when I paid that bill.

The front sliding door was the last part to be completed this Friday.

First sight of the Coal Bunker

2011-02-09T17:58:00.003Z

Some entries on some blogs seem mundane, this one beats all!!
Yes its the first unveiling of the coal bunker in skelton form....

Evern Banes-Wallis has a wry smile as he observes the assembly....

Who knows, there maybe a photo of the completed structure in the not too distant future... Keep posted!!

St.Annes in the SNOW....

2010-12-18T16:12:00.004Z

Ah yes, the GATE in all its' glory!

Berries on the East...

Now a few of the school and church as I walked for the morning paper - that hadn't arrived...

Now a couple around St.Annes Square, taken mid afternoon on our walk back from the library..

Guess we will have to wait and see what the 'morrow brings....

Patio Part 3: Nearly finished!!

2010-11-11T13:03:00.005Z

So why did the patio go down the side of the garden? I guess to cover the foundations of an old greenhouse! Well constucted too.... with 4 courses of brick below soil level!

Amazing and frustrating what you find buried - thought at first it was the kitchen sink!

Anyway back to the main job and the garage path starts to take shape....

The lads are on their last day (9th Nov') and just putting the finishing touches to the herb garden.....

Both down on their knees - praying it won't rain!!!

Jobs a gud un! Last (of many, I'm sure they would concur) brew and a bottle of wine each to celebrate (perhaps they may lay it down and bring it back next summer to wet the patio's inaugral opening) - or maybe its gone already - thanks and job well done Bob & Kev'.

PS. Will add maybe a couple more snaps, when the tidying up is complete.

Yes! It's Patio Part 2: a little O and the start at last of I for Input..

2010-10-30T18:08:00.006Z

Let's start where we left off - of course the trench and some water pipe, more later (exciting eh?)...

At last some Input and a few stones to take the brew tray - level at last!

Here is Kev' doing a little light dusting....

Way back there is Bob - starting to flag a little!!

Ah yes back to that water pipe - a jointers' nightmare - blue to grey to white 25mm to 15mm, alkaline to copper, brass 'T' piece with compression fittings!! Must start leaking soon!!!

To finish off Part 2, just another little find! The foundations of (probably) an old greenhouse - Anything I can help with Bob? Yup - just clear that lot into a skip - but, smartly if you please...

The Patio story as in PAT I/O so OUTPUT first and here is Part1:

2010-10-29T19:07:00.010Z

Lets start with a few views of the Patio as it was last week....

Here we have Kevin standing on some very 'hard standing' as it turned out - seems to me he's thinking what have we started here!

Then we have Bob having (a well earned) brew watching the Indian Stone being delivered...

Please note the well stacked skip, they dumped it - I re-organised and stacked it - like who is working for who here?

The clever man with the crane - very skillful at missing both fence and trees!

Ah! The beloved trench for the water pipe - sheer delight - if you like digging holes!!

Well that's all of Part 1, I now have to change cameras, inbetween filling skips. digging holes, plumbing pipes etc., etc.

A couple of days away, around Shifnal, Shropshire

2010-09-06T17:24:00.007Z

After we all met at the Park House Hotel in Shifnal, we drove to the Gorge at Coalbrookdale to visit the famous Iron Bridge over the River Severn.

Following some stressful navigation by backseat Ed', we parked (not too sensibly) at the top of the hill behind the church. However, it was a pleasant walk down through some interesting ginnals...

The first cast iron bridge of its kind, designed and built in 1779 for Abraham Darby III, and originally designed by Thomas Farnolls Pritchard.

Graham thinks a rivet is loose (in the bridge I think) Ed's not too sure, but Mum is looking for somewhere to have a nice cup of tea....

Yup, parked up there behind that there church...

Follows some views (one old country house below) of the hotel in the early morning...

Mum and I had the 1st floor room (photo below) at the corner on the LHS of the snap...

Below is the other original old house (the two being joined by the brick building left above)

Even managed to catch the early morning mist....

Here we are after a hard round of golf at Shifnal. Waiting for a cup of tea, a teacake and lots of wasps as it turned out!

The secret partners team event was won by Maureen and the guy standing at the back!

I lost 2 x 20p but that's another story...... still scratching my head over that one!

Would you believe, following this I went for a swim? So too tired to take any more photos!

Give a Dog a Bone!

2010-09-06T17:17:00.002Z

Thought you may like to see 'the boy' attacking his new bone!

...from almost every angle - there must be a way into this thing..

Matthew & Kathryn Battersby - The Wedding

2010-08-23T09:21:00.005Z

Sunday 22nd August 2010, St.Michaels Church, Kirkham.

Matt and Ben welcoming guests and being photographed outside the church...

It's gone 12:30 so where is the bride?

Views of the guests and on-lookers... Mum just having a nice cup of coffee.

John Westmoreland (ex BAe electronics) light jack foreground and Colgate (in the pink tie) the guy now working at a cattle ranch in the outback..

A few more guests, Andy Whittle's mum Sue with Kevin Jones, Gary's dad....

Drinks on the veranda at the Netherwood Hotel, Grange-over-Sands

Wonderful views over Morecambe Bay; Ben & Kate look OK too!

The Bride & Groom finally arrive in the old roller....

As do Kathryn's mum and dad, just taking a back seat for a well earned rest.....

Matt calls a halt to the photo calls, for a quick snack and yet another drink!

Relections, and always in the spotlight - the bridesmades.....

Matt and Kathryn enjoying every minute of the occassion.....

We left fairly early, to get back for the Barns', but there were fireworks later!

All in all, fair to say, a good day was had by all.........

Basically it's Black & White

2010-08-23T09:16:00.001Z

The house has been re-painted, and as I say - it's all black and white....

25th May, leaving Vancouver Island for Vancouver and the Airport

2010-07-14T18:04:00.003Z

You guessed - breakfast at Denny's, then final packing. Mid morning we drove
up the island to Swartz Bay and the ferry terminal...

Leaving Vancouver Island....

Lighthouse and coastguard house as we enter the Straight of Georgia...

Vancouver and mainland Canada now visible in the distance...

Arrived at the ferry terminal at Tsawwassen, then drove in heavy traffic to
Richmond, where we killed some time having a coffee in the Shopping Mall.
Left late afternoon to drop the hire car off and wait the long wait for the flight back home!!

'The End of the Canada Blog'

24th May, Butchart Gardens - Our last day!

2010-07-14T17:28:00.006Z

Well what a full last day we are having on Vancouver Island, after that super parade we drove up to these famous gardens:

It was very busy and really difficult to capture the essence of the place, but here goes with a few views: down through the chinese gardens and we caught a view of a cove used by the original family to arrive by yacht!

The chinese gardens with their bridges and water features.

A view of the original house, now shops, tea rooms and specialists areas for botanists etc.

Spectacular colours abounded....

They were somewhat confused when I asked directions to their best Maple tree... not sure this is it ....

Lots of history in Canada re Totem Poles, so they had a couple of examples

More splendid colours and what a brave photographer getting that close to the bees!

Even saw Uncle Tim (look alike) as we were having a coffee.....

All in all a jolly good day and it looks like we were even the last to leave......

Victoria Day Parade, 24th May

2010-06-12T11:17:00.009Z

Still couldn't resist breakfast at Denny's so off we went, not realising they had put a parade on for us and even got the 'big guns' out!

We were lucky in that the parade congregated around Denny's corner...

On the opposite side of the street was the Mayfair Shopping Mall where even the Canadian Mounties were on display...

Once the bands got out of the shopping mall, turned left at the corner on to Highway 1 or Douglas Street and started off for downtown, they started their sequences... spins and turns - some going one way some going another! (basically all should be going to the right of the snap)

Mum, fully refreshed after breakfast looks on in appreciation...

I guess some kids just got tired of waiting their turn, although the bus never did show....

This group even relaxed in formation!

Two ladies from the Cadillac Club, need I say more....

These guys were representing a dance club - but not quite 'come dancing' standard...

Ah! One of the mounties asking the boss for some direction me thinks....

Pretty large shopping trolley Eh!

A bit like 'where's Wally', but Mum is in the crowd...

All the police on duty had things under control... this is Andy from Cornwall, told me Blackpool had won through to the Premiership..... must be strong coffee in that flask!

There goes another band, with another set of girls going the wrong way for a while...

Anyway, that's the end of the parade, fitting that it's a car going both ways!

Tofino to Victoria, Vancouver Island

2010-06-02T14:44:00.005Z

The first part of the journey was along narrow twisty roads (just like NZ) taking in the Sutton Pass, which was a bit wet and damp as in low cloud, so not good for snaps.

Also stopped in Cathederal Grove near Port Alberni, to look at the Giant Red Woods, not easy to photo, but some were ~800 years old.

As seemed to be our luck - arrived at the hotel with two coach loads of cheer leaders - looks like another quiet night!

Bags and all in yet another hotel room and we were off on a walk to down town Victoria. Mum insisted on taking my pic' by a totem pole, I look more like one of the shadows!

Although it was Sunday, it was getting busy because it turns out it is their long weekend and May Day Parade the following day - hence the cheer leaders etc.

Noticed lots of bikers (mainly on Harley Davidsons) but also observed they were in general all around my (grey hair) age!

An easy day down in Tofino, then where 'eagles dare', down on the beach!

2010-05-25T05:10:00.003Z

Drove the 7km into down town Tofino and had a mooch round, lots of boat and surf people!

Went back to Pacific Sands and out onto the beach, quite a bracing walk to the far end of the bay, but fairly deserted so managed to snap a bald eagle taking off!

Further investigation in the rock pools and we found all sorts of sea creatures..

Back to the lodge for coffees, then I had a quick walk out later as the tide came roaring in...

Later, I cooked steaks on a 'bbq' in the communal large gazebo, which had this sandpit wood fire burning away, thought it looked a good snap to close on today.

Whale Watching Day - Mum's birthday treat at last! Or was it?

2010-05-22T16:30:00.005Z

Looks like a reasonable day for a sail, Mum thought the boat at the back was the better choice, thinking of me taking snaps of course. The fact that having to wear full body suits and life jackets if you chose the adrenalin rush wave banger in the foreground was a secondary consideration of course!

Well here is Mum on her (60th) birthday treat - thanks to Ben, Kate & Kt.....
so far so (choppy) good!

Now this snap is no 'fluke', its wet, cold windy and pretty dark, but that is a grey whale, about to start its dive to about 90 feet to dredge the sandy sea bed for morsels.

And there she blows again!!!

We did see a few more grey whales (in the distance) but then moved closer to some rocks (not too close please) to see some sea lions. There's a big chap just to the right of centre...

Appears the route back to Tofino was through the rocks, a bit of a swell, a bit choppy...
Poor Mum retired aft to contribute her breakfast to the ocean!! What a treat!!

Now it did get a bit rough through these rocks, difficult to get the feel from a snap, but taking this I was standing up and hanging on for 'grim death'......

Back to Tofino and the calm of the harbour..... a sigh of relief after a great adventure....

There was a hint of summer from the flowers in the background...

Final snap today, as a surfer calls it day as well...

Port Hardy to Tofino, Vancouver Island - just alot of driving (310 miles)

2010-05-22T02:48:00.003Z

We didn't see much of a rather wet Port Hardy, this view is from our hotel window:

The drive down was mainly in the rain, but the views were similar to those already seen elsewhere!
However, the last part through a 'pass' into Tofino was spectacular, so we are hoping for better weather on Sunday to capture some good snaps.

The sun was out in Tofino, however, and below is literally the view from our patio...

below is the view from the beach looking at surfers paradise!

Now follows the patio.... as you can tell - not many snaps today!

Whale watching tomorrow calm seas permitting!

315 Miles down the Inner Passage - Makes One's Eyes Water!

2010-05-21T03:03:00.005Z

Two long days ahead, a 15 hour boat ride today; means we are up at 04:30 - that hurts!

On the boat the 'Northern Explorer' by 06:30, almost watched the dawn come up,
but did spot billy bald eagle amongst the mists!

Along the way we caught distant glimpses of killer whales, grey whales and dolphins!

The voyage took us through all manner of weather, from dark low cloud as seen below...

to sunny periods in almost fjord like conditions....

to beautiful cloud combinations....

to a violent sunset in Queen Charlotte sound - the open Pacific!

Needless to say we saw nothing of Port Hardy - just found a welcome bed in the dark!
We had been up (Mum had a few 'cat-naps' of course) for about 20 hours...
The adventure continues.....

Prince Rupert is usually very wet - correct!

2010-05-18T21:12:00.006Z

The average annual rainfall for PR is 100" - we felt some of that today!

Only the dog walkers were out down by the bay....

As ever I spotted a train - I was interested in VIA Rails viewing coach, I think its like you used to see in the adverts for the Rocky Mountain Express, when it was in service. Now it looks like they just run the odd coach!
Having said that the rail link from here to Terrace would be spectacular - in good weather.

The water looks 'dead calm' which is what Mum is hoping for tomorrow; it's a 04:30 start, as the ferry leaves for the 15 hour sail to Vancouver Island, at 07:30, so an early night tonight then!

Eventually the weather cleared up - a bit! Early evening we went a walk for some fresh air and happened to see Mr. Bald Eagle land on a lampost!

Highway 16 - Smithers to literally the end of the road, Prince Rupert (222 miles)

2010-05-18T00:20:00.005Z

The majority of today's drive followed the Skeena River.

The drive from Terrace, where we found a Denny's and so breakfast at 11:00, to Prince Rupert provided the best views of the last three days. The road in our direction was really quiet, we didn't have a car in front or behind us for the first 100 km!

Below is a view of the inlet at Prince Rupert with a Canadian Red Leafed Maple tree in the foreground....

Highway 16 literally finishes at the ferry terminal, just down from here.

Looking back into the inlet is the view we see (above) from our hotel window on the 6th Floor.

Prince George to Smithers (231 miles)

2010-05-17T00:34:00.003Z

Not so much traffic jams as log jams on these roads!

The last two days have been 233 and 231 mile stages, mainly along wide open valleys, the Fraser yesterday, the Bulkley today. However, driving is relatively easy on these open highways with long straight stretches of road. The picture below is typical of the rolling open areas between the hills and mountains.

Having arrived at Smithers, B.C. the sun came out for our usual walk round the area,
and as you can see spring is in full swing in the valleys, although there is still plenty of snow on the mountains.

We are staying at a Sandman Inn tonight; once again internet connection is readily available..

Thats all for now, a bath & a G&T (or 2) calls....

Jasper along the Robson Valley to Prince George

2010-05-16T00:41:00.004Z

Now it may look more of the same, but that is Canada & the Rockies - its massive!

We stopped by Moose Lake after a 70 km drive, with just another 300 km to go today...

Stopped for another rest at Mount Robson - again spectacular scenery!

We drove for about 250 km along the Robson Valley, a complete contrast now, a wide open valley.
The roads are quiet and easy to drive, the speed limit in general is 100 km/hr.
The Caribou Mountains seen on the left, the Rockies (getting lower in height) to our right....
On arrival in Prince George and according to the hotel receptionist we had just passed through the busiest area for spotting wildlife - well we saw all of
3 deer - and no moose or bears! So not so lucky today.

Now Prince George was a completely different experience!
The hotel, in the background is very nice! However, downtown
PG was very much shut (at 15:00) and to be avoided!
We will be dining at the hotel tonight!

Surprised to find a 54MB internet at the hotel, so time to upload some more postcards, whilst Mum has a bath and an 'odd' sherry!

In and around Jasper, Alberta - Canada

2010-05-15T02:29:00.003Z

Our hotel balcony overlooks the Canadian National Railroad, now thats what I call a room with a view! doh!

Chris thought this maybe an alternative to touring the rockies, but I'm not sure I would be happy in the can!

Had a fairly lazy day today - over 200 miles driving tomorrow; so we parked up and read our books at this spot which is Lake Pyramid, with Pyramid Mountain in the background.

PS. The bears we have seen so far are named after the nearest mountain...

No luck today with the bears, but we saw lots of (nervous) red squirrels, couldn't get close enough for a good photo....

Off for a steak now.....

Lake Louise along the Icefields Parkway to Jasper

2010-05-14T04:13:00.005Z

Lake Louise, early morning and showing the first signs of melting....

Dad's up early at Lake Louise, Mum's sipping her coffee, then takes a snap...

On the Icefields highway and another lake just on the thaw....

Then, just down the road and who did we spot but 'dolomite' having a light lunch!

Around midday we reached the Columbia Glacier, which is in the background, and these are the vehicles used to transport people across the icefield...

On our way again after a sandwich and Mum spotted 'Gong' having a snack, we soon had a traffic jam of vehicles taking snaps...'Gong' wasn't fussed he just sauntered across the road towards us - I stayed in the car!

Nearly at Jasper now, but below are part of the Athabasca Falls...

In and around Banff

2010-05-12T15:00:00.005Z

Well Mum wanted to go to the top of Sulphur Mountain by Gondola, then didn't look too sure....

So Wellington, NZ is 12,000+Km that way ->

A cheeky chipmunk tries to avoid the camera!

Lots of lakes (partly frozen) trees and mountains...

Some goats on the snow by the lakeside.

On the road back to Banff

Waiting for the Rocky Moutaineer, a freight train pulls through with 90 wagons in tow....

On the road to Banff, Alberta - The Rockies at last!

2010-05-11T04:55:00.002Z

On the road again, but what lovely views...

So this is deer old Banff.....

Noisy Whistler, bumpy Sun Peaks, peace at last!

2010-05-10T01:06:00.008Z

Downvillage Whistler - no sign of the Bands!

A local des' res' by the lakeside..

One of the golf courses at Whistler

On our way to Sun Peaks..

A couple of bears on the golf course... in fact par for the course round here!

Bryan - bless him, bumped into us!

Peaceful 3 Valley Lakes..

On our way to Banf tomorrow...

Canada 2010 - Vancouver

2010-05-06T01:35:00.005Z

Some initial photos of Vancouver...

The first is a little stilted!

Our hotel is the brown building the the left of the bridge railing, the 11th floor is about the same level as the car on the bridge...

Hope these are winging there way to you....

PS. Just before this chap took off, we were fortunate enough to see a grey whale 'breach' just in front of us! The first sighting of a whale in 'False Creek' for 20 years! How lucky was that?

The Tornado Steam Train Excursion

2010-05-06T01:18:00.005Z

A few pictures of the newly built peppercorn class steam locomotive 'Tornado'

Mark and Emma Wedding - Chenies

2009-07-13T09:49:00.008Z

Just a few pictures in and around Chenies....

Now here's a guy who always says - 'I'm only here for the beer'

Chenies Manor - the front door is locked.

Emma says to Mark - "Well have you got the key - I haven't!!"

Mum in a secluded corner of the garden... cheers!

All I said was I wanted a cheesy grin.......

Now thats what I call a cheese cake!

And as you can see - a good time was had by all......

So there you have a few views of the very enjoyable day in and around Chenies....

Gerry & Alice Coyle Wedding

2009-05-28T18:14:00.002Z

Sunday 24th May at the White Church in Ansdell....

The Bride & Groom + Kate.... and others

Ben & Kate.....

Obvious....

Barney get his ears pulled and tickled....

Nearly the final Update on Barney's Place...

2009-05-28T18:10:00.002Z

Delivered, installed and gloss painted, just the nameplate to go...

Barney's Place - finished, but not delivered...

2009-05-05T14:54:00.004Z

The roof is boarded...

With Mum and Ben's help the roof is felted,

then the front arch and columns are constructed!

finally the barge boards are fitted and its all done!!

Just needs dismantling, shipping and reassembling....

Barney's Place

2009-04-24T08:44:00.002Z

Barney's kennel starts to take shape.....the ridge is tested for size..

So Barney has a quick look and moves on...

Still not too impresed.... me thinks he prefers the massage/rub down..

The roof takes some shape....wall plates, purlins and rafters...

And now there is a back too! More to follow...

Peacocks in the Garden

2009-04-24T08:24:00.003Z

They just called in to see us one day...

Wonder where did these big fella's come from.....

A vehicle in the garage!! At last....

2006-08-15T11:22:00.000Z

This photo is actually - job well under way - a good half way through the task of finding out (again) how easy/difficult it is to garage one of our vehicles!

The stuff from the garage, in being 'sorted' was carefully arranged on the lawn....

Now there you have it, a nice tight fit for an X5. Reversing down the drive was a touch tight, and I had to pull the wing mirrors into the 'parked' position to get the vehicle through the actual garage doors...

With only a few hours to 'packing for Scotland' the 530 was stored away safe and sound. Just had to get the stuff off the lawn and back into the garage....

Tammys Palace...

2006-07-17T09:10:00.000Z

So off we went one Friday evening - in search of Tammy's new abode..

Found the 'palace' without much trouble (it was actually only a 100 yards away from Ingol St. Margaret's Tennis Club, where Mum and I had played matches some twenty odd years ago....ah ah!)

As you will see below the (spotless) kitchen (never used I guess!!) apart from opening bottles of wine! QED - after a quick glass of wine, Tammy instigated Plan A and (attempted) to phone our 'take-away' order into the locally recommended 'Chinese'. Worked well until the pre-recorded message announced it was closed! (For the 2 weeks of Preston Holidays).

Plan B was, however, achieved - the 'Chinese' was only a half a mile away, but after two miles and some 'dead ends', Tammy decided to use the map on the front of the menu! Worked well, but I was instructed to wait in the car - a bit of a dodgy area, and Tammy, being hungry, wanted a car to get back home!

We all 'shared' our choices and enjoyed a very pleasant meal in the dining area shown below...

The meal was complete after enjoying some lovely fresh strawberries.

We also had the 'grand tour' and below is Tam's boudoir, not sure what question provoked the facial expression, or why she is trying to strangle the dog!!

We were hoping to meet with Tammy's sister and husband, who were coming to stay (and do jobs for Tammy around the house) over the (working) weekend, but they were a little late leaving Southampton so unfortunately we missed them. After coffee and a 'good chat' we took our leave and thanked our hostess for a very pleasant evening.

Dunsop Bridge to Oakenclough via Bleasdale Moors..

2006-07-03T15:21:00.000Z

You may remember some of this walk, we started the walk at the Langden Brook water works (catchment area) and headed off into the valley with Marsh Fell to the right and Bleasdale Moors in the distance as you will see below...

This is still Langden Brook, but behind Fiona & Chris is the Langden Castle ruin and off to the right is Bleadale Water with Bleadale Nab in the foreground....

We are now climbing alongside Fiensdale Water, but in the background are Bleasdale Fells...

Now know why its a water catchment area, stopped for lunch and it rained.....but glorious warm soft summer rain......

Here we are near the top at Fiensdale Head, again Bleasdale Moors are to the left in the 'mist'....

The walk was then 'into the Sun' but more fantastic 'soft lights' with sunlight, cloud and mist all mingling, just didn't photograph well! The walk finishes as you drop down through Hazelhurst, Clough Heads Bridge, Bleasdale Tower, Fell End and finally Delph Lane, Oakenclough where the other car was parked. The day ended at the Church Inn - you guessed... Lamb Shanks and in my case 2 pints of nice cold Guinness.... cheers!

Grizedale Reservoir & Holme Wood's Valley..

2006-07-03T15:18:00.000Z

We've found an extension to the Nicky Nook walk. Instead of heading up the hill, you walk a little further then head off right into Holme Wood along a Millenium Concessional Way...

Grizedale Reservoir was the view as we ....

soon stopped for the picnic...

we then continued into the wood along side Grizedale Brook....

as I hope you can see, the bluebells were magnificent...

after passing through the wood you would (well u would) eventually come out on to Delph Lane, North of Oakenclough (mentioned in a later episode...) but we turned left and walked through Fell End Farm and back to take the path up Nicky Nook, with of course along rest (and further coffee) at the seat half way up (or down)....

we then had good views from the top, below is looking South East over Bleasdale Moors...

I'm sure you have guessed the rest - yes we stopped at the Barn for afternoon tea and then back along the Wyre to the car at Gubberford Bridge. Finally back to Garstang and pub grub at the Church Inn.

Maybe, a storm brewing...

2006-07-03T10:25:00.000Z

To continue, as it were - the 'lull' afore the storm....
trouble brewing over alleged lack of commitment...

As it happened, there was no storm, so we take a 'peek' at Kt's bedroom...

Is this TIDY or what?

The storm passed, so back to the tranquility of a garden scene...

To be followed by a sunset with Blackpool Tower in the distance..

Watch this space there is more to come...

The Lion & The Lamb are mounted....

2006-05-15T10:15:00.000Z

Sunday dawned a little damp and grey, but not to be put off, we set sail for Grasmere, full of a walkers' optimism!!

The weather, if anything improved, so after meeting up with Chris & Mary in Grasmere, and following a quick coffee in the cafe, we set off for Greenburn valley.

Some of the cottage gardens were full of colour...

As ever the climb soon started, so here we are 'catching our breath' at Helmside cottage..

Then started the long drag up the valley, our climb traversed back to the 'Lion & Lamb' summit, you can see this off to right in the photo below...

Now as you know, no walks a good walk without a picnic! So here we are at Gibson Knott, taking light refreshments...

All to soon its off again, now for the final ascent to Helm Crag at 396m.... (The Lamb is the small stone on the left, the Lion the bigger one to the right)

Below we see a rather tired Paul, having just mounted the Lion.....

And now a rather steep and slippery descent to the woods below, you can just see Lake Grasmere, with its island, in the mist....

Unfortunately, its now raining quite hard, but there are still a few bluebells left to add a little colour to the rather damp woods, as we return to Grasmere in search of a pint of 'Landord's best foaming ale' as Chris Hudson repeatedly proclaims!!!

PS. We found the pub and the pint!!! All in all a very good days walk....

American Pie evening for Barnardos....

2006-05-09T10:31:00.000Z

Howdy!

I guess the photos will do the 'talking'...

Maybe some explanation... yes this is my shirt and my brand new Levis...

no comment required on that one....

would you trust this barrister, looks doubtful even with this 'wig'wam on...

and as for his 'squaw(k..ing) ... yup you know what I mean...

Just for info the guy on the left is Andy, Mum's bridge mentor, and on the right is David Grimshaw, standing up and asleep.... no need to explain who's in the middle of it all...

Anyways, the night hopefully raised plenty of funds, and we all had good time....

Mum swings at PING!!!

2006-05-09T10:11:00.000Z

Last week we had a good day out at the Ping Golf Centre in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire.

After a quick lunch, Mum was first in the nets!

Closely watched by her coach Andrew Lancaster, Mum was quickly 'pinging' (even the odd ball off his shins) out on to the driving range o..o..o...o....o......o

However, they soon found some clubs that suited her, and Mum was then 'booming' drivers out on to the range, some of the clubs were so big they looked like 'bungalows on a sticks'!

All too soon it was over and time for the drive home, but then Mum's keen to get off to the practice ground at Fairhaven -- to just try a few more shots!

Who's going Lune(y)?

2006-05-05T16:31:00.000Z

Well moving on with the updates; we have been up to Lancaster. The idea was to walk the canal through the middle of the town, mainly to find quite a magnificent aqueduct over the Lune! First part worked fine, nice sunny day, we parked near Roger and Gills and off we set....

After 3 or 4 miles we get to within 100 yards of the aqueduct to find it 'closed'!

Had a chat with a local fisherman who suggested we leave the tow path and walk on up the main A683, heading for the M6, but take a quick left by the Holiday Inn and walk the cycle path back along side the Lune into Lancaster - what a walk....

Anyway, some pics of the aqueduct from the Lune...

Back in Lancaster the M&S Cafe 'Revive' took on new meaning...

Called at Tim & Fionas on the way back, but finished off with Fish & Chips in Great Eccleston.

Good day all in all. Next will be me Mum 'swinging' at the Ping Golf Centre...

Good Friday - Mum's pre - Birthday Day...

2006-04-14T21:12:00.000Z

Tim and Fiona invited us to spend Good Friday with them; a bite of lunch and a walk that Catherine was looking forward too with her usual enthusiasm....

Lunch was very good, 'proper' soup followed by crisps, sandwiches and Salad Cream.... Yummy!

On with the boots (a new pair of Brashers for Tim, so some apprehension, 1st in size xx; so he had to go outside to turn round!) and off we set at a lively pace (keep up Catherine) for Blue Bell Wood .... (they aren't out yet! typically misleading!), so first photo is more NZ lamb in Garstang...

Next photo is the far side of Blue Bell wood, a bridge just short of Forton....

Then a swift stop at the Barn; sorry no photos - they wouldn't sit down when the sun was out....

So a few photos taken on the way back, at the bridge over the Wyre... (Mum is hiding behind an Orchid she bought for Hilda, its her birthday next Monday)

Ubberford Bridge (over the Wyre) sorry about this but by now Catherine was camera shy......

Back home now and Mum remarks 'that was as good as a day as it gets'! I agree! Fiona's supper was 1st class, and Tim makes a 'strong' G&T! The wine was good and the Irish Coffee was - well I soon snoozed off, so I'll say no more....

Good Friday - Mum's pre - pre - Birthday Day...

2006-04-14T21:01:00.000Z

A few 'posers' to follow...

Ben and Kate are up in Whitley Bay for most of the Easter Weekend, so true to form, Barney was quite happy to take centre stage for a pre - pre Mum's Birthday 'pose'....

In this last photo, I had Barney's FULL Attention as I mentioned - Cheese!!!!........

Its time to 'Spring' back into action...

2006-04-11T09:47:00.000Z

Ok, ok, enough of the 'hints' re lack of input...

So 'spring' is on the way, as demonstrated by a few 'photos' from around the house.. enjoy -

Just taking this shot when you rang and I was 'summoned' back to eventually take the 'call'.....

Monday was a beautiful, but cold day with clear blue skies (PS. Today, it is cold, very wet and windy!)
However, it gives me time to compose a few 'posts'....

PS. Sorry, but it fined up and the sun came out, so off we went to play golf...
Just back so I'll publish and work some more the morrow...

GA GA - A Tribute To Queen Night....

2006-03-31T10:16:00.000Z

Yup, you guessed, went and treated Mum to another night out at Lowther Pavilion...

Not the best of the three bands we see, but seemed to have improved on last year...

Just thought I'd show a couple of pics' to prove I'm still holding the fender, now and again...

Overall, though, we thought it was a good night, on our feet and clapping/swaying and all that good stuff; shame it was only a quarter full, but you never know, maybe better still next year....

Mothers' Day and all it en'tails'....

2006-03-26T16:15:00.000Z

So this is Mum on Mothers Day...

Did you spot the MD present, shiny and new, by the vase..... no its not the flowers...

So this Kt, is your present to your Mum... having 'cased' the joint, and not wanting to make a 'spectacle' of you, I chose this in your favourite colour...

Moving swiftly on to the MDs Sunday Lunch with Mothers in view with Barney dog...

Barney being very attentive to any sight or scent of roast beef....

No use near Gran, so I'll try looking good as gold next to Ben...

Now methinks we have come to 'tail end' of the Mothers Day... follows a 'paws' for thought...

PS. Mum & Ben liked their cards, and we all thought the 'Top Gun' DVD was ace.....

Winter is still with us....

2006-03-21T13:11:00.000Z

Woke up last Sunday to an unusal 'white landscape', took a few photos on the way to the Newsagents.....

First off, your motor Kt! The wind was making interesting snowdrifts...

The Victoria pub' from an unusual angle...

I guess, no school today (but it was Sunday!)

St.Annes Parish Church (shame about the lampost...)

A Lakes walk nearly 'mist'

2006-03-19T17:32:00.000Z

Following much provocation, to add more posting, follows a few photos of a walk we nearly 'mist'!
We set off from Ambleside and walked over the tops to Troutbeck. Follows not a bad photo, but a good one of the MIST!

After warming ourselves by the fire in the pub (and drinking cold beer) we set off back, but of course we stopped for a picnic soon afterwards...

the picnic site...

We had intended to stop for an evening meal on the way back, but most of the girls fancied getting home to a hot bath instead....

Birthday walk over Nicky Nook...

2006-03-14T10:13:00.000Z

The weather was reasonable so, after morning coffee with the folks, we set off with the intention of taking a hike over Nick Nook.
Travelled in the new 'Barney Transporter', a silver Vectra estate, and we parked by the river Wyre a mile or so outside Scorton.

Decided the picnic spot this time would be half way up the hill; so here you see Ben and Barney, who reached the seat first, of course!
Just over the top now, and on the way down Barney nearly collided with a pheasant, well camouflaged in the grass. Here you see him getting his 'wits' and his breath back.....

Now here is one with yours truly, you will note the new (birthday present) gaiters; a look of farmer giles maybe...

After this we dropped back into Scorton, for afternoon tea at the Barn and then followed the riverside walk back to the car. Back home, the day was made complete by downing a good Australian Shiraz and devouring enormous fillet 'steaks'...

February 2006 cont... End of an Era

2006-03-14T09:59:00.000Z

Just one image of the 'Fort' in the process of being dismantled.

Had to come down; the posts were rotten at soil level and there was considerable woodworm in some parts of the structure.

Ideas on what should take its place...

January 2006

2006-03-13T23:40:00.000Z

The girls (at Manchester Airport) are ready for the adventure to begin.....

And time for their mothers to start 'worrying' their nails...

Wayout.... don't u think?

February 2006

2006-03-13T23:37:00.000Z

Here it is Kt, as requested. Let me go easy for the first few days, so tolerance please, as new usually means change and all that it implies...

My first task is to try and add some pictures, hopefully easier than my faltering prose...

Thought I would start to update you from February, so that made me think of the walk we had with Andrea and David, post Andrea's birthday, pre mine. I remember the day as bright and sunny, but cold, yet we still had a picnic (of course)! We stopped after 10 mins hard walking, and sat by the bridleway (actually the old 'coffin' route) just above Rydal Water. If all is successful you will see: the picnic, the view over Rydal, a cheeky (but tame or defending its territory) little robin, and finally a swan (whose neck seemed to reflect) the shape of the pass above Grasmere, in the background.