tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25230793450711108042024-02-07T05:08:55.693+00:00Taking a Chancenb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.comBlogger887125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-35251430870424666832018-08-27T14:14:00.001+01:002018-08-27T14:14:18.994+01:00A Wonderful Cruise to the Baltics!<p>We no longer seem to have time to blog these days, but our good friends Peter and Margaret did post this for us. </p><p><a title="https://www.nb-kelly-louise.com/2018/08/an-unexpected-summer-baltic-cruise.html" href="https://www.nb-kelly-louise.com/2018/08/an-unexpected-summer-baltic-cruise.html">https://www.nb-kelly-louise.com/2018/08/an-unexpected-summer-baltic-cruise.html</a></p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-28910037482768434212018-04-16T15:59:00.001+01:002018-04-16T15:59:50.422+01:00Dubai, Muscat, Petra, Herculaneum and Vesuvius<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MMDk0LOFlUc/WtS1uOJY1YI/AAAAAAAApOg/hTVCvAEpqNwWPyCNo_IM72-FsH8M4CCHACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10006631"><img width="504" height="317" title="P1000663" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000663" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m2j29Ct9Li8/WtS1vu7hfCI/AAAAAAAApOk/oJMaggSM6TAuRYkI3x9TKClbp7wfR8iwwCHMYCw/P1000663_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After flying out to Dubai we had four nights there before embarking on the P&O “Arcadia” for a cruise back to Southampton. Having been before we knew the way around so one of our first ports of call was the lovely souks in Old Dubai. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cRfOc1To_W0/WtS1w6AuRDI/AAAAAAAApOo/bjHleFb6oaYo6XtYaqjn4p3nmoUDfuSMACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10006641"><img width="504" height="313" title="P1000664" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000664" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tXiF6cO2TGw/WtS1yaDEF_I/AAAAAAAApOs/seDRy6f5yecO-adIAJ6HHv9PHDa0dNMoACHMYCw/P1000664_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Old Dubai is split in two by the Creek and the journey from one side to other is done in a very heavy (and noisy!) wooden boat.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qbI5rebLMu8/WtS1zuAfgTI/AAAAAAAApOw/jJhK_At5x6IBGencFKLH5dlVDFtxFVPeACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10006931"><img width="271" height="373" title="P1000693" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000693" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qWjoMrPTti0/WtS11EVa88I/AAAAAAAApO0/QkHWUjlrcMU3WjnKjrfZ7LzYfiZeJNnPgCHMYCw/P1000693_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Another “must”(which we’d done before but this was another chance to repeat the pleasure) was to go up the Burj Khalifa.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fb7EzMAu5hw/WtS12M-5yRI/AAAAAAAApO4/6zSE45MqYZ8BXxQA2PufB41XY0716mGAwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10006951"><img width="274" height="379" title="P1000695" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000695" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lGHNqw5yq7k/WtS13VnRD8I/AAAAAAAApO8/vlj34CRa4e00BEKHSUkco85F4ZlXTX1mwCHMYCw/P1000695_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Friends Geoff and Pam, who’d flown in from India and who were to join the ship with us, came with us for the journey up the world’s tallest building.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O7eZyeXhVIo/WtS144o1iJI/AAAAAAAApPA/EXGZMYdQC1A6405NTwmt4E-QNTJcz-b9QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10007101"><img width="490" height="301" title="P1000710" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000710" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eCXjLdUen_I/WtS16IKxD3I/AAAAAAAApPE/gUwpl0DP484oFzunancBXLutGznX4lfugCHMYCw/P1000710_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We were to have a few challenges with getting Geoff, who is not as mobile as he used to be, to the places on his bucket list but the Burj was an easy job. We were given priority access everywhere during our visit!</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZAWOVvnvrUQWlWYMJZXLgnXmsspXVGTzcRCAYWIG7QGDHBCDZvKv6HarCnLH9GVALPlmTBq1IxutnHI3PVu_Y_nK7pJvzSCc4U46Trgjpc3wUA3cln-lBrr2bany_x3RqlRgn31PYy8/s1600-h/P10007131"><img width="496" height="299" title="P1000713" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000713" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lP_hvWhknvE/WtS18X_1GQI/AAAAAAAApPM/rCukaQhj3MUaBYf-vu5DkajlpVNvW9nhQCHMYCw/P1000713_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Going to the 124th floor of a 147 floor building leaves a whole lot of building above us! It’s an awesome sight to look upwards to the top! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TtRq3VqzsRY/WtS194LMT7I/AAAAAAAApPQ/0Pq33qiNCCI8d2tAANouN1ZsiL57YU-BACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10007151"><img width="504" height="298" title="P1000715" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000715" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SEz0TNc6O00/WtS1_LIglWI/AAAAAAAApPU/kh9OII54XGExcgO5-BHeRKbG939GuZyTACHMYCw/P1000715_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>However, the 124th floor was enough for us to see for many miles and to look down on the skyscrapers below us.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aKfhJVK96e8/WtS2A8bYpyI/AAAAAAAApPY/xcdakaXUr8QwE5KYbCA1LjOnplr2c6MLgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10007161"><img width="505" height="313" title="P1000716" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000716" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cfxGGmtn3dI/WtS2CKVf6kI/AAAAAAAApPc/es6OatlMpPsma1cwbKEvYQmCaXNV7I2LwCHMYCw/P1000716_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Directly below us was the lake and fountains in front of the Burj Khalifa which we’d enjoy at a later date.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4VOLijqvddA/WtS2Dct3boI/AAAAAAAApPg/mMQlZYs1FWA3qit5n1GgEgIplfZ5zBX7wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10007181"><img width="505" height="306" title="P1000718" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000718" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uJ-PDwjERCc/WtS2ExcPRwI/AAAAAAAApPk/hbuILauTaTsmJ7Uk--F1M_WO8lEIBXphACHMYCw/P1000718_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>One sight, way off in the distance, was the iconic “Queen Elizabeth 2”, now beautifully painted and restored and at rest in her permanent position as a hotel ship. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5N1J8akkt0o/WtS2GF9d62I/AAAAAAAApPo/9H5V2AodIhkkemDDpDb5_cL3XjRy3xoMgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180330_1504131"><img width="278" height="349" title="20180330_150413" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180330_150413" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O0c_CRaV_E8/WtS2HXfdLzI/AAAAAAAApPs/LbcDu_R6LAMPbQgECcEPfw00_R2oG5lzACHMYCw/20180330_150413_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A Burj Khalifa selfie – James, Geoff, Pam and Doug. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RfHG6EEmadI/WtS2IqyuM2I/AAAAAAAApPw/LfiZtZe6PHkFlo4Fbz-vcMg-U8ajStwDQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10007541"><img width="494" height="317" title="P1000754" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000754" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mH3sEWMmhfY/WtS2KJsv03I/AAAAAAAApP0/TfofBDmaRa8G6YksNraxpk4KsFM6EgSOACHMYCw/P1000754_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We went back and enjoyed the fountains and music in front of the Burj ….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R2cow7raHMo/WtS2LcJC74I/AAAAAAAApP4/LbdpugD_nU4gyUD-jtW1Suk6bOdGgPpFACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10007741"><img width="500" height="313" title="P1000774" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000774" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AiPYbdwkMEo/WtS2MrJEhhI/AAAAAAAApP8/VVdThAxeY7UnATPvXvhPUbqVy9PeLiFMwCHMYCw/P1000774_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… and also after dark, when the crowds get really big!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4cmOQBl9srU/WtS2N1MzGPI/AAAAAAAApQA/HmQVcpMk_yAiUhB4pPBdACho72_tofadgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P100079311"><img width="506" height="314" title="P1000793" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000793" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--r-poAwikSQ/WtS2Pe0HSPI/AAAAAAAApQE/krxc3zHpwIgMu3z3oKWvWOJzEr4IQEqzQCHMYCw/P1000793_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After our four days in Dubai we were taken to the port to board “Arcadia” and we had an even better view of QE2 as she lay waiting for her grand opening.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7GgGct4LOd0/WtS2QmG1n8I/AAAAAAAApQI/kNGslWz4dHcuqbqHfXFL4d_lCkFey3_0QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P100080611"><img width="510" height="312" title="P1000806" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000806" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fYK3PhOEl3g/WtS2SPze7GI/AAAAAAAApQM/dmF-UUx36tMW_Ay4rGJfQqxCDboaZ7zSgCHMYCw/P1000806_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Sailing from Dubai, our first stop was Muscat. Amman is a very wealthy place and it’s Sultan makes sure that it looks the part on the World’s stage. We toured for the day with friends Anita and Alan, who’d also flown from England to join in the happy band (in all there were 10 of us!) and we took a taxi for four hours to show us around. The driver, very kindly, got us to the Grand Mosque before it closed for the day’s cleaning.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yMoP0EMaDYU/WtS2TdwhhfI/AAAAAAAApQQ/8B722-iWZ0UllIkE9vx1lC93jH0WVM6IACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10008311"><img width="517" height="313" title="P1000831" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000831" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ecdfp0BOf8RYciEK-sbVEE2M6EcqA6-i39JT-IcZbAKNb0d1kvyWyDA6Q9WyLc5PBSbv_ehGax79EMqVGqtBa7W15sVhfbHTv2Lwvj03VVUV3hJEQ6WttzlZFsEEu99mUnfSj5zXzmA/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Like everything we were to see that day, it was simply stunning. It has the world’s largest chandelier weighing over 40 tons! It even has a staircase inside to allow for maintenance and cleaning. While were there it was being cleaned on the outside – the man cleaning it is in the ‘cherry picker’ at the top!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VyYEAfnQlns/WtS2WHeDpRI/AAAAAAAApQY/aBq8xU_BeMAnCL8XkuGNC30ye3Y6lIiQwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10008291"><img width="272" height="370" title="P1000829" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000829" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vt4igkTCuTc/WtS2Xr-xcyI/AAAAAAAApQc/qd45226hdDAFQyYe7Z8SEwbR6dNwsFr6wCHMYCw/P1000829_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s Anita and Doug standing outside the stunningly decorated apse which faces Mecca. The carpet which covers the entire floor of the mosque is the second largest in the world. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2PJnBKdocjU/WtS2Y6X9MtI/AAAAAAAApQg/JMw2INSgkQ4cWCJCjW1HEjMo0FZ8sDD_wCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180402_1048061"><img width="272" height="351" title="20180402_104806" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180402_104806" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6YxrJOKI47o/WtS2aSq4hMI/AAAAAAAApQk/zEKJ3ky2yhAuNHvEOZVMIUnNQXEeULILQCHMYCw/20180402_104806_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here we all are suitably dressed to enter the mosque. James was fine, Doug wore his Dish-Dash which he bought last time we were in Muscat. Anita and Alan borrowed their clothing from our very well prepared taxi driver! (Anita looked stunning!) </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-afNTsUvoq8E/WtS2bl_HC-I/AAAAAAAApQs/GqwBSZCVhiw_0P1meonIkZKymp8pUty1gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10008341"><img width="500" height="300" title="P1000834" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000834" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HrfeAWLTz8U/WtS2dPyBaRI/AAAAAAAApQw/h_1z4rbef4wH8bTJkTCbofqAezx5PaLAACHMYCw/P1000834_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The storage areas for the Koran speak for themselves!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jG9qniIAtYI/WtS2euqh6vI/AAAAAAAApQ0/i7sq1eSOVI8-IUb6nLg0kHGT7VhUbkC1gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P100084211"><img width="265" height="358" title="P1000842" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000842" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fqD08OsRnho/WtS2fz4tlnI/AAAAAAAApQ4/hSPaUHhdM6wvneW4TkzcnGfDsbPEXfBxQCHMYCw/P1000842_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After our visit we were taken for hot spicy coffee and dates …….</p><p><img width="502" height="318" title="P1000846" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000846" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z1QCXk4MH7Q/WtS2gxNCBrI/AAAAAAAApQ8/tWermFl5DxUJ2-ErsEpWb8r0iOzktovswCHMYCw/P1000846_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></p><p>……… and we had a lovely conversation with the staff about the building of the mosque.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1c5iVWkcEsc/WtS2iQLI7gI/AAAAAAAApRA/bYqzKNlkO4QvadG_pJJ1DlpLhO3in2BtACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10008491"><img width="505" height="308" title="P1000849" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000849" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-taOXgn0-GCk/WtS2jl4N06I/AAAAAAAApRE/9yTE3NWUvogtqE1mymbkbIdu508oq8w3ACHMYCw/P1000849_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We’ve never seen so much polished marble ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fvnCDRvxCVA/WtS2k0FA4NI/AAAAAAAApRI/sFPL4KXHwdcWkAsb4lG3bAZXSZDBpuYmwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P100085811"><img width="261" height="380" title="P1000858" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000858" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LHkD5p50ayU/WtS2masjvWI/AAAAAAAApRM/qfTRvtoLR1gXiwP3sAH8fqlWD7-25p94QCHMYCw/P1000858_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. and such beautiful contemporary architecture.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6R-tR5uG6Bc/WtS2nmyQS4I/AAAAAAAApRQ/rMO_Rsqf8UoExaXQ5TcgbEVFKUmVQ9hkQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P100086011"><img width="507" height="313" title="P1000860" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000860" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PkSVO6Has1s/WtS2pNc1ZpI/AAAAAAAApRU/S9kvlFewqVw8QLVVJ_zuCpEOaCGmffRRQCHMYCw/P1000860_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Across the road from the Grand Mosque is the prison! Never has there been such a fabulous looking prison!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y-PcIRs8Maw/WtS2q46HaPI/AAAAAAAApRY/KJ66KWH-4H48Txg-LTln1t8GfAn0LTOkQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10008651"><img width="510" height="314" title="P1000865" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000865" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NjxlFhE0XPc/WtS2sO5OD8I/AAAAAAAApRc/VReZte5PyQQa-G1XhriSiRnfOcnwlgJoQCHMYCw/P1000865_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A quick trip to the shores of the Arabian Gulf ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tANyksJjuqc/WtS2tQYH5GI/AAAAAAAApRg/F84Pt_u_9CMd_feV_P02bOckyrBI_GYRwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P100086611"><img width="279" height="366" title="P1000866" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000866" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W7YQRQdcEFU/WtS2uhTX1eI/AAAAAAAApRk/_2yFjgU4X-YRpBfQWqx9a__KPZMWSPpoACHMYCw/P1000866_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…. where Doug raised the hem of his Dish-Dash for a little paddle.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iOOEyoued7E/WtS2vx_wKcI/AAAAAAAApRo/cSdWPuRBOOM_7Wlbis3UDeb4gwBVvYQ_ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P100080511"><img width="488" height="294" title="P1000805" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000805" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tV5mjsjLWWk/WtS2xegNwyI/AAAAAAAApRs/13hcvBGLdKU94Dagdlpdl1Sdqh-4IcUfgCHMYCw/P1000805_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Next on the itinerary was the Opera House. Now, having visited the mosque we thought we were prepared for Amman’s “money no object” approach to building …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bSutgPMPmBU/WtS2y0K4D6I/AAAAAAAApRw/x-_8xsB9z_IckowgCKiidUb2SyYTTkcAQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10008672"><img width="500" height="301" title="P1000867" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000867" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CsnmATZ-ULA/WtS2z8jvN4I/AAAAAAAApR0/5nNtMGc-gLMFNwH6-wak2AMMf4L_nS6PwCHMYCw/P1000867_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. there were seemingly acres of polished marble before we got inside.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nyig9kllSks/WtS21Y33eJI/AAAAAAAApR4/JDPK5vb-rFMdoBxD98mWwgnK5MQ-kJWYQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P100087311"><img width="506" height="302" title="P1000873" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000873" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Jo0Ml_K8Yic/WtS22ptaQHI/AAAAAAAApR8/N4gYaDOd1EUmoZZWWS7SIz5w9iTdKtLnwCHMYCw/P1000873_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Photo’s do not do this building justice – words are not enough either!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XCKzmnGcQqY/WtS24IlIB1I/AAAAAAAApSA/b4tqFIL0yS01JtinzrkZN0QiFIb7YmQGQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10008841"><img width="507" height="303" title="P1000884" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000884" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MrVtS9OCQ3c/WtS25R71fOI/AAAAAAAApSE/SkvvnGRqih0sivCVlFg7XNJema-9EVOBgCHMYCw/P1000884_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The auditorium is immense and sumptuous beyond anything we’ve experienced. The ceiling is in sections which can be raised or lowered to change the acoustics …………. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f05YK564FtY/WtS26xt2h-I/AAAAAAAApSI/MiUC7SyWtmkelH8YJRgef9ee-6IMIS6aACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10008851"><img width="507" height="308" title="P1000885" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000885" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WdAF8p2UC34/WtS28YF6jvI/AAAAAAAApSM/FNW-hhgk2mkjIQl7UaQmOJ6ZmgGTYN-tgCHMYCw/P1000885_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and the organ is one of the world’s largest with some 4500 pipes.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SDNB_6FW0Co/WtS29-fCLNI/AAAAAAAApSQ/yqsEMRMVYLorwEMEoiRaRfBLytk-G8fZwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10008881"><img width="510" height="303" title="P1000888" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000888" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MKKg7jg_0Nk/WtS2_ch8ArI/AAAAAAAApSU/UZVaJbvqDoYTpKyfXr4xfIPCAaMJ7rB3QCHMYCw/P1000888_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>In the centre at the rear is the Sultan’s private box.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7o2a1Jfg0aU/WtS3BJfUK2I/AAAAAAAApSY/AgKiV4PcZEQnTmZlz5fp7b6JcbeI29MjwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10100181"><img width="495" height="342" title="P1010018" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010018" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HVWYRgVb9xs/WtS3CQSVVJI/AAAAAAAApSc/RK8hHSrH0qcYg2zG3OaeXrYeIIp30R8zQCHMYCw/P1010018_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our driver briefly took us into the mountains surrounding Muscat which was a real treat as it gave us an appreciation of just how barren Amman is. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FhRdpkcqsWc/WtS3Dl_CYEI/AAAAAAAApSk/50jcZ0-nTLQiAKiXiaFqMk67kM6keOCAQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10100271"><img width="494" height="308" title="P1010027" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010027" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CEekrBLiq_I/WtS3Frhed5I/AAAAAAAApSo/qJp7TqE8rjQBG9RpHFfKCXq6Ekz4C3rHQCHMYCw/P1010027_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Back in Muscat we viewed the front of the Sultan’s Palace …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--wR8FaiOkZY/WtS3HNnkNoI/AAAAAAAApSs/8GP0XPHVrEAcrPip4ngR3wTph9b0wE3MwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10100351"><img width="496" height="311" title="P1010035" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010035" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BajHL6qcY1E/WtS3Ir5ycZI/AAAAAAAApSw/YONLUFv1D7MiAlxzOD5RsoXQ9E0-kwOHACHMYCw/P1010035_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…. and then our driver took us around to the other side which faces the sea. The painted building is just one part – all the white painted buildings are part of the palace and they extend on both sides of the main coloured building.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-83Ap3d1Apzo/WtS3J2-M3RI/AAAAAAAApS0/h96yuErgkVo4kzq9mdQG7k3DcAO_FZokQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10100381"><img width="499" height="299" title="P1010038" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010038" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-96PIjh2RJbs/WtS3LZYvg7I/AAAAAAAApS4/XlLk2jnQK2cffkoaNP4GHwKr0n9D4K6GACHMYCw/P1010038_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The palace is protected by four very large and prominent fortresses …..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wWtJKJhFER8/WtS3MgIHUMI/AAAAAAAApS8/uVftI7_RbV8qNd-sPVvlPHzaorMOgiYtgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10100531"><img width="500" height="302" title="P1010053" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010053" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_71Pxi1PfC8/WtS3OIADX6I/AAAAAAAApTA/lyIyAov7m80atoG0SPjGz6-zCzwvEcWhACHMYCw/P1010053_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…. and the Sultan’s two enormous yachts sit together in the harbour.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CTQeuTDhKD0/WtS3PaLNf2I/AAAAAAAApTE/6WCYLZmuJ0EMOSL-VXIN46n-tOx2t9XHQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180403_2048171"><img width="269" height="359" title="20180403_204817" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180403_204817" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OU3El-EdjFU/WtS3Q6HzofI/AAAAAAAApTI/eiNJUMED1RoPJOPx5CZfLvbI9EgxEFn1ACHMYCw/20180403_204817_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Life on our own “yacht” isn’t unpleasant either. We have quite a few formal evenings on the cruise when we can dress in our finery.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-35WyLGRVwpI/WtS3SoXzYYI/AAAAAAAApTM/oBVXqPbVWasLJJk92w8he1b3IRh9vwwkwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180404_2023242"><img width="267" height="343" title="20180404_202324" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180404_202324" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-12hUwafSLPk/WtS3T7eYqZI/AAAAAAAApTQ/03EzuBvQIIIy8h0oiQaNYpjU6f-E20NAQCHMYCw/20180404_202324_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s a selfie of us prior to the ship’s Tropical evening …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gQI8sqwIoc4/WtS3VGG51rI/AAAAAAAApTU/SEh0fata-pYyZfN2tulS4fcGInavZIaRACHMYCw/s1600-h/20180410_22014311"><img width="489" height="297" title="20180410_220143" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180410_220143" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E1RWRe0cQuo/WtS3Wv_eTdI/AAAAAAAApTY/gmeEzSVn8OoSYIRE-YNVtih1a13Tx9QSgCHMYCw/20180410_220143_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and with Alan and Anita one evening during dinner.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dpqKxr8EIJY/WtS3Xw-94pI/AAAAAAAApTc/BbuTIQYf5zkg2lqiIG_kmDECNeXLXt3mwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180411_18321511"><img width="498" height="314" title="20180411_183215" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180411_183215" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tj_B17FJNUY/WtS3ZbjaNTI/AAAAAAAApTk/R-IeTzIgadUJCda6PxxwWIVlCQIZuKEnQCHMYCw/20180411_183215_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>It’s a very small world and cruising makes it even smaller. Doug thought he recognised someone when playing deck quoits one day and it transpired that his father’s school friend Duncan, and his wife Eileen, were on board for the whole world cruise which “Arcadia” has almost completed and which we’d joined for the last leg. Doug hadn’t seen Duncan and Eileen for twenty years so a catch up drink before dinner had to be arranged.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OxyWuQ4Lro4/WtS3al9-ahI/AAAAAAAApTo/IdqQJj7acPEUwe2G9cdSNJ3pHHGxTlvDACHMYCw/s1600-h/20180411_1916491"><img width="259" height="351" title="20180411_191649" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180411_191649" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZelEEPOJ8HY/WtS3bzRmEnI/AAAAAAAApTs/jPFQwJ_UH5YfRZSgrghJX7YIgPjg_DiygCHMYCw/20180411_191649_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Oh, here’s Doug in his Indian “Modi” suit on one of our formal nights. Our Indian staff were so thrilled he’d made such a gesture.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zFTG24vCw_4/WtS3dM-SD4I/AAAAAAAApTw/oT666iWEp5AnaWriYGf4P1PbutsniMF8wCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180411_2244371"><img width="263" height="358" title="20180411_224437" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180411_224437" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iz1b6mvCJ44/WtS3ertFzQI/AAAAAAAApT0/tfuo5lSwMDYASa6T9MH6gEe7XNqUeoy6wCHMYCw/20180411_224437_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The on-board entertainment in the Palladium Theatre has, as one of it’s highlight for us, the Headliners Theatre Company. We’re so lucky as friends James and Ben are on board and part of the company as singer / dancers. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lnk00A015TY/WtS3f7qOd9I/AAAAAAAApT4/Poq0DbQ1zpEO_0aCI4proU8aayWzv6K_ACHMYCw/s1600-h/20180411_22520511"><img width="510" height="321" title="20180411_225205" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180411_225205" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3GYz-jKrGuw/WtS3hPRrQgI/AAAAAAAApT8/roM5KLl63YIEPZ76rTpKmt9kWUnTX9XbgCHMYCw/20180411_225205_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>One of our favourite shows (and luckily it was scheduled for this last leg of the cruise) is Killer Queen. It’s a superb 45 minutes of the music of Queen and the Headliner’s talent is amazing. Ben – second from left and James – second from right.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VV9tBAhN7HM/WtS3iwsA6cI/AAAAAAAApUA/W4tBC3QTXS8Y2t5hPX4G3hV8lmsem-eRwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180411_23063511"><img width="268" height="359" title="20180411_230635" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180411_230635" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n3OoRftkuMc/WtS3kcsr4LI/AAAAAAAApUE/vD1ET_swmHgd7SSS6MYKII06hDw1bChTgCHMYCw/20180411_230635_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s James doing a solo …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RzlVGCIlm88/WtS3lwA8iAI/AAAAAAAApUI/4K2GZuz4t_4ju4CCVo0jbu4nJQvWTVHtwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180411_2313511"><img width="501" height="301" title="20180411_231351" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180411_231351" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Swzvu-44cyE/WtS3nf1eUiI/AAAAAAAApUM/UaMB9HaNM5M3vqgdMhrmZjxoIEiqI5izwCHMYCw/20180411_231351_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. and the finale is really special with the entire company, lighting and sound at full tilt!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FJrJHBkTAxg/WtS3on9kd4I/AAAAAAAApUQ/vjS-6cViQnU-0q3WGETkHd8b7wGldpk2QCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180411_23195011"><img width="261" height="341" title="20180411_231950" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180411_231950" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mdxKmyxP2A0/WtS3pz1QwtI/AAAAAAAApUU/KsHloA-GfRkuFsTMoQvBRDwKT_uY85oBACHMYCw/20180411_231950_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After the show the exhausted cast briefly say goodnight to the passengers and that’s our opportunity to have a quick catch up and to say thank you. On this occasion we found Ben but James had already gone to change (don’t blame him!) </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xBCaf3SNVWg/WtS3rkL4sWI/AAAAAAAApUY/R5ul-uBmm3wycxgafp7rwUw1xA9V9XEbACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10100931"><img width="501" height="300" title="P1010093" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010093" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f-4TE_Q7MJw/WtS3sz1dVxI/AAAAAAAApUc/a6oujbJSbcUOJtqQceNqji5TTX3ZqiFkACHMYCw/P1010093_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our next port of call, after leaving Muscat and travelling through pirate infested waters into the Red Sea and up the Gulf to Aquaba in Jordan. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fvSmj1OzGGY/WtS3uLZtieI/AAAAAAAApUg/IXA9sBXUerMZFgLDDD60hQpRUg2DNHApgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10100951"><img width="502" height="295" title="P1010095" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010095" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KhghI5Ygh4U/WtS3vk4ZXLI/AAAAAAAApUk/SmwmeRtC-346aRIAm8TYwfKPIo5usXYgQCHMYCw/P1010095_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our two day stay in Aqaba was our opportunity to visit the ancient city of Petra – one of the world’s wonders! The two hour journey through Jordan’s mountains and deserts gave us amazing views. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KTK18xhVYLw/WtS3xI6O0nI/AAAAAAAApUo/br6jNJjISsczkbXFnaNd6HF0aJ5wW57aQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101071"><img width="509" height="310" title="P1010107" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010107" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_hBxM3-my9M/WtS3yDTqVrI/AAAAAAAApUs/erhffXljMScLvzlAs6CwdbD00QU7LqEKgCHMYCw/P1010107_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our ‘happy band of pilgrims’ included Pam and Geoff and, this time it was a little more difficult to get Geoff about but, with wheel chair, horse and buggy and his faithful stick we all achieved our goal. Here’s Pam and Geoff on the smoothest bit of the buggy ride! Doug and James walked the two kilometres. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cd0IS6Bly8s/WtS3znvKuzI/AAAAAAAApUw/m3iZph26ptMGH6Dc9497RRNy4HFEbi7JACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101171"><img width="269" height="356" title="P1010117" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010117" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pGDqBPceL7Y/WtS30wCPbzI/AAAAAAAApU0/4T89vWqD17cJ2x0LRuTWXYnQsSK4yw8FwCHMYCw/P1010117_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The start of The Siq was awesome enough. A half mile long narrow chasm, eroded through the giant sandstone escarpment by wind and water, ……. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-69ItouQ8_rA/WtS32ScD8GI/AAAAAAAApU8/oRrgf7FbJyUHxHnMcS4Vf_wldKU5II-_wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101311"><img width="272" height="343" title="P1010131" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010131" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QKE6Almi4ys/WtS33nPv-4I/AAAAAAAApVA/f-1rLxw8ps81we0fuShVtLL6LjLHOQAlgCHMYCw/P1010131_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. finally brought us to one of the most magical and stunning views. The Treasury of Petra.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jzLlvznfENI/WtS35cfOfVI/AAAAAAAApVE/0IGcz9qvidImhkCUbZIWX8dzVvX73DCWwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101331"><img width="274" height="348" title="P1010133" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010133" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w5jbhEIxl7s/WtS36rmfvFI/AAAAAAAApVI/0wFN15nrDScTbKA_fGRupIuV5Si2sLtgACHMYCw/P1010133_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We were again lucky that it was a Sunday and working day. The week end in this part of the world is Friday and Saturday and the two days just gone were also Easter and Petra had been overwhelmed with tourists. But, on this day, things were much quieter and we were able to enjoy the place much more.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yquszUfJTeo/WtS38LIF19I/AAAAAAAApVM/kw3opA9_KNM7acLMBOwblgu4KZOiyzBrQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101431"><img width="500" height="298" title="P1010143" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010143" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PsJjvS32JhQ/WtS39bLRjcI/AAAAAAAApVQ/KQDkrlXhWRwkaSfCO1Msf--4tuuEH4yCACHMYCw/P1010143_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Petra is a huge site and you have to walk miles to see everything. This is the Street of Facades (20BC – 50 AD)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qGF0DEO7BoM/WtS3_abpTHI/AAAAAAAApVU/Ii61RLOf_Y8va8uvstF7QKX5Qs4A3DWMgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101461"><img width="496" height="306" title="P1010146" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010146" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0bJpj3DF_SQ/WtS4Ao6r3zI/AAAAAAAApVY/KCPI2eyQNxw75PFGg4lxCOYjGT7j3uzugCHMYCw/P1010146_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Everywhere there was evidence of habitation dug into the soft sandstone cliffs, whether it was a temple of just peoples homes</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-X9ULr_ZwAdM/WtS4CKZ9xyI/AAAAAAAApVc/prZuM-qkrkMe2fmvqTWPLdD60wcUTixigCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101541"><img width="502" height="301" title="P1010154" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010154" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q74AaGCrG7I/WtS4DcFVJZI/AAAAAAAApVg/K7XIv8IqSGkBq8XfQ73eU3EoCV2B4-YPgCHMYCw/P1010154_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This is the Theatre (25 – 125 AD) – a massive semicircle carved out of the rock.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hcCHVo8qTFg/WtS4E9ZxHxI/AAAAAAAApVo/YJs45UCj1Uo7iWXrqt6zxf-0kBFEpmn8QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101561"><img width="504" height="294" title="P1010156" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010156" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JiLc9ycuGkw/WtS4GKzCwbI/AAAAAAAApVs/BSu45Q7exsEFb-nzLNQVbCTVDSOmviE2wCHMYCw/P1010156_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>More homes ……</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CV4CWZg_eLE/WtS4H1GQRcI/AAAAAAAApVw/gfrtafXZ3ywC4NM0zdGANu1S3r6bz6PPQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101591"><img width="507" height="303" title="P1010159" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010159" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6-xHMdX04Rk/WtS4JVfG-nI/AAAAAAAApV0/j6Lk4vdLVmEgHbVqsaZqCq7AJZhdxVHjQCHMYCw/P1010159_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. and travellers on camels, horses and donkeys making these ancient ruins almost come back to life.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eWvcI_KLkpw/WtS4LHIAb3I/AAAAAAAApV4/4b_bwfv_dDUZuMGTRxNUW3GgnvYG5rkMwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101611"><img width="501" height="298" title="P1010161" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010161" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NxD2N7pBCFo/WtS4MlJezXI/AAAAAAAApV8/YuNKCwR82mAGAcmlVl3rMWnjmuLuKGsugCHMYCw/P1010161_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qGh0ZqYiWm8/WtS4OFJbNXI/AAAAAAAApWA/dRhfz8BIqdkVGuyKRSeqmX9113dWsjlgQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101631"><img width="504" height="301" title="P1010163" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010163" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-byMI00if05k/WtS4PcsqFRI/AAAAAAAApWE/Y6aVSxGbY1QncMuwtbMOsD4QW_mO3uKwgCHMYCw/P1010163_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This was the site of the Royal Tombs ……</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eN36tDZFYk4/WtS4Qrx8u4I/AAAAAAAApWI/iY5K1q1j_mEdZbhpWjXDkP_Yj0etbPJbwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101711"><img width="501" height="320" title="P1010171" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010171" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wQplWwaVO7g/WtS4RwSA_sI/AAAAAAAApWM/sO2uVPRNy8I0hJT--zZi6_wYuYomRHCvACHMYCw/P1010171_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and this, a Colonnaded Street with the original flag stones.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SykEm55u2vM/WtS4TJLK4YI/AAAAAAAApWQ/Q9QflcOeFGo59RCr41Xa51vGhU298uOZQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101771"><img width="496" height="305" title="P1010177" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010177" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DS5ZbJS7CbU/WtS4UjblCrI/AAAAAAAApWU/bmNxJAfWJ6Y3RGqrm_f5UpRebVW7X-ioACHMYCw/P1010177_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s Doug standing in the middle of Petra’s Great Temple ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ghyhm0VbXTs/WtS4WPUhFmI/AAAAAAAApWY/Bv8Kuwnqk3Ucf0CtZspeHEhU7imIjMQQQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101781"><img width="501" height="313" title="P1010178" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010178" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hW_PKZbX2_E/WtS4XT34i1I/AAAAAAAApWc/9DIhpyvfcv4rxqZttIitjm40CtV3ID_tgCHMYCw/P1010178_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. the catacombs and vaults are still being excavated.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LzhQatW9RUg/WtS4Yy9BOsI/AAAAAAAApWg/jZLJEt7RC-k2x9xWqMuZhWtcQGaR1L5AwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101821"><img width="504" height="301" title="P1010182" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010182" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PiRCogceluw/WtS4aBGpeYI/AAAAAAAApWk/-DRqI6hghR0kl9SxW0Gzu0vlcbxbRUT7gCHMYCw/P1010182_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The Temenos Gate – 125 – 225 AD</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5oY_c6bLW3g/WtS4bVCLQeI/AAAAAAAApWo/GFrpQ1WOasIgGvXlk5_KevX-5NW94r6rwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101861"><img width="504" height="312" title="P1010186" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010186" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eGW_4jmpkyI/WtS4cgULQKI/AAAAAAAApWs/QUzBGGj7zTYoHbMf_6CLWI2LuLlS-_qBQCHMYCw/P1010186_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The Qasr al-Bint Temple Complex (25 BC – 25 AD)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B1bAr2ZaaZU/WtS4dxPckNI/AAAAAAAApWw/GKF_ev-v1NMsBqgP02qC7ybHDxdhhA9gQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101921"><img width="502" height="314" title="P1010192" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010192" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WvyFFPBSmTE/WtS4fqz-WFI/AAAAAAAApW0/1ONYqg_N42oUXeFNCFlmqTYwTEnZDqLJACHMYCw/P1010192_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>And on we trekked – up, what seemed a thousand steps (900 actually, but we were not to complete them!) through some very desolate terrain towards Petra’s “Monastery”.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z5AC1zuLFYs/WtS4hAPsuFI/AAAAAAAApW4/B1meZZlcPh4MES6iU6Kb2rpLIwmT7hBrgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101941"><img width="264" height="354" title="P1010194" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010194" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CLxe5oAkbnA/WtS4iWK8QEI/AAAAAAAApW8/--p9Z6Wo-kQ6HER60_OZFZsS8HrqinAYQCHMYCw/P1010194_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>It was a long way to say the least but the advice from people who had made it was that it was another 30 minutes of hard climb and we were running out of time! Here’s Doug making a valiant attempt at a steep set of steps but that was as far as we got. You really need four hours and a good state of fitness to achieve the final goal of the Monastery – Petra is a very big site!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FYDVrCNV--E/WtS4j0I5veI/AAAAAAAApXA/whlcqE3JvNwcARQW54bxy3eMRzqCHs5DgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10101951"><img width="511" height="332" title="P1010195" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010195" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aB02HZzkvTQ/WtS4lCahXoI/AAAAAAAApXE/6PgiidVs2BkQZ3Q430I9A7ciEZgWaR9tQCHMYCw/P1010195_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>However, the views on the way down were stunning and very atmospheric and, after we’d got most of the steep climb out of the way, Doug found a nice man with two donkeys and we started back on a momentous donkey ride. Doug’s donkey decided to go head first towards another visitor and knocked her flying! Then both donkeys got frightened and, while the donkey owner was picking the lady up and apologising, they both charged off towards a very rocky Wadi. The owner chased after us but didn’t arrive until we were well into the Wadi and negociating some very big rocks!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NBtSvcyRs2g/WtS4mtP9FpI/AAAAAAAApXI/hZIt5Mp2QcAmqwt8Spth0TlK9LbRs2RVQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10102001"><img width="510" height="304" title="P1010200" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IGN1BnmzZmc/WtS4ny96q_I/AAAAAAAApXQ/NJu8t59Xdw8FWMmocr6slG6jcQr4kRYKgCHMYCw/P1010200_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>James took this pic when things had calmed down and we’d dusted ourselves off and the donkeys were back on the path they knew!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JYRsxBNtUVI/WtS4pQptn4I/AAAAAAAApXU/F9KPWA6YMQgVo_sJF6qofeqnGfFBTbriQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10102041"><img width="507" height="313" title="P1010204" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010204" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q-zLgDMESeM/WtS4qxjm4GI/AAAAAAAApXY/H4WC9RA_q-wDNWvb_qTczQ7F3NGDjp9twCHMYCw/P1010204_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our two rather naughty donkeys didn’t think twice about heading into a group of camels and other donkeys and causing more mayhem! BUT, we survived and didn’t fall off so we count the experience as a success!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oomZ_HISrHQ/WtS4sPKbLFI/AAAAAAAApXc/XhCcCxR-0wcmeQtAVCzlWATWEUZDf0xHQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10102881"><img width="505" height="307" title="P1010288" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010288" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fu9yyautXYM/WtS4tuN--5I/AAAAAAAApXg/JR5qSWNrutAMDWOYbzIw5Xhij9LCV66lACHMYCw/P1010288_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Well, after the glory of Petra we were off again for another tick on the bucket list – this time the Suez Canal. Unlike our first attempt on “Queen Mary 2” a couple of years ago which took us through at night, it was a success. It was more interesting than we’d been lead to believe but you do have to like sand! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Dj4gFTH_qwc/WtS4u8ES2ZI/AAAAAAAApXk/-IaSuMPCJ6ceDCFsu7jelhSjcWTLGVzlgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10102921"><img width="507" height="317" title="P1010292" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010292" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mmAVsH_XLMg/WtS4wV9PKdI/AAAAAAAApXo/x9Rn-MWdSTMRiKMoy6rIMII_T8YJTN3RQCHMYCw/P1010292_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We had an escort of two tugs which kept with us for the entire journey of about10 hours duration.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qFNIRWuM6_w/WtS4xl_RXdI/AAAAAAAApXs/JBDBKq7t-UELnqUwAULbkpx9FyKPLMC6QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103021"><img width="515" height="308" title="P1010302" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010302" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NItRHXCrrYU/WtS4y0yBhrI/AAAAAAAApXw/-WK2nzi-Bao54Cm2whBlY1nRV1ijmvX3gCHMYCw/P1010302_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Part of the canal is ‘duelled’ so the south bound ships can be seen as if they are sailing through sand!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E8jVtgEKtmc/WtS40r9ir6I/AAAAAAAApX0/st8DTFPTUGg-0TDoXmtOZYlhQZYS4FugACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103201"><img width="509" height="321" title="P1010320" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a4c5DPdUnHg/WtS42DYnBEI/AAAAAAAApX4/bGkkXtjUilcOW0CB19JFntKBFHKHBrCdwCHMYCw/P1010320_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Many passengers were happy to enjoy the last few days of hot weather sunning themselves around the pool but many were keen to see as much sand as they could ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DycUqxq2ONo/WtS43pf2ltI/AAAAAAAApX8/AoW03TwJG_MK8JY0IZFSQlWLMnbnpQtTgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103341"><img width="510" height="314" title="P1010334" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010334" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jLcxQ9UmDZk/WtS441QG7YI/AAAAAAAApYA/jPnqJCv81kk2ghOLXUuQXhyz_K9josJxQCHMYCw/P1010334_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… including one passengers who should be nameless!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l7oCvnyLCBs/WtS46QJ7ZSI/AAAAAAAApYE/uC1TQi56VnUBNlrc16FR334yyuaBYkVZACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103391"><img width="509" height="323" title="P1010339" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010339" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6tTW1SB8nrA/WtS47quHwZI/AAAAAAAApYI/K1nI5Juy3t0rYaka_Tv4QAvUBmHbu_q_gCHMYCw/P1010339_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Punctuating the sandy bits there was much to interest the observers – including this rather clever floating road bridge which swings across the canal to the other side when its not busy. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NgAa3hl7NCE/WtS48yWdvaI/AAAAAAAApYM/TTbG5wYyBE8L9ApUfDB-_OHQQe4Nd3M1wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103411"><img width="513" height="322" title="P1010341" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010341" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8WammAtICl4/WtS4-Wb98BI/AAAAAAAApYQ/0EAPe-3gC0w412J7IcmnZOODVXHVlmEcACHMYCw/P1010341_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>All along the canal we had tooting of vehicles and whistling of onlookers who wanted to wish us a good journey.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ThibPdjjCfE/WtS4__8LLEI/AAAAAAAApYU/XptV8gaVpTESVQ9ifujovdAFxaq9xKs5wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103441"><img width="250" height="338" title="P1010344" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010344" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LKxOOqjwVTw/WtS5BFsB1_I/AAAAAAAApYY/M4frHYAzG-UL7ZmI7CDIRqxirjLnel-9gCHMYCw/P1010344_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GBpWTpkxub4/WtS5DMXEykI/AAAAAAAApYc/jtyshPbQbHsbZ8ng4u1rg8J1vokoDnRDACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103461"><img width="511" height="318" title="P1010346" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010346" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b66r7yLHrDQ/WtS5EmkQ8GI/AAAAAAAApYg/An-YPhnigcUb9n58nFQ9W9dZ7HDoD0YMgCHMYCw/P1010346_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On sections which ran parallel to the road, and where there was the added possibility of an attack, we had a police escort car which slowly made it’s way with us ………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JJAH12ORoPA/WtS5F4CLNFI/AAAAAAAApYk/FLP8S-ctqWAhidlOrHelpdRJFX0lDpZqQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103521"><img width="512" height="324" title="P1010352" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010352" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-V0t3I_ilGrw/WtS5HevZ7FI/AAAAAAAApYo/EOe4oiR8Y9UiJ0XVNlbDQy8VsrtMWGAEQCHMYCw/P1010352_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>………. and every few hundred yards along the security walls were sentry boxes with armed personnel.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BLXl0s6024E/WtS5ImHdzOI/AAAAAAAApYs/LtViTJj-Dks1y1t451FcRxBLtsN87tYPQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103591"><img width="503" height="308" title="P1010359" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010359" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ebhBjGIM85Y/WtS5KH9lcFI/AAAAAAAApYw/SVMwttQ6s_kLZMP1nc-R1AQbslQeXefoQCHMYCw/P1010359_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>At the end of our ten hour, safe and enjoyable passage we disembarked the pilot and, together with a number of other smaller boats were sent on our way into the Mediterranean Sea amid a cacophony of hooters and horns.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dQC1s2__UjU/WtS5Lm1EI5I/AAAAAAAApY0/eN6UC_T1sp0Vk-cQ9xaM32vu65vJZKlKgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103661"><img width="500" height="300" title="P1010366" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010366" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cbX9oyoVIFk/WtS5MqubHfI/AAAAAAAApY4/QGih3CkRk6gHjJ0Es5dIFnwQYcFcgiVeQCHMYCw/P1010366_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This is a great pic looking back as we left the Suez Canal, Port Said is on the right hand side. We were now in the Med and heading towards our next port of call – Naples in southern Italy.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mi_yMNC55d0/WtS5OPBgD0I/AAAAAAAApY8/E4mmF8Wj2H09P17W3LIPZ07cz9rNBVUnACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103711"><img width="503" height="307" title="P1010371" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010371" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MWM3lrkOoNc/WtS5PbEX3uI/AAAAAAAApZA/YDHBikz2NuEYVtTqXAnRnhM2gtAtj2etQCHMYCw/P1010371_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Naples gave us the chance to tick off another two items from our bucket list – the first Herculaneum. It’s much smaller than Pompeii but suffered the same fate during the massive eruption off Vesuvius. The approach to the site is from high up and the first impressions, with the Bay of Naples behind, are wonderful. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AbEvWSBzZcM/WtS5RZXMNPI/AAAAAAAApZE/C_6ng7xHCPUiQ33y2thCSe1hOylwkEdIACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103801"><img width="506" height="303" title="P1010380" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010380" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y1Qm5cvJklw/WtS5SlYTCzI/AAAAAAAApZI/L3z0N9OxTf8AU6YLGy-rJ1o0o8-zqubswCHMYCw/P1010380_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The general preservation and detail is terrific – the streets are almost as they were all those years ago.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--AQaSIHEWAo/WtS5TyfqTgI/AAAAAAAApZQ/IIzr4nW4svYLz4UmUpRCYioAHTzNYX_YgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103831"><img width="253" height="337" title="P1010383" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010383" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-01iNHzuLxWA/WtS5VaOFKmI/AAAAAAAApZU/P2DJ19Sx8ZcCRzVicKlg8YJCwbyktwXvwCHMYCw/P1010383_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The interiors of the dwellings still have much of the original wall art and mosaic flooring.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8tYjYu44naM/WtS5XAicUuI/AAAAAAAApZY/KhbV6P8FQUI00NMtfHF90go4Bx2gzeh9gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103851"><img width="514" height="308" title="P1010385" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010385" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YYdJThvf22Y/WtS5YcvhIlI/AAAAAAAApZc/41KcmnAQEqU5hJXwBwpZ8nL_ggNhXs3LgCHMYCw/P1010385_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The richer Romans did not eat or cook much at home but preferred to eat out at fast food joints. This is just such a “kitchen” where they could order and have the food served to them. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mtzHCWMteDA/WtS5ZpA-cHI/AAAAAAAApZk/OHfDMOHiCSgEsUgag6YS5BtZijIzbq8ZACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103861"><img width="514" height="307" title="P1010386" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010386" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-If0zwyTnoJ8/WtS5bAdvguI/AAAAAAAApZo/wYtCRSTIIlMyA-4h6Qk7rX5pEHDMdPdKwCHMYCw/P1010386_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Preservation is still going on and has been for the last ninety or so years.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PGjSALwR4vQ/WtS5ddECbmI/AAAAAAAApZs/BvP22sAxiVIiOGDZlF1H305vnu04B_EjwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103881"><img width="510" height="306" title="P1010388" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010388" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-T554Dk9r8-0/WtS5e7D5rfI/AAAAAAAApZw/LCcGk4GCsn0mgLadkrdxL7jM0CTaWp4RgCHMYCw/P1010388_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Pq7KJQx7XX0/WtS5gphjSvI/AAAAAAAApZ0/ekgXn9MzUc8aNlkkLbMU1XVSSYBg14gtgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103891"><img width="504" height="308" title="P1010389" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010389" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4zVItt00DQM/WtS5h3xJf_I/AAAAAAAApZ4/XUK9AsBmGkQKBHvFJZyibDrSV6X_nKT0gCHMYCw/P1010389_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Someone’s found a quiet corner in which to sit and read the guide book.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SIXZ857Y6mo/WtS5jTH6xDI/AAAAAAAApZ8/JJSfa-j6-WsrgwlAvbqC-Pm4lBgCbtthQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103901"><img width="505" height="300" title="P1010390" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010390" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MlCl3ZfZXN8/WtS5kvidIcI/AAAAAAAApaA/WBP_XHNaj70llAqSc_PNUKS0jM_Y6TXQQCHMYCw/P1010390_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t3bIWS_T3tU/WtS5l0Ep_uI/AAAAAAAApaE/7iREzGellC8U5QxXMuLVp4GUPV7fkqXhQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103911"><img width="504" height="307" title="P1010391" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010391" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f4HqIcRX1R0/WtS5nXzn3pI/AAAAAAAApaI/3XNWmB0NRs0LW3DhJRTYD1Aa-tBJ02pdACHMYCw/P1010391_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The interiors of the Male Bathhouse were really well preserved ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yqolQs4bYM8/WtS5oyHu9_I/AAAAAAAApaM/twDstZsTIlgly-J2_CPiHjADFZe6IF2WQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103921"><img width="504" height="308" title="P1010392" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010392" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6dT1sO6wkC4/WtS5qLhc96I/AAAAAAAApaQ/_7yIqDjTqv8VunB3xBD1HktrCRZxmHEyACHMYCw/P1010392_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and the mosaic floors are still intact, even if part of it has slumped into the hypocausts underneath.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F2xKZd2Ktl0/WtS5reIwGiI/AAAAAAAApaU/gE438tuy-esm0auEpOnOwGV7S75u9mD2gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103981"><img width="501" height="305" title="P1010398" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010398" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cTM-sRZwLi0/WtS5soL7QtI/AAAAAAAApaY/zMVlpfT3U2oJ1nFgJhhjEswmOj4rE9GPwCHMYCw/P1010398_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Some of the streets are so well preserved it needs little imagination as to the day to day activity in Roman times.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eXJC77nWcSw/WtS5uR2vLoI/AAAAAAAApac/2hzlojQglTEuj9WfTODqocFvdKpOkABYQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10103991"><img width="507" height="303" title="P1010399" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010399" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wYjnVEBSksE/WtS5v7sWSBI/AAAAAAAApag/lzeaoaXu_Kg5HkxzPnO5szWHmskrrQbvwCHMYCw/P1010399_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Part of the impressive decoration in the College of the Augustales.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PMIMf-nFsbE/WtS5xEJsSkI/AAAAAAAApak/hTQMdFANhVMhiXldRGqpE0_LN1B2iH_VACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104021"><img width="507" height="301" title="P1010402" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010402" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YiGz8M0SImA/WtS5yvCM8RI/AAAAAAAApao/Z2M72aRd_1MadPvsUvsarGyECBBE_Hr1gCHMYCw/P1010402_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Augustales were a group of freedmen. Their college was built in Herculaneum during the time of the Emperor Augustus. The charred wooden beams are still evident on each side of the central area.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NfAB_dqUAnI/WtS5z-Ehw0I/AAAAAAAApas/D45_VfwKHnQPsNLj2JPd1iK9pMwyCFsWACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104061"><img width="269" height="339" title="P1010406" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010406" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3QpYCMgAR5c/WtS51DyLRZI/AAAAAAAApaw/BkmziKW3LocIocigGLCLfCza4ckp7shlACHMYCw/P1010406_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>More charred wood.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jN5QZyufJpM/WtS52c2DIeI/AAAAAAAApa0/cPkS0v_W014I8OyeP2fXK_CikH2lvLgiwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104121"><img width="484" height="317" title="P1010412" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010412" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-efaSsZPQ42w/WtS53-2BliI/AAAAAAAApa4/AXe4x0AHk8o2FI53Lb4foGRWDz4qPqk1gCHMYCw/P1010412_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Well preserved Amphorae.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bQebjTp7Bq8/WtS55cf-d8I/AAAAAAAApa8/UVf5YlGSiL45cT_kZsNkznRURrfmgbt1wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104151"><img width="493" height="302" title="P1010415" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010415" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LsXmz-1WiDg/WtS563TorGI/AAAAAAAApbA/DddYDUw0x_0xr3e5VNqnokwpQXbfU91zwCHMYCw/P1010415_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Some of the wall mosaics have suffered very little damage.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7nxPEOFPhiM/WtS58RkOQqI/AAAAAAAApbE/ztQJtsVh0KElWA1ViFkBKZHWn3fyoPCbQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104191"><img width="494" height="304" title="P1010419" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010419" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GOKRSxlVhoU/WtS597eaNGI/AAAAAAAApbI/eVKMCZhkBq4wMDjeg2UuXpH7uooISgKbwCHMYCw/P1010419_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rApPwNqrkjg/WtS5__6i-1I/AAAAAAAApbM/A_eDev_NuHoxnmSyNSbcrofPdmrKe_9AQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104201"><img width="516" height="323" title="P1010420" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010420" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BWLB-MkMGDc/WtS6BREg9JI/AAAAAAAApbQ/boFMHvs95LsEIDbVjkP7q-JSqalRekZjwCHMYCw/P1010420_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Intricate carved wooden column tops still exist intact. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cXCfNZ64SFI/WtS6CumwRQI/AAAAAAAApbU/lq6w6pILt3oAPR9JeV840tcshzFTRvCiACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104251"><img width="507" height="323" title="P1010425" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010425" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GXHFXL9umqw/WtS6D42Pt7I/AAAAAAAApbY/asPWGULJx1Ec7sAglE_f4eJ7YlkJTJOqQCHMYCw/P1010425_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A charred wooden bed.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lAI8TOStY1Q/WtS6FkHVP5I/AAAAAAAApbc/nMxtEeTsWBgD5uWRsqO_hNsN7c7z60BnwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104311"><img width="501" height="305" title="P1010431" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010431" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EzuhrIBZLMM/WtS6G3FEiHI/AAAAAAAApbg/QBemLAFt7SI63vjS1qvofG-Gc_UqhbZmQCHMYCw/P1010431_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This is a Taverna with drinking rooms at the rear.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7PVXz36-62o/WtS6IFiot6I/AAAAAAAApbk/jZ1Vt9xb648Ik3JQmaY9UGLNZ2kA0JxUACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104411"><img width="497" height="303" title="P1010441" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010441" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6VnFPyO0IhE/WtS6JSt7PEI/AAAAAAAApbo/AFRY1vOBxAAlwgNhD1Vv-NVN8_v1hoMDwCHMYCw/P1010441_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>It was an amazing visit to Herculaneum – a very compact site but the preservation is wonderful. As we left the ruined city we got this great view of Vesuvius, the reason for the disaster and the site of next adventure. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MH1EG-1PB10/WtS6Kk8CugI/AAAAAAAApbs/j9_t-528GEYB_T7r-FCiNeABRee6CVGFwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104431"><img width="501" height="299" title="P1010443" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010443" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-63FjLerFovc/WtS6LyJ6DWI/AAAAAAAApbw/_bw81tSQIkMWc0FLMQ7V697jzjnU5dGHQCHMYCw/P1010443_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A posterity pic to say were there!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PR-LQEt9bGs/WtS6NZn-GPI/AAAAAAAApb0/56gj2PW7V3QXiVfWwyBdeos9dXmdNsiAACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104551"><img width="507" height="302" title="P1010455" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010455" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2SEcIjM8SUo/WtS6Om74HPI/AAAAAAAApb4/lkPggapi0Fcw-B02DarE-tttcc0-YqIlgCHMYCw/P1010455_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Within an hour we’d got the bus and 45 minutes later we were deposited at the car park near to top of Vesuvius to walk the rest of the way on foot. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oQ2aLsBFWFE/WtS6P6YJRiI/AAAAAAAApb8/5gRq8emxYgcafEnUkqPEzvFVuNxQtHm8wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104561"><img width="512" height="316" title="P1010456" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010456" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E1j_Deaz7No/WtS6QxjMJbI/AAAAAAAApcA/JvS2XXjaPZQMC8t4stcjzzO5Pgb8453DgCHMYCw/P1010456_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>It was still quite a climb to get right up to the rim and to look down into the crater but well worth the effort (and we needed the exercise!) </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--PRvcphVe1A/WtS6Sb2VG-I/AAAAAAAApcE/_Am7u7ntu9Md8AwPH3_SRYI63RGhVNrUACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104601"><img width="510" height="302" title="P1010460" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010460" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XVQAdzZyR1s/WtS6TlyFezI/AAAAAAAApcI/ASFUEFJKN6EvjpB8SPWHXRFaI_JBDWQOgCHMYCw/P1010460_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The views from the top over the Bay of Naples was exhilarating …..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6NbxBQi3lpg/WtS6U2Hbu8I/AAAAAAAApcM/WVuWGMOC87widHhVTEFgib-0d2GYm8sSQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104621"><img width="510" height="301" title="P1010462" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010462" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dx_oaK52-c4/WtS6WHGkLYI/AAAAAAAApcQ/z1VlJmUQh9EoJp5dvsu2E4OTqHYgPXBigCHMYCw/P1010462_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. with Isle of Capri in the distance.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gxh-S478uIs/WtS6XjtzfNI/AAAAAAAApcU/zhCSGTDNZDgvXe8z72HSp8mgMRVfJkjDACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10104671"><img width="512" height="313" title="P1010467" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1010467" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HFZDfFsxkhU/WtS6Y2TfrOI/AAAAAAAApcY/WLzFhlb5Sy8OsVe-a5DkYrZ4xwsX0UQygCHMYCw/P1010467_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A close up view into the crater shows steam rising from the vents in the rocks and a remainder that, even though there’s not been an eruption for over 40 years, the volcano is only dormant and not extinct.</p><p>The recent couple of weeks has seen us tick off some really wonderful items from our bucket list. The cruise itinerary includes quite a lot of sea days but the ports of call have really delivered the goods this time. </p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-74761707581692622532018-03-23T19:24:00.001+00:002018-03-23T19:24:07.652+00:00Oops! Almost Forgot the Last Goa Blog!!<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w7R9_xItH4s/WrVR6VD4cWI/AAAAAAAApGw/NShe3rlOCWoGwpg1fRAr6LZn4VivRf8HACHMYCw/s1600-h/28512574_1692679227422055_437560152_%255B2%255D"><img width="291" height="395" title="28512574_1692679227422055_437560152_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="28512574_1692679227422055_437560152_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q4CJ2RO8Vxo/WrVR7m6LgXI/AAAAAAAApG0/k38J5dfT-DsmogFxfnBpfeAva6FcSqEHwCHMYCw/28512574_1692679227422055_437560152_?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We never need a reason for a new suit while we’re in India. Our tailor in Panjim (which is so full of material it’s difficult to find space to stand!) does us proud every year. Doug ended up with two suits ……. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5XtC5TOU9Gs/WrVR9cbU_YI/AAAAAAAApG4/dDswbtHWFW0Evvc2FUupUiYRyoTb8cCfQCHMYCw/s1600-h/28511863_1692679437422034_1330813648"><img width="291" height="372" title="28511863_1692679437422034_1330813648_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="28511863_1692679437422034_1330813648_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lolf7lXCR1Y/WrVR-pC0jII/AAAAAAAApG8/IHbVsiFLPFQgOcRh2XfDqwpO7ESMs4aSgCHMYCw/28511863_1692679437422034_1330813648%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…… while Cris and James were satisfied with just the one.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YKRn07YnALY/WrVSAl3UmKI/AAAAAAAApHA/2_bYNYd2NWU-53-Wx8CyOcfcrtZ5xO1uQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002911"><img width="491" height="331" title="P1000291" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000291" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WIzpVXuhJXg/WrVSB6fxXJI/AAAAAAAApHE/oa5tHQXGkPcGCR3QdkYzq7Zcitx23QaKQCHMYCw/P1000291_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Doug’s birthday celebrations carried on for more than a week with various events, Champagne parties on our veranda and the works. One such event was an afternoon of waterborne sporting activities (or drinking a lot of sea water more precisely!). First it was paragliding and here's , Bev and Wayne ……</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jfWtyp5N6Nk/WrVSDWIowaI/AAAAAAAApHI/ZgvPLHF9HpQPTa1-KQXoJHUcwEDHr9mhACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002751"><img width="490" height="343" title="P1000275" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000275" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aLfJCjPQywI/WrVSEuKTEEI/AAAAAAAApHM/pSZE0G_4oDobc79xoYufjFXCXUVABSOzQCHMYCw/P1000275_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…. our friend Pundalik, (who we took along as he’d not done anything like it before) and James …….. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-T4B2Ea5FuwU/WrVSGUTylOI/AAAAAAAApHQ/qFXRnZb3EFY17wp7x3zbUOVesbzAaFrBgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002761"><img width="493" height="328" title="P1000276" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000276" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zg7KGoVsk4Y/WrVSHTc_x9I/AAAAAAAApHU/aMWchJHpS9kxCHF3n3NV9cjNvrDOEamMACHMYCw/P1000276_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and Cris and Doug. (no pic of John and Louise here) </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E6T2ilMAuf0/WrVSI0KL_OI/AAAAAAAApHY/BI-tg54qZfI6G1uW0J3YWeDbkUP8rba3gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002991"><img width="278" height="377" title="P1000299" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000299" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AQZpRROAxJs/WrVSKETrzEI/AAAAAAAApHc/UA4yZv4eMRIuj5naFOdDo3QgRouLNqHMACHMYCw/P1000299_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Soon up and ready for hoisting aloft were Pundalik and James.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HkEkN317eoA/WrVSLt34hRI/AAAAAAAApHg/un4s8Jg2-bc_xjRkWRkUfqcgAPHhInOFQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003001"><img width="280" height="367" title="P1000300" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MgfBLJoLSWA/WrVSM_uGOzI/AAAAAAAApHk/TqDybS2cC8IsRUiBOa8vsd-E4dMOeGSWQCHMYCw/P1000300_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After James and Pundalik’s “flight” it was Linzi and Wayne’s turn …… </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZVQzpPRf_30/WrVSOnZKj2I/AAAAAAAApHo/ZXSUWlGGXmktcgVnawsZm0mCh-VdplnnwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003131"><img width="487" height="326" title="P1000313" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000313" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pDTkwl9-u70/WrVSP0uyL3I/AAAAAAAApHs/vWevxLm1aisAi1Px7DG6_jbKq_wmH3QxQCHMYCw/P1000313_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…… then Cris and Doug to be sent skyward …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sgUgT5Z19HE/WrVSRdYVoQI/AAAAAAAApHw/-W72tfcyMSssRG31PnJjVeJAaQcvu0wqACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003181"><img width="492" height="325" title="P1000318" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000318" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zXrSZwqByFM/WrVSSSpetfI/AAAAAAAApH0/2KWvzRWaEToTzzHBbIAuavRAZtZvZeWUACHMYCw/P1000318_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and then given a serious dunking!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-shXKfPyy1Fg/WrVSUN_NE0I/AAAAAAAApH4/i7v_pE_ld9kU9HDhzKN-uonouNVyqKPBwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003191"><img width="498" height="319" title="P1000319" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000319" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VjGHdBOgBoc/WrVSVYaIHKI/AAAAAAAApH8/n4oO1epevOcsndBqcON7MUDvDbjhhadmACHMYCw/P1000319_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After their dunking it was up, up and away! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NUnb6qGQt28/WrVSW0MqcZI/AAAAAAAApIA/iqTf8DHAbOMb1XJG3qmQDX_9H306TytPgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003311"><img width="296" height="382" title="P1000331" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000331" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wrHrylwev34/WrVSYIXLgnI/AAAAAAAApIE/MnYgF81Wo5APeep6FabQI11Wl_okIrsRwCHMYCw/P1000331_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Finally time for Louise and John – once coupled up to the hoist there’s no going back. You’re dragged gently, but firmly, backwards – the boat disappears from under your feet and you’re flying!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tyexkIalSC0/WrVSa10vKLI/AAAAAAAApII/BvmQsuzyH_0w0yA4fGUi7FDHln899lZRwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003361"><img width="495" height="319" title="P1000336" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000336" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5R5_aqTfhQE/WrVScCUdqsI/AAAAAAAApIM/XFOkjZ9MRqMj5xTRVM6GI5R0_KjIKmRuwCHMYCw/P1000336_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>There was a good dunking for John and Louise as well!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_osnSe23Elg/WrVSebyUJ8I/AAAAAAAApIQ/Z4j0fetlq8gF6pcyMUD5owFBgioM-r6fgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003491"><img width="497" height="322" title="P1000349" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000349" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b72fwWWXdmE/WrVSf9rUBoI/AAAAAAAApIU/PpNoNFDz1GoHpW-ea9zEtKQlcZI6hRIYwCHMYCw/P1000349_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After paragliding came the Bumperboard. This is not for the faint hearted! Here’s Doug and Cris about to shoot very unceremoniously into the Arabian Sea for a seriously bumpy ride! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5uLcgHUZULE/WrVShvaSd6I/AAAAAAAApIY/brZvmJrqQVwRKqJKI4Mf726JeS_ETycOgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003701"><img width="502" height="324" title="P1000370" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000370" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uSFHN2eY8lQ/WrVSiwAPN2I/AAAAAAAApIc/_0oISYZcjGIB9Tdtt9gc1fW2zsxUA0PCQCHMYCw/P1000370_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Next came James and Louise. Getting on and holding on is the name of the game but it far from the easiest thing …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EvAyyMIjvuE/WrVSlCnzAxI/AAAAAAAApIg/tEXQihIHuAkokO_ftqX5Scp3rSd8IbZaACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003741"><img width="502" height="311" title="P1000374" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000374" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HO1ylErXDHo/WrVSm5Jy6DI/AAAAAAAApIk/swR1Wm8QS346Wfa6zTp0IhWPVYB8GyE2wCHMYCw/P1000374_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. Louise and James had a very wet and bumpy ride with Louise just managing to stay on until we reached the safety of the beach.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-12oK0_GfJPk/WrVSpNnTVKI/AAAAAAAApIs/TNN_tGnjvjQ83yxuZ6QFMmiUPMv7C_y0gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003811"><img width="504" height="335" title="P1000381" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000381" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AsEjmsAAfAM/WrVSqfIUGnI/AAAAAAAApIw/5qTCHsG1J0Ekvtq4N-hZ6t4MDpRLJds7ACHMYCw/P1000381_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Pundalik and John held on well with (strongman) John still maintaining his grip even when trying to fling them off at the beach.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cNt7zVmMYNs/WrVSssuCDjI/AAAAAAAApI0/5mYHYQZH1wIFq3COTD6nQ4L6S0Ca9m0qgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10003911"><img width="501" height="316" title="P1000391" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000391" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z5I1a1_Uk3Y/WrVSt3COiJI/AAAAAAAApI4/IKTLIGrAHyUzc2exdkf_QHVr-889B1KiQCHMYCw/P1000391_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Next on the agenda was the Banana Boat ride. In two groups we were bounced around and flung off a couple of times but we all survived ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PUd719GOCH0/WrVSvsjsHsI/AAAAAAAApI8/9_kpUEUW5Osu4SozFlg5F7NllKFhAC9TACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004171"><img width="502" height="327" title="P1000417" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000417" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4O5unrg7mJ4/WrVSwxpONoI/AAAAAAAApJA/Zd36Bi5XEpkR_KaKU-ChCD3GSwj9bWAqwCHMYCw/P1000417_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. to enjoy the last excursion on the Jet Ski. Doug and Cris went first …..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pd61-NBwNbk/WrVSyoyRdTI/AAAAAAAApJE/W9UMd9N6Plk3hgh6NUshmWwrTK-ceiihQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004201"><img width="498" height="311" title="P1000420" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000420" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MhIdL64WAvo/WrVSzkHt94I/AAAAAAAApJI/gAwMC2QP2983wc3UrgLhK4f8_Po58_h7wCHMYCw/P1000420_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. for a very rapid lap of the bay …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ExGi4hJXru4/WrVS1sE83MI/AAAAAAAApJM/qE6lcgiFCx81yiX7bGZ3VrS2KvVm1vEVACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004251"><img width="497" height="315" title="P1000425" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000425" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DGpUpBGhyJI/WrVS2wkSiwI/AAAAAAAApJQ/nguAmLQwLuEITrymME3bFXo3CkF0yeKHgCHMYCw/P1000425_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and finished by heading for the beach at an alarming speed!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-709Qn2-uIAQ/WrVS4WsqkrI/AAAAAAAApJU/X8R7OrvJty0zGbvBfpOhjldnFA8P8dgXQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004291"><img width="499" height="313" title="P1000429" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000429" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u2K2A8qdatU/WrVS5g-oD2I/AAAAAAAApJY/BHCIIHhYnm4lWwcYxZvNOwgFnDMvwJ5MACHMYCw/P1000429_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Next it was Wayne and Linzi’s turn. It took six helpers to hold the jet ski still again the waves pounding the beach.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qqtxTDJ3_qQ/WrVS73v4UsI/AAAAAAAApJc/qFDdtjZgYLsVyTr8j-APmQnBk36SUjkNQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004401%255B1%255D"><img width="498" height="317" title="P1000440" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000440" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4ZoTFTgruxU/WrVS9asU-pI/AAAAAAAApJg/R3J7S6eruFkgro7Ry4yONiGijHxBAdVlwCHMYCw/P1000440_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s Linzie and Wayne going for it! The driver was in the middle of the two riders and the rear rider had to lean forward and hold tightly onto the buoyancy jacket of the front rider.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HkcSTQZD3zc/WrVS-_hQ3BI/AAAAAAAApJk/umWiMBdFfNA8xzYJCg7s1EQ4ex-OibEpACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004411"><img width="496" height="320" title="P1000441" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000441" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AypYlH3-gWU/WrVS_1qaPzI/AAAAAAAApJo/wR2fhz_JoAYmquhBRDglFWu6DkZbM23EwCHMYCw/P1000441_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Great pic of Wayne and Linzi just about to land on the beach.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zDjFzSGG1Ek/WrVTCTCgOBI/AAAAAAAApJs/FvMaqib6sdg4IYooOR00CE1I2OqyMwpXQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004431"><img width="496" height="314" title="P1000443" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000443" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nOA6svTI0kQ/WrVTDneV_lI/AAAAAAAApJw/tQHqzUpw92MPQ7RO8O6x3JZ5DrnIfKarACHMYCw/P1000443_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Next were John and Louise ……</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oCchD7WJGwc/WrVTF5o46qI/AAAAAAAApJ4/ujHJW-ts3fQ4nzAEKhxkWtR9dYfjVo7UgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004581"><img width="499" height="310" title="P1000458" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000458" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4tgWKIC0SZw/WrVTHT_mLFI/AAAAAAAApJ8/rLCSHMw2cL46lx2SMysj5HH1fNM-OEWlwCHMYCw/P1000458_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. doing a few flying passes.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eGDLSXjSjlA/WrVTJl7Rv6I/AAAAAAAApKA/_XdrW9ewR2QPgko_3NsId1w2GgDpy_sVQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004621"><img width="498" height="321" title="P1000462" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000462" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g7xko-AW9DA/WrVTLFi807I/AAAAAAAApKE/hZFbiKIAOCk2y8w-hLPfh8C5Ibb6IiotwCHMYCw/P1000462_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Last, but not least, were James and Pundalik. A great deal of fun was had by all and a great deal of seawater was drunk by some!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UfkA9ryI7_k/WrVTMJFJtMI/AAAAAAAApKI/gRqNmZSSYRUfp3Hxzp0PkDY1ClfafKsCQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004751"><img width="495" height="306" title="P1000475" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000475" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dtUes6FouRY/WrVTNWnuc4I/AAAAAAAApKQ/sNCQtwFqx6QBik0LHD0fD_vt42ggyYAhACHMYCw/P1000475_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>One evening, towards the end of our stay, we asked Pundalik at Kingfisher Shack to complete the birthday celebrations with a firework and bonfire evening for all those friends who were still with us in Goa (and anyone else who wanted to join in). As we watched one of the last gorgeous Goan sunsets ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rm9fZmaQqqg/WrVTOz5hbYI/AAAAAAAApKY/fpZcwjPqrDoHy5ll5weOIVtqnZphd9mzgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004781"><img width="495" height="315" title="P1000478" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000478" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o-4QON-jFQM/WrVTQHmj2jI/AAAAAAAApKc/JdG4nrHBdPguDMS1Zzz2oZ_MOg_AtjITwCHMYCw/P1000478_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. the evening got underway with food and drink. Here’s John, Cris, Doug, Louise and Masala Masala ……….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9GtouyIkALU/WrVTR3RlY4I/AAAAAAAApKg/rKQjrlSlu803n7lHgV6FwMsjcv97kJnmgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10004991"><img width="503" height="329" title="P1000499" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000499" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_LuzdvUvpHI/WrVTTf4woJI/AAAAAAAApKk/NfhUV5MNKFoZq_16ZXx7xyBaT5G44tebwCHMYCw/P1000499_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and of the many others seem to be more interested in getting the bonfire lit than eating!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IhXfDSs0akA/WrVTVL1XjlI/AAAAAAAApKo/3wZSUXPUbDwQzpVgxA5ZvRHFLMsAPW9lgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005031"><img width="497" height="323" title="P1000503" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000503" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-olmSyoH5Cws/WrVTWTFCcTI/AAAAAAAApKs/8Vex4njXpEcc0KqAdLkImNPtdJGP3oyRACHMYCw/P1000503_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The fireworks came out – first with giant sparklers ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ihWQ-fGJ8sw/WrVTXb-imjI/AAAAAAAApKw/vD0s4Kh7BYAjbBErj98_F_Dh4qBeVX5_QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005051"><img width="500" height="335" title="P1000505" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000505" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XlhXUYdk9OY/WrVTYUhGu2I/AAAAAAAApK0/T5gJqFV3T0ki2ZkiMKuLXjEOL9OiRZKZwCHMYCw/P1000505_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… and then the big ones giving a splendid display over the beach.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dnanAMwx0zo/WrVTZyljgSI/AAAAAAAApLA/MGtL6OCmRmU18U4gofuVUoQRv51ZWwZ4ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005161"><img width="502" height="318" title="P1000516" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000516" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y5HaQ3utPf0/WrVTbB7_tCI/AAAAAAAApLE/IhK0c6xRXfAyqo8AiliK5lEMSE-eSpjsgCHMYCw/P1000516_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>As we’ve mentioned many times before, Indian’s aren’t much interested in Health and Safety! Big Roman Candles and firecrackers going off all over the place! But, as is quite normal, everybody had great fun ……</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EZ6mTT8kOXc/WrVTcoZqHHI/AAAAAAAApLI/dM9dEPw4KYEN_K_2UnGCLQqIGL4989zfACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005211"><img width="502" height="328" title="P1000521" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000521" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QudWOMOyiBo/WrVTd32ezCI/AAAAAAAApLM/2YFTmL0HascCVMH50sfPltn_o-wHzE_pgCHMYCw/P1000521_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and all ended safely. Here’s Louise and Pundalik with the last of the sparklers.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FI-Z4ZUUwa8/WrVTgDU5KYI/AAAAAAAApLQ/TJ0FTd7PSfIH4-eEZWa1Ja5vWfaXHP4JgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005391"><img width="501" height="334" title="P1000539" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000539" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-erTWFg2FrpU/WrVThQg7EgI/AAAAAAAApLU/JHIqVyX27bYLdROW7M45GDddERCgC6KLACHMYCw/P1000539_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>While we had a free afternoon we really felt we wanted to go back to see our friend (and ex P&O wine waiter) Julie and eight month old Samuel. As Cris was still with us he came too.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CI-FKVGEbxw/WrVTi3L_vII/AAAAAAAApLY/y0us2Icv1w0enn2yrrhB47iWgAZ69tZhACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005441"><img width="500" height="317" title="P1000544" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000544" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KM4U4EWv_K4/WrVTkM0QXvI/AAAAAAAApLc/icqIgtveJG80rB1N0BxdmuUz9rcjbFRLwCHMYCw/P1000544_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Cris seemed very much at home entertaining Samuel ………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2fSf6RVWkRU/WrVTloTzjnI/AAAAAAAApLg/9ycSUlsyn2Qg6lSF374_SCqSSyfR6n-eACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005521"><img width="503" height="330" title="P1000552" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000552" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Wb0c7OapNps/WrVTmnKAEyI/AAAAAAAApLk/IxeUNbhVSBwTRrgJ85DUdp81F6-0aeiRgCHMYCw/P1000552_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and, if we’re not mistaken, some paternal feelings were surfacing!! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WXuZEM7kW9g/WrVTov3c6UI/AAAAAAAApLo/AIWhtAerhLQxYpzo9_rQ0p6se1kRJP-PwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005561"><img width="503" height="329" title="P1000556" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000556" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EBTDhhIeNTY/WrVTp0gwfDI/AAAAAAAApLs/P9snvx4bp44q2Q67FQ_Xrh6ZnQRV1PbpgCHMYCw/P1000556_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The fun lasted right until the very end. With just an hour to go before the taxi took us to the airport Doug had one last thing to do. Before we came out he’d bought THE cow suit from the “Tipsy Cow” pub which closed last year in Blackpool. Promising to give ‘the cow’ some experience of world travel Cris (bless him) brought the suit out with him. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eXU536Hko48/WrVTr6JJcHI/AAAAAAAApLw/oD2brJunSPY3Ws-GAfEjYOVu028424TCACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005621"><img width="505" height="319" title="P1000562" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000562" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KfkbQ5cpTAU/WrVTsxCdCaI/AAAAAAAApL0/lMr7SxRXn3M0gMCufZvcl56Q4xGGMPsVwCHMYCw/P1000562_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Doug wanted to show ‘the cow’ around Candolim and have some fun in the process! Here he is saying good bye to our barbers Talib and Javeed.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jt9CQ-kuwPU/WrVTutxtCzI/AAAAAAAApL4/VoOXtTtuBsEdNl3ZlvYCjc7mqklg0W0GgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005631"><img width="504" height="316" title="P1000563" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000563" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GV9dlH9S4hI/WrVTvi0bjCI/AAAAAAAApL8/2jMI0JCmv8Myu-sgmsWaZu1Z94nVe1u5QCHMYCw/P1000563_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Leaving the barber boys it was “don’t spare the horses” down to ……….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9r2icJFsByg/WrVTxgJ91XI/AAAAAAAApMA/w6XB4Qa7e5Uz7pMidDUJ5LgR-1QYMmT7ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005671"><img width="496" height="317" title="P1000567" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000567" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-T4JZZYo6xgk/WrVTzJ6AhqI/AAAAAAAApME/OERF2c5LPWwh30e3ApUbb99lZhCXbzavQCHMYCw/P1000567_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. Mikey’s Place to say good bye to our very dear friend Manju.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dyFRTYDom-w/WrVT1nZWuEI/AAAAAAAApMI/G7gs39EiL9AQwKYQKAq0I8-JIpBMght5gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005721"><img width="495" height="327" title="P1000572" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000572" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EMTwfx-oocw/WrVT3A0oNNI/AAAAAAAApMM/Ny4q3htbJjk6q2XFATdjre0fzfpyhdKOACHMYCw/P1000572_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Then it was a quick sprint back up the road ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aVIodl4t15U/WrVT5OENT9I/AAAAAAAApMU/Tbwt7S3qyKA2MuFvxATBpzgBGa5EoaDmwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005731"><img width="494" height="342" title="P1000573" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000573" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g8L76xTUGE4/WrVT6NMO6oI/AAAAAAAApMY/fjb4Bgv3PNYKqZPvO9kufbOCTIiTtvuzQCHMYCw/P1000573_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and home to get the taxi!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tdm-tG6nYNw/WrVT73rk0fI/AAAAAAAApMc/cC7jmsDd-FUYH2Bd2iNT6LZnd0O3_tzVACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10404611"><img width="496" height="318" title="P1040461" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040461" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ncIPP-NEUjY/WrVT98EL7tI/AAAAAAAApMg/iFC3oHER2xYLGYKIbhmHsQO9GqHww2tQACHMYCw/P1040461_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our stay in Candolim has been extra special with our apartment this year backing onto jungle and grassland. The wildlife has been quite spectacular and these few images give only a taste of the spectacle we enjoyed day after day as we ate breakfast or spent the evening with friends on the veranda. Mr and Mrs Peafowl were very regular visitors. The Peacock was forever showing off and it was an unforgettable sight watching them fly in to scratch around the grassland for food. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZnrK60Fur0M/WrVT_-871lI/AAAAAAAApMo/r4Evba80Mks1ms3EfEMf_kZfFwdrlCFVQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10404961"><img width="491" height="320" title="P1040496" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040496" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OAp12B5JtRY/WrVUBB3zsHI/AAAAAAAApMs/IN3IjIqWrwU7nOHfi138kA4mV4aGPAtAwCHMYCw/P1040496_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A couple of species of Kingfisher were often spotted. This is the more common one and is much bigger than the British ones we see along the canals.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EJbENajxSzE/WrVUCj_lBtI/AAAAAAAApMw/CFdMdsewXNkZoL4AYQrbui8rrIWMr3t5wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10405451%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="324" title="P1040545" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040545" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j-gfgj3RlB4/WrVUDhe7XkI/AAAAAAAApM0/x2-bfJ10L1QlguyY5XGD78ls9GPgnLxRgCHMYCw/P1040545_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Can’t recall this one but gorgeous plumage which stood out among the branches of the trees and shrubs.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KNxjIK0Z6k0/WrVUFGuMFmI/AAAAAAAApM4/6LtoNEHBN8cqqFlB1x33TdPY_0gtl_1uACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10405471%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="323" title="P1040547" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040547" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MlciavwYg3w/WrVUGA8Td-I/AAAAAAAApM8/iDFc5RfdbQsiPiAcORkpXOMiJxQ4wmuzgCHMYCw/P1040547_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The Drongos were very common and sat on the branches near the veranda quite happily and gave us a lot of time to enjoy their beauty.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zemUENv6URg/WrVUISKmyLI/AAAAAAAApNA/T_XEMWEcYNE5ZGPgVjQyI2DvDfO2X18GACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10005531"><img width="499" height="326" title="P1000553" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000553" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s4uEal2oK40/WrVUJkj1HKI/AAAAAAAApNE/-wRdK5PA6U4mleDkraxXVggKx7vuQ4-GgCHMYCw/P1000553_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The sacred cattle, which wander wherever they please, would come onto the grassland ………..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gOWIOjSIDHo/WrVULFL3CII/AAAAAAAApNI/eQAjaUlwfTwh5P1x0iWKMsjBTxpt1jZgQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10405681"><img width="499" height="320" title="P1040568" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040568" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CN5pKXJrgrU/WrVUMRW2NyI/AAAAAAAApNM/4xZb6QVSxI42_i7TrbI94nWtRkVfs1_CQCHMYCw/P1040568_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and the Mongoose would come to play on a pile of brushwood.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y00E-ohJ0sI/WrVUOCnCbfI/AAAAAAAApNQ/7iRv68SALd0elFLNrNUDfjA8tMNnPkkywCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10405791%255B1%255D"><img width="496" height="319" title="P1040579" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040579" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-COTy_2Q3OlM/WrVUPcsvVGI/AAAAAAAApNU/bgJ-4NLXfnUTt6Z0brE-R8MVOtP8X9clgCHMYCw/P1040579_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This must be ‘Mr’ and ‘Mrs’ as they were quite often together. Spring was certainly in the air for them!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g_oTotjXL3o/WrVURHUnVYI/AAAAAAAApNY/EcjSvSWOY9EEKoz-V-3AuVehrjaqIjybQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10405831"><img width="497" height="327" title="P1040583" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040583" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OHwZfY2oze4/WrVUSeSiu8I/AAAAAAAApNg/HcCQMpx1qc4FcbooIpB7cjW5CjzZmXFxQCHMYCw/P1040583_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The Water Buffalo would also come and bathe in the pool, complete with their little Egrets.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HccQRYAh2k8/WrVUUGB3fzI/AAAAAAAApNk/JiG22BgbbPsP13mYkG8PymcZYt7hm0zIwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10405941"><img width="498" height="348" title="P1040594" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040594" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TktKKLZyb5k/WrVUVVlQs7I/AAAAAAAApNo/oN1onK8JYCYyZM4Y2nM2gpHMfofstjxzQCHMYCw/P1040594_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Then they’d leave the cool waters of the pool and make their way through the scrub to graze on the grassland.</p><p>Our 100 days in Goa had come to an end. It was a social whirl from beginning to end with local Indian friends as well as visiting friends from the UK. Our trip to Maharashtra to meet Manju’s parents was a particular and unique pleasure. Kerala, and our visit to the the hill station of Munnar in the Western Ghats, was amazing. Having two wheeled transport at our disposal this time made a great difference and we were able to travel out and around Goa a great deal. But, eventually, we had to say farewell to many lovely friends – some have become part of our family, and we have of theirs. We’ve been, we’ve seen and we’ve learnt so much again but to England we’ve now returned for a short while to get our breath back before further adventures.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-85566919227651510212018-03-02T18:40:00.001+00:002018-03-02T18:40:08.293+00:00Goa “Goings On” (Someone’s 50th!)<p>Candolim was a frenzy of activity over the days before and after the Big Birthday! Many friends from the UK timed their holidays to be with us for “the big day” and it’s numerous events and celebrations.<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_6atug-5jg8/WpmX0iIKjtI/AAAAAAAApBw/5FZodzBjmrYWMMsZruAZkDnlwnIPfpgbwCHMYCw/s1600-h/28512515_1692678970755414_930116220_%255B1%255D"><img width="500" height="313" title="28512515_1692678970755414_930116220_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="28512515_1692678970755414_930116220_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W8NSI_FdYfg/WpmX3Y2Ug7I/AAAAAAAApB0/ZcTeSewEUQUTchVB9RXXgYft9i0WCogOACHMYCw/28512515_1692678970755414_930116220_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A pre-birthday event was one of Doug’s much loved “island trips”. The party gang took 18 seats of the 26 seater boat. The rest were taken by a charming group of Indian lads who also joined in much of our celebration that day.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UqVtqU4JV8Q/WpmX5VgjJuI/AAAAAAAApB4/MzVSRbxgedURTu9hIl12Yg7oPS4kdGfBwCHMYCw/s1600-h/28534188_1692679004088744_1518729089%255B1%255D"><img width="258" height="317" title="28534188_1692679004088744_1518729089_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="28534188_1692679004088744_1518729089_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7l5RoxT7i0Y/WpmX7XUCarI/AAAAAAAApB8/2-ISj1b7CSMFIEp9JuEn_GzwAdMh1BrvQCHMYCw/28534188_1692679004088744_1518729089?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We enjoyed the customary visit to one of the offshore islands for some swimming and snorkelling. One of the boat’s crew dived down to retrieve something of interest for us to see. Here’s Margaret (forever to be known now as ‘Margaret darling’) holding a magnificent Sea Urchin.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eFSlm6Q3oQs/WpmX9pa9xmI/AAAAAAAApCA/7ZZoWaGeWKQwpBJ8PPhrqmZTV4jSFDPOwCHMYCw/s1600-h/28535904_1692678870755424_1092630522%255B1%255D"><img width="501" height="316" title="28535904_1692678870755424_1092630522_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="28535904_1692678870755424_1092630522_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r02ACeaaobg/WpmX_yULH_I/AAAAAAAApCE/ZNytRspEJo4vJpLt_EmrBHYMSKnmxr8ywCHMYCw/28535904_1692678870755424_1092630522?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After the snorkelling we journeyed to Monkey Beach for a lunchtime BBQ. Here’s a break-away group of the main contingent – Darryl (front) with Margaret darling, then Cris (back towards us), John and Louise (standing) and Caroline and Giddy in the centre. A fantastic day enjoyed by all.<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bBGUPJypgwM/WpmYCM3pj3I/AAAAAAAApCI/mezRjXYyuhslwDjsZCFiogM2_GG4EuC9gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10000595"><img width="503" height="316" title="P1000059" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000059" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P1BK2hWVOjc/WpmYEX317EI/AAAAAAAApCM/uBu2EW3hETQHruCa79D6MSD2CfnIS00-QCHMYCw/P1000059_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On one evening we had a Champagne reception for all the friends who had planned their hols around Doug’s birthday. They had all, very kindly, brought the odd bottle of Champagne with them to boost the stocks – Cris, Giddy, Louise, John, Doug, Margaret darling, Caroline, Darryl, Wayne, Linzi and Bev.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K9T5fvocHN8/WpmYGEAeA0I/AAAAAAAApCQ/Wyi_jbrJm8o-w6CehCBHZf7De8j8WnoRgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10000645"><img width="500" height="301" title="P1000064" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000064" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3Cgutv9wfJs/WpmYIMcE8uI/AAAAAAAApCU/GvPVHah58JY0aM8ZksgMlqkn4MKXm13sgCHMYCw/P1000064_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and we cannot forget our splendid friends Manju and “Masala Masala”. Masala, who is a childhood friend of Manju, was our driver when we went to Maharashtra to see Manju’s parents and since then has become firmly part of our family. Just as a little aside - we recently arranged a check up for Manju with our dentist (he’d never seen one in all his 23 years) and her verdict:- “he has the finest set of of teeth I have ever seen – I wish I had them!” </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iHf3ifwyW60/WpmYKMWOlPI/AAAAAAAApCY/-ecbqbD96xcSqVmnbs4lLzE8QVU4ILAhwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001685"><img width="499" height="307" title="P1000168" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000168" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QrtZEXiURG4/WpmYMbMxx_I/AAAAAAAApCc/PAZBqmjckL0N6S5lBAgLstRjsZ4F8hZNgCHMYCw/P1000168_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The next birthday event was a trip up the Chapora River on a rice boat. Something we’ve done before, of course, but this time we took over all three of the cabins with friends. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6fXp3WkqVsc/WpmYOb6FEvI/AAAAAAAApCg/2By4QANG3WU_WjRQ7zmbCbb0yTxRgURygCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10000695"><img width="498" height="309" title="P1000069" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000069" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DxlUXl0WhJk/WpmYQ8Y_7iI/AAAAAAAApCk/2FI2OfqX6xcze8WhMBGwqAw91LUvoftswCHMYCw/P1000069_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Having boarded and settled in we cruised down to the mouth of the river at Turtle Beach to enjoy the sunset.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L-qA_41h9WA/WpmYUH8VCpI/AAAAAAAApCo/XfIO3cFG8ZMDQ2BVqWMrIK9j9yrJwTKlwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10000835"><img width="492" height="300" title="P1000083" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000083" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LB1X-kEjJIw/WpmYXLje6NI/AAAAAAAApCs/Hgcmc68V5c4g3nb-liEq0ar9lldDs2CZACHMYCw/P1000083_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Something that Captain Rameshaw has always wanted is for some of his guests to swim ashore rather than be transported by dingy. The tidal current is extremely strong but Cris, Wayne and Doug decided to have a go. Ramesh was on hand with the safety boat just in case but all three made it to the beach! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ORfTrmcpTw8/WpmYabKKV0I/AAAAAAAApCw/rrwYpheiKXshqmfrjBlS5KaUVm-x0VCnQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10000665"><img width="490" height="301" title="P1000066" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000066" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DkxW5nFoEVI/WpmYdfDUfeI/AAAAAAAApC0/uaJyfWvINKkfJNPwMEXphZWkpm4ONp3-gCHMYCw/P1000066_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Captain Rameshaw knows us well and was happy to hand over the ship’s wheel to Cris. (Ramesh made sure he always had an eye on things though!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ezcJ0Ng7HnQ/WpmYgxCoMxI/AAAAAAAApC4/rKESxjTpkmgApvTIC1XJ670G8PA_-PCRQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10000965"><img width="493" height="306" title="P1000096" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000096" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fwQOc8C_sd8/WpmYjQkAYqI/AAAAAAAApC8/Cy0dmqcNMAIFRHthcUpfwmi0-5jfEErzQCHMYCw/P1000096_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s our Chapora River trip contingent – Wayne, Louise, Doug,John, Cris, Bev and Linzi. (with James behind the camera!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kBrIbE4wZRw/WpmYmL7fi_I/AAAAAAAApDA/tsQSz7x1LlIlR-zKWdBNSCUuNFHzi6vlgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001365"><img width="488" height="311" title="P1000136" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000136" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MVf_e923Rpk/WpmYorpePTI/AAAAAAAApDE/BAN4brH88lE123zK44Xtz_94c2w58b7xACHMYCw/P1000136_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Although we recently had a night on a rice boat on the backwaters in Kerela the Chapora River comes up trumps for serenity and beauty every time …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2U-zC8WENjE/WpmYrC1y5UI/AAAAAAAApDI/Y8OhYpEGsRULy5-Ya3M9kTkn5VGYUqY1wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001495"><img width="492" height="302" title="P1000149" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000149" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_Fk1T9fdVFk/WpmYtmq5V6I/AAAAAAAApDM/KXbkRqhLfh4FT6qYYMOXUH_HjLFnr5duACHMYCw/P1000149_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. every view is a relaxation ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J7Y0uir6_-w/WpmYweoAxkI/AAAAAAAApDQ/rg6U5UupTy0cW9AvvzR7yZvNNPHiGiXiQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001665"><img width="489" height="310" title="P1000166" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000166" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a1inxsKK4fE/WpmYz0mBeYI/AAAAAAAApDU/QRGGaE1WJUondSVN54T9azfW2dnfr2pgACHMYCw/P1000166_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and, although this time, we didn’t see any crocs the views were enough to make the trip, as always, a real pleasure.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jjpoK6QhaXk/WpmY3BscZwI/AAAAAAAApDc/mItDizcVNrYrTi3D_uQh4bd_HraQz0QKACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001765"><img width="492" height="307" title="P1000176" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000176" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5d8MaezKgIE/WpmY529KmNI/AAAAAAAApDg/WpC_AXvlvT8eddgG1v_NcL0G_cpHm939gCHMYCw/P1000176_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Well, the big day at last arrived and Doug reached his half century! – although being on another continent it made it slightly confusing as to the exact moment of the astrological event. We had the birthday party at Mikey’s Place (where we’re now part of the furniture) and Doug, dressed in Indian attire, was welcomed with flowers, garlands and sash. James, Caroline, Doug and Giddy. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hcIx4-Jn7cI/WpmY8yGp2fI/AAAAAAAApDo/waw-IGrMXTsd2J_jYaoStZUHXi0ceWM0wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001785"><img width="487" height="307" title="P1000178" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000178" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VuGk2NywrVg/WpmZA7N5WvI/AAAAAAAApDs/HYVZz7fiw7Ea8nlovScvKekEVNeDuI5bQCHMYCw/P1000178_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Manju, who works at Mikey’s Place when he’s not studying at college, with Cris’ help, did all the arrangements for what was going to be the most splendid of evenings.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-38Ui3OSP_js/WpmZDijonzI/AAAAAAAApDw/SFc1pwrdcyUQVnyLiLWPNjB3SVmIZ9XIwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001805"><img width="482" height="292" title="P1000180" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000180" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZQFKDK7fKUI/WpmZGbtNYEI/AAAAAAAApD0/_6vmceKyGYkkVB-Ql3fw3L2Oq2US6CRIwCHMYCw/P1000180_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>About 40 guests arrived for the celebrations. The UK friends couldn’t believe how many Indian friends were there and the Indian friends couldn’t believe how many UK friends were there! We feel privileged indeed for that to be so. Doug, Richard, Adele, Joe, Ste, Anne and Rebecca.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a_jIecZxw-4/WpmZJOL5_MI/AAAAAAAApD4/rZ37VY-X1aM0ilWvVImRx1mquT5MfIKWgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001915"><img width="489" height="305" title="P1000191" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000191" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rEVdpav2YpA/WpmZMsbzeEI/AAAAAAAApD8/K_rKBRlIpW4hx93G8BSwPp1uq9S4ruGbQCHMYCw/P1000191_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Wayne, Bev and Linzi.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fykWXgunxYw/WpmZQK6RG9I/AAAAAAAApEA/yu8bEkJFEy0_o4OGH-mIlDYH2ZLjZ7txwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001875"><img width="487" height="307" title="P1000187" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000187" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4LuBmfxcI0E/WpmZS_yxW4I/AAAAAAAApEE/d21eQver5_0QPJsuDGyOrbZ5e0qPcV2eACHMYCw/P1000187_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>General party view.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O3tisfiGf8U/WpmZWWVTTgI/AAAAAAAApEI/3OpHUzPwZnI7z7IqrqJmBPuUk1SLwgbgQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001925"><img width="488" height="290" title="P1000192" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000192" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hDK37Y5X87I/WpmZZVuSURI/AAAAAAAApEM/gv8iebehYLoFjKZkFtQUKHNrxUAJq-b0QCHMYCw/P1000192_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Masala masala, Darryl, Margaret darling, Caroline and Giddy.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uGrDF6Vd7Es/WpmZcFFimPI/AAAAAAAApEQ/TPTuEoiHmAg88-NRQalj3xZ7lUqrLXpKgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001965"><img width="496" height="314" title="P1000196" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000196" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ipdZovdbX94/WpmZe8Q6KTI/AAAAAAAApEU/ixPDaZN2UOEB0lqtujEJ9F5yYg_GtXLQACHMYCw/P1000196_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We were so pleased to have UK friends Brian and Mike (they only live a few miles from us in England but, due to each of us always being somewhere in the world, we only ever get to meet up in Goa! Brian and Mike travelled up from their holiday apartment in South Goa to be with us. (with Louise and John)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wH1NjHy7wL4/WpmZhdtE8_I/AAAAAAAApEY/NSwFndUuq_A8qH22Z3-Z29VY3GnzFd_PQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001935"><img width="488" height="294" title="P1000193" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000193" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--g1Khp5fTYM/WpmZkdDwVII/AAAAAAAApEc/FE378mPQRYE87sqeenqU_dtNCOGPDAqcwCHMYCw/P1000193_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The boys from Mapsa market also joined us for the party – Sachin, Manog, Jitesh, Vikas and Akash.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7R2um_boL8M/WpmZm9K_8HI/AAAAAAAApEg/14OkKJrt1jgu2cgUkPjXCoF1f0asAO38wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001885"><img width="478" height="290" title="P1000188" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000188" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Yy87N4w0V6Y/WpmZp75phUI/AAAAAAAApEk/8sOrMDkvWswIPnGegKUD-U3xEylxLCKqwCHMYCw/P1000188_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Julroy (back to us), Ray, Bosco, Rita, Julia and Roshan.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tT70otn1Mvk/WpmZsX2WkoI/AAAAAAAApEo/yeXwsx4esmor6C1EnG-5cKBERSnarIfMgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002015"><img width="489" height="308" title="P1000201" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000201" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4JsH2brLG9I/WpmZvb14QgI/AAAAAAAApEs/DuM4eA2FSGgZQpoONJ0uVLmxdWKUD7AqwCHMYCw/P1000201_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>… and a better pic of the two lovely friends who travelled from South Goa just for the evening – Bosco and Julroy.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--vwUX1zl0lE/WpmZyWiolRI/AAAAAAAApEw/a8Lqn8KHcrwCFFoitYDqejKX8tj3Xg7WwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002105"><img width="483" height="293" title="P1000210" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000210" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z2qEmiwTd5o/WpmZ1N2OsZI/AAAAAAAApE0/rL8gbZpw9zs_nFM9RaMznC38XeTgJonewCHMYCw/P1000210_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Eventually it was cake cutting time! and, amid a hail of party poppers, crackers and confetti, Doug was just able to see the cake to cut it!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yDarCRzHHvM/WpmZ35Af72I/AAAAAAAApE4/7LZr2Wgelh47n963yLmSW_IYN_qHNN53QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002205"><img width="490" height="300" title="P1000220" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000220" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ww9KRwL7I50/WpmZ63L9IQI/AAAAAAAApE8/_aONhYpOHmQ9P61IvZHkFwvqCyrMY5TowCHMYCw/P1000220_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>As is the custom in India, the birthday boy has some cake plastered on his face! Cris (who did the most amazing job as ‘master of ceremonies’), Manju and is amazing teeth (who tries to get in on most pics – but also did an amazing job of arranging things) and Doug (not bad for half a century – the cake’s doing a good job of hiding the cracks!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b979CbjxH-I/WpmZ9eVG8FI/AAAAAAAApFA/edAebicyx1cq4b1OaC7xssOaapD2kpivgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002325"><img width="500" height="313" title="P1000232" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000232" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KaEUb-GnJXY/WpmaAfaAxRI/AAAAAAAApFE/mB4czNkAzKs24kXyIYdXrUMBKmAy_US7wCHMYCw/P1000232_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Roshan, Masala masala and Manju (again!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dEfz5hGkHP4/WpmaDSgywSI/AAAAAAAApFI/29FCSs3MMM8nOtSwg9Tqh9tni3IQ-OV-QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002375"><img width="504" height="316" title="P1000237" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000237" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FVbu9SZjiH0/WpmaGOYMj4I/AAAAAAAApFM/GGDuWq7Yxu4yGZRVr_Gcb69g9voExUcJgCHMYCw/P1000237_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Doug, Roshan, Cris, Bobby, Rebecca, Mohan and James.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GDTmjps8ZxQ/WpmaIonDkNI/AAAAAAAApFQ/bTF0wFBG7dQdkKGWV2iMLPrDmSDJHMoIgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002475"><img width="502" height="314" title="P1000247" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000247" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-od-KimBUJ4k/WpmaLamArhI/AAAAAAAApFU/TF_pFTKuMZYy72y093d8tXQDz0D2MXxzACHMYCw/P1000247_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Cris, Doug (in a change of clothes!) and Manju (again!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K4iNZy7tugk/WpmaOVkiv5I/AAAAAAAApFY/JBby_nbXia0YmzckP5IsCF9fmsiw_pWyACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002305"><img width="496" height="314" title="P1000230" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000230" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fv_wjigWeNM/WpmaRMLUYbI/AAAAAAAApFc/1z36WWEep40PbvnfrLTMygPOtB3i0y9iACHMYCw/P1000230_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This was most of what was left after many people needed to get home (some travelling a long way and needing to be at work in the morning). Either side of Doug are Alex and Pundalik – from Kingfisher Beach Shack and either side of Darryl on the right are Patchi and Raj – from Princess Corner Beach Shack. It was great to see these boys as they work so hard during the day and late into the evening and they still had enough energy to come to the party.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Eem0swYaKG4/WpmaTmw3VgI/AAAAAAAApFg/GqbXOA2iGD0TQLUFJgBwEdhgFTor4VffACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002545"><img width="274" height="366" title="P1000254" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000254" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gRirExomsU8/WpmaWoTpHbI/AAAAAAAApFk/ToKNiQG1RbUxLqb9EHch4AYx1myyzsGigCHMYCw/P1000254_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We even had a “cow” turn up towards the end of the evening! (It’s actually Manju again – he’ll do anything to get in a pic!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WMez3WSHaF4/WpmaZa_rw8I/AAAAAAAApFo/nluNp6603_AaRyxkYHMCBPHtG6OuF8tqwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10001715"><img width="281" height="360" title="P1000171" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000171" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zA_WVq0-gw0/Wpmab4dtX2I/AAAAAAAApFw/SiSJiWKgUZkYNUO3s-62FaOePzUT-UE4ACHMYCw/P1000171_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Flowers from James …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DfHV_CKLIE8/WpmaeciyxKI/AAAAAAAApF0/0QmCx0oTyZ8Uke9OWaRHn-0AaixaoE-RwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10002705"><img width="492" height="308" title="P1000270" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1000270" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aRn5E_vO9U0/Wpmahh5dHgI/AAAAAAAApF4/wq1FwESwn2QF81IRHOO8fyRoBWI9EiSjQCHMYCw/P1000270_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and from many other friends.</p><p>It has to be one of the biggest “THANK YOU’S” to everyone who came, brought gifts and added so much just by being there with us to celebrate Doug’s 50th and to Manju and Cris for all their hard work. The party did not see the last of the celebrations by any means – watch out for the next blog!</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-61384999027231681412018-02-07T14:12:00.001+00:002018-02-07T14:12:12.022+00:00Our Week in Kerala<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oIbP07ZsQ_U/WnsGNu9Of2I/AAAAAAAAo7s/85ZXNjaQ0yoi8scE1V9qORaOQvETrt1MQCHMYCw/s1600-h/27783107_1669756486380996_1993490112%255B2%255D"><img width="501" height="261" title="27783107_1669756486380996_1993490112_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783107_1669756486380996_1993490112_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-57xAg5gORYw/WnsGR7qGu-I/AAAAAAAAo7w/G9Ak6Cuj_nUYZlD5dRl8GUayXwKzoXvKwCHMYCw/27783107_1669756486380996_1993490112?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Some things in life do not go quite according to plan and Doug’s barber, Talib’s, attempt to slightly darken Doug’s hair (quite why, will be one of the great unanswered questions!) has been one of them! It turned out to be a perfect colour match to the Queen’s Daimler – burgundy! Anyway, back to travelling ……….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rmZelkKtyD0/WnsGWQQepgI/AAAAAAAAo70/5MEZlolLb5ImSFi-3AahAYmrOhpffcHaQCHMYCw/s1600-h/27783796_1669743279715650_358043925_%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="326" title="27783796_1669743279715650_358043925_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783796_1669743279715650_358043925_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4utKjTSPKmM/WnsGZSovG8I/AAAAAAAAo74/PVfqqa-6zzotVaExCAzmMXwr44IJNLA7wCHMYCw/27783796_1669743279715650_358043925_?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our recent trip to Kerala started with a scooter ride to Thivim railway station but we went early to catch up with a wonderful family we’ve got to know through Julie (second left) who used to work for P&O. Last time we saw them Julie was expecting Samuel who is now 7 months old. The family had offered to keep our scooter in their garage and take us to the station. Albino (white shirt) was so helpful – he pressure washed the scooter while we had tea with the family and then drove us to catch the train. <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iw3Mc3uzmTA/WnsGcuxDvnI/AAAAAAAAo78/t8VqjXLw5W84WzlFwc_97EF96EdYETkVACHMYCw/s1600-h/27847768_2141735729485099_1503688891%255B1%255D"><img width="500" height="265" title="27847768_2141735729485099_1503688891_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27847768_2141735729485099_1503688891_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3qsOH1bqGcM/WnsGfyldIpI/AAAAAAAAo8A/JVyZl8Jy5mElylRyQW8Qw7mFnCUDRS68QCHMYCw/27847768_2141735729485099_1503688891?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Samuel, at a very advanced 7 months old, stole the show of course!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7FQ9vK0lcfs/WnsGjUqImrI/AAAAAAAAo8E/qO_DKJgpNWAtruQFjnydFd91pwafgAw4QCHMYCw/s1600-h/27783663_2141735726151766_2075806404%255B2%255D"><img width="504" height="237" title="27783663_2141735726151766_2075806404_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783663_2141735726151766_2075806404_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lZmxarJ5GGU/WnsGmNJc91I/AAAAAAAAo8I/n9becrHIAXcwftOb57_hPiUJmG7MoOlsACHMYCw/27783663_2141735726151766_2075806404%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This is Thivim railway station (well, about 2/3rds of it!). As the trains are nearly half a mile long the platforms have to be that long as well and you need to find the correct position on the platform to stand so that you’re not half a mile away from your carriage!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TWN9H64vgS8/WnsGpRX-pQI/AAAAAAAAo8M/3lhp3x52mSgysEojRwo3cVoLSeYmYOmTgCHMYCw/s1600-h/27781363_1669743053049006_1499639667"><img width="498" height="337" title="27781363_1669743053049006_1499639667_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27781363_1669743053049006_1499639667_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O-Dx-YTI6Bo/WnsGski1prI/AAAAAAAAo8Q/8igb5XY2uaMb8NRwIfOWlmQaznAyI9YRACHMYCw/27781363_1669743053049006_1499639667%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Thankfully the list you need to consult to find your platform position was correct and we were soon safely aboard for the 16 hour journey to Kerala. Doug was eager, as always, to get his head down!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5QHxulUa7u0/WnsGv_2eYAI/AAAAAAAAo8U/ZPnhObPe8c8Nb1jjz_TM8PRO4XvuQMdxACHMYCw/s1600-h/27783073_1669742479715730_1384194778%255B1%255D"><img width="498" height="324" title="27783073_1669742479715730_1384194778_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783073_1669742479715730_1384194778_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xYU06x_XbXA/WnsGzAq7E1I/AAAAAAAAo8Y/hq0A9TJwr5gVwJDAYeV7TZvoDMEuwOjPQCHMYCw/27783073_1669742479715730_1384194778%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The train delivered us to Ernakulam Junction and we soon found our very nice hotel which we’d booked for the first two nights. We planned to visit Fort Cochin, Alleppey and the Western Ghats mountain range during our eight day stay. Unknowingly we were to eat with gold plated cutlery later in our journey but Ernakulam offered opportunities to eat at the other end of the scale (off the street!) ………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8yG2FCqRmRI/WnsG3EV3yHI/AAAAAAAAo8c/Ie6ZbX1cULATBdSARmr2_8NJkcv0jbMKwCHMYCw/s1600-h/27781197_1669742859715692_1556272551%255B1%255D"><img width="484" height="311" title="27781197_1669742859715692_1556272551_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27781197_1669742859715692_1556272551_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hAJVvszlzhM/WnsG6KkCtWI/AAAAAAAAo8g/rB5n3y4UXkMZeUXfj1JuyW1BotodtNVQQCHMYCw/27781197_1669742859715692_1556272551%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and the young man, who’s little kitchen was housed under a tarpaulin in a back street – and who never seemed to sleep!, produced some amazing food from his two gas rings. On the left is a plate of the most wonderful deep fried battered bananas.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_z0Y6oGwV48/WnsG8-eg3JI/AAAAAAAAo8k/XaS7QMkGLpsPG2fuPaMu8mW5zObalnNAwCHMYCw/s1600-h/27935593_1669742359715742_10476345_n%255B1%255D"><img width="254" height="346" title="27935593_1669742359715742_10476345_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27935593_1669742359715742_10476345_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kE1zFeYFzq4/WnsG_-niopI/AAAAAAAAo8o/4tSpBVE88uA_Sd5AC65hR629w9mc0mCYQCHMYCw/27935593_1669742359715742_10476345_n?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After our two nights in Ernakulam we got an Uber taxi to take us up to Munnar, a hill station in the Western Ghats. Soon after leaving the coastal plains of Kerala we were into the forests of the mountain range with it’s rich vegetation and waterfalls ………….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dO9GZJnqGr8/WnsHDWpMlZI/AAAAAAAAo8s/FCaCCMflSMMSpGBeO8pLd21JTIQRKHGdwCHMYCw/s1600-h/27783269_1669742463049065_1329356434"><img width="256" height="393" title="27783269_1669742463049065_1329356434_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783269_1669742463049065_1329356434_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ogUUPZC3SFE/WnsHHJ4MEoI/AAAAAAAAo8w/pmEDTenblIQPC0SbDtcTJ37qDXYU8r3IgCHMYCw/27783269_1669742463049065_1329356434%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and meeting some of the local wild life.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AJt5SZHm_ZM/WnsHKRHhCjI/AAAAAAAAo84/jBaYbxM9ZNcuPHC4zK5tur4gna-Nz14zACHMYCw/s1600-h/27781114_1669741273049184_2118832777"><img width="277" height="370" title="27781114_1669741273049184_2118832777_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27781114_1669741273049184_2118832777_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0L_FIS4zs_c/WnsHNjnMhlI/AAAAAAAAo88/sIUlX0bj5U8tXXRMmd_DqWGOeIacbJnVACHMYCw/27781114_1669741273049184_2118832777%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The flowers are abundant in the slightly cooler atmosphere of the mountains. The Brugmansia, which we’ve grown ourselves with some care, grow wild on the slopes …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LAhT88Zz2gc/WnsHQ8moWaI/AAAAAAAAo9A/_EW13qc9fesdYB3s02mE8LHFM0iFm1MYwCHMYCw/s1600-h/27721041_1669742113049100_774170284_"><img width="496" height="304" title="27721041_1669742113049100_774170284_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27721041_1669742113049100_774170284_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LTmwsQkUIrk/WnsHULGJwBI/AAAAAAAAo9E/0PoQr8P2VSka8s-b7HL-OaOwCcohDIMPgCHMYCw/27721041_1669742113049100_774170284_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and there’s some we can’t name!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n6fVFFDtJTg/WnsHX9vv2MI/AAAAAAAAo9I/wQtonNze5ZcDEzeJseDEuxgAPAH7jsrOACHMYCw/s1600-h/27935300_1669741496382495_946543225_"><img width="276" height="365" title="27935300_1669741496382495_946543225_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27935300_1669741496382495_946543225_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yMEQ-Nq61Sg/WnsHbQ_Y8tI/AAAAAAAAo9M/fiQMtwgcN9s6PqAFXxTHX0iTGIFJllJqQCHMYCw/27935300_1669741496382495_946543225_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Doug was particularly enthralled by the size of the Poinsettia which are a favourite Christmas pot plant in the UK but which grow into large bushes.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o50yPu4d4zo/WnsHfsp2Z6I/AAAAAAAAo9Q/FcBc0IEGoxgr6He22KRstuDn7B-e4fT_ACHMYCw/s1600-h/27781043_1669741603049151_1958574713%255B2%255D"><img width="491" height="330" title="27781043_1669741603049151_1958574713_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27781043_1669741603049151_1958574713_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hyJsnxCgNRA/WnsHjanaKwI/AAAAAAAAo9U/s_VBCrIfAksp7Ai14aaKu-JfDQzuGMVhQCHMYCw/27781043_1669741603049151_1958574713?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We found a rather swish hotel to stay for the two nights in Munnar (which turned out not to have showers but instead, the traditional Indian way of a large bucket of water and a jug!) and they arranged a scooter for us to drive ourselves the 20 miles to Top Station which, at about 7000 feet, is the highest point from the town. If we turned one hairpin bend we turned a thousand during the ride but sadly, we saw no elephants!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W6bmwaBv-S4/WnsHmz_z7fI/AAAAAAAAo9Y/vGebpHikuQgfCQPLwQJuukE4eil86VEvgCHMYCw/s1600-h/27721480_1669736579716320_191791628_%255B2%255D"><img width="489" height="327" title="27721480_1669736579716320_191791628_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27721480_1669736579716320_191791628_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L-blbvEuHp8/WnsHrLpsiuI/AAAAAAAAo9c/EvoJUdSYc8ICmpjnh1yZyRh8GL5yCoYFwCHMYCw/27721480_1669736579716320_191791628_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We wanted to experience the tea plantations, the mountain scenery and cooler clearer air associated with the Western Ghats and our journey to Top Station certainly delivered. You’d think James was piloting a Harley Davidson rather than 125cc scooter!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OCfpql7d0RM/WnsHt1zE41I/AAAAAAAAo9k/lqKCz55nurcoAreOB6uGXz0x86MFVHXUACHMYCw/s1600-h/27783177_2141726616152677_1722013769%255B2%255D"><img width="495" height="279" title="27783177_2141726616152677_1722013769_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783177_2141726616152677_1722013769_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AvdmeLDVQ4I/WnsHwvBbm5I/AAAAAAAAo9o/dRQUfmjvgQ4JDzqBmyIKfMXSIrgFXWXvACHMYCw/27783177_2141726616152677_1722013769%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>For the whole 20 miles the mountain sides were covered in the most carefully tended tea plantations ………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zrpx-wQjVZY/WnsHznzyzEI/AAAAAAAAo9s/Hse4cByYl9IyjZaJt6CFkVBl2FPXELGxACHMYCw/s1600-h/27783776_1669737516382893_330280106_%255B2%255D"><img width="491" height="335" title="27783776_1669737516382893_330280106_n (1)" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783776_1669737516382893_330280106_n (1)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-foMkJ2zjsF8/WnsH2TkGE9I/AAAAAAAAo9w/FUnGiZmc0QAGg1vLD-mfTYurImmUSIWBACHMYCw/27783776_1669737516382893_330280106_?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… and we came across several tea pickers close to the roadside so we could stop and talk and watch them. There are about 5000 pickers in the area around Munnar delivering around 16 tons of leaves each day to the central processing factory (which we visited and had a tour around on our way back down). We were reminded that these are tea trees not bushes and they are 120 years old!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O7l1dlsS8q4/WnsH43k2DKI/AAAAAAAAo90/ujas_TMfhvknZfxGUaMb0bYesNGRceXrwCHMYCw/s1600-h/27848350_2141726612819344_261134440_%255B1%255D"><img width="261" height="379" title="27848350_2141726612819344_261134440_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27848350_2141726612819344_261134440_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KTrV0Pch1eY/WnsH8UTGIfI/AAAAAAAAo94/j4LNgLrcLLccC4k81xuiwPcrcqclW4jbQCHMYCw/27848350_2141726612819344_261134440_?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We finally reached Top Station and went to several viewpoints but due to this being the dry season there was a thick heat haze which limited what we saw. The view was better than the pictures show and we could actually see for many miles. Perhaps we could see into the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu but we weren’t sure!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i5T3LheZzUk/WnsH-69pGLI/AAAAAAAAo-A/uKCpnS-1LUYrOUZxZR8FAy7rSpS8FyeqwCHMYCw/s1600-h/27782992_1669742169715761_919198158_%255B1%255D"><img width="493" height="304" title="27782992_1669742169715761_919198158_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27782992_1669742169715761_919198158_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jjU2yc5aFx8/WnsID4mng3I/AAAAAAAAo-E/7Y9RxfiSv30vPqFXt3f3uOXtlXOX0pFLwCHMYCw/27782992_1669742169715761_919198158_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Being able to stop anywhere to enjoy the flora and fauna, lakes and mountains our scooter ride was definitely the right way to do it for us. It was also a public holiday week end and so was very busy but, with so much space, there was generally room for us all.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0wbE_XTKcZI/WnsIGsRl_pI/AAAAAAAAo-I/WC7WZRGO-ZUK_cUh65ryxgPpoNaLyT1cwCHMYCw/s1600-h/27848086_1669741509715827_87646245_n%255B2%255D"><img width="273" height="372" title="27848086_1669741509715827_87646245_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27848086_1669741509715827_87646245_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jn81f4B8cik/WnsIJaCfqFI/AAAAAAAAo-Q/nw_Uu0a9kBUPuGCl09mi9ebbKCEYm2mqwCHMYCw/27848086_1669741509715827_87646245_n%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Returning for our last night in Munnar Doug decided to hunt out some beer. Outside of Goa alcohol is not that readily available and, here in Munnar, this shed was the only place in town where it was for sale! And there was quite a queue!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aqYsublzOuQ/WnsIMOH-WPI/AAAAAAAAo-U/sQXvomKyGtkPgEGbri6FNe5S7T_HDWvNACHMYCw/s1600-h/27848206_2141726619486010_584793386_%255B2%255D"><img width="488" height="256" title="27848206_2141726619486010_584793386_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27848206_2141726619486010_584793386_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hdNO0SeRmcg/WnsIOnqyFJI/AAAAAAAAo-Y/RDzoYBXwVWovq3Pv8bhvHjyGqWs4Fw7sgCHMYCw/27848206_2141726619486010_584793386_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>From Munnar we took a very comfortable a/c bus ride to Alleppey where again we found a beautiful hotel (that’s where we had gold plated cutlery at breakfast!) for one night. They were extremely helpful and arranged a lovely Kettu Vallam (based on the traditional rice boats) with it’s plaited palm thatched canopy. The boat was just for two people and had a very nice bedroom and shower room, lower dining deck and upper lounge deck. Two staff looked after us and cooked for us and made us feel very welcome.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fXCkLUxSx-A/WnsIRprAxfI/AAAAAAAAo-c/BUfXXdPUzUo0f0ZaXoAC8nxEzocM8nYRQCHMYCw/s1600-h/27783042_2141735756151763_310273817_%255B1%255D"><img width="502" height="254" title="27783042_2141735756151763_310273817_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783042_2141735756151763_310273817_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ak0yZwnYbuU/WnsIUTLF7MI/AAAAAAAAo-g/oTK8VeLb8HwOs3uLWMVjbDwyda8lYpPUgCHMYCw/27783042_2141735756151763_310273817_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>During the overnight trip we cruised through the lakes and backwaters known as the Kuttanad with endless paddy fields and villages only accessed from the water. For dinner in the evening Doug fancied some fresh water prawns which we had to get from the local fishmonger. Here we are tied up and buying prawns, ice creams and drinking fresh coconut water. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6DRf8AegbLs/WnsIW6S-qFI/AAAAAAAAo-k/NLg_LYyDax8Adg0v1wFDLei-GIgkX2oogCHMYCw/s1600-h/27781442_1669741249715853_46142180_n%255B1%255D"><img width="275" height="353" title="27781442_1669741249715853_46142180_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27781442_1669741249715853_46142180_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oSVcW1F1jEs/WnsIZKhlKgI/AAAAAAAAo-o/JZEvQebEmg0tExWr896utpXsTDPFwA6RwCHMYCw/27781442_1669741249715853_46142180_n%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s James relaxing on the upper deck …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QINy0ZtWx9g/WnsIbWW905I/AAAAAAAAo-s/lhfSKdjQcAAes8bxEdfWZjGfamguOGiNACHMYCw/s1600-h/27848114_1669741756382469_1179510688%255B1%255D"><img width="499" height="280" title="27848114_1669741756382469_1179510688_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27848114_1669741756382469_1179510688_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qxr51DXTWxQ/WnsIdislQII/AAAAAAAAo-w/yb5qQVHlhms1Qe5vH9PXMadhdqOSXlF1wCHMYCw/27848114_1669741756382469_1179510688?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and lazing around as if he owned the place!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FG7Ho8pRWnM/WnsIgQfghcI/AAAAAAAAo-0/ywJIRG84jEECNFrB53Te05J6CTJ9fqT_wCHMYCw/s1600-h/27848341_1669741316382513_820766546_%255B2%255D"><img width="499" height="318" title="27848341_1669741316382513_820766546_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27848341_1669741316382513_820766546_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sPabV7P5MXI/WnsIjTcGV0I/AAAAAAAAo-4/c8KQ7qrI2vcnVZhZ2YMIZgn5wH85MzvPQCHMYCw/27848341_1669741316382513_820766546_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We’re getting a bit better at selfies!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jFObe6R-LeE/WnsIleon_MI/AAAAAAAAo-8/yz59NpiEkKkkaoIu9aF6Ohb7lQ-1-HmxwCHMYCw/s1600-h/27720897_2141735749485097_1694895638%255B1%255D"><img width="502" height="308" title="27720897_2141735749485097_1694895638_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27720897_2141735749485097_1694895638_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B2zub-2H-vg/WnsIoDesPSI/AAAAAAAAo_A/huNO7_ARfNUQJLeVB6tKeVtqWEL7vJLnQCHMYCw/27720897_2141735749485097_1694895638?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Lunch on the first day was served Keralan style on freshly cut banana leaves …</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MizTFs525ec/WnsIq5P4OHI/AAAAAAAAo_I/nf78no8n-xYTeQiICbbEHx4fr4qUQNE9QCHMYCw/s1600-h/27781672_1669741233049188_968554041_%255B2%255D"><img width="274" height="373" title="27781672_1669741233049188_968554041_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27781672_1669741233049188_968554041_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e0sqO9V0XU8/WnsItGPsq6I/AAAAAAAAo_M/h8BnQXdAhaUg5D1_GQTi7ALXIevsaK0zQCHMYCw/27781672_1669741233049188_968554041_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. and in the evening Doug wore his Mundu to go for a walk along the water’s edge and was congratulated by a local resident for “having a go”!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9cZ3aSG1cws/WnsIvYZi0dI/AAAAAAAAo_Q/ycUVj2-lZeUK-STVThw5dt3wr3vJFSPCwCHMYCw/s1600-h/27849593_1669736129716365_932828309_"><img width="488" height="315" title="27849593_1669736129716365_932828309_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27849593_1669736129716365_932828309_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IbfZMkDwvtg/WnsIxsS7edI/AAAAAAAAo_Y/gUZrzKa6BwoMDTBycURKdnLOX80rhc1eQCHMYCw/27849593_1669736129716365_932828309_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The next morning, after a very relaxing and quiet night we headed back towards Alleppey. It was rather like a morning rush hour as there are hundreds of Kettu Vallums on the water. Luckily there is so much space that it’s generally not a problem. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-APdzml89GwI/WnsIz7LxCQI/AAAAAAAAo_c/MEQZeIID5TMhQKVEdnqYNZUPNmBYQFmxACHMYCw/s1600-h/27721157_2141735706151768_264350852_%255B2%255D"><img width="494" height="269" title="27721157_2141735706151768_264350852_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27721157_2141735706151768_264350852_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N-isOx0rSJ8/WnsI2Yoe3zI/AAAAAAAAo_g/leWW_75yapoYGgWZQLVbq7QHQVFdWM5kQCHMYCw/27721157_2141735706151768_264350852_?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>From Alleppey, after a hair-raising journey on a bus without glass in the windows! (which is the norm) we arrived for our last night in Fort Cochin. On a visit by boat from Ernakulam on the first day for a quick look around we spotted this stunning Old Courtyard Hotel and decided it would be nice to spend our last night in Kerala there. Our room was in the far corner at the top of the spiral staircase – very cool and colonial! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fJMlUKlJSSs/WnsI4pwugZI/AAAAAAAAo_k/usJy7HXctZEJNf7sdRPdSy_LR7ooJF16wCHMYCw/s1600-h/27720853_2141726622819343_1810157028"><img width="497" height="260" title="27720853_2141726622819343_1810157028_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27720853_2141726622819343_1810157028_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oBIFip1kEsY/WnsI8s7sADI/AAAAAAAAo_o/zybV3nkndS4pwtrrCxK-_PBsN-wszDEHgCHMYCw/27720853_2141726622819343_1810157028%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A quick bit of investigation and we found the place where they based the TV personalities for the “Real Marigold Hotel” series. Fort Cochin is very touristy and the shops have been turned over to expensive souvenirs and high class clothing (one even boasted to be “Lionel Blair’s Dressmakers”!) It’s a charming place nonetheless with a lot of colonial architecture to be enjoyed. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QA0saQRibVw/WnsI-zFRQlI/AAAAAAAAo_s/98CBoHkVITcfakH8amf1sCFHV2z0DRlTQCHMYCw/s1600-h/27783179_2141735709485101_257949809_%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="266" title="27783179_2141735709485101_257949809_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783179_2141735709485101_257949809_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LJzqw7LunmA/WnsJBpsBDWI/AAAAAAAAo_w/gIiATfomVLAw5Thsn3p6NbPvd_hhynjkwCHMYCw/27783179_2141735709485101_257949809_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We also just had to do the tourist thing at the Chinese Fishing Nets ……</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j8yI9Dd3Y3s/WnsJElYVr5I/AAAAAAAAo_0/mc8jMTz1Gt0lKwFxJpVJht8G5P1RKbJSACHMYCw/s1600-h/27849430_1669756469714331_1034437391%255B1%255D"><img width="492" height="275" title="27849430_1669756469714331_1034437391_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27849430_1669756469714331_1034437391_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OVtMsV0x2vs/WnsJHnmdX3I/AAAAAAAAo_4/HeZHhcKRH7Q2PMOa6l6WW2-1zkVYqT1ewCHMYCw/27849430_1669756469714331_1034437391%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and pull on the ropes to raise them. We got one small crab which went back when we lowered the net again! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pjXt0Q5raKs/WnsJLA_Kg8I/AAAAAAAAo_8/4Nf2OhEdHl0s5tEhykqMLnwwdBPO7Ok5gCHMYCw/s1600-h/27783396_1669742493049062_737379869_%255B1%255D"><img width="247" height="336" title="27783396_1669742493049062_737379869_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="27783396_1669742493049062_737379869_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fw8n5GQ2RlU/WnsJOOOEmbI/AAAAAAAApAE/9gI7IqKQiJ0Z0js5IHuzqWacvTBDlvajwCHMYCw/27783396_1669742493049062_737379869_?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>And, talking of crabs, one of Doug’s meals just had to be crab!</p><p>Well, after eight days and a 16 hour return train journey (which got us back at 4 o’ clock in the morning – resulting in a bizarre, and rather cold, trip with two English guys, a suit case and two rucksacks on a scooter at that time of day!) we got back “home” to Candolim. It was an amazing few days seeing yet another part of India; meeting some lovely people along the way and seeing some of the most lovely mountain and waterway scenery.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-7898727326810290602018-02-03T04:27:00.001+00:002018-02-03T04:27:22.169+00:00Karnataka and Maharashtra Adventure<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iOKJ4aK3FZ4/WnU077SOq5I/AAAAAAAAozY/rSKollJ_ENkjE6DW3y49cmaPzIrQIcwTQCHMYCw/s1600-h/2c98ac0e-be05-4f8c-8bb5-7fde1cad1a5c%255B1%255D"><img width="502" height="258" title="2c98ac0e-be05-4f8c-8bb5-7fde1cad1a5c" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="2c98ac0e-be05-4f8c-8bb5-7fde1cad1a5c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a0KAtWzGO3o/WnU0_ubeMAI/AAAAAAAAozc/7ozdtWeCIF450hHdtLDJWFqtDzmFN0mFQCHMYCw/2c98ac0e-be05-4f8c-8bb5-7fde1cad1a5c%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our friend Manju (front) invited us to visit his parents in Maharashtra so, with his friend (and driver) Masala we embarked on a two day car ride into the heart of India.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4beWSW8psOc/WnU1DJd0G2I/AAAAAAAAozg/Zk6Wrd6NIyoHKCA24s43YVmX5af1mUAzwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104011414"><img width="491" height="314" title="P1040114" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040114" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SxLtpOOV1QE/WnU1G4JFI_I/AAAAAAAAozk/3-QrJiZoOZMkYumTEjUr9W8ZFHPv-TUZQCHMYCw/P1040114_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The views from the mountain range on the Goa / Karnataka boarder are wonderful if a little hazy.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_kibYq3JGFY/WnU1JktxGgI/AAAAAAAAozo/hT1qLNWxf4wP54s_lVtfh_XVB8HGzfphwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104012814"><img width="498" height="395" title="P1040128" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040128" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_LHItizjFRk/WnU1MvK8LTI/AAAAAAAAozs/IcfIsRIhn-kN_iCDOJjZ7QGbrH-SnedpwCHMYCw/P1040128_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The journey, stopping in Vijapur for the night, threw up some of the most captivating sights we’ve seen so far ……….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qRpNmdbfZxo/WnU1PewGMPI/AAAAAAAAozw/9peNf19p6c8YJNTU3sNt_XKHjrOyWm_TwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104013014"><img width="499" height="325" title="P1040130" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040130" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0b5sjFGqNbs/WnU1SWgpTqI/AAAAAAAAoz0/SqTufZwQFeoyR7jlha1tSzL79gEwLT3fQCHMYCw/P1040130_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…… the sugar cane is transported by both tractor and ox cart and both modes of transport are cared for, and decorated, very well!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uWNVBLsl5ZQ/WnU1VCvWosI/AAAAAAAAoz4/3AuvYVp9_mEmpSB7WtwyLG84i_uEKc7tACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104013314"><img width="501" height="317" title="P1040133" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040133" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UUfUgz1c6ng/WnU1YiFDB2I/AAAAAAAAoz8/CUSoP7GbE0UJUr5EkdIoHSmAjuZZfKvVACHMYCw/P1040133_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XZKb-Z1z4ig/WnU1b8Tb1qI/AAAAAAAAo0A/Dwt_gZyLZnUbHz_Bi1ocaS-d1vMLJ-qdQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104014514"><img width="498" height="312" title="P1040145" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040145" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EdWBGgJvcNc/WnU1fCpEajI/AAAAAAAAo0E/yuK8L3YfVRAJYm8Tm8dhoj8CasK0i11fgCHMYCw/P1040145_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NC-_TENpdm4/WnU1iXR4vNI/AAAAAAAAo0I/XazweqSceH4l9ujgua9IDbe-LrbcFFzHwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104014814"><img width="498" height="314" title="P1040148" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040148" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PDROs6KW1Ig/WnU1loPZcRI/AAAAAAAAo0M/v0CFoEkUg4U1rFivX5SmKnhqmG1kDUq1ACHMYCw/P1040148_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Occasionally sugar cane is carried in a less than steady style!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TCvAW4qam2c/WnU1ohibZ-I/AAAAAAAAo0Q/AVi10a6d6FsYggmurwcJGhasbUF1qgSLwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104016114"><img width="503" height="319" title="P1040161" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040161" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1uACEmluZew/WnU1rSZ7jSI/AAAAAAAAo0U/JYwVizaWh0IK1ZEFhAtHVd_fy6WwPdK-ACHMYCw/P1040161_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gw-1yKIEAMs/WnU1uik3OnI/AAAAAAAAo0Y/X3o9k65Yf8ApQImI_et_ly1Hasu7p7JoACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104017114"><img width="506" height="322" title="P1040171" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040171" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ynXwERE6ing/WnU1xqxdgMI/AAAAAAAAo0c/LQtJlRYDmmg4avZg__YWXvHG-QGkIwQVQCHMYCw/P1040171_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After our long and hot journey we arrived at the local town in Maharashtra to where Manju’s parents live. It happened to be market day and it became clear that very few people had seen a real live white person – let alone one like James at of 6’ 4” !</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_VGzpbAm2xs/WnU10M0k-nI/AAAAAAAAo0g/FCu3fDjKJsMR2U_rrhEjkYCZyPBzuM3FgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104017714"><img width="506" height="318" title="P1040177" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040177" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3BusrB8yQTA/WnU12zEQAgI/AAAAAAAAo0k/DRRcZLU_f5A7Iq1wPqh3WFOw_yveALczwCHMYCw/P1040177_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The generally poor roads we’d got used to over the preceding couple of days suddenly got very much worse! and the last hour of our journey was decidedly bumpy!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8xqmHxu8TPo/WnU1568d1HI/AAAAAAAAo0o/rXRw4e2c2GkkX9yUAamDaJYqMr_MKt5RwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180107_18194213"><img width="501" height="330" title="20180107_181942" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180107_181942" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QFIJTQVKaU0/WnU1-E0ku3I/AAAAAAAAo0s/pT2U6yGU5r4gtKsK-Mz8gj-OOHKJarzFgCHMYCw/20180107_181942_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>But, at last we arrived at Manju’s parents home. Manju, James (with Charlie), Mr Gherde and Mrs Gherde, Doug, Champa (Manju's sister) and Masala kneeling.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K0ycaiehewI/WnU2A4DL-MI/AAAAAAAAo0w/FV2DuEeklgo72aJ-0N0mVO_BhiXhYzt4QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104017814"><img width="494" height="310" title="P1040178" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MDplRCSH5x-tss9i0ADHfEJTg2stsmfcZiY0i9C1ov_IKhqrjq3ItghsKMsh-KqkNw4yqvVSgeQrfhguKVr5bRO2V7KdOFMJzHmg9OTNMYAvbuIuvLrfYxeuZkLHdA2ryCdlsFo_GgQ/?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This is their home and the area where the goats, chickens and one young Water Buffalo are kept. Mr Gherde sleeps on the iron bed (just to the right of Doug) where he can be on hand if Mongoose or Wolves try to attack the animals.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GJY7BrXogL4/WnU2IHyij4I/AAAAAAAAo08/VNga47rnvp0-hK4MtEIwSgLuH6repvrZQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104018214"><img width="496" height="310" title="P1040182" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040182" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ArZcHhCITBw/WnU2LJWvE8I/AAAAAAAAo1A/ERo3sJYmcjgyUePqTB6SOoBTmP6C5PTXgCHMYCw/P1040182_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Of course, little ‘Charlie’ stole the show in the time we were there!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YC1gF8liANA/WnU2N48gpYI/AAAAAAAAo1E/QJUFkYbUsk0gLu9XJAsj35uBwI6e0izFQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104018614"><img width="491" height="325" title="P1040186" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040186" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zy2AHeHECzk/WnU2RLTL86I/AAAAAAAAo1I/9FK-mQo4S40ILySkzMigzTdlDVD3Zb3NQCHMYCw/P1040186_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Mr Gherde showed us around his land and the first call was on the Pomegranate orchard. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xmXGG30Ba3I/WnU2UG_K66I/AAAAAAAAo1M/NFsIf6dPtOspdPaX0sNzMdfmcm6j526IQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104018814"><img width="487" height="323" title="P1040188" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040188" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CfFRM6VuAWE/WnU2XQqDs1I/AAAAAAAAo1Q/boVdYC_hH0IrfW84omk2eHTfTf3VqFB3QCHMYCw/P1040188_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Humming bird nests hanging above the well.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oYyDJx3vdIk/WnU2aYjvkgI/AAAAAAAAo1U/n9Bq99LmuVwiLJfrVI-Z1r0g5EkkXkIZQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104019414"><img width="486" height="306" title="P1040194" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040194" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7l5c5L-AQRI/WnU2dSMDR-I/AAAAAAAAo1Y/lLyHZmeKadYuqNsKSgd9iGLvijQ1m1cogCHMYCw/P1040194_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Water buffalo under the shade of a tree.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LG_7BsZ8-ac/WnU2g73k6rI/AAAAAAAAo1g/hwWl_PQYo640VNNQ6uhiEQeVJP3ijuNagCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104019714"><img width="496" height="312" title="P1040197" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040197" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rTwjByioRWg/WnU2j3qXNvI/AAAAAAAAo1k/iQcGrDRbxoo7ORNaKT9-WMQMDkozw49aQCHMYCw/P1040197_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Cooling our feet in the reservoir which supplies water to the vineyard.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R_bzN6LaLy4/WnU2mtlESGI/AAAAAAAAo1o/-3f-Gs8yhfk7Ir7_CxmUPty6UDzpkKjywCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104019814"><img width="500" height="310" title="P1040198" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040198" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j02J1HW1p-4/WnU2plDMxrI/AAAAAAAAo1s/HaFEQ4EhUk87RVOAHJtRMC9gq4nlEPZRgCHMYCw/P1040198_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Mr Gherde shows us his grapes which have another 6 weeks to go before harvest.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RwwrZVj0w00/WnU2sUSre4I/AAAAAAAAo10/V0kIB1fSOgsfKRp6p3Q3uf3surU6Q3yxACHMYCw/s1600-h/db56fbc2-b02d-4cdf-8517-2a0f4b4ca4c0%255B1%255D"><img width="496" height="277" title="db56fbc2-b02d-4cdf-8517-2a0f4b4ca4c0" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="db56fbc2-b02d-4cdf-8517-2a0f4b4ca4c0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WKX40yfvFns/WnU2v4C5VKI/AAAAAAAAo14/8rIq43k7Kho-pXGXrdkERb7toJVsuaqfwCHMYCw/db56fbc2-b02d-4cdf-8517-2a0f4b4ca4c0%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>And a group photo on the edge of the vineyard. (including Charlie!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-miYqrNADaWU/WnU2y19VAdI/AAAAAAAAo18/iUS0l51AI5Q4RVL1pY2VHupCeQfBp_PggCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104020214"><img width="504" height="301" title="P1040202" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040202" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cA2z5V8p83s/WnU22J_bYxI/AAAAAAAAo2A/8bqgkwuqP8soxPNWBN71jD28a1VYjiiyQCHMYCw/P1040202_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Later in the day a dip in the reservoir.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q9GbCZqMWQY/WnU26jJcewI/AAAAAAAAo2E/gxNqvdSPHBwE7XFVKfRyXXvCsHDvWTONACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104021614"><img width="505" height="313" title="P1040216" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040216" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-krbfoteAMi8/WnU29k_E4DI/AAAAAAAAo2I/nkFimyK2N9420Y6dGLr5YBxCu1CB3SuBwCHMYCw/P1040216_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We couldn’t get too close as one of the Water Buffalo is pregnant and bit moody. Like the goats, she provides milk for cooking and drinking.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mPUtSbNTv5Y/WnU3AolrJcI/AAAAAAAAo2M/kDfH6gIDaC4NTVcXGjHaAFjSzmmWu-NqACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104021914"><img width="505" height="305" title="P1040219" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040219" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9yeKDhSUUWQ/WnU3D4QfhhI/AAAAAAAAo2Q/fDzgjcWcgO4JEgT6T2JAaFDzWzbuirG9gCHMYCw/P1040219_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Mrs Gherde doing our washing !……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O66RH3AW0BQ/WnU3Hl2CJSI/AAAAAAAAo2Y/-UWkHVAujqU_p37aomaJwNaXE3QmPuE1QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104022114"><img width="507" height="315" title="P1040221" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040221" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QBB7mZw7GSk/WnU3KmzyyBI/AAAAAAAAo2g/o7iTIkSeOx4-m8GgjO0E59sInlbq6dw0QCHMYCw/P1040221_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and the water pot on the open fire providing hot water for washing.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mZpDjsAw3Yk/WnU3Nn_Z5zI/AAAAAAAAo2k/k-byBz-PtXEHq10dRHqwYI6aVgGIld67ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104022314"><img width="508" height="324" title="P1040223" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040223" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xyMlpFZip68/WnU3Qp3J8mI/AAAAAAAAo2o/Ddo-35nUIgseqfzPdK2kAKHSaZUYYcfeACHMYCw/P1040223_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Champa and Mrs Gherde.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O9cx7G1cB4w/WnU3TdNhY0I/AAAAAAAAo2s/yU5iGQfIZY0ndKakjXj0vbHT1SSdyUgwwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104023414"><img width="273" height="362" title="P1040234" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040234" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TWoStRM6_Xo/WnU3WSCnuhI/AAAAAAAAo2w/NxBgjTZspDEBofRYAfdFirFBM6jJMwxZgCHMYCw/P1040234_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On Saturday evening “us boys” went over to the nearest town to visit the temple.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vbkVTdtcLNE/WnU3ZAEyXBI/AAAAAAAAo20/Uu3wjIEK3YIYoj7FdsBgcvd7GKe7-wbSQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104023714"><img width="274" height="373" title="P1040237" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040237" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w8vF0XE1RJ0/WnU3cErf-VI/AAAAAAAAo24/We16q--ZmSU0x7xPCpztovdymjYUenTqgCHMYCw/P1040237_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>During our visit the temple elders were so pleased to have ‘white’ visitors that they allowed us to access the inner most sacred part. This was something that even Mr Gherde, a regular attendee, has never done and he was delighted to be with us on the occasion. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e_Q9h3BkDC4/WnU3e05kU9I/AAAAAAAAo28/AzCaNW_r2ZoW_qZczcgyndZnHEWu0hclgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104024014"><img width="501" height="305" title="P1040240" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JWPVBOCI854/WnU3iHvPDlI/AAAAAAAAo3E/C3qx1bIHPJ8trSnYDVq5vaZLlRZKFtbyQCHMYCw/P1040240_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Foreigners are rare in these areas and outside the temple there were a lot of locals and Indian visitors who wanted their photo taken with us.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oaWuXmKeQxA/WnU3kmwNhPI/AAAAAAAAo3I/2h_ynaHzeMIoz5hElDxKOm7ita0zcQMPwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104024214"><img width="499" height="316" title="P1040242" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040242" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jSWoIUD666M/WnU3nobK0uI/AAAAAAAAo3Q/YRNmdgvJqFIuDXeYoGUwLrzPBdgOu35OACHMYCw/P1040242_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The road back home from town was rough to say the least but in the dark it was even harder work for Masala</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZLTVX8Is-fs/WnU3qYFzZ0I/AAAAAAAAo3U/ww1IgHMAzIwQ-MpNeUnkSxrgKnbQQzdoQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104024514"><img width="489" height="309" title="P1040245" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040245" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tk5fufybOGs/WnU3tMKgL1I/AAAAAAAAo3Y/uEBlmPjw49A_vjH0ee40_wF3m_N8ft40wCHMYCw/P1040245_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>In addition to the original basic building Mr Gherde has managed to build a small solid shelter and this is where we slept. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ga0H41beYlo/WnU3wEAXhDI/AAAAAAAAo3c/Jyz0c4a9pz0UEhV4yyxNjCIqrjduE5WPQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104025814"><img width="493" height="310" title="P1040258" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040258" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Xe9IoYrjPfw/WnU3zP5hGKI/AAAAAAAAo3g/jQOXeMx7B0YTaIhs7ZysUH6w7SUyG1ukACHMYCw/P1040258_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A trip to Pandharpur on Sunday was another adventure. Here are a few random pics of streets scenes around the town:-</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QFvsNqArSeE/WnU32CLTRSI/AAAAAAAAo3k/UfVAaMOztBMarGPO0diCN35HF4AscoBRwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104025914"><img width="485" height="313" title="P1040259" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040259" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IhgkHj0djsA/WnU34_QhecI/AAAAAAAAo3o/gSCUdXik1HkwFYtP6Sh5Y3uPdO-_SsS3QCHMYCw/P1040259_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--idmMURhPWY/WnU37vLG9wI/AAAAAAAAo3s/k0ptBsrkTOceuj6BnSSvu-zjl2-bCKUVwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104026014"><img width="265" height="353" title="P1040260" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040260" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NzrVgSbjOrU/WnU3-dCKtOI/AAAAAAAAo3w/kQSKVnOu5_AWK7w501e9m2aleKmsSTv3ACHMYCw/P1040260_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KD5P8DtldUE/WnU4A_bF4uI/AAAAAAAAo30/zQJjWZnHGTcLgp0kRrtzuaU9gq2F7aHbgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104026514"><img width="270" height="346" title="P1040265" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040265" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OLgeYQk63Zk/WnU4DmxeDpI/AAAAAAAAo34/jifUsJexCXsmZ-JrzWOkxtlCAzJvt67ngCHMYCw/P1040265_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c3kB65ikn9o/WnU4GYf9Y0I/AAAAAAAAo38/JuT3iISx9cgUmi8TkZBWWzs7z3hrhdhEgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104026614"><img width="492" height="290" title="P1040266" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vecJjkDkpYg/WnU4JtS_DXI/AAAAAAAAo4A/n_2TubCbcnYsgcMU8a4ErAXhyB8RiN7PQCHMYCw/P1040266_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rE7IR1V9fTg/WnU4MUPwZWI/AAAAAAAAo4E/1df978_FHSIMfYWDhUI-eNtPJeyyfAQ1QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104026814"><img width="491" height="313" title="P1040268" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040268" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-srXUOg-k93w/WnU4PYV-XoI/AAAAAAAAo4I/BkIW-Fj5FdUk9GHFHqFf7kLSkFb7qoh4ACHMYCw/P1040268_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AB6G-jCC2Vs/WnU4SbOhuXI/AAAAAAAAo4M/g6r_6pV9OPsa6PPme1vR-AWmxvQ14r-fwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180107_12425513"><img width="495" height="321" title="20180107_124255" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180107_124255" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pwqsJ7h995g/WnU4VeJM5AI/AAAAAAAAo4Q/IqdBaC-T8RMJwzr6oiCnRTZ3Yb1sOyc6wCHMYCw/20180107_124255_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6viOryq4gh8/WnU4X4NoL7I/AAAAAAAAo4U/JNfbsqZQvTc0T4sSZLsd3j2xaopdNotPgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104027014"><img width="492" height="306" title="P1040270" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040270" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uH7gX-Nt4Dc/WnU4a0VMzEI/AAAAAAAAo4Y/Adopx0iaYsglsiHNc3pdlWrdX456n2m0gCHMYCw/P1040270_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TphxTGYG7uU/WnU4d-r86fI/AAAAAAAAo4c/fq35zUYSDRQ7_hElr25N7h4dPBKfHkG_gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104027514"><img width="484" height="289" title="P1040275" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040275" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qRJp5D7f8Z4/WnU4g2pA0hI/AAAAAAAAo4k/R7w7zJLkHYIJ9u1vs8ovac02l0Ddw__GQCHMYCw/P1040275_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1bYQlFTCMEo/WnU4jl9shuI/AAAAAAAAo4o/-QHj0SfMCfMjOLKpaBM9VlwnNaocdaBoACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104027714"><img width="490" height="304" title="P1040277" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040277" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RRRXOl3FZvQ/WnU4nJhGMAI/AAAAAAAAo4s/ME0BycDcN3UyaBM5ppBaBXmyZiNLGYqvwCHMYCw/P1040277_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gzrc4zoT75o/WnU4qzOM9sI/AAAAAAAAo4w/7MmEE4gaiEs5Q2gxKjzTnyOe8ra263tpgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104027814"><img width="493" height="309" title="P1040278" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040278" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hgCWTmue1D0/WnU4tw-x_xI/AAAAAAAAo40/RKQ8qCdXa2k3qMekKZe3fdfH0qSY7hbBQCHMYCw/P1040278_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BGb5ccbkego/WnU4w9AoObI/AAAAAAAAo48/XIxrn-_mLjYq7CFylh3MlYV-cLDbVFnUACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104028014"><img width="279" height="380" title="P1040280" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040280" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hVauyWePoQw/WnU4zvV4bAI/AAAAAAAAo5A/09e_Z81ofzUCaFsHpCe-42iDclZucj6pwCHMYCw/P1040280_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NZVZ99fqq5o/WnU42rrfW8I/AAAAAAAAo5E/rQV1VWE4dI0wXUim2xEHfQvqLC1shKXMQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104028714"><img width="492" height="304" title="P1040287" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040287" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pfydYrNRsw0/WnU45r8dHuI/AAAAAAAAo5I/lhs_mEkDyj8xn-LymJ8Ji1prHg4Jm3nGQCHMYCw/P1040287_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-icknTUNxvYI/WnU48YQSikI/AAAAAAAAo5M/GJRjs1uCjgMKJn9AnceNjcNTXFrcxxG5wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104028814"><img width="493" height="295" title="P1040288" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040288" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HnjUeqZkYyA/WnU4_ndqi_I/AAAAAAAAo5U/cMmlggS0ba0iij8QHJZ_Tx25pqo7kyRgwCHMYCw/P1040288_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m0MQTmVugto/WnU5C7idaII/AAAAAAAAo5Y/1ilNbsAdDzcP-F0a3Vqn5tB4H7RQnIs4gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104028914"><img width="487" height="314" title="P1040289" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040289" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VflF1JH-H-8/WnU5GQXFmAI/AAAAAAAAo5c/8wY6jM443wQPgCN0v3VPJ9iRNUegiKWlwCHMYCw/P1040289_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nP9-KaupOpM/WnU5J_P_uII/AAAAAAAAo5g/_rIcAKM9m9wVWQFlo5_khS_ZzmnSFAlyQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104029014"><img width="298" height="380" title="P1040290" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040290" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nJ5h2BBC7_k/WnU5M7qBAhI/AAAAAAAAo5k/fUwe-CpqOqAZkdDdMp_L0wEBb4H-xSNtwCHMYCw/P1040290_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qea1VO_UIJY/WnU5PlCDDJI/AAAAAAAAo5o/d8GR4LbzSSAg-63i67DaDwnmGlHQHgTvwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104029514"><img width="491" height="298" title="P1040295" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040295" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QBwuKOOmQqk/WnU5SseuusI/AAAAAAAAo5s/-0HcWsVcUFkdt60LDr8tHpz7PEssWd4WwCHMYCw/P1040295_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We visited an intriguing museum depicted the history of India.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ectQgM-I2Q0/WnU5VrqXZyI/AAAAAAAAo5w/MVWUvO44ZGILIXJWDO33lOjW8b9T1fRbgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104029814"><img width="488" height="297" title="P1040298" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040298" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--JQ-8jNdO4Q/WnU5YrGD-xI/AAAAAAAAo50/j32jR7IIrM4whCldl46X3f011eESFkoJACHMYCw/P1040298_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MsBDdm0bRgw/WnU5bnI6gsI/AAAAAAAAo54/aCQOAp0CVRkjprWs8e39zG_fOlsHI45BACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104030315"><img width="272" height="362" title="P1040303" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040303" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LyyKS-ZzIAA/WnU5eljZLvI/AAAAAAAAo58/ssdcw7aK5CEEYegbQufKO2hNNAdbAE8tgCHMYCw/P1040303_thumb6?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>There were hundreds of intricately detailed Tableau …….. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6So9FT_yC3Q/WnU5hS4hyWI/AAAAAAAAo6A/mdbs8APkWuUG4AZNWcN_Mlp-wR9N03nmwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104030614"><img width="485" height="306" title="P1040306" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040306" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QVOMPpjQxN4/WnU5nNzYATI/AAAAAAAAo6E/ovfraAiq5u8TwSIdfts--NoW0KigDdieQCHMYCw/P1040306_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>………. showing India from its ancient roots right up to the current times. <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g0SB5_hTNHs/WnU5p6U0JoI/AAAAAAAAo6I/0IQSQYdyHj86O56NDJT2opVmrfTl53ERQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104032014"><img width="491" height="296" title="P1040320" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HUVw88ajrwg/WnU5tGAPs7I/AAAAAAAAo6M/egWZat_pscgMo56aK947n6hIYupCb5-RQCHMYCw/P1040320_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Well, our short but utterly delightful and interesting stay came to an end so it was time to say good bye and to thank Mr and Mrs Gherde and Champa for their wonderful hospitality.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-udFrq0LAOL0/WnU5wFL69NI/AAAAAAAAo6Q/zfprPwA6mfIOG23glW3hRMw1HxJk2WegACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104032514"><img width="489" height="294" title="P1040325" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040325" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QZdzsOaDP9c/WnU5y1HUu3I/AAAAAAAAo6U/a3pLeQ9LDnE3KRpVc-Tv4SGnJJGn0fWDwCHMYCw/P1040325_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On the journey back we did an overnight stop again in Vijapur and this time had a quick visit to the tomb of Mohammad Adilshah. Built in the 1650’s it’s similar in design to the Taj Mahal but nowhere near as elaborate.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hmpD9nWTFqo/WnU51rev7SI/AAAAAAAAo6Y/Ea3U9Nm6uosrPUqIZi8k6DGjM6Bny6bBgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104033814"><img width="489" height="310" title="P1040338" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040338" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b7_ArlriZRM/WnU54cQuyNI/AAAAAAAAo6c/7AEAuY147U0IUw5OJ_flQvlUbjNeJeIvwCHMYCw/P1040338_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The tombs inside ………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D2wv4wQVrOA/WnU57dyPXMI/AAAAAAAAo6k/UP2PF8aOFJ89I8MablHCDN9Y25nhB7MfgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104034514"><img width="486" height="318" title="P1040345" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040345" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H-n1-jsbl2s/WnU5-CJ3tJI/AAAAAAAAo6o/F7XjRrU2xWY4i7x9stRlNttWpOOzLTWwACHMYCw/P1040345_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. and the view down from the gallery. Very similar to the Whispering Gallery in St Paul’s Cathedral you could hear your echo 7 times.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r-4DVaC15B4/WnU6A1AnjxI/AAAAAAAAo6s/NvjWDe0dVdQ7VsIDt1vW0x_GQO7qGezTQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104035314"><img width="486" height="310" title="P1040353" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040353" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uCmslH2NtXo/WnU6ENBYgGI/AAAAAAAAo6w/IWIy8aJk6Ygzr810Pals9mbxUP35wyAXQCHMYCw/P1040353_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The views from the top were amazing.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hy1MOzUQQrI/WnU6G8sVGiI/AAAAAAAAo60/aT8O8qgch6ggx-CEp0w8R0FjuzcCmJxGwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104035914"><img width="498" height="312" title="P1040359" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040359" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A_QG2x7SPPc/WnU6Js-fB_I/AAAAAAAAo64/_5Gqm1JPOysiBr3nUIQdRExf2Ci-as-AQCHMYCw/P1040359_thumb5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Having to fill with fuel several times ( and repair a punctured tyre!) on this trip we were under no illusions that India is a “can do” country. Nothing stops this petrol station from remaining open – just prop the pump up on bricks!</p><p>Our limited travel in India has, up until this point, been on planes and trains and so a car journey over so many miles to a remote part of the country has been both and eye-opener and wonderful adventure and we can only thank Manju and his family for the chance of such a wonderful experience.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-36204339774147440862018-01-11T05:54:00.001+00:002018-01-11T05:54:26.534+00:00December 2017– Goa.<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R-nDjnPr7SQ/Wlb5LAgYzfI/AAAAAAAAopU/zz2HAAd1eFkgjb6Q9I1LeC69_mBrWORqQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171205_2222272"><img width="492" height="329" title="20171205_222227" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171205_222227" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CbrzantDCCI/Wlb5Obp2gpI/AAAAAAAAopY/EY3_t8PaCbsAUKhiHdie5d37BM_rb57TQCHMYCw/20171205_222227_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Having settled into “home” for the next three months it wasn’t long before the party started. Friends who we met last year, Carole and Tony timed their Goa break so we could all meet up again. Over their two week stay we thoroughly enjoyed their company with many occasions to remember.<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YeHAQCd1yn8/Wlb5Q7VXUYI/AAAAAAAAopc/oOfimawatCMW0RlUfLbAv14U-wml3FUZACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171212_22534111"><img width="272" height="372" title="20171212_225341" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171212_225341" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zO-JXrl6Nm8/Wlb5TpwsTuI/AAAAAAAAopg/Jwiod4o7G54HPyUlc1GlBQSspV1OZAZWwCHMYCw/20171212_225341_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>One person who arrived on the scene very early on was our friend Manju! He’s studying for a degree in sociology but also works in Mikey’s Place (which we frequent frequently!) in the evenings. He’s great fun and, when he can, regularly appears wherever we may be for a free Mojito! LOL.<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FbJ23fF5H6c/Wlb5WexciGI/AAAAAAAAopk/lhjvErn9Dwo9sHwYz7YM3-lw9zIujbkrACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171213_14172411"><img width="271" height="361" title="20171213_141724" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171213_141724" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mC-kBj4JJds/Wlb5ZZ58W8I/AAAAAAAAopo/guEUoqLqai4b5KuwoylRbIW3ED2oXm7HgCHMYCw/20171213_141724_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Another friend who we soon caught up with again was Pundalik. We found him working at Kingfisher Shack on the beach and soon discovered that he wasn’t just a waiter but had taken over the shack as it’s new boss! We’re so pleased that he’s taken, what is, a huge decision for him and wish him all the luck in world. Of course, his shack is now our favoured place on the beach. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FNCU3XbqUG0/Wlb5cBwIXMI/AAAAAAAAops/bci6CxlO8P4xjuNhliI7qJXZyKLsAztfwCHMYCw/s1600-h/004e40b0-f6c7-45b8-81dc-3dd2d3ea32d9%255B4%255D"><img width="496" height="269" title="004e40b0-f6c7-45b8-81dc-3dd2d3ea32d9" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="004e40b0-f6c7-45b8-81dc-3dd2d3ea32d9" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VhCl6zhNyjw/Wlb5ezh8qJI/AAAAAAAAopw/EVXeO7rnFW4NOtgzBw-CroZvZN4qumTwQCHMYCw/004e40b0-f6c7-45b8-81dc-3dd2d3ea32d9_thumb%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The west coast of India has recently been badly effected by a cyclone out in the Arabian Sea.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_oMP4EiXxkY/Wlb5hrSTyDI/AAAAAAAAop0/igsLSn0hHQclJPuz4P6PgU-RIAcXWY5uwCHMYCw/s1600-h/400d7145-f67e-45e3-9ff4-b8f5f2a68fc0%255B5%255D"><img width="504" height="265" title="400d7145-f67e-45e3-9ff4-b8f5f2a68fc0" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="400d7145-f67e-45e3-9ff4-b8f5f2a68fc0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8SfS2nrr7uc/Wlb5kT5giAI/AAAAAAAAop4/bFVhM6BYajYZDreu20ClNXLatqmtUguRwCHMYCw/400d7145-f67e-45e3-9ff4-b8f5f2a68fc0_thumb%255B3%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p> Coinciding with high tides the sea pounded the beaches and caused an awful lot of damage to many of the shacks – just as the season started. We felt so sorry for the owners who worked really hard to get their shacks ready only for the beach to be taken away from under them. However, they’re a resourceful people and they continued to function, even without foundations, and within a week things were pretty much back to normal. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bqipquTs2u8/Wlb5mw_35cI/AAAAAAAAop8/n1zxClaAVNkNMXKIkCJKs_tN-kETPviIQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171212_2001051"><img width="500" height="329" title="20171212_200105" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171212_200105" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y8TkM4Bnfxc/Wlb5p3qJtWI/AAAAAAAAoqA/d2MOTI9sV5oftDVdY1f8E6VgwLdgM1BrACHMYCw/20171212_200105_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We had more UK friends, Simon and Stephen, who came out for a couple of weeks break. It was their first trip to Goa so we made sure they enjoyed their stay (we hope!). We had many good times with them in the two weeks and it soon became the ‘norm’ for them to join us and enjoy a pre dinner drink on the balcony before going for an evening meal. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--7dDwWgMWhg/Wlb5syLMQqI/AAAAAAAAoqE/Xn_6Df4rp8QGKgZ545N41E2rUWZ3WpzlQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171213_2040402"><img width="504" height="315" title="20171213_204040" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171213_204040" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-v-wBr-bhl5Y/Wlb5vorVZpI/AAAAAAAAoqM/8LgX1g1NgfAQq2fooZUi_JCP-rGWALZmACHMYCw/20171213_204040_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Carole and Tony’s two weeks overlapped nicely with Simon and Stephen’s and both overlapped with Bryn and Susan’s (who we also met last year). Judging that they may enjoy each other’s company we arranged a meal one evening and it was a great success. Here’s Bryn, James, Stephen, Doug, Tony, Sue, Simon and Susan. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iQqEVZ7nXtY/Wlb5yQ7APfI/AAAAAAAAoqU/xojfpiK6Sx8j3F1Rh5iVs2IvehKT3tf9wCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171216_14192911"><img width="255" height="341" title="20171216_141929" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171216_141929" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2HSvCTEul3o/Wlb51bYDWFI/AAAAAAAAoqY/jR9_dQKdzWEcav_AHizJELopfDMFA521gCHMYCw/20171216_141929_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Well, Christmas was soon to be upon us and we mentioned to Manju that we needed a palm leaf to act as a tree. He duly turned up one day with a twelve foot ‘job’ (which he carried on his scooter!).</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DwVgZCHyIEY/Wlb54VxxmNI/AAAAAAAAoqc/VYkpvuxpvEkvomAiNX6jRlhiQBySWXfngCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171216_1635562"><img width="256" height="345" title="20171216_163556" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171216_163556" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w1lL7cAQgzU/Wlb57kCaD_I/AAAAAAAAoqg/KTeFtpXTCkk6ClnZ2GWBDHdb26TD8jUtgCHMYCw/20171216_163556_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>It was fortunate that our apartment ceiling was high enough to take the monster! And splendid it looked we thought!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L86ypkQ3rLg/Wlb5-ero8ZI/AAAAAAAAoqk/aRm_I7TdSycoHAa0HkXQTZJEB4qdosQYACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171219_1819342"><img width="497" height="305" title="20171219_181934" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171219_181934" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-luA8DrCRva0/Wlb6BLGu3BI/AAAAAAAAoqo/S2gs_hZIH4gKk7O6SGhQ-eKJ7VPQXL9lACHMYCw/20171219_181934_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We decorated the balcony with flashing coloured lights and huge paper stars (just see a bit of one).</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5lyZiUgE1CQ/Wlb6EAspZ2I/AAAAAAAAoqs/wb94OEI8khYwmKKOPjTe56P7X5h1cVYgQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171216_2157012"><img width="492" height="315" title="20171216_215701" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171216_215701" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N9LTkUPPkD8/Wlb6Gz5JktI/AAAAAAAAoqw/v237MWt8yNkOYivi3UJrsPQu7Lx9zcD0QCHMYCw/20171216_215701_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>As a farewell meal for Simon and Stephen we had dinner at the charming Shivers Garden Restaurant and we must congratulate them both on their early retirement and a good upcoming four months in Thailand as they start their new “careers”!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P_R0c-4dEPo/Wlb6J7fI1NI/AAAAAAAAoq0/07voUMSH8aYqvQCkrwmRqnT47Qifj6XPgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171219_2003192"><img width="497" height="309" title="20171219_200319" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171219_200319" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--qHXUsb3jOI/Wlb6M8PNybI/AAAAAAAAoq4/z9Xh2j5Z9GQad8s1_bpTmqyIF24d5IAUQCHMYCw/20171219_200319_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>IF “Yen” was up for grabs and IF we wanted a dog then James would probably be arranging for a one-way ticket for her. “Yen” is one of Mikey’s dogs and, apart from needing a good bath ‘cos she rolls in the dirt, she’s adorable and in love with us. (it may have something to do with biscuits!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cUNaxjGpQHk/Wlb6PwvHhPI/AAAAAAAAoq8/vZ8eEGUdIyY-jLrvKFEJVPRcUWQ5l2dngCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171222_1003521"><img width="498" height="307" title="20171222_100352" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171222_100352" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-no3dzAsvETM/Wlb6S5-GHOI/AAAAAAAAorA/Muv7_2Kf8FkF4BQF1dXrN-gBxKZfKqrBgCHMYCw/20171222_100352_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>For five days over the Christmas period we had friend Zoe join us. We were delighted, and privileged, to have her company during a short break from her very hectic life. Here we are collecting a scooter from Mikey,s for her. That’s another one of his dogs – “Apple” a rescued Beagle, who climbed aboard and wouldn’t get off the scooter!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sWI7n9SiMr0/Wlb6WeWNcOI/AAAAAAAAorI/TGnEKtZ0F6gJY4--9YfemmHdlq1u9RpEACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171222_2151071"><img width="496" height="315" title="20171222_215107" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171222_215107" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8r_nCn2-eFs/Wlb6ZEYVExI/AAAAAAAAorM/8Qz9hQMCnighQZg_WVca6U4Bkv1VB0ldwCHMYCw/20171222_215107_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>December was a joy for overlapping friends – Simon and Stephen’s stay backed on to Zoe’s so an evening meal for us all was, again, the order of the day.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gXsIY1S6GQs/Wlb6b96aojI/AAAAAAAAorQ/GPbYLtJ8M2c0DEGNfuL5H8L-j35fr6PjwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171223_0924211"><img width="498" height="302" title="20171223_092421" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171223_092421" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A7TUM9lfJBo/Wlb6etjVF2I/AAAAAAAAorU/h8-5fnDNkcQoc_4r1wITLFc4AibbZtztACHMYCw/20171223_092421_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>As Zoe loves water we decided to take her for a day on ‘our’ island trip where we swim, snorkel, Dolphin watch and BBQ with free drinks all day (isn’t that a surprise!). Its not true that Zoe and James are ‘brother and sister from another mister’ though!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YFCX1fqcZo4/Wlb6hIejvtI/AAAAAAAAorY/UvryjvkcMqI5wh4asP4CTMFdQXNFlNoQwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171223_0925402"><img width="501" height="311" title="20171223_092540" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171223_092540" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QaaKM3_BgkE/Wlb6kVAGS7I/AAAAAAAAorc/hTEhV6YcX_ccmgV-Elfwq9wed9oOBeFiACHMYCw/20171223_092540_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We leave the shelter of the river with another boat (that’s Ajit’s boat and he’s disappointed that we’re not on his boat – something he’ll change later in the day!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UMRA-_bg6Ck/Wlb6nXoGV3I/AAAAAAAAorg/Eu2fN9teBYMSG1kB7LyVFJpd5kNAZBs0wCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171223_1019141"><img width="505" height="318" title="20171223_101914" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171223_101914" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B_qx8ka-bIA/Wlb6qFiHAhI/AAAAAAAAork/y4kCTc368rA-p3ttffdMRnS3kysmeo0QgCHMYCw/20171223_101914_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The dolphins never fail to visit us as we stop engines on the way to the islands. (middle of the pic)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fGXrkbXfebk/Wlb6s2mTuiI/AAAAAAAAoro/bVY8TaLas5gDWc9b14PfoKlRVNV7XcVXgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171223_10303711"><img width="502" height="305" title="20171223_103037" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171223_103037" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u8FpvxY2hoI/Wlb6v93Cg7I/AAAAAAAAors/cp0tVN3YtrM_9BKFSWFQWW_NFMA4tCk0ACHMYCw/20171223_103037_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After a day of Dolphin watching, drinking, snorkelling, drinking, BBQing, drinking we head back to the mainland in Ajit’s boat with more drinks! Ajit joins us here for a little celebration. We shall be back again Ajit!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AhixSybFM80/Wlb6yuoirCI/AAAAAAAAorw/xGv_I0N6VJA8LV-hxEu6BhcRfBMnyKWugCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171224_1351261"><img width="503" height="308" title="20171224_135126" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171224_135126" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BQiX83zML5Y/Wlb61cHwsDI/AAAAAAAAor0/wld06pC5jP0YmFNp6Q5vBWgRXSEyxhRQgCHMYCw/20171224_135126_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Zoe and James on matching scooters outside the disused Aguada gaol …..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-trp_zfPKrTQ/Wlb64CDUYoI/AAAAAAAAor4/dCfTPDff34EBAMk7gdWRcNt54Nfe5Jl-QCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171224_14584211"><img width="503" height="313" title="20171224_145842" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171224_145842" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HpayCTcGi90/Wlb66yOWyFI/AAAAAAAAosE/_Hp1vZi8rpQX2iCAOekvjvzYB1YGgGMDQCHMYCw/20171224_145842_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and here, struggling for a space on the Panjim ferry! If you’ve heard of ‘organised’ chaos this is NOT, its chaos in it’s purest form (and great fun!).</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hNYWgAB-Klo/Wlb692rUE2I/AAAAAAAAosM/5QrwiFbZ7MAGiBc8JYgdigVCev1ttGjswCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171225_1922512"><img width="507" height="315" title="20171225_192251" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171225_192251" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HqTLhDt12fE/Wlb7A0zbJOI/AAAAAAAAosQ/trgJ8W8n24gcmiJpJBeUVHFI3aXKstCyACHMYCw/20171225_192251_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On Christmas Day in the evening we’d booked a meal at Shivers as the atmosphere with voils, fountains and lights is a delight. Someone thought it good idea to take our picture for posterity.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PmMmF6wDKCg/Wlb7D8trpuI/AAAAAAAAosU/n9rDdhwzyrkRyutfsUfCQ3o3HMOuo6W_wCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171225_2222362"><img width="509" height="313" title="20171225_222236" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171225_222236" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4BFW3W8d0IM/Wlb7G1NolII/AAAAAAAAosY/uEaiCbYYXxsMZ35f-opBOSXItMfX586lgCHMYCw/20171225_222236_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here we are enjoying a splendid five course meal with Zoe. Manju popped in to join us as usual <img class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-laughingoutloud" alt="Laughing out loud" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nx_bQb3EB-M/Wlb7Ju-k2hI/AAAAAAAAosc/v4qh2jJMw1kKFH6Fpk2u3ZWhwVDTkHZVQCHMYCw/wlEmoticon-laughingoutloud2?imgmax=800"> and we were also joined by Chris and Ange (who we’d got to know) who arrived wearing tradition Indian dress! Zoe left us after Boxing Day to fly to Beijing and Chris and Ange flew back to Sunderland.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NKUN_6FWU4E/Wlb7MhzOTwI/AAAAAAAAosg/K8xHfhAlprMaO-IqqUbeGcgvYBi2hxoggCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171231_2042212"><img width="506" height="329" title="20171231_204221" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171231_204221" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cCtWEi1zCng/Wlb7PofiapI/AAAAAAAAosk/4pN6imVsNdQkgzyMf8KAanN4FeTnKr1aACHMYCw/20171231_204221_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Christmas is not celebrated with any great gusto in Goa but when New Year comes around – that’s a different matter! The beach is lit as far as you can see with coloured lights ……….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Iu8Jz-CKdUA/Wlb7Sp7epGI/AAAAAAAAoso/UytDFXm3P3I5BRO6tT2p34i3ylaj0kSBgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171231_2042292"><img width="508" height="323" title="20171231_204229" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171231_204229" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4B1HUajGiUM/Wlb7VwZc2uI/AAAAAAAAoss/2J3oXrLIXCkKWLtaioEaI_hrC1TQ9zntwCHMYCw/20171231_204229_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… and bonfires take the chill off the air (haha!).</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AkLfiVajgpo/Wlb7ZPv0NBI/AAAAAAAAosw/-gKZlZsyJMQUtJvmLrtP6voeXgbvV5F_wCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171231_2158152"><img width="275" height="344" title="20171231_215815" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171231_215815" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f4f5aB0mlsM/Wlb7cINwTFI/AAAAAAAAos0/QrKH6jxV6bMY_3CyZ3NU8UwJ_qoxMZy7ACHMYCw/20171231_215815_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We booked into Kingfisher Shack under the care of Pundalik for our new year’s eve meal and party. This pic shows just how much James sticks out from the general crowd! He doesn’t mind in the least but he does feel a little like Gulliver in Lilliput! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DHZduI0c0Tc/Wlb7e72nmLI/AAAAAAAAos8/OuV4t017aAk0K76fzESm_fiMqjNo47EvgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171231_22144611"><img width="495" height="309" title="20171231_221446" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171231_221446" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O2WLvAyPFmc/Wlb7iAqfvkI/AAAAAAAAotA/eAxIhaeDOP0b6eVgbrUB2529hVC8zn1egCHMYCw/20171231_221446_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Doug treated himself to a lobster (James has given up naming them as it’s too painful!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IsuFRVyRe4k/Wlb7knOMeDI/AAAAAAAAotI/0L3UbildDr0yGbOpBD3KfcmEjooJ7giOwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171231_22162411"><img width="500" height="313" title="20171231_221624" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171231_221624" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_SJYF8_smvI/Wlb7nl3wpGI/AAAAAAAAotM/kJVZYoui7FQ1CDvKICHz4eZK51Ear0MpwCHMYCw/20171231_221624_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Pundalik’s chef is one of the best on the beach and the food, of course, excellent.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y6fNsHiOyu0/Wlb7qOPDUsI/AAAAAAAAotQ/Pfai3ei7Q6YppLR185Rwsbr3WN2wW8YQQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180101_0000462"><img width="275" height="376" title="20180101_000046" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180101_000046" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W2wbnNmu9zk/Wlb7s_uqH1I/AAAAAAAAotU/o9r3cyu68ZUqsM1vcRiw8Dz3Ml0TWzM_wCHMYCw/20180101_000046_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>At midnight the fireworks started all along the beach</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XpcAQ0zaGjY/Wlb7v-k7IwI/AAAAAAAAotY/nnzrJ64H1ioERkLVzdfg6XiFWlwnZc5VACHMYCw/s1600-h/20180101_0112092"><img width="512" height="312" title="20180101_011209" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180101_011209" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P4rz6kUPMEQ/Wlb7yzY60HI/AAAAAAAAotc/KK1slwuaT0cP7lFiR7bHrxnqB165P4fTwCHMYCw/20180101_011209_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We were joined by our barbers – Talib, Doug, Javeed, James and Asraf …...</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oWO1Jrtlwh4/Wlb719MrmvI/AAAAAAAAotg/hz22CRFEsmcNcGXrtCF2fgCfOoArE7p_ACHMYCw/s1600-h/20180101_0140352"><img width="508" height="319" title="20180101_014035" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180101_014035" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kbALqiIM7Ho/Wlb743fRvRI/AAAAAAAAotk/It8EuzVp8s0T9IYkpfAZFyGBXEjgBwRsgCHMYCw/20180101_014035_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… and we partied well into the night!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9NsfwWKhAYc/Wlb77otCizI/AAAAAAAAoto/9vJLdIf11asq4ySJ8cXg5JUc30uk8Fc7QCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180101_02065311"><img width="260" height="356" title="20180101_020653" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180101_020653" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KV1xSvvwtaM/Wlb7-bFV7OI/AAAAAAAAots/lzMrUsoTI_o3DUcox2CFFRnIzhMVlLzbgCHMYCw/20180101_020653_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Time to go home! Good food, good drinks and good friends – we can ask for no more.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ubUiQ1wY624/Wlb8BKNETdI/AAAAAAAAotw/COyncYxlwQcHpdyjD23qTWLW_aqc8xS0wCHMYCw/s1600-h/20180102_1757501"><img width="506" height="327" title="20180102_175750" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20180102_175750" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-puAKu2b0Ck0/Wlb8Dznug-I/AAAAAAAAot0/FGDsmkI-_GUVB1lOMtJk-VT80LAJEKONACHMYCw/20180102_175750_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We’ve also met up with our Mapsa market trader friends Akash and Jitesh and, over in the far right is “Charlie” their friend and helper. We’ve called him Charlie as he can’t hear or speak and so nobody knows his name. He’s so friendly and helpful and we manage to communicate in various ways. We’re all having some very late lunch after a whole day in Mapsa.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-4358302080694604452017-12-07T11:40:00.001+00:002017-12-07T11:40:56.696+00:00Selsey to Manchester (via Faringdon) to Selsey to Isle of Wight to Mumbai to Goa - Phew!<p>This blog entry is very late as we packed a lot of things into about three weeks - after which things got busy!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3PqinZP5QS0/WikkTLWm8ZI/AAAAAAAAoek/oCmGN5O5C7QgEhYqzRtTrq9Sl-ic2yx0QCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171102_143752_resized4"><img width="503" height="244" title="20171102_143752_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171102_143752_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bmSSqPs9rig/WikkV7eY_9I/AAAAAAAAoeo/msVAFNQY-_YI7_hirEskTBiMjeCEb1gagCHMYCw/20171102_143752_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A ten day stay in Selsey gave us the <strong>chance</strong> to do some catching up with friends (something we seem to do a lot of!). Although it was November the south coast sunshine can usually be relied on and one jaunt in the sunshine was just along to the next coastal village to see friends Alan and Kim. Always good to spend the day with them – at lunchtime we sauntered down to the village pub for lunch with their friend Jane.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rmYpAy8pHLk/WikkXslvcNI/AAAAAAAAoes/QhU8Mm11y9EHyrjfB193s7ho5OJL_ZMQACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0015_resized4"><img width="507" height="255" title="IMG-20171125-WA0015_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0015_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mr9DbEF6Wow/WikkZr0uvVI/AAAAAAAAoew/5lcArH5sopkiZY0LOBn7bL0USHN1-TJvACHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0015_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Next it was a very belated catch-up when friend (and superb professional photographer) Nick came along from Brighton for a short stay. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GKu5vrdwhcE/WikkbyJKBLI/AAAAAAAAoe0/levlj17At2IsMSIypNdeCfN6ha9lA1dHQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0014_resized4"><img width="505" height="252" title="IMG-20171125-WA0014_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0014_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UKZihuPD5wU/WikkfggKx1I/AAAAAAAAoe4/0hZnPSR2T5AEz9aKYHVNLpiZWlUgpD09gCHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0014_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>One little trip out with him was to one of our favourite spots at Bosham on the edge of Chichester Harbour. Bosham is famous for it’s daily intrusion by the tide. A good part of the village has it’s comings and goings very much affected by the sea.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QyXTMQv-CHI/WikkiGnZCdI/AAAAAAAAoe8/xkI49kyjwJIXR1dePv42qi1F5gVXgD5mACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0009_resized4"><img width="502" height="249" title="IMG-20171125-WA0009_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0009_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pL4HrUe5lAM/WikknbhEDVI/AAAAAAAAofA/LLIjrDHFHgEuxo931ZMTNbHg4pmBfxIPwCHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0009_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>With jobs done and friends caught up with in Selsey, it was back up to Manchester for another round of jobs to do and friends to catch up with. On the journey, however, we stopped for the most special meet up of all – with the kids!! We met at the Freke Arms outside Highworth for, what really was, a six birthday celebration and Christmas and New Year all in one. James, Vicki with Ian, Doug, then Frances with Kel. One can’t put into words what “the kids” mean to us so we’ll leave it at that.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TfibVzMmHI0/Wikks4QCCcI/AAAAAAAAofE/JC69wayEgUQs1nuJKrGgOVKSDFfGAUpFACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171110_224810_resized4"><img width="232" height="361" title="20171110_224810_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171110_224810_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1AXgh2BzhxU/WikkwWwRBCI/AAAAAAAAofI/cAk2pOzxbcIJw4lZY8Y_9jyorObjSwrtgCHMYCw/20171110_224810_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Back in Manchester the partying started immediately. Soon after we got back an old friend Andy (well not that old!) came up with his partner Jimmy for a the week end. It had been many years since Andy’s last visit to Manchester and Jimmy had never been so the city had to be explored and various venues and haunts enjoyed. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Sc5MW1rtrzY/Wikk0FBX7XI/AAAAAAAAofQ/xK53nPXdCcAXAKfWMg8fwiSqIC-apDWkwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171110_224843_resized4"><img width="499" height="248" title="20171110_224843_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171110_224843_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_uJttLmbwok/Wikk4X_NaTI/AAAAAAAAofU/4Kh9GCWZCxoSeeOWUnZyrC0KucczLnvBwCHMYCw/20171110_224843_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Not to be left out of our social events and meet-ups with friends and family(hardly ever!) was our friend Cris. This was “Via” in Canal Street and Andy and Jimmy were behind the camera.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xJwnBCHnI1I/Wikk7N4aITI/AAAAAAAAofY/bFgQyI-8DH0WsH9jthDMi8ox6Oy8MOcJgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0006_resized4"><img width="232" height="368" title="IMG-20171125-WA0006_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0006_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--U3-3Y_s4vk/Wikk9D6ACPI/AAAAAAAAofc/Vr82ZkKhTK0tcUYfkcgmtxzNvMhCFQJsACHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0006_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Apart from seeing the city on foot Manchester has the 47 story Beetham Tower with it’s Cloud 23 public bar and viewing area (on the 23rd floor funnily enough!). That’s it sticking out half way up.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZoYlC9sOKQ8/Wikk_F1jhdI/AAAAAAAAofg/sNDhE-emon8oXcEHgP7UA61s1I2rMVS0ACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0008_resized4"><img width="505" height="259" title="IMG-20171125-WA0008_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0008_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s4g2BRZjjic/WiklDzj-EuI/AAAAAAAAofk/qxWUDisBKf0a5qnU1ZL0PPr_Aa9tfwi3ACHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0008_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s Jimmy, Andy and Doug enjoying cocktails and the view.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hJ_pf98j3Bo/WiklGW8VazI/AAAAAAAAofo/b5Viy_fRvB8fW7anepaXZdoXu5OcI1ePgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0004_resized4"><img width="495" height="251" title="IMG-20171125-WA0004_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0004_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4HxgBFRB7wU/WiklIcOr5SI/AAAAAAAAofs/8B4O9CHzgsw7hlf9LAyp7_SHJWRt5z-3wCHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0004_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This is an early evening view from Cloud 23 showing Deansgate running up towards the Cathedral.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gRF78TvZbKQ/WiklLH2vODI/AAAAAAAAofw/74tYrq5CUz8b2ey33a1Toq6OnbZIrcibACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0007_resized4"><img width="496" height="254" title="IMG-20171125-WA0007_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0007_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TnwNSStE0ZE/WiklPgrCajI/AAAAAAAAof0/-FLRTEu64tol01PxtBMUoyTY5bn3jq83ACHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0007_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a>Friends Pam and Geoff came over from their home in the Lake District for the last get together we’ll have until the end of March 2018 when we meet up again in a totally different part of the world. Its a very long tradition (almost 5 months now!) that when friends come to Manchester we enjoy a bottle of bubbly, or two, as a nice start to the day. Actually, it’s only two sets of friends (and the others know who they are!) and in this case we plumped for G&Ts with bubbly for later in the day.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AblLlXVqr68/WiklVUZ0rnI/AAAAAAAAof4/yB0uPAFggRAx6DI9wwYikPNxo3tPWMwPwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171115_161922_resized4"><img width="497" height="261" title="20171115_161922_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171115_161922_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qhQnibCl2_Y/WiklYu5pfLI/AAAAAAAAof8/bePoPyfxmAMcK33Rdw3LhIVpg0XLIACFgCHMYCw/20171115_161922_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Well, later in the day came and we didn’t get time for bubbly so we went for cocktails at Cloud 23 in the Beetham Tower. As evening set in the glass tables lit up to give James and Geoff the ‘limelight’ touch ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XgBlWnTkAEo/WikleKhXolI/AAAAAAAAogI/ez9PVVpk0KMpLv6WvkA6WauluOjVzKcoQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171115_161946_resized4"><img width="499" height="273" title="20171115_161946_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171115_161946_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VGGXVp9oGfE/WikljWFV0-I/AAAAAAAAogM/LLXNHvyQco0tqkA0favi3VUFQchg6JyGACHMYCw/20171115_161946_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>………. and Pam and Doug a sort of …… well, not sure really!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jG3IJLB4T0U/WikloH2nx_I/AAAAAAAAogQ/VSZRbI0ACWkwac6IAMEpzrm4F0ex22Y3wCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0005_resized4"><img width="502" height="266" title="IMG-20171125-WA0005_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0005_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-56MFOVkoezM/WikltRNqGFI/AAAAAAAAogU/KJaJrOgWSScKICy1uF3huh1y4fa_kcovQCHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0005_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>As the sun set and the city lights came on there was time for one more cocktail before our evening date ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8jmhBqd2VAo/Wiklx3pDW-I/AAAAAAAAogY/U7vyaqcehvMrwNtlfAQmb5EjIwm5rzsygCHMYCw/s1600-h/23561486_1589943224362323_5758461323%255B2%255D"><img width="497" height="281" title="23561486_1589943224362323_5758461323435909018_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="23561486_1589943224362323_5758461323435909018_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6PmdOS1lsE0/Wikl4mZXoxI/AAAAAAAAogc/DjXRVfMJDYgSUJYnSLdEHY_1LxvT5MzMQCHMYCw/23561486_1589943224362323_5758461323?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. which was a Champagne reception at Whitewall Galleries in the presence of our favourite artist, Fabian Perez. He does a UK tour every year and it was fortuitous that we could take up our invitation to his Manchester appearance. We had a few brief moments with him and, although we’ve met him in other years in different cities, it was in Whitewall Galleries, Manchester that we purchased our first work by him. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tmmAaCWU4F0/Wikl83Bbv6I/AAAAAAAAogk/ThcD53LUsjgD-kGl1hwwsaPPSll01oTXACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0002_resized5"><img width="497" height="252" title="IMG-20171125-WA0002_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0002_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lgdi2mz_BSo/WikmCCJFUVI/AAAAAAAAogo/gV5J5zykSJgZF4dad4Z5TqU9gDZFdFU9gCHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0002_resized_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Doug’s friend Nick, who he’s known for nearly forty years, had a brief slot in his busy life and came to stay for a couple of nights. We decided to take him Blackpool to see the lights and the “Funny Girls’” Christmas show. It happened also to be the same night that “Strictly Come Dancing” had it’s Blackpool highlight show but they didn’t send us an invitation! As we’ve said before, and will probably say many times in the future, Cris likes to partake in all things enjoyable so here he is again with Doug (on tippy toes!) and Nick. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aQuJevUMdn8/WikmFYqa-7I/AAAAAAAAogs/koaw7k4WcRA3TUi6bTD9PYOHIMg7yAGoACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171118_181911_resized4"><img width="231" height="350" title="20171118_181911_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171118_181911_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fnej5lIm714/WikmIqjIJyI/AAAAAAAAogw/OO98NNslbq0EEaPyrdNalBB8WsIdpkhpACHMYCw/20171118_181911_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Nick’s a keen biker (and an airline pilot) and James is also a keen biker (in mind only!) – it’s been so long now he can’t even claim to be ‘between bikes’. So, when the road racing machines presented themselves in the arcade they had to have a competition. No prizes for guessing who won!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lm8FgW6mX0U/WikmRcWLJBI/AAAAAAAAog0/OR9_Dy5DdQM3RcSSdJaq28AqSliF_vpzQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171125-WA0001_resized4"><img width="499" height="265" title="IMG-20171125-WA0001_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171125-WA0001_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-my-UhTeTrJs/WikmV1nl8nI/AAAAAAAAog4/iPU53w3_eGskUyUpWU7CRqHLUUS4dbFggCHMYCw/IMG-20171125-WA0001_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After an early dinner, and racing pretend bikes, we all headed for a guaranteed evening of great entertainment at Funny Girls. Nick, Doug (no he’s not drunk), Cris and James. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4sNobQnnxWw/WikmY1CyVcI/AAAAAAAAog8/yijngB0WjpgMPtO3knsGOaITMLuvDbb9wCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171118_221318_resized7"><img width="232" height="370" title="20171118_221318_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171118_221318_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M9JQcqTILVk/WikmbF04EcI/AAAAAAAAohA/859Kyj9XH_8FHbEFTyIYHOKcY5ZKIw6TQCHMYCw/20171118_221318_resized_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>It was a terrific Christmas atmosphere and we even had a snow shower for authenticity.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gbn50I7q_Y4/Wikmflq4RqI/AAAAAAAAohM/r9nNc2ArUg4PKXD4SSs-dAdxli09unGKQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171125_183421_resized4"><img width="260" height="343" title="20171125_183421_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171125_183421_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Kn2su8s1uyc/Wikml0-_YdI/AAAAAAAAohQ/_eZv9e0eSzgl6urMkRomWWsjUEvF3mn-QCHMYCw/20171125_183421_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Time was beginning to get short by now and we’d managed to achieve what we needed to do in Manchester so, after a last late night cabaret show, we packed the car and headed south through the night, arriving in Selsey at 4 in the morning! With just three days before our departure to India we managed a rare evening out on the Selsey scene – visiting the incredibly popular little Micro Pub in the High Street (only opened this summer). By <strong>chance</strong>, we met up with James and Liz and had the most terrific evening with them. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iBrPWp903aA/WikmxOJptSI/AAAAAAAAohU/wGDeS4QRq0gW-zx8LDyMQ8e7Np2ahLA1ACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171126_153338_resized4"><img width="495" height="316" title="20171126_153338_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171126_153338_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l2Dgx2a7zI0/Wikm29jidhI/AAAAAAAAohY/As_ostRVDlM8Ze1JBJZ4lVwh8MQvuDXHwCHMYCw/20171126_153338_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Having broken the last journey to Manchester to meet up with “the kids” we now had the<strong> chance </strong>to meet up with Doug’s parents. They were spending time on the Isle of Wight so we took the car across on the ferry and spent a really enjoyable day with them, and in the nick of time too, as the next day was our flight to India. Here’s Derek, Doug and Vilma.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8ZJBcbk3Ty4/Wikm7L5wAUI/AAAAAAAAohc/BWdwH4X5nzAdriG2GcRy964CnWWgp29pQCHMYCw/s1600-h/23905622_2101531826838823_5050392914"><img width="497" height="286" title="23905622_2101531826838823_5050392914441527055_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="23905622_2101531826838823_5050392914441527055_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GYeugjWK8CQ/WiknBGT7toI/AAAAAAAAohk/4xDIQTIonlYdf0YktZyWl8aiTuOAV1rlACHMYCw/23905622_2101531826838823_5050392914%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After leaving Doug’s parents we popped in to see our dear friend Jonathan, who lives on the island. Usually we meet somewhere on “the north island” (as he calls the mainland) during his frequent business trips. You can tell this is a selfie – James hasn’t quite got rid of that selfie face!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DolBCR11jaM/WiknGG83OtI/AAAAAAAAoho/RPhn51vM6e4L2ZCuQ5FhD7n-09SqdIwLACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171129-WA0011_resized4"><img width="492" height="259" title="IMG-20171129-WA0011_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171129-WA0011_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w1Uj_jslDqg/WiknLVoBs0I/AAAAAAAAohs/c7mQpsCxeKkSqKjcfZDWbvuJSsp8KtaGwCHMYCw/IMG-20171129-WA0011_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After a great flight with Jet Airways, arriving in Mumbai and a connecting flight to Goa, our taxi driver and friend Joaquim met us at the airport. We were then met at the apartment we’re renting for three months in Candolim by Muz, the owner, who so very kindly presented us with two baskets of fresh fruit and got us settled in. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7oBA2xwJR0Q/WiknPUGCAVI/AAAAAAAAohw/N9KVFZPHc4obC9LU7C6mlOtgftJau8wIgCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171129-WA0009_resized4"><img width="491" height="255" title="IMG-20171129-WA0009_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171129-WA0009_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tAJxRj95CIU/WiknUR5Q14I/AAAAAAAAoh0/AXdXmdLy_pI9l--tARh-0DnqMyrR7QuyACHMYCw/IMG-20171129-WA0009_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The next day we travelled over to Muz’s house, where we met his charming family, ……….. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6oz-LSNQky0/WiknXKYYtOI/AAAAAAAAoh4/yIbjDiBtV382JIPnMnwu8d6UlAFEC2jwQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171129-WA0015_resized4"><img width="490" height="252" title="IMG-20171129-WA0015_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171129-WA0015_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3tZUvxkLUpw/WiknZK2PHWI/AAAAAAAAoh8/eQWig0m_oLshscZh0XW34ptBLtVw-HXHACHMYCw/IMG-20171129-WA0015_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……….. had some delicious traditional Indian food with them and then collected a scooter, which Muz had arranged for us to hire for our stay.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c0xHgCQQMUc/WiknasXP87I/AAAAAAAAoiA/dNYhgMEYEsoyA4_gUM2NOTN26p1c_bUUQCHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG-20171128-WA0004_resized4"><img width="492" height="274" title="IMG-20171128-WA0004_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG-20171128-WA0004_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_LRiaLP-IPM/WiknctKMUjI/AAAAAAAAoiE/dgLpFA6waqEmyZ1NWN0_01_zFI75NgQagCHMYCw/IMG-20171128-WA0004_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Back in Candolim it wasn’t very long before we started to meet up with our local friends. Two of whom are the lovely Bobby and Rebecca who got married earlier this year.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AbaPoZxWUH4/WiknfQC1ovI/AAAAAAAAoiI/viyzQhLeuDUfnJwuJMireuLV2bX_W6LBwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171130_142653_resized7"><img width="266" height="373" title="20171130_142653_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171130_142653_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1ulC1UXkwwM/WiknhgFr3JI/AAAAAAAAoiQ/jKzdnnOa-BsBA3DwfH4I4D9sEEaaLOzrACHMYCw/20171130_142653_resized_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The next day, with scooter at the ready, we headed off to Panjim (Goa’s capital) with friend Manju to help us with the shopping. Although Muz had kindly stored a number of boxes of belongings for us there was still quite a lot that (Doug) needed to make the apartment our home for three months. Here’s Manju on his bike in the foreground (anything on two wheels is called a bike) and James just in front, getting the ferry across the Panjim River.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d2ck11CAAlg/WiknmSKwP8I/AAAAAAAAoiU/RQ74-4f9HgMH4aVynmOUVz_LOVo_yByvgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171130_130318_resized7"><img width="500" height="311" title="20171130_130318_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171130_130318_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uQZLrrc95g4/WiknpiSyUYI/AAAAAAAAoiY/lN9pYZ6TD-48q8d0nRfvqPkAkX7xrAmtQCHMYCw/20171130_130318_resized_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>With most of the shopping done we headed for some lunch before the trip back to Candolim. James is not really harassed it’s Doug not waiting a second longer to take the picture! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UFKsVR3VP7E/WiknuSEsUqI/AAAAAAAAoic/pc8QAjGoyrMnKYfuqmK6DAXDqm-x_fHTACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171130_211623_resized5"><img width="498" height="355" title="20171130_211623_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171130_211623_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t4exAQJYIJU/WiknzbF1lQI/AAAAAAAAoig/dTdqbarItBUbnSuG6n3rNX8VlGCgSGhlwCHMYCw/20171130_211623_resized_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>That evening, as a thank you to Manju for helping with the shopping and finding shops which we hadn’t used before, we took him for dinner at Raju’s Happy Shed very close to our apartment and a very nice venue.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9hAmjlBqdW8/Wikn2avuKMI/AAAAAAAAoik/sfuv45CfbPMeDHa8Cl8jqEWQFT3m0EomACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171130_211710_resized4"><img width="253" height="335" title="20171130_211710_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171130_211710_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mJP8UJgV3qM/Wikn4VHA2PI/AAAAAAAAoio/Qm_rn_j8nIUHi1XlOOA0yYxlySgaS74lwCHMYCw/20171130_211710_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Manju doesn’t drink alcohol often but, as this was a rare day off from both his intense college studies and evening / night time work in a local bar, he indulged in a Mojito. His expression tells everything!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xKqeaTg0hbE/Wikn7JgzSKI/AAAAAAAAois/zmXLGYhbqhc5l_eb_mB2fYKKuxHNb4AJACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171201_123434_resized4"><img width="491" height="308" title="20171201_123434_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171201_123434_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D8ED5KJYWiQ/Wikn9gc2QsI/AAAAAAAAoiw/UuQrI9X-i_0jYVtLQsptpFsK3HJP7R0QQCHMYCw/20171201_123434_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>There are some wonderfully rural and tranquil parts of India but the road system generally isn’t one of them! We love riding our bike and it’s quite safe (fingers crossed) as long as you drive the Indian way and not the English way. Traffic jams such as this one on a junction going to Panjim which was locked solid with no promise of movement until someone started to intervene are rare ………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BKf20YUcj6A/WikoBIArTqI/AAAAAAAAoi4/1ImCIE7JfyIKNN31iyI-L8WRMcpzm7KHQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171201_123440_resized4"><img width="489" height="290" title="20171201_123440_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171201_123440_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lmyumDnORYE/WikoGi0favI/AAAAAAAAoi8/3Tlcx8YrpEgO0Rlq2yz1jbbyYN3mqIO2ACHMYCw/20171201_123440_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. but this is fairly normal.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PetMrqYIQBQ/WikoOwERu5I/AAAAAAAAojA/luNrysQZs1YWtB8mq19KHPZ-vziYSdvEQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20171201_125602_resized4"><img width="489" height="301" title="20171201_125602_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171201_125602_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KuqvzTjuCNQ/WikocvRUiII/AAAAAAAAojE/dIWeehGaiWgaifH8OzOEqlLkFvzwF3bjgCHMYCw/20171201_125602_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>And this – getting on and off the Panjim ferry!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fWLIloxEwOo/WikoinQTEFI/AAAAAAAAojM/kjIFwg6Jitwr3bOAWF8vfdr99ANunXVmACHMYCw/s1600-h/20171130_115533_resized7"><img width="264" height="319" title="20171130_115533_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20171130_115533_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-maFGcXW1w_w/Wikop3rDLoI/AAAAAAAAojQ/roZVriScrJ88yCDpZogvmb5oLvAr8EqdACHMYCw/20171130_115533_resized_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This a rare occasion when there’s enough room to turn your bike round on the ferry before it gets too full. If you don’t then you become part of the chaos during the unloading ceremony where you’re trying to turn round with everyone else!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UWsPoAWesrQ/WikotTBzphI/AAAAAAAAojU/XP4R8h51lpkeN_0Gj7d2C9bIhn5fd9p4QCHMYCw/s1600-h/24176710_2104704306521575_2803814933%255B1%255D"><img width="500" height="281" title="24176710_2104704306521575_2803814933185171750_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="24176710_2104704306521575_2803814933185171750_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--yoPxdu9R7k/WikoxZu9nQI/AAAAAAAAojY/EH3Lf31oTdA4HNq52ULqQEwuLPi2eKOYgCHMYCw/24176710_2104704306521575_2803814933?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The past pic, should go to Manju who’s so looking forward to other friends coming out to join us during our stay.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-59460149433018998832017-11-01T22:33:00.001+00:002017-11-01T22:47:39.079+00:00Northern Pleasures ….<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
On our recent trip to Ireland, to catch up with Doug’s sister and family in Cork, we took the opportunity to pick some sloes (a pleasure we thought we wouldn’t get around to this year!).<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ArZ4M6D12a4/WfpKWvgRshI/AAAAAAAAoX0/lJ47RuP4KMwi7bX_b6IExiQ1vr8wzqc_gCHMYCw/s1600-h/c7eec74b-3848-4a74-988f-7307e40fc34a%255B2%255D"><img alt="c7eec74b-3848-4a74-988f-7307e40fc34a" border="0" height="296" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DGP8KgjFEqQ/WfpKX0WEjPI/AAAAAAAAoX4/LddQe79XXkgiW9NuIxVe1-6LGblddrFmgCHMYCw/c7eec74b-3848-4a74-988f-7307e40fc34a?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="c7eec74b-3848-4a74-988f-7307e40fc34a" width="508" /></a><br />
So – now in jars, it was ‘picked in Ireland and recently brewed in Manchester’ (and may well be consumed in Selsey, who knows?<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GgMqy2cpU3g/WfpKY3NetDI/AAAAAAAAoX8/LZMB4SDQ-tAgU6-BIq3sQX7UtN7MPEGpgCHMYCw/s1600-h/c6ca9e40-3e73-4fba-a7a6-f2b7297a8718"><img alt="c6ca9e40-3e73-4fba-a7a6-f2b7297a8718" border="0" height="373" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8fy-wXu5Qw4/WfpKZ9NyfEI/AAAAAAAAoYA/xupy7sL9wNg7VsmXf4POSoKPICoKN_swACHMYCw/c6ca9e40-3e73-4fba-a7a6-f2b7297a8718%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="c6ca9e40-3e73-4fba-a7a6-f2b7297a8718" width="258" /></a><br />
Well, autumn came with a vengeance on 21st October - the day we picked to go to Blackpool for the “Funny Girl’s” Halloween show. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g0tY45Dp3l0/WfpKbDV92gI/AAAAAAAAoYE/R_UFKzGGIFQzwhKM9htObzWzCzuZt22NgCHMYCw/s1600-h/a10fb978-930c-491b-9ef1-6fca0b66cc5f%255B2%255D"><img alt="a10fb978-930c-491b-9ef1-6fca0b66cc5f" border="0" height="255" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WP6x87Bo4HI/WfpKcFk1PYI/AAAAAAAAoYI/1vo6nT85Awosw_a3J6pS8QuaF_BCzjXtwCHMYCw/a10fb978-930c-491b-9ef1-6fca0b66cc5f?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="a10fb978-930c-491b-9ef1-6fca0b66cc5f" width="506" /></a><br />
Storm “Brian” hit the the country and the wind certainly blew hard on Blackpool seafront!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TvycBM2JyS8/WfpKdQ2WlNI/AAAAAAAAoYM/zhCNnnwUjc0EO-B3N8XhwjRKp0ruq0NIwCHMYCw/s1600-h/103ede8e-3820-4f77-87c5-fb559398b5b8%255B2%255D"><img alt="103ede8e-3820-4f77-87c5-fb559398b5b8" border="0" height="267" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-knG5LllZhYU/WfpKeRQzioI/AAAAAAAAoYQ/rF3tIIjNyiYlJl1nUjC7fLn2Dx9gRBnUgCHMYCw/103ede8e-3820-4f77-87c5-fb559398b5b8?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="103ede8e-3820-4f77-87c5-fb559398b5b8" width="504" /></a><br />
The tide was out during the daytime when we were there so the waves weren’t crashing against the seawall thankfully. The piers were closed and parents were hanging on to their children …….<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--36QElXGUHg/WfpKf8V1mtI/AAAAAAAAoYU/vRWngfvzJ4ARuPhRzsJYMwqw0RY3KcEwgCHMYCw/s1600-h/22539879_2083419825316690_7964625239%255B2%255D"><img alt="22539879_2083419825316690_7964625239308924013_n" border="0" height="392" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H2G28JDhcpg/WfpKg3jBqqI/AAAAAAAAoYY/YwZrpkY9JmAO-abho-YuVswrOxtBF07_ACHMYCw/22539879_2083419825316690_7964625239?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="22539879_2083419825316690_7964625239308924013_n" width="229" /></a><br />
…….. and it was ‘any port in a storm’ for us as well as other people! Here’s Doug and Cris (who wouldn’t miss an invitation to join us to go to “Funny Girls”)<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5fEI33fDnOw/WfpKjGqJoUI/AAAAAAAAoYc/bp41Tv9iY5Ezz9xI-OGIHRgWncKpmfNEgCHMYCw/s1600-h/7c35510b-f4db-44b9-82f2-a8733bf6cb52"><img alt="7c35510b-f4db-44b9-82f2-a8733bf6cb52" border="0" height="242" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bZmeJoKgENE/WfpKkSZKJHI/AAAAAAAAoYg/DPMWTjADhG06IsqV-v7cVXm8H_U1cyG5ACHMYCw/7c35510b-f4db-44b9-82f2-a8733bf6cb52%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="7c35510b-f4db-44b9-82f2-a8733bf6cb52" width="499" /></a><br />
The dear old Winter Gardens was a good place to hunker down from the increasing severity of the storm as the afternoon wore on.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--maz18-3DsU/WfpKlwxRQEI/AAAAAAAAoYk/rBIA5E2uBgQb8zaS7g9HzVRTk3T2cBVhwCHMYCw/s1600-h/06b3f7d6-4a0d-4c18-880d-5c529e56b1d7"><img alt="06b3f7d6-4a0d-4c18-880d-5c529e56b1d7" border="0" height="389" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-htGi8JkmHeI/WfpKnZhTuLI/AAAAAAAAoYo/SJwJSH4-k1QVbgm0tY4X1dErWSgL1K3swCHMYCw/06b3f7d6-4a0d-4c18-880d-5c529e56b1d7%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="06b3f7d6-4a0d-4c18-880d-5c529e56b1d7" width="226" /></a><br />
Inside, even Eric and Ern seemed to be bracing themselves against the wind!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IbJxHbqksQM/WfpKpvlIaQI/AAAAAAAAoYs/TqxmlzBQ_joWd1yK9tgNnrSjMg8NDbVpACHMYCw/s1600-h/07c7a3b5-bd82-4222-a335-0d61d94f55ea%255B1%255D"><img alt="07c7a3b5-bd82-4222-a335-0d61d94f55ea" border="0" height="257" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WPibhWG0AuI/WfpKrEpbOjI/AAAAAAAAoYw/ez9mNMZrX1EvGn4mkSwmuUo41D5eqtWYgCHMYCw/07c7a3b5-bd82-4222-a335-0d61d94f55ea%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="07c7a3b5-bd82-4222-a335-0d61d94f55ea" width="497" /></a><br />
Having survived the afternoon in the company of “Brian”, the evening came and it was time for the highlight of our trip. “Funny Girls” was packed in an anticipation of what we had in store for the evening’s £8 entry fee (only £4 on week days!).<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dKM7ZmZFT7k/WfpKtMv29uI/AAAAAAAAoY0/W02fBmAnvaI-JLRlf2xbvlfUqj8Td9p4ACHMYCw/s1600-h/9d6624ea-47b5-4f52-a251-f64b6d0a1fc1"><img alt="9d6624ea-47b5-4f52-a251-f64b6d0a1fc1" border="0" height="282" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ecIXDWKF-j8/WfpKutL7mxI/AAAAAAAAoY4/0LCT0SLS-0cV-f2Pvc8sysnUk4_XtuqNgCHMYCw/9d6624ea-47b5-4f52-a251-f64b6d0a1fc1%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="9d6624ea-47b5-4f52-a251-f64b6d0a1fc1" width="505" /></a><br />
Almost immediately we struck up a delightful evening friendship with three people from Bournemouth. James, Cris and Doug with Roy,Tai and Gay, (their lovely adopted mum and Fag-Hag!). Oh, these things can get very complicated (!) but we had the most fantastic evening with these guys who were enjoying their first visit to “Funny Girls”.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oUjXxBHTgR0/WfpKwQsnWKI/AAAAAAAAoY8/R4zXY-7KS1w8Q2DeWdQVOxwNqsgKvRmyQCHMYCw/s1600-h/bbd2c1b9-c277-4107-876e-6075f7d7d0e6%255B1%255D"><img alt="bbd2c1b9-c277-4107-876e-6075f7d7d0e6" border="0" height="251" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zXlK3TC05ow/WfpKx-zRfeI/AAAAAAAAoZA/EhXD1AwnuTg4yS4Xd1Fe8nLGQbI_wVpkACHMYCw/bbd2c1b9-c277-4107-876e-6075f7d7d0e6%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="bbd2c1b9-c277-4107-876e-6075f7d7d0e6" width="492" /></a><br />
There were seven cabarets during the evening – all headed by the indefatigable “Betty ‘Legs’ Diamond”.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1wtGxAgKYkI/WfpK0A2ofcI/AAAAAAAAoZE/4qD1KoHQC5oJt-WwZhvt5BoHA1WAKAq2gCHMYCw/s1600-h/ff09ea65-3259-42c4-b01d-284bdd70ac1e"><img alt="ff09ea65-3259-42c4-b01d-284bdd70ac1e" border="0" height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wyKsMU4qJe0/WfpK1RbYsLI/AAAAAAAAoZI/Nkme_y-0mzsO_hOMoewWH4wVFzWER69OwCHMYCw/ff09ea65-3259-42c4-b01d-284bdd70ac1e%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="ff09ea65-3259-42c4-b01d-284bdd70ac1e" width="499" /></a><br />
You’ll notice there’s quite a lot of lolling about on people’s shoulders in “Funny Girls” - here’s three of the Manchester contingent doing just that!.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bxsD5-KqskY/WfpK2qEUhxI/AAAAAAAAoZM/T-PAsO2CnCU4NKe9pRIVoVzwn3j5awfQQCHMYCw/s1600-h/eeb02ff0-be83-45c3-bc76-dfa867b38ad9"><img alt="eeb02ff0-be83-45c3-bc76-dfa867b38ad9" border="0" height="388" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mcPd-nm577I/WfpK3ZWrD8I/AAAAAAAAoZU/f2_RUaXMm5MzlBXrMmTyOJlJVXCFn11lACHMYCw/eeb02ff0-be83-45c3-bc76-dfa867b38ad9%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="eeb02ff0-be83-45c3-bc76-dfa867b38ad9" width="231" /></a><br />
There’s quite often a minor celeb or two in the audience – this time we met up with Dan from Dancing on Ice.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7ASdgCnSdfQ/WfpK5_EFCKI/AAAAAAAAoZc/3RPrXR3hWHYKNS9TPWl6YEoCB7cST_fdACHMYCw/s1600-h/99134ca0-dd25-4f8c-8db8-e0a238952650"><img alt="99134ca0-dd25-4f8c-8db8-e0a238952650" border="0" height="260" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I_ySh7x48GA/WfpK6_KTS9I/AAAAAAAAoZg/8e2SPmFRTIoYc_EHTpVzK_AiTQ3O-x_VACHMYCw/99134ca0-dd25-4f8c-8db8-e0a238952650%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="99134ca0-dd25-4f8c-8db8-e0a238952650" width="500" /></a><br />
The cabarets are extremely good and great fun ……<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e4fWP91HGXw/WfpK9zUnopI/AAAAAAAAoZk/fksCUcd0NH8Hd5VAaWaQB3Ue9F7CJ1SKgCHMYCw/s1600-h/ee9f6bd7-1ff8-4817-af61-841db8d9b05a"><img alt="ee9f6bd7-1ff8-4817-af61-841db8d9b05a" border="0" height="261" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EkZ3AR6HP1s/WfpK_D_0c5I/AAAAAAAAoZo/jSk72hEsVysyfjKRygwYxCM7dPPpJh8GgCHMYCw/ee9f6bd7-1ff8-4817-af61-841db8d9b05a%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="ee9f6bd7-1ff8-4817-af61-841db8d9b05a" width="500" /></a><br />
……… but the finale was literally ‘out of this world’ with it’s cosmic, space travel theme. And the costumes were incredible!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aEe-9Ft1TLM/WfpLA-ptGYI/AAAAAAAAoZs/gUoXwO6wPHkDaYX1GBGUIGtTLsUHqbidwCHMYCw/s1600-h/3beced22-98ef-4076-b20f-36da0bc74d80%255B2%255D"><img alt="3beced22-98ef-4076-b20f-36da0bc74d80" border="0" height="282" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hyw6IKCjnHk/WfpLCGg3j-I/AAAAAAAAoZw/OO5V9wmMa3IVTPrY0WNiIPpEtbMpnvTRACHMYCw/3beced22-98ef-4076-b20f-36da0bc74d80%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="3beced22-98ef-4076-b20f-36da0bc74d80" width="504" /></a><br />
We didn’t stay over in Blackpool but drove back early on Sunday morning (poor James, going without a drink!). In Manchester and we soon had a visit from friends Peter and Margaret (think it was only a week ago we were together at their home!). They don’t live far away so it’s a quick train ride for either of us to get together (such a blessing and very normal in this narrow bit of the country). After the usual drink or two we ventured down to Spinningfields for lunch – the sunshine through the windows prevented a proper pic so this selfie (with James pulling his usual selfie face) has to suffice.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hj7yBMddf_g/WfpLD3wt2aI/AAAAAAAAoZ0/hSCz7ooiLkEFnO9o2_eMTTw4izUov0jBgCHMYCw/s1600-h/aaa992d1-c632-4550-ad6b-62155d9d41f7%255B2%255D"><img alt="aaa992d1-c632-4550-ad6b-62155d9d41f7" border="0" height="370" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-971Cz3S4aCI/WfpLFBgNyTI/AAAAAAAAoZ4/GDFuVNYAoM0xhYRq07YOC7wEKT6V4buiACHMYCw/aaa992d1-c632-4550-ad6b-62155d9d41f7?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="aaa992d1-c632-4550-ad6b-62155d9d41f7" width="236" /></a><br />
On our walk back home we popped in to one of the many fascinating old pubs the city has to offer. This one, in this amazing building, is “Mr Thomas’s Chop Shop” ……….<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XxrFLcUtzPk/WfpLGpAZIEI/AAAAAAAAoZ8/Jp3BnEXb9985b33AuBPTBGzQwu9p_EDnACHMYCw/s1600-h/30bc6333-275d-47ff-a5d4-82044014e5cf%255B1%255D"><img alt="30bc6333-275d-47ff-a5d4-82044014e5cf" border="0" height="260" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nB6zrNKSLSk/WfpLHTEyBSI/AAAAAAAAoaA/7O09X1n7p2YVJkt2bVs5bxHNMJFS5todQCHMYCw/30bc6333-275d-47ff-a5d4-82044014e5cf?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="30bc6333-275d-47ff-a5d4-82044014e5cf" width="503" /></a><br />
……… and inside, where you can eat as well, we enjoyed a few very nice gin and tonics proffered, like expensive cocktails, by the obliging barman. Its well worth a visit!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S3rvtf-8GcM/WfpLIqn3iOI/AAAAAAAAoaE/QYox-T2WyS4EDMLFHjqdqids6i0bZ5LEgCHMYCw/s1600-h/23146502_1575578325798813_129430051_"><img alt="23146502_1575578325798813_129430051_n" border="0" height="388" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G3zCWzu0eYc/WfpLKCFXSvI/AAAAAAAAoaI/jHoIJXQyzrghWMJrzTlPBzKWRDz2KpZhQCHMYCw/23146502_1575578325798813_129430051_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="23146502_1575578325798813_129430051_n" width="243" /></a><br />
Halloween was bearing down on us next (not something we’re very excited about accept that Doug likes to carve a pumpkin or two) and he wanted to compete with friend Cris (who, incidentally had never carved a pumpkin before!) for the best attempt. James, who has zero interest in such things, was given the position of judge. Here’s Cris marking out his design …….<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oUS9gk0tRSo/WfpLLPHDgJI/AAAAAAAAoaM/czZgoTFqw0MhhmWmXxYFY84b4rO0yePWgCHMYCw/s1600-h/23192715_1575577879132191_875677361_%255B2%255D"><img alt="23192715_1575577879132191_875677361_n" border="0" height="383" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1IL06TOji74/WfpLMNjKLtI/AAAAAAAAoaQ/mCfdd1Q2F4w7ZWByXGrpEg7u9vVo5dxdgCHMYCw/23192715_1575577879132191_875677361_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="23192715_1575577879132191_875677361_n" width="230" /></a><br />
……… and here he is going for it like an expert!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IUlw-xfw8Bw/WfpLNA1GyjI/AAAAAAAAoaU/slrLiPXfpBUAO2MIUcvnVjp_hCtjxaU2QCHMYCw/s1600-h/23146519_1575577872465525_930188132_%255B1%255D"><img alt="23146519_1575577872465525_930188132_n" border="0" height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kmeR1sUZLT0/WfpLOHrlG5I/AAAAAAAAoaY/jnEpKC6hTvY_3rC2fN8XPE8Bc11qQ15VACHMYCw/23146519_1575577872465525_930188132_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="23146519_1575577872465525_930188132_n" width="501" /></a><br />
James’ unbiased opinion was that Cris’ had the best overall effect. Not something that Doug was prepared to accept so they both decided to put it on Facebook and let friends decide. It was like the results section of the Eurovision Song Contest that night – waiting for the results to come in! Doug won by an extremely slender margin – of two!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lFkZLw_qvHI/WfpLPTMWP8I/AAAAAAAAoac/MTKlt6r7Cokb7l-5_ZAyYtB6v57t0SU0QCHMYCw/s1600-h/23114930_1575578269132152_1927294151%255B1%255D"><img alt="23114930_1575578269132152_1927294151_n" border="0" height="279" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sduV5S2WcxE/WfpLQS-GtkI/AAAAAAAAoag/DiITQHEFCnklP3GyMn2jr4bFVuEZLM15gCHMYCw/23114930_1575578269132152_1927294151%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="23114930_1575578269132152_1927294151_n" width="492" /></a><br />
This Manchester malarkey certainly is showing it’s benefits – we had a visit from friends Chris and Linda, who we haven’t seen for a year. They too don’t live far away so, another short train journey brought them to us and again, after the usual bubbly at home, it was to Albert’s Shed again for lunch. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t45ILlxGp74/WfpLR2frK2I/AAAAAAAAoak/nTqlGO0G-bkabztzQBqCietgGjtas-7CwCHMYCw/s1600-h/22780517_2086403525018320_4308227363%255B2%255D"><img alt="22780517_2086403525018320_4308227363823627340_n" border="0" height="255" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bOmhvb70bSw/WfpLTMAVmwI/AAAAAAAAoao/X1dXbIgwSoMGAWfiaEGeQVvm-bYLGLk5gCHMYCw/22780517_2086403525018320_4308227363?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="22780517_2086403525018320_4308227363823627340_n" width="483" /></a><br />
After a short breathing space of a few days we drove up to stay with our Lake District friends Geoff and Pam and, after a painfully slow trip up there (it was Friday!) we went out to dinner that evening at a hostelry not far away. The food was splendid but, as always, the company was better.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-amMNc0MfDzY/WfpLUa12MTI/AAAAAAAAoas/kc_piZLh8pUHq22H61U6bHxKEVCYoxyvgCHMYCw/s1600-h/79364232-7b0d-42e1-8154-04db8e70a3ee%255B1%255D"><img alt="79364232-7b0d-42e1-8154-04db8e70a3ee" border="0" height="256" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Dy7kjEg3uAk/WfpLVT4zW-I/AAAAAAAAoaw/lfCQQB_eZuoFqnWsTpl-vRuh5BHywuR8QCHMYCw/79364232-7b0d-42e1-8154-04db8e70a3ee?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="79364232-7b0d-42e1-8154-04db8e70a3ee" width="494" /></a><br />
On Saturday they took us on a trip to the northern end of the Lake District during which we passed Windermere, Grasmere, Rydal Water, Thirlmere and Bassenthwaite Lake. An interesting point – Bassenthwaite Lake is the only “lake” in the Lake District. All the others are either “Meres” or “Waters”. This one in the pic is the lovely little Grasmere. Thirlmere is a reservoir which supplies water to Manchester 96 miles away. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bXUBBEKBw98/WfpLXDpWJLI/AAAAAAAAoa0/bk_vhMqNbnIXdvWuP0SG6ZQ90_92hKMmACHMYCw/s1600-h/854c484b-5876-492c-8b98-d3993326c82c%255B2%255D"><img alt="854c484b-5876-492c-8b98-d3993326c82c" border="0" height="255" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ICFUt3oWA9c/WfpLYNK8aUI/AAAAAAAAoa4/MCsa4CeB6-kct_fuzzu_hUZURcvBhP5FgCHMYCw/854c484b-5876-492c-8b98-d3993326c82c%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="854c484b-5876-492c-8b98-d3993326c82c" width="496" /></a><br />
Our destination for the day near Keswick was the Lakes Distillery. Beautifully renovated from a dilapidated set of farm buildings it’s been open and distilling for almost three years. During that time it has been producing and selling vodka and gin but, as it’s primary product will be whisky and that needs to have been laid down for “three years and a day” before it can be called and sold as whisky, they are selling a blended product in the meantime.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VpqC_MBCjfc/WfpLaWQgz0I/AAAAAAAAobA/sMd84mpyQ-YzNoyUi8P3VOCRXaual5hYgCHMYCw/s1600-h/f891924c-285a-4e41-9c5c-dc5af273d1c1%255B1%255D"><img alt="f891924c-285a-4e41-9c5c-dc5af273d1c1" border="0" height="267" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nrjmGkvo6r0/WfpLbfpXIBI/AAAAAAAAobE/apWYzLnW8p8NgHkQMB4WIiJAKw66g4trQCHMYCw/f891924c-285a-4e41-9c5c-dc5af273d1c1?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="f891924c-285a-4e41-9c5c-dc5af273d1c1" width="489" /></a><br />
We went on a fascinating tour of the distillery – learning all sorts of amazing facts before settling down to a little tasting session. Not being whiskey or vodka drinkers, and only drinking gin (for medicinal purposes) in watered down form, it wasn’t an easy task knocking back the various products that were put in front if us. But we did it nevertheless! Here we all are!!!!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vDh7n6AMwcc/WfpLdZXly4I/AAAAAAAAobM/CqzTzmqp3zY2J9Mfp60qwiOoHsLa8rtjgCHMYCw/s1600-h/92ed0c38-eaa4-4cb9-bbd2-07d339561884"><img alt="92ed0c38-eaa4-4cb9-bbd2-07d339561884" border="0" height="261" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nc2ByLLwT3I/WfpLei_gSWI/AAAAAAAAobQ/CzjpA71vG1Y_Q5P4GutVPx5zmKJNIHZ8ACHMYCw/92ed0c38-eaa4-4cb9-bbd2-07d339561884%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="92ed0c38-eaa4-4cb9-bbd2-07d339561884" width="479" /></a><br />
After a splendid dinner party that evening back at Pam and Geoff’s (with several invited friends to join us) there was no time to lie in on Sunday morning as we were off down the road to Finsthwaite. There we enjoyed a three course breakfast at their annual Big Breakfast fundraising event for St Peter’s Church. We met up with quite a few more friends we’ve got to know in the Lakes over the last year.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-91DNAimeosw/WfpLgqDqcNI/AAAAAAAAobU/qBAZPliiwhQWplZH0O3OcOscgkZoxetYwCHMYCw/s1600-h/23140458_1575577899132189_1096412965%255B2%255D"><img alt="23140458_1575577899132189_1096412965_n" border="0" height="256" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-grSY3MgmwFw/WfpLiZ7pAqI/AAAAAAAAobY/sI7Nlcb4T7EDbDqrsRqcSRIiewUSXc5zgCHMYCw/23140458_1575577899132189_1096412965?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="23140458_1575577899132189_1096412965_n" width="501" /></a><br />
Then, for several of us, it was back to Pam and Geoff’s to spend the rest of the day relaxing (James and Chris were caught enjoying the sunshine together in a lovely peaceful spot in the garden!).<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q0xptpw_epA/WfpLlXzCG4I/AAAAAAAAobc/Dn5RyCKyVkEyJsih23VGyChMap5A1ZCeQCHMYCw/s1600-h/3a04be6f-c455-489c-8dc0-243dc694f193%255B2%255D"><img alt="3a04be6f-c455-489c-8dc0-243dc694f193" border="0" height="257" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2qeUMepFeAU/WfpLmqw0xyI/AAAAAAAAobg/41QxoTu4fyIFT1mFsjVeFMElaY4MhWekgCHMYCw/3a04be6f-c455-489c-8dc0-243dc694f193%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="3a04be6f-c455-489c-8dc0-243dc694f193" width="499" /></a><br />
During the splendid early afternoon sunshine Peter, Doug, Geoff, John, Chris, Geraldine, Pam (and James) all had tea and coffee on the terrace before retiring to the comfort of a roaring log fire for the rest of the day.<br />
At about 8 o’ clock that evening we had to say our farewells, and a sincere ‘thank you’ to Pam and Geoff for their boundless hospitality, before driving down to Selsey and arriving in the early hours of Monday morning.</div>
nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-8325320436329734292017-10-19T21:39:00.001+01:002017-10-19T21:39:22.477+01:00A Very Busy Couple of Weeks!<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z98uVkzToOc/WekKTebaMcI/AAAAAAAAoTY/IKF-I9CJgAUUfS58j3tno8eMayxID3dVACHMYCw/s1600-h/b2e325fb-522c-4e37-9444-8028a569d27f%255B1%255D"><img width="500" height="274" title="b2e325fb-522c-4e37-9444-8028a569d27f" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="b2e325fb-522c-4e37-9444-8028a569d27f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8C5YEo5ruSQ/WekKVdALabI/AAAAAAAAoTc/OiggpJg0NmU_3EcnbQm_GdlG_RPNEv1HwCHMYCw/b2e325fb-522c-4e37-9444-8028a569d27f?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A short while back we went “over the river” (the R. Erwell) to neighbouring Salford to pay our respects at the funeral of actress Liz Dawn who played the invincible Vera Duckworth in Coronation Street. The press were out in force to cover the event but there was also a nice group of well-wishers in attendance. Very kindly, we were invited to join the family, friends and the many members of the cast in the Catholic Cathedral for the service. We declined the invitation with thanks though.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IRRtoUTsAaA/WekKY-C2ukI/AAAAAAAAoTg/2PnY11YWdCogEKXidiPguFTgUqqobBVtwCHMYCw/s1600-h/01bd9191-d7d7-4a7c-bfcf-5991398df183%255B2%255D"><img width="499" height="274" title="01bd9191-d7d7-4a7c-bfcf-5991398df183" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="01bd9191-d7d7-4a7c-bfcf-5991398df183" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BUpHUIvbZbo/WekKccNOaoI/AAAAAAAAoTk/CMhBrPnANWYA5vCL8mmdwEmFMDhlfjW-wCHMYCw/01bd9191-d7d7-4a7c-bfcf-5991398df183?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The next day we packed our bags and, from Leeds airport, took the four hour flight to Gran Canaria for a few days of sunshine and partying. Our transit from the airport to Playa del Inglis took us alongside some very barren but beautiful countryside.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ycZ6TSd2TAM/WekKgftXQhI/AAAAAAAAoTo/tx8DHuEUYUg_vhApHGK5PNJKCW8iGJMJwCHMYCw/s1600-h/c683a411-1012-454f-a72b-172ab6cf7397%255B1%255D"><img width="495" height="265" title="c683a411-1012-454f-a72b-172ab6cf7397" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="c683a411-1012-454f-a72b-172ab6cf7397" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wK4mIZVCQXQ/WekKjbeTRiI/AAAAAAAAoTs/l8cu6X7EVZUyEYfGU494SBxY5whKTv9DgCHMYCw/c683a411-1012-454f-a72b-172ab6cf7397%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The countryside soon made way for four or five days of “pool-parties” – which is a great excuse for keeping the body hydration up due to the hot weather. And for meeting up with friends of course!</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuCN5TtvQCsVbyfFqeda68BT7bA48Pys4Ky4w7pPYs5E3-1064_L5GiXh3IE6wxaPYJwL41-DwcTB6uvueFytt5v-wXR8s_g33Du7Jff4Ok_ANFKdthIeFzAou-aByXxKfQbatjkwvlHQ/s1600-h/321e4729-d756-4fe5-b908-3187d8b79d79%255B2%255D"><img width="255" height="427" title="321e4729-d756-4fe5-b908-3187d8b79d79" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="321e4729-d756-4fe5-b908-3187d8b79d79" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B21cslG7lh4/WekKpeIz8uI/AAAAAAAAoT0/qWOTLNA14HEEzcaDKh19sDtbvq3ZNFTrwCHMYCw/321e4729-d756-4fe5-b908-3187d8b79d79?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The first party was Ricky’s Pool Party and, as Ricky’s bar is a famous drag / show bar in the Yumbo Centre, there was a lot of glamour around! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XVpvFmwrsVQ/WekKs-2dJYI/AAAAAAAAoT4/6xcZdSNbg78NuoZeH2TkSwmaMP2hv1LEACHMYCw/s1600-h/626514d8-a536-4b9d-9e6c-fd31a0e7f35d%255B2%255D"><img width="247" height="413" title="626514d8-a536-4b9d-9e6c-fd31a0e7f35d" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="626514d8-a536-4b9d-9e6c-fd31a0e7f35d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aFOmuZojnW0/WekKv5MTFZI/AAAAAAAAoT8/WUQWMyfityMdsLIDu7CF4C5oQAh3_QZAACHMYCw/626514d8-a536-4b9d-9e6c-fd31a0e7f35d%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We were entertained by a number of drag artists during the afternoon and one of our favourites has to be Myra Dubois. ‘Myra’ likes to mingle with the crowd during her performance – something we had recently experienced ourselves when she appeared at Manchester’s Eagle Bar “Sunday Service”!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ma4AQQR7KCI/WekKy7-viRI/AAAAAAAAoUA/qn78PEtkCTkzEwGxCbqtpG81czvyqu5IwCHMYCw/s1600-h/22656305_1562887220401257_1667191922"><img width="490" height="286" title="22656305_1562887220401257_1667191922_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22656305_1562887220401257_1667191922_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uzbg9SJTy9E/WekK2MAVz3I/AAAAAAAAoUM/Dwmub8K5g5MthDCauWRXUn6Q3sIsDkjogCHMYCw/22656305_1562887220401257_1667191922%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Two Manchester friends, Dean and Dan, were also out for the week long party and we met up with, and enjoyed their company, several times while we were there. Here we are at Ricky’s pool party – James, Doug, Dean (one of the acts without his wig!) and Dan.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5ZQCU6BuiyA/WekLBOc8gDI/AAAAAAAAoUQ/J4xlQZDEWq8zgZrxnuWLmKuaAnjDeQ5TACHMYCw/s1600-h/22635317_1562887133734599_1078249733"><img width="492" height="269" title="22635317_1562887133734599_1078249733_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22635317_1562887133734599_1078249733_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5iua7xZhLOM/WekLHZ4aCxI/AAAAAAAAoUU/BWR6NF6gKFMbjqAh1zakruY6J42_y-ghgCHMYCw/22635317_1562887133734599_1078249733%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s Doug, with Dean, cooling off and “swanning around” as usual!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5aYcbcb0t_c/WekLLE5L3yI/AAAAAAAAoUY/Cial_3csjGMG0uwCZkImdlMFa7HvLexDgCHMYCw/s1600-h/c73fd4a9-99b0-42e9-88d1-b851b4f0db39%255B2%255D"><img width="490" height="269" title="c73fd4a9-99b0-42e9-88d1-b851b4f0db39" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="c73fd4a9-99b0-42e9-88d1-b851b4f0db39" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JRgC7tXKtvM/WekLNkl5QGI/AAAAAAAAoUc/m8CzvqYtF2EojUFB4uksZmILBr4GN1iBwCHMYCw/c73fd4a9-99b0-42e9-88d1-b851b4f0db39?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We enjoyed several more great pool parties but sadly the sunshine was rather absent! A thick cloud of dust and sand particles, called a Calima, headed across from the Sahara and kept us company for last couple of days of our stay. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-72CbmTPA3vI/WekLRFAdatI/AAAAAAAAoUg/lRRMi164014Ekxtf-4OsOjdW3rMxayEzwCHMYCw/s1600-h/22635082_1562887507067895_723728459_%255B2%255D"><img width="491" height="239" title="22635082_1562887507067895_723728459_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22635082_1562887507067895_723728459_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mnj9XyFEnmk/WekLTRTgkmI/AAAAAAAAoUk/vPyEl7wpPSkYaFfrdhWU6Xo5dsdpkbtnACHMYCw/22635082_1562887507067895_723728459_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Although blocking out the sunshine the Calima actually increased the heat to an almost suffocating degree and so the best thing for it was to stop and replenish the fluid levels! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XFfsTyBji0Y/WekLWJzSA_I/AAAAAAAAoUs/5vfjgS8ZLFk2F2CUjpYXcx59YaQJft-GACHMYCw/s1600-h/d3e21a0d-2479-448c-9a2f-f15cb28a28e0%255B2%255D"><img width="493" height="300" title="d3e21a0d-2479-448c-9a2f-f15cb28a28e0" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="d3e21a0d-2479-448c-9a2f-f15cb28a28e0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VKH2QNsPOeY/WekLZbA4zYI/AAAAAAAAoUw/ccVHL_WGl5AFAjpZ-0t1h0s42kXPCf3VwCHMYCw/d3e21a0d-2479-448c-9a2f-f15cb28a28e0?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On our penultimate night (night time partying starts from 11pm and day time partying starts at 1 o’ clock) we managed to briefly meet up with “the award winning, as seen on TV” Myra Dubois before her cabaret performance at Ricky’s bar ………..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Xe36H2ut2m4/WekLcUXBpeI/AAAAAAAAoU0/fQuTSnyG1nYy9gMZJh-TLoMMkS-clvSzwCHMYCw/s1600-h/22635447_1562887547067891_1566829876"><img width="494" height="306" title="22635447_1562887547067891_1566829876_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22635447_1562887547067891_1566829876_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oGGo-BeRFwI/WekLf7-jMbI/AAAAAAAAoU4/8MZTlgRkNK8byiDgwdc88-j67_7WELqBQCHMYCw/22635447_1562887547067891_1566829876%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. where her performance went on so long (she herself described it as more of a prison sentence than a show!) but ended, eventually, with her noisy and deliberately shambolic portrayal of wicked!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BEhudB-nwlI/WekLkI2pTLI/AAAAAAAAoU8/dKSY3xWKNqMdKjfWqOYC4jpkLWJe2CclwCHMYCw/s1600-h/889fa59b-8281-456a-b55b-545324472d51%255B1%255D"><img width="490" height="281" title="889fa59b-8281-456a-b55b-545324472d51" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="889fa59b-8281-456a-b55b-545324472d51" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k2ZjT-Kpgvw/WekLlRyje1I/AAAAAAAAoVA/o73lUmzjKHIUQD-t5dBrRieN8kSxx9_-ACHMYCw/889fa59b-8281-456a-b55b-545324472d51?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Well, our wonderful but exhausting five days in Gran Canaria went very quickly and back in Manchester again we received a lovely invitation by canal friends Geoff and Mags to join them on their narrow boat “Seyella” for a cruise from Sale into Manchester. After enjoying coffee and croissants on board Geoff invited James to take the tiller for the two hour trip. Here we are having turned right at Waters Meeting and just passing Manchester United’s home ground at Old Trafford. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C6xf6DG4ZdQ/WekLnhZTp8I/AAAAAAAAoVE/LoUwRHbM3TsQJDmHgaV7Y3VYk95_BZGDwCHMYCw/s1600-h/6b65d627-25ea-4d47-bdcc-baa718de2a04%255B1%255D"><img width="267" height="405" title="6b65d627-25ea-4d47-bdcc-baa718de2a04" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="6b65d627-25ea-4d47-bdcc-baa718de2a04" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nBDyC-JE7is/WekLrbxzeEI/AAAAAAAAoVI/ZMEf8B5akaY5-od6x6HOhqMpy7mDSyfgACHMYCw/6b65d627-25ea-4d47-bdcc-baa718de2a04?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Geoff with James (who hadn’t lost his touch with the tiller) ……….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-T-buITC6dNA/WekLwqCD-oI/AAAAAAAAoVM/DDJXD4EWWmMQhZGMpDN7vv5qlF__UuLIQCHMYCw/s1600-h/DSCF147541"><img width="479" height="270" title="DSCF1475[4]" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="DSCF1475[4]" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3n39LG4qjAI/WekLzoaCmwI/AAAAAAAAoVQ/iG_MD5XgtFsDHlICSoP8ta6r9_jUIfOkwCHMYCw/DSCF14754_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… and “us two”.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PsH2CvMKlEY/WekL3OtlQeI/AAAAAAAAoVU/IQdKeiP-eAouv6hanSxm83PeP5hSYwEJQCHMYCw/s1600-h/7a48a915-0122-4b09-a924-21359b1ae5a6%255B2%255D"><img width="485" height="261" title="7a48a915-0122-4b09-a924-21359b1ae5a6" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="7a48a915-0122-4b09-a924-21359b1ae5a6" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8g8OU68U2hY/WekL6X1MHLI/AAAAAAAAoVY/younb4BtwZouaHwa2vqk2rU0Fe8hl1J5ACHMYCw/7a48a915-0122-4b09-a924-21359b1ae5a6?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>All too soon James brought “Seyella” safely into Castlefield basin where Geoff took over ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HKRCcTk56k8/WekMAsLLfeI/AAAAAAAAoVg/b7nR4Ewq3Y8FE0AoBJDKsKTpxxxKN7mjwCHMYCw/s1600-h/4f6d325f-4d7e-49b9-83c8-64a5a261f353"><img width="483" height="250" title="4f6d325f-4d7e-49b9-83c8-64a5a261f353" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="4f6d325f-4d7e-49b9-83c8-64a5a261f353" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fu4zDnmsYuE/WekMGP1s-VI/AAAAAAAAoVk/q5JToamKut4ekY0EIAsahv0kkDhtDS6nwCHMYCw/4f6d325f-4d7e-49b9-83c8-64a5a261f353%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. for the mooring up.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BXuURwN-V0k/WekMLRma1GI/AAAAAAAAoVo/-8AD19zGwbQiMo6YqhiunPLT6ZS0BmL8ACHMYCw/s1600-h/32db8e95-2a36-47df-8e1f-88c85f7b4108%255B1%255D"><img width="494" height="270" title="32db8e95-2a36-47df-8e1f-88c85f7b4108" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="32db8e95-2a36-47df-8e1f-88c85f7b4108" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iRA91LETRHk/WekMOhQ_dKI/AAAAAAAAoVs/Tx3yZ0Gkfl8VnOuUicCC9iuy8j_A05yRACHMYCw/32db8e95-2a36-47df-8e1f-88c85f7b4108?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> Geoff and Mags laid on a wonderful lunch of quiche, meats and salad and we all enjoyed the bubbly which we’d brought with us, and as always we had as many laughs as we could fit in the time! Here’s Mags and James – what a brilliant pic! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-90tgL1FvpgY/WekMUuIQFVI/AAAAAAAAoVw/RJiylF6PX_cCLlBmsBJfuyB64JBdKvoEwCHMYCw/s1600-h/eab530f6-daa4-4f90-a22f-25a6fb0072a8"><img width="493" height="263" title="eab530f6-daa4-4f90-a22f-25a6fb0072a8" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="eab530f6-daa4-4f90-a22f-25a6fb0072a8" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9BG1zYvM34s/WekMXZl46kI/AAAAAAAAoV0/lU9F6wNH5Wcu0RIxvjWFoaDpeNiB3JlagCHMYCw/eab530f6-daa4-4f90-a22f-25a6fb0072a8%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We have to thank Geoff and Mags for the lovely cruise with great food and company. So lovely to see these people again.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_hNOsLZFEVc/WekMY6qewXI/AAAAAAAAoV4/mSRKvtxhp78_D8XEBPsSwfp-bcUISsUPACHMYCw/s1600-h/22685200_1562887563734556_681303567_"><img width="239" height="383" title="22685200_1562887563734556_681303567_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22685200_1562887563734556_681303567_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vy6afUoQJsM/WekMbng9y1I/AAAAAAAAoV8/nDeGz58A0sgi4ZOweHr-PmPCoARO8zE0ACHMYCw/22685200_1562887563734556_681303567_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Oh, and of course, we can’t leave out the gorgeous Meg – Bearded Collie and “captain” of the ship.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ou4T1dpOElI/WekMfY362AI/AAAAAAAAoWE/2HroOHGpYuMoNrie2y41TDehGFPsMC0tQCHMYCw/s1600-h/09d0ce44-c5d3-4d67-9d0d-bf3a78a4bb1c"><img width="481" height="252" title="09d0ce44-c5d3-4d67-9d0d-bf3a78a4bb1c" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="09d0ce44-c5d3-4d67-9d0d-bf3a78a4bb1c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2t5lI_lXLBc/WekMilCOC0I/AAAAAAAAoWI/tyzKaYITkScu9d6Wjqm-kl966GSaQY_KwCHMYCw/09d0ce44-c5d3-4d67-9d0d-bf3a78a4bb1c%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>And while we were busy mooring up and having lunch our ‘friend’ from Gran Canaria, the Calima dust storm, had followed us home and was now keeping us company in Manchester!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CO77uq7S0BE/WekMoblRG1I/AAAAAAAAoWM/gKdjRkbzxx8jKsyGUKXjfpPtOzNbe-TqwCHMYCw/s1600-h/95ea8011-9e1c-4fd6-b1c0-9e119d5ebc7e%255B1%255D"><img width="494" height="266" title="95ea8011-9e1c-4fd6-b1c0-9e119d5ebc7e" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="95ea8011-9e1c-4fd6-b1c0-9e119d5ebc7e" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eSsnANFyOZI/WekMrfGeJBI/AAAAAAAAoWQ/q0cMv36a5OUyuHignMdELhYlY069SR68gCHMYCw/95ea8011-9e1c-4fd6-b1c0-9e119d5ebc7e%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our next adventure took us to Westhoughton near Wigan at the invitation of friends Peter and Margaret to join them at home. They met us at the railway station and took us on a short guided tour of the village. The “town hall”, built in 1903 is a wondrous work of art in red brick and terracotta.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RCdI_ysLnyE/WekMwwm6pOI/AAAAAAAAoWU/dtaEcggzo08y3KhZ8fFIyMeQH1Xtd-o5wCHMYCw/s1600-h/7f98aa99-f3b0-47a5-a59c-4e7d210344de%255B2%255D"><img width="493" height="273" title="7f98aa99-f3b0-47a5-a59c-4e7d210344de" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="7f98aa99-f3b0-47a5-a59c-4e7d210344de" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B5ymX2gWyqE/WekM0QOBfeI/AAAAAAAAoWY/ATjTKubaViYlurc6Mj0NIRv4jMDisLb9wCHMYCw/7f98aa99-f3b0-47a5-a59c-4e7d210344de?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Also in the town is a poignant and heart breaking memorial to the Pretoria Pit Disaster at the nearby Hulton Colliery where an explosion took the lives of 344 miners on 21st December 1910 (3 days before Christmas!). 171 men are buried in the churchyard at Westhoughton and the others in various other churchyards and burial grounds locally. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8b89qphO6g4/WekM5OyM2QI/AAAAAAAAoWc/goKiBUUXX6cRMSNnCx1MJKGVa6BDfkR1ACHMYCw/s1600-h/6f0d7297-2295-4f97-a1c1-e4f57757bfa4"><img width="504" height="265" title="6f0d7297-2295-4f97-a1c1-e4f57757bfa4" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="6f0d7297-2295-4f97-a1c1-e4f57757bfa4" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xvJSIWxAzt4/WekM9LR1ZTI/AAAAAAAAoWg/nVHkQuNoa9gOo6SjnLcIX_9Uc2T4rtVMgCHMYCw/6f0d7297-2295-4f97-a1c1-e4f57757bfa4%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On a lighter note we arrived at Peter and Margaret’s lovely home to an afternoon of chatter, laughter and nibbles - all washed down by a good quantity of bubbly!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6DvqX13dQOg/WekNARTKcnI/AAAAAAAAoWo/-4v5s-RxVbMrh2_0uq1_tVcqWuidnu0fACHMYCw/s1600-h/22635488_1562887377067908_591548695_%255B1%255D"><img width="491" height="278" title="22635488_1562887377067908_591548695_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22635488_1562887377067908_591548695_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kc9wSrgPkiY/WekNDnHTcoI/AAAAAAAAoWs/jCOq7elsm-ggZk68ZHVoT_DnwIc5_F8QgCHMYCw/22635488_1562887377067908_591548695_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Time goes very fast when your enjoying yourself and soon it was time to walk into town to a delightful Chinese restaurant where there was a lot more chat and laughter. Afterwards Peter and Margaret walked us back to the station for the train home.</p><p>We have to say a big ‘thank you’ to P and M for their wonderful hospitality and for a fascinating insight into their local and family history.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A8XGVXaSntY/WekNGWpdxzI/AAAAAAAAoWw/iIGOjJBpvewscc3nWOq0b9FBLshqlT_7QCHMYCw/s1600-h/22656312_1562887183734594_1632152993"><img width="492" height="273" title="22656312_1562887183734594_1632152993_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22656312_1562887183734594_1632152993_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z9z12XYKhJA/WekNJs_yF4I/AAAAAAAAoW0/9iv_HCUYwMY57qiO3SQKHPV_UErXCJE-gCHMYCw/22656312_1562887183734594_1632152993%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Hot on the heels of our day in Westhoughton was a long planned visit to Manchester’s Palace theatre to see Joe McElderry in “Joseph”. We went with friend Sebastian who’s well on his own way to a career in acting and directing. We thoroughly enjoyed the performance and the stunning vocal performance of Joe McElderry.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pwXd1JyRtWk/WekNMDspJ_I/AAAAAAAAoW4/655YtNkJzvgCQPNGlZAybb7HO8wEoANEgCHMYCw/s1600-h/22657562_1562887203734592_1359052368%255B1%255D"><img width="241" height="398" title="22657562_1562887203734592_1359052368_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22657562_1562887203734592_1359052368_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IjgERygJbCw/WekNPZfGfrI/AAAAAAAAoW8/eB9J5PEjHdshy78aIVpyWrqlCNfcEhs1QCHMYCw/22657562_1562887203734592_1359052368?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>At something like forty year’s old the show still enjoys enormous popularity.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LcvYnJX4pbY/WekNSw7HFEI/AAAAAAAAoXA/TWmYOb0b8tUrY2v5cJL7B8OKVEKEqbGUACHMYCw/s1600-h/22686801_1562887147067931_95853532_n%255B2%255D"><img width="250" height="400" title="22686801_1562887147067931_95853532_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22686801_1562887147067931_95853532_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9l5mp6qEkyA/WekNV6VsebI/AAAAAAAAoXE/Z7cez7nh6Rcy7QVgH4uxk2iJkDDejQoMgCHMYCw/22686801_1562887147067931_95853532_n%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After the show we held back at the stage door for a quick photo with Joe.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tWW96YzzUes/WekNZp48qXI/AAAAAAAAoXI/LpMMm4i7jZE5xT3peDLQykwswtJ1fQdiwCHMYCw/s1600-h/22642053_1562887337067912_934509674_%255B2%255D"><img width="484" height="272" title="22642053_1562887337067912_934509674_o" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22642053_1562887337067912_934509674_o" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GL_agjMs218/WekNePiW8wI/AAAAAAAAoXM/upyQh_v0gBwHjaXMz0beETm90d1ng50vgCHMYCw/22642053_1562887337067912_934509674_?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We met him briefly about four years ago in London and he’s still the same friendly bubbly guy who’s very happy to meet “his public”.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-19387273141101991912017-10-06T12:14:00.001+01:002017-10-06T12:14:59.349+01:00A Fleeting Visit to Cork.<p>As Doug was on the mend we decided to take a short sharp trip over to Cork in Ireland to visit his sister Dawn and her family. After the 50 minute flight from Liverpool to Cork it was predictably vey wet for the rest of our first day. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HrJkGG344H8/Wddkah1Hi8I/AAAAAAAAoOY/BOn4uQvT2ZUBeWGdzUDiz4DyremGOTHZACHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.3%255B1%255D"><img width="489" height="231" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.39" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.39" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1BVqw7M1bUg/Wddkb-vDAiI/AAAAAAAAoOc/LfrKq2Mz_J8cgCwOUxPLdg8GmxuPL_JqACHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>However, the next day dawned bright and sunny and, as we weren’t scheduled to meet up with Doug’s sister until mid afternoon, we took the ferry across the river from Passage West, which was close to where we were staying, as it was the quick way to get to Cobh, which is Cork’s sea port.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tarFb-TLMUg/WddkdonVZRI/AAAAAAAAoOg/vzy3pCwVm3k-KzxR17_oo9_my6zuI-cDgCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.4%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="260" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.40" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.40" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JsXniPJwycY/WddkfHestSI/AAAAAAAAoOk/UiqPq1BkbmMSNIm1XfQCX6oXkcHGGTdxQCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.4?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Cobh is famous for being the last port from which the Titanic sailed on it’s maiden, and ill-fated, voyage to the USA. The imposing Commodore Hotel here at Cobh was chosen by many of the First Class passengers for their overnight stay before embarkation the next day.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f_yhQIRNHec/WddkhQ86YQI/AAAAAAAAoOo/_lY3AHbLq88ZrJ7PNIob192z6CedoxXsACHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.4%255B5%255D"><img width="498" height="260" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.44" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.44" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0A5RGd_PxJU/Wddkir4-3DI/AAAAAAAAoOs/8Ns_MaYTzRk_KtkIGfUAjUw-ooTex8GCgCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.4%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The charming town of Cobh is dominated by the enormous St Colman’s cathedral.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d98SPMsmgEM/WddkkFZL9VI/AAAAAAAAoOw/K0nRCSBIVk4rCVFgjyjZAeX1LCmbd8Q3ACHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.4%255B6%255D"><img width="498" height="249" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.48" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.48" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c_xC0a5WJEk/WddklBAoHII/AAAAAAAAoO0/RDbApuATriIsNJJtSlWbByefoRB4vc1wACHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.4%255B4%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>If you go to Cobh you have to visit the excellent Titanic Exhibition housed in the original White Star office building. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CQVdLtQ3cu8/Wddkmj7PwnI/AAAAAAAAoO4/SEUnQknuRSw8OZy63YtxNp2fZW9VyQeowCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.4%255B7%255D"><img width="506" height="250" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.49" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.49" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z1tdZ10c73c/WddknbV8-FI/AAAAAAAAoO8/ceaKQDNrHOQOcknI9eBTg93mPnEr_Ph9gCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.4%255B3%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The room which houses the main exhibition is quite small but cleverly done. There are many facts, photos and illustrations but the best is a video, of the most superb quality, showing parts of the ship on the seabed. The detail is amazing and it feels as if you’re there swimming around the wreck yourself. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0JKOlhcaVDo/WddkpCgvjoI/AAAAAAAAoPA/wWxF8QSr3iEvqSZo2W5PcNtTlMLv0Sn8gCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5%255B1%255D"><img width="504" height="251" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.50" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.50" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O9_dbkLwhRc/Wddkp5uqy_I/AAAAAAAAoPE/keRwT6M9jgsWuuITxsptTCCeRcpgieP1QCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5%255B8%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The other part of the experience is very well presented tour around the White Star building visiting several “sets” showing what life was like aboard the ship. We were taken outside to the balcony where the first class passengers could stand and look down at the third class people on the quayside below. Beyond the quay is the original White Star jetty from where thousands left to start afresh in the New World. It was known as “heartbreak quay” because so many people had to say farewell to loves ones who they’d never see again. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hsextzu1ttc/WddkriVUwoI/AAAAAAAAoPI/NBHoRdERHpwgcojz17MvUU0HnnLnB30CwCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5%255B4%255D"><img width="503" height="270" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.54" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.54" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dBL6bnXNmN4/WddksyHPoiI/AAAAAAAAoPM/hrWbuxg-aiYc7brWnZrihrJZ1OFIvMvkgCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5%255B5%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The reconstruction of some of the ship’s interiors was very well done. This is one of the cheaper First Class cabins. Although the ship provided much better Third Class accommodation than previous liners, there were still only two bathtubs for all the Third Class passengers (roughly 700).</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-x4wt2FlZL18/WddkuHRPXhI/AAAAAAAAoPQ/pdr3o9VAd7Ux0SDCZT4q6YOArQ6eFG7pQCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5%255B3%255D"><img width="489" height="269" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.56" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.56" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5IuHoj-CXzI/Wddkuw0OlcI/AAAAAAAAoPU/0xGxwupWLGIBzyB1R00RIeT5bMGvFGc5ACHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5%255B9%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A view of the original White Star office building housing the Titanic Exhibition. 123 people left from here in April 1912 most of whom were Third Class passengers, and of those, 79 perished.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BnF_2QhlSc0/Wddkwan5XqI/AAAAAAAAoPY/42CigcYNjxs-crbM_GCI-ONsniHsRsN9gCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5%255B7%255D"><img width="500" height="261" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.57" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.57" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9I8xwYLQ71U/WddkxXlI5lI/AAAAAAAAoPc/HXmFDXxyp_QRzouSoVKW11uag6T-PfOCwCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Something we hadn’t realised was that “Titanic” didn’t actually leave from quayside at Cobh (called Queenstown at the time) but was anchored some distance away off Roches Point. Passengers had to be tendered quite some distance out to the ship.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aQoaFxDIkYg/Wddkyb_LP6I/AAAAAAAAoPg/YnufCy9i2p4K6hAQnT0sPV53dL_taI7iQCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5%255B2%255D"><img width="496" height="260" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.59" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.04.59" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-reDTwQc2w90/WddkzaMSQjI/AAAAAAAAoPk/FZ3dyy78U0gaF_sT54SN8LUf_qWIaKaVgCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.04.5%255B6%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This is the view across Cork Harbour (with Spike Island in the middle) from the high vantage point of St Colman’s cathedral. The harbour is said to be the second biggest natural harbour in the world – the biggest being Sidney, Australia.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gRVMmGwvXXM/Wddk1N3e3mI/AAAAAAAAoPo/NqOU3jIJIrczki8IEBNbRMFiWXhxR9rHwCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.0%255B4%255D"><img width="267" height="438" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.04" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.04" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Efxya0VKv9k/Wddk2LD3mxI/AAAAAAAAoPs/T58RZKYjuLsURAJo23hUvsiCAm1Ij4_8QCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.0%255B3%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Queenstown is also famous for being the main landing place for the survivors of the “Lusitania” which sank off the coast of Kinsale on May 7th 1915 after being torpedoed by a German U- boat during WW I. This striking monument remembers those who perished.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mUciUW_QZEs/Wddk3ADgsrI/AAAAAAAAoPw/NZ9ZtUvqIxIj7EhhupYK291O1yk3JRt0gCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.0%255B6%255D"><img width="494" height="253" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.01" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.01" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lpVNLDLbcLw/Wddk4IhfakI/AAAAAAAAoP0/RbuYbFpg444N2QNu-7eqmklC-Hy3rh9TQCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.0%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>James had just enough time to climb the steps to St Colman’s cathedral for a quick look around before we had to head back to meet up with Doug’s sister Dawn.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y2CSKKhzuQQ/Wddk6prJ7FI/AAAAAAAAoP4/q5uiKrEQXT4h7BZszJ1woAW5O81d2arHgCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.0%255B1%255D"><img width="496" height="250" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.07" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.07" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wBTBH_KVHPk/Wddk7XriEwI/AAAAAAAAoP8/hCUeEaRK7c01JxBy2S6rEoK2V2Lgb7oXACHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.0%255B5%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Back in Cobh (pronounced ‘Cove’ by the way) we met up with Dawn and family and visited the English Market ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--F3cn6FNijo/Wddk87v5R-I/AAAAAAAAoQA/lZ92uWhqnRIe55fxTMdeatFL6dRLUXjCgCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.0%255B7%255D"><img width="499" height="266" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.08" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.08" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ILba2d4YpyI/Wddk9xewF6I/AAAAAAAAoQE/xeiOT7fToAQxI4R1MYqkA1snVO_oC3h3QCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.0?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…. where there was seemingly everything edible available for sale.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dZIqhteaXzI/Wddk_eG-4FI/AAAAAAAAoQI/_S5ggwmxjl8Y_D1jvf1gaqcbVchHhwRNgCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B15%255D"><img width="498" height="262" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.13" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.13" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kbynafKrbCE/WddlAU5jZ6I/AAAAAAAAoQM/BVO6lGhhSeEVnoar9i4F0qzSmfFsmUjVgCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B4%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>As a vegetarian James was still interested in things that were ‘out of bounds’ for him! ……….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WyaeGO8I6kM/WddlBoDrxbI/AAAAAAAAoQQ/-w1pr8nfRZo-QPP5e559I_jwHYVGacfSwCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B12%255D"><img width="495" height="263" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.14" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.14" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hvvtu7wJhzE/WddlCvacOCI/AAAAAAAAoQU/vekRP7dByfcTXrIiGt3lyOl7a_Pz5H1_ACHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>………. even if some were presented rather dramatically!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KnvB5Uwx0rs/WddlEANyQFI/AAAAAAAAoQY/g4Je6yM27Ysb5j_Y_pBOJYiOBq45Y__CwCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B17%255D"><img width="495" height="286" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.15" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.15" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Navuz8crPZQ/WddlE1ewd4I/AAAAAAAAoQc/aMJL-wxUe44f4xUdBiMuVTBwYMgii3krACHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B18%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After the market it was time to visit a lovely old watering hole down one of the many little alleys in Cork.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yYWmGWCtHNw/WddlG5VYK5I/AAAAAAAAoQg/WFfFQpIjY-UUdowaOEXT28cMQl3vOSMvACHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B20%255D"><img width="493" height="272" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.16" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.16" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NmmNg561nmM/WddlIGsSqtI/AAAAAAAAoQk/UBLWPSdaORs6TSCO2ATnNvWb9TFLFtnogCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B5%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The inside of which was dark and wonderfully atmospheric.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-70tDOvTVSz8/WddlJ56OxPI/AAAAAAAAoQo/oYH4AAQZuPM8s0v5D-HHINgrh0Q-ZJTFQCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B21%255D"><img width="495" height="267" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.17 (1)" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.17 (1)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u39BABmsp3Y/WddlK7uhkNI/AAAAAAAAoQs/tdIAQYviasAHGf49v5K5T446UIztIHG_QCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B10%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On Saturday we met up with Dawn and family in the charming little town of Kinsale.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-94gMPdxPKA8/WddlMZrEjyI/AAAAAAAAoQw/OEHVyJIl71UKDfh74Xuqrochd1prQjw6ACHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B8%255D"><img width="498" height="265" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.17 (2)" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.17 (2)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L4n1L-3aAdw/WddlNo1T7XI/AAAAAAAAoQ0/ldPKxnVOoc8Iu932OIYpC7MkRw1r8BLDQCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B9%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Some lovely architecture can be seen around the town ….. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NS2nKriVJWM/WddlQISXpuI/AAAAAAAAoQ4/5pCloOvuCiAA1J730dviQcXCIcsXsoC9QCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B14%255D"><img width="501" height="248" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.18 (2)" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.18 (2)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nsLiuWtQxPY/WddlRJNvSkI/AAAAAAAAoQ8/X3cQLflkgZ0KrfbYXWpuoyZ9w1j65qgfQCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1l4vy3bZYUA/WddlSch51UI/AAAAAAAAoRA/nu1AdqX40_8NakiF5iHInEvNUGjMXVTfACHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B2%255D"><img width="504" height="272" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.18" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.18" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gPDLH5RfmDI/WddlTTkeX_I/AAAAAAAAoRE/xck2Qywq7-IkiQHdoxejCnT712z2Q5yRgCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B13%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…… but it’s beauty is mostly in the colourful presentation of the buildings. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Bwyg3KXDYNs/WddlUwtTQxI/AAAAAAAAoRI/mFufa6vs_oES6UWQzJW6Q_uDZgbZkHxhwCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B19%255D"><img width="503" height="272" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.19" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.19" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xwrlktKpc38/WddlV1UyKZI/AAAAAAAAoRM/_FNQN9XiT9Qh9C23DXmgJQ-fpqP8SJFJwCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B7%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The harbour is pretty as well, even in the rain! This side of the wall is the footpath - although it looks like an extension of the harbour!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EJzvhu9wk1c/WddlXvk9JOI/AAAAAAAAoRQ/pi7OBF0CZwI67rtz2YPnDztkcTxWp4e5QCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B6%255D"><img width="501" height="250" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.18 (1)" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.18 (1)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h1eOTPlhLgk/WddlYnQ405I/AAAAAAAAoRU/qTSpw5p6mUQ6ewHgGnDJ1tYEsS9axJF2ACHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B16%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Even some of the shops pay tribute to the weather!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6qLtj_GO2IM/WddlZ1hEVuI/AAAAAAAAoRY/wFw6TaBMTCo0Blw1jiXiJqBT8VkHS-23QCHMYCw/s1600-h/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B3%255D"><img width="497" height="270" title="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.17" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="WhatsApp Image 2017-10-04 at 12.05.17" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fy0c35uWXz8/WddlbmOn2qI/AAAAAAAAoRc/-LtfEIQCv-UPK9XHmsypZmgCI-tJl7aGwCHMYCw/WhatsApp-Image-2017-10-04-at-12.05.1%255B11%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This doesn’t quite show how vivid this double rainbow was but, despite the amount of water which fell from the sky while were there, we enjoyed our short visit ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HNzYO3BhvNY/WddlcQzKtYI/AAAAAAAAoRg/zv_qK9zFpcEYQFBdhxwWOooWfVRaWhIIgCHMYCw/s1600-h/22236128_1549449905078322_654649079_"><img width="493" height="253" title="22236128_1549449905078322_654649079_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22236128_1549449905078322_654649079_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8CFtY5bL0Lk/WddldMQNmMI/AAAAAAAAoRk/tKAzpqkDoTUel1Fvwvs1sQuWYzJ7rpUWACHMYCw/22236128_1549449905078322_654649079_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… and very much enjoyed the time we spent with Dawn and Connor and family.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D3d64d3-omg/WddleiFyEfI/AAAAAAAAoRo/sg7vT55AOYUFCvaQ1zDHBWhUuifiD4uhACHMYCw/s1600-h/22236360_1549449695078343_477946465_%255B2%255D"><img width="492" height="260" title="22236360_1549449695078343_477946465_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22236360_1549449695078343_477946465_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_XybjO-tiIQ/WddlfyKHd9I/AAAAAAAAoRs/Z7z9TBD-PRUrF_YYUwyicF9wQ-QCuQv2QCHMYCw/22236360_1549449695078343_477946465_?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After the short flight back from Cork, and a train ride from Liverpool airport, we arrived back “home” in Manchester in time to catch up with two lovely boaty friends, Russell and …………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tq78TEsqJME/WddlhYqDMJI/AAAAAAAAoRw/dBDjRvOhZh0U5rKp3GYWlJ2THOyrF1muACHMYCw/s1600-h/22251335_1549449781745001_1143172649%255B2%255D"><img width="495" height="261" title="22251335_1549449781745001_1143172649_o" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22251335_1549449781745001_1143172649_o" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-17Rl25AJrCQ/WddliTjPTnI/AAAAAAAAoR0/r6kY781YI3QxvCsBAG0kv9An_CALa_tAACHMYCw/22251335_1549449781745001_1143172649?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. Julie who were visiting Manchester on their narrow boat “Nauti Lass”. We last saw them two years previously in Gas Street Basin, Birmingham.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6rk2cg6GOoM/WddljPuEZjI/AAAAAAAAoR4/DkXeRPoQjCYZd1pMuUMQJ5CHKGqjNu0CACHMYCw/s1600-h/22237098_1549449591745020_340426623_%255B2%255D"><img width="498" height="250" title="22237098_1549449591745020_340426623_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22237098_1549449591745020_340426623_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cQBVSVZkm2w/WddlkGY2DwI/AAAAAAAAoR8/0dKGAWvQPI0KYdQxfYvt2TpAfVeXgiuGwCHMYCw/22237098_1549449591745020_340426623_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We met up twice over two days and finished the occasion by having a grand time in Zizzi. We thoroughly enjoyed the time we had with them and hope it’s not as long until our next meet-up.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CArfb_fe6vk/WddllqGIuDI/AAAAAAAAoSA/AfgWSnjf-dITIK1kU1x3kxRVH10GCQwNgCHMYCw/s1600-h/22195250_1550318378324808_8814638276%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="327" title="22195250_1550318378324808_8814638276998484196_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22195250_1550318378324808_8814638276998484196_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QVq61_YQKoU/Wddlm-JFG7I/AAAAAAAAoSE/3UnZN59RZVECc0pQuXEemnozJK8fGYgnQCHMYCw/22195250_1550318378324808_8814638276?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our latest excursion has been to nearby Chorley where we met up with our Lake District friends Pam ………..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YpmcreHLnFk/WddlobVVtzI/AAAAAAAAoSI/qpKOHovgzn4jqYewfYa9_fZV37FZtXZtgCHMYCw/s1600-h/22222044_1550318268324819_2254248652"><img width="504" height="344" title="22222044_1550318268324819_2254248652635512350_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22222044_1550318268324819_2254248652635512350_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6mQnRUXyEV4/Wddlpe-lwtI/AAAAAAAAoSM/iapJzXelMdQE6qCPbMcD9LfTt6QMLpNyQCHMYCw/22222044_1550318268324819_2254248652%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and Geoff. The four of us usually meet up at each other’s homes but, on this occasion, we chose to meet for lunch in the middle at a splendid establishment called “The Retreat” in Adlington close to Chorley.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pa3HSAie5yg/WddlqxHHbOI/AAAAAAAAoSQ/kdPd4n24PeAd1jP2SGax_5LDptk1f0q6ACHMYCw/s1600-h/22196046_1550318568324789_9483645943"><img width="500" height="323" title="22196046_1550318568324789_94836459438072776_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22196046_1550318568324789_94836459438072776_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4SX3kwncTHc/Wddlr-D8jMI/AAAAAAAAoSU/74Dh3tvSP0wC-__mETQZ8wPivcyRbVKegCHMYCw/22196046_1550318568324789_9483645943%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The Retreat is a converted 19th century chapel, formally an Indian restaurant but refurbished, in 2016 at a cost of £1/2 million, into a very nice traditional English restaurant. We enjoyed excellent food, excellent service and, of course, excellent company. We spent a delicious four hours in Pam and Geoff’s company (yet again!) and we shall certainly be returning to The Retreat. Thanks, as always, P & G for your company.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-12914704627958407482017-09-26T18:30:00.001+01:002017-09-26T18:30:46.129+01:00Blimey! We Forgot to Blog!<p>Crikes! – it’s been nearly a month since the last one. James had his birthday at the end of August, that was nice. Then September arrived and now it’s almost gone! Nevertheless, we’ve had a great month – we went up to the Lake District (not very far when we’re in Manchester) to visit friends Geoff and Pam.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IjZENbpof68/WcqN8Ju3ryI/AAAAAAAAoKk/vQpgYvEpbJgAeiedcdFP4CeOF_yZE82wgCHMYCw/s1600-h/4b5f8166-0b31-4e47-a8f2-3fb6378382c4"><img width="503" height="266" title="4b5f8166-0b31-4e47-a8f2-3fb6378382c4" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="4b5f8166-0b31-4e47-a8f2-3fb6378382c4" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KOsJDp7z8ZQ/WcqN_M-jwNI/AAAAAAAAoKo/zHOkn5DsdFAQvH637X8btVMbMNjcQeGNwCHMYCw/4b5f8166-0b31-4e47-a8f2-3fb6378382c4%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>As James made many visits to visit the Lakes many moons ago, it’s always a nostalgic delight for him wherever Pam and Geoff take us. On the Saturday we went to Grasmere where we had a delightful light lunch by the river …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lMvq72MAVug/WcqOBArhckI/AAAAAAAAoKs/__nEgKEW69I2oBys6q7rk2uc7nnbfQBywCHMYCw/s1600-h/071f257b-169a-4f52-aed2-6cb33ea41953"><img width="500" height="264" title="071f257b-169a-4f52-aed2-6cb33ea41953" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="071f257b-169a-4f52-aed2-6cb33ea41953" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1cTMHRZz5GY/WcqOCXZ5lwI/AAAAAAAAoKw/QmAyKNKrj2IHwm62J9NUoDMx4LnSWFnAACHMYCw/071f257b-169a-4f52-aed2-6cb33ea41953%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. and then for walk around the tiny village, popping into the ‘world famous’ Sarah Nelson’s gingerbread shop, before a trip into the churchyard to pay our respects to William Wordsworth and his family.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--41SEkxcOAw/WcqOEdGbz2I/AAAAAAAAoK0/PyWJOy3Wx3gAPjWHh4Idgxhl8_7_yUhIACHMYCw/s1600-h/5ed70097-ee8c-4480-8af0-8898e0f23523%255B1%255D"><img width="504" height="263" title="5ed70097-ee8c-4480-8af0-8898e0f23523" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="5ed70097-ee8c-4480-8af0-8898e0f23523" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ko_KlvdQ2nQ/WcqOFRFWTSI/AAAAAAAAoK4/1aq9uR2PLcYXmTWDiu0ZaTBW7lskCzS7wCHMYCw/5ed70097-ee8c-4480-8af0-8898e0f23523?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On Sunday, with Geoff and Pam, we met up with friends Chris and Pete for a long dreamed of visit to Morecambe. The wonderful Winter Gardens Pavilion, just one of several “musts” along the seafront, is a real delight. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nr2gWTJz48k/WcqOGt39aiI/AAAAAAAAoK8/YsMqgky995MLMM0tul9YouXF-B9MORdMgCHMYCw/s1600-h/22050430_1542906829065963_1485939514"><img width="494" height="268" title="22050430_1542906829065963_1485939514_o" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22050430_1542906829065963_1485939514_o" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NcZiEuQNDAo/WcqOHHdpjwI/AAAAAAAAoLA/eETBFpi4l2c6wyPMKtsoDNC-BvcDrtwSwCHMYCw/22050430_1542906829065963_1485939514%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The interior is undergoing a very long restoration by volunteers. They’ve been going now for almost thirty years ……….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RE8SpXVfS9M/WcqOIt3NCAI/AAAAAAAAoLE/XFqFXt2A4pID1Z8onuHV7mYaPLf4vQRKwCHMYCw/s1600-h/9a80a5af-8045-4241-b9b9-d8a3b82b5cb4"><img width="501" height="260" title="9a80a5af-8045-4241-b9b9-d8a3b82b5cb4" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="9a80a5af-8045-4241-b9b9-d8a3b82b5cb4" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5l5naogzbUg/WcqOJZF0FBI/AAAAAAAAoLI/tttanuRATIg3zYE5Tw6_X-HFTSJueEF9QCHMYCw/9a80a5af-8045-4241-b9b9-d8a3b82b5cb4%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. in a valiant and tireless attempt to bring the majesty back to this Victorian edifice. There is a lot more to be done but the place is a real testament to the love which the people of Morecambe have invested in one of it’s finest buildings. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f9jykFpd2II/WcqOKVAAXFI/AAAAAAAAoLM/NAZjejY19iU4iWNsJ6MT8JykUGIUMITPQCHMYCw/s1600-h/9ca3c64a-2f3a-4eb7-a63e-b6a8fc5114e0"><img width="236" height="386" title="9ca3c64a-2f3a-4eb7-a63e-b6a8fc5114e0" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="9ca3c64a-2f3a-4eb7-a63e-b6a8fc5114e0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PzvfQJ_kS9k/WcqOK6uOLsI/AAAAAAAAoLQ/mv9Snj0dzG8_qdhFvsbC0jdrlvcluyPmACHMYCw/9ca3c64a-2f3a-4eb7-a63e-b6a8fc5114e0%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The foyer is has been renovated very nicely but stunning ceramic tiled staircases are out of bounds and can only be viewed from the ground floor. James is sure (and we should have taken a pic!) that in the original entrance mosaic floor someone has spelt “Pavillion” with two L’s! A very permanent reminder that we all can make a mistake!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZYKfy0IUyLA/WcqOMOOwIPI/AAAAAAAAoLU/gLzcj8a08ignCDMhyKlMznLc2Zk_2JccwCHMYCw/s1600-h/bfbb442f-681d-4b80-828a-c0961baf62b1%255B1%255D"><img width="506" height="280" title="bfbb442f-681d-4b80-828a-c0961baf62b1" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="bfbb442f-681d-4b80-828a-c0961baf62b1" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EpEKZtDNu8I/WcqOMhj-azI/AAAAAAAAoLY/QE7rc6LLgPwC9SptrIkmcHRUttgHnWyEACHMYCw/bfbb442f-681d-4b80-828a-c0961baf62b1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Very close to the Pavilion is an ice cream parlour with it’s original Art Deco interior. A real gem!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-96LpJ9XYalw/WcqONWPQbjI/AAAAAAAAoLc/5jDd2ax-T50Sol0d8p_HmaEfmgnFqH6xgCHMYCw/s1600-h/71a9c0ac-550c-44b8-8d9d-2b9cfa159609"><img width="247" height="416" title="71a9c0ac-550c-44b8-8d9d-2b9cfa159609" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="71a9c0ac-550c-44b8-8d9d-2b9cfa159609" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RY0vjAE2odw/WcqONwe33FI/AAAAAAAAoLg/TByX1SO0y7UqaRonbXrJT6umGy6_SukHQCHMYCw/71a9c0ac-550c-44b8-8d9d-2b9cfa159609%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A little walk along the seafront and we reached our next point of interest – the commemorative statue of Eric Morecambe! This lovely centre piece just has to evoke something very deep in the British psyche, and it most certainly lifts one’s spirits!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zq2UfeOkKxs/WcqOOjpSkpI/AAAAAAAAoLk/QAFtXlkjQboFVTG5-WWO9XpcigkFzp3pgCHMYCw/s1600-h/318155c1-132a-4cd1-8bd8-9cf4c46ed9dd"><img width="247" height="426" title="318155c1-132a-4cd1-8bd8-9cf4c46ed9dd" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="318155c1-132a-4cd1-8bd8-9cf4c46ed9dd" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WAl-O02dQ4k/WcqOPUmnyCI/AAAAAAAAoLo/dryxLW1xJ2wCy-GZuBNq2T2KeQFCMP55ACHMYCw/318155c1-132a-4cd1-8bd8-9cf4c46ed9dd%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EqPRx8e68jc/WcqOP-fSS4I/AAAAAAAAoLs/v77cN-3zp9wjivYfUMiUgFlc9SzkUCbWACHMYCw/s1600-h/22014742_1542906889065957_1270887553"><img width="497" height="261" title="22014742_1542906889065957_1270887553_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22014742_1542906889065957_1270887553_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GUdnUjbRdCE/WcqOQoOSGjI/AAAAAAAAoLw/xb7JqZv3rYMuJpH2j4dMWStOqLoo0995ACHMYCw/22014742_1542906889065957_1270887553%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Haha! It just has to be done!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S4OL0SsPCA8/WcqORc6zAXI/AAAAAAAAoL0/CHNhmR4MxHkDvwLq3_FFh3e2xjpUXQNUwCHMYCw/s1600-h/22053069_1542920462397933_1140455891%255B1%255D"><img width="498" height="350" title="22053069_1542920462397933_1140455891_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22053069_1542920462397933_1140455891_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3ZHJXaJMBm0/WcqOR-7Ym7I/AAAAAAAAoL4/H96hSw7yFEcV4OMcZLujLgHWmKum3oSrQCHMYCw/22053069_1542920462397933_1140455891%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>In fact, we all did it! (pic kindly taken by Pam!) and after this we all spontaneously burst out with a rendition of “Bring Me Sunshine” – and if you can’t remember all the words (shame on you!) they’re written on the steps leading up to Eric’s statue.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LSbm1m-9kWo/WcqOTbSx7UI/AAAAAAAAoL8/xMgifcfYITkhYPhoKA5Q-b7sg4qrQozPACHMYCw/s1600-h/24d194ed-5888-4d01-9c73-2d049d12f1c7"><img width="491" height="261" title="24d194ed-5888-4d01-9c73-2d049d12f1c7" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="24d194ed-5888-4d01-9c73-2d049d12f1c7" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5etgOfsOEcE/WcqOUBAjnII/AAAAAAAAoMA/eEPhMWyedWYVksNorSXNHycFRKCdWmgIACHMYCw/24d194ed-5888-4d01-9c73-2d049d12f1c7%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>There are many stars inlaid into the frontispiece of Eric’s tribute site but this one stood out as a real record breaker!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KvDRDVcSNOA/WcqOVHIsQeI/AAAAAAAAoME/rLb_AUTsOKs5QCsHr6c9mvkXExVSxRtZwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104009311"><img width="490" height="323" title="P1040093" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040093" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QdLMTU6TiW4/WcqOWEdkLGI/AAAAAAAAoMI/IWSyDBn2NKwtohe1zUXX5PzPqCUIF4yTgCHMYCw/P1040093_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Back along the seafront, opposite the lovely old railway station (now no longer used as a station) was our next port of call ………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fmxsE08unqE/WcqOXetGhnI/AAAAAAAAoMM/ICzdhC-Re30C80gd8MgeppG35AM82qApACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104009411"><img width="494" height="330" title="P1040094" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040094" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OfisyckSi0c/WcqOYIZFZzI/AAAAAAAAoMQ/5boM8mLLtV8r9rThtuBXeUTO76H_l53VACHMYCw/P1040094_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. the very well restored and refurbished Midland Hotel. A magnificent Art Deco example standing proudly with it’s back to the sea.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GKbhKrEVMCQ/WcqOZcIYtzI/AAAAAAAAoMU/WZz14PEastsw8lS0bPuRuJBuNOvBk0UqACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104009511"><img width="492" height="333" title="P1040095" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040095" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IKxuPSHMje8/WcqObJFxwVI/AAAAAAAAoMY/nQ4UwZvXnkIkjil5HDK89ek1ZT0JEGk7ACHMYCw/P1040095_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The restoration has been carried out very well with the beautiful staircase being the centrepiece to building.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MBhco3Vk1jQ/WcqOcKJmzHI/AAAAAAAAoMc/R2Az-pldjZ89f3Bs1h93od8x3s-Si8ZVgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104009711"><img width="495" height="325" title="P1040097" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040097" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hs4t5gefdfs/WcqOc-W5KYI/AAAAAAAAoMg/mXjKn8s09r0nlMpubZy9Yl6UT9nt3CwpQCHMYCw/P1040097_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We stopped for a drink to recharge the batteries and soak up the atmosphere. Doug, Pam, Chris, Geoff and Pete.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ruVy8nJr7gg/WcqOdoS1s5I/AAAAAAAAoMk/FxCUaciSloMmgmgDuPHdvNTZHPT6NOZtQCHMYCw/s1600-h/22052509_1542906775732635_861441464_%255B1%255D"><img width="495" height="244" title="22052509_1542906775732635_861441464_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22052509_1542906775732635_861441464_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sxpSGuRG_9Q/WcqOeFW0M0I/AAAAAAAAoMo/0pwcX70nwpwBncRBr8szbjzJsJ-kdDxegCHMYCw/22052509_1542906775732635_861441464_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>There are a few works by Eric Gill around the hotel. The very kind hotel manager allowed us into one of the rooms to view this frieze of Morecambe Bay. Here’s us with Chris, who with husband Pete, is a great devotee of this hotel. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bsLfAHJ9YTE/WcqOejbolxI/AAAAAAAAoMs/ACM9yFQfArIE-79R8Dod3ylBIwgQhb0RQCHMYCw/s1600-h/22052595_1542906812399298_1068074311%255B1%255D"><img width="490" height="261" title="22052595_1542906812399298_1068074311_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="22052595_1542906812399298_1068074311_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-phUB-1iFHwU/WcqOfWHPd8I/AAAAAAAAoMw/AuZsR5SCxl4ddTrY7rA_FNcEzE80Z5NeQCHMYCw/22052595_1542906812399298_1068074311%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s all of us again, still ensconced in the hotel, having another drink. Chris, James, Geoff, Pete and Pam. With Chris’s expert knowledge and the kindness of the manager and one of the house keepers, we both had a wonderful tour of the hotel including a couple of the superb penthouse apartments. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VQcHwcn9vCY/WcqOgpifDKI/AAAAAAAAoM0/HGjJLR6SPSMomygME7VPxavlmIx25sMwQCHMYCw/s1600-h/76ade62e-b39f-4eeb-817d-0b738e19a26f"><img width="485" height="273" title="76ade62e-b39f-4eeb-817d-0b738e19a26f" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="76ade62e-b39f-4eeb-817d-0b738e19a26f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-By8KOqBoOZw/WcqOhQkhBjI/AAAAAAAAoM4/FSHoSOvyl6IXKTFuDzqNLheoeaP3j2n0ACHMYCw/76ade62e-b39f-4eeb-817d-0b738e19a26f%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After a delightful time in Morecambe (and our delight was certainly not dampened by the wet Sunday afternoon!) we all journeyed a few miles the other side of Lancaster to The Mill at Condor Green for a lovely late Sunday lunch. An additional pleasure to the meal was that we were sitting right next to the Lancaster Canal – a stretch of water that we didn’t get to cruise when we had “Chance”.</p><p>Together with Pam and Geoff we also had the pleasure of having dinner one evening at the lovely home of Chris and Pete for which we say a big thank you. We also have to say a terrific thanks for, once again, the marvellous hospitality of Pam and Geoff. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vrtlSqntX9A/WcqOimdF4sI/AAAAAAAAoM8/H6QHAwVEAn0yztZ5UrbwzfscGbO2yTvWgCHMYCw/s1600-h/b0d31c78-61e3-4032-b602-18f5516a4890"><img width="496" height="253" title="b0d31c78-61e3-4032-b602-18f5516a4890" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="b0d31c78-61e3-4032-b602-18f5516a4890" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KOStiH9ewK4/WcqOjbf0DpI/AAAAAAAAoNA/RBqzN8svxIgRvSM3K_PE9rhRr7uqAfJlwCHMYCw/b0d31c78-61e3-4032-b602-18f5516a4890%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Leaving the Lake District on Sunday evening, we made the journey south to Selsey for a couple of weeks. We needed to be around for the replacement of our conservatory roof which was badly damaged in a hale storm (Selsey’s normally glorious weather occasionally has a sting in it’s tail!). We, of course, delight in being so close to the sea and to enjoy our wonderful beach – which, apart from Lifeboat Day each year when there are literally thousands of people around, always looks like this! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o5LRtSIOlqI/WcqOko7PoAI/AAAAAAAAoNE/KaCeInCcC1w95z47vkCmtXTx8Cv4SJJ_wCHMYCw/s1600-h/b4e79c6a-9002-412b-b238-839953e8517d"><img width="492" height="265" title="b4e79c6a-9002-412b-b238-839953e8517d" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="b4e79c6a-9002-412b-b238-839953e8517d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Qcb6R25KH_c/WcqOlfVES_I/AAAAAAAAoNI/6MbC_wba4bQ5H7Nb1rr29a5ebkFkZnPRwCHMYCw/b4e79c6a-9002-412b-b238-839953e8517d%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>One slight dampener on the previous three weeks has been that Doug has undergone three emergency operations – one in Manchester and two in Chichester. He insisted on going ahead with the arranged weekend with friends Pam and Geoff in the Lakes, for which we are so very grateful to them for their help and understanding. Doug’s parents, Derek and Vilma, came to see the “convalescent” and this was his first walk out for quite some time. He’s now on the mend and beginning to face life head again! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oMO_Q_ozOo0/WcqOmNZ_opI/AAAAAAAAoNM/S7gDy7IVRyk4A1yf_lCSQs6buv5iu91jwCHMYCw/s1600-h/01fa1457-2416-4df4-89a0-7364717fad63"><img width="236" height="401" title="01fa1457-2416-4df4-89a0-7364717fad63" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="01fa1457-2416-4df4-89a0-7364717fad63" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qrMn5wIWYfY/WcqOmj2ANwI/AAAAAAAAoNQ/xDe3sJeOZPcRppu9MnEaj_FzDGuKgAbsQCHMYCw/01fa1457-2416-4df4-89a0-7364717fad63%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We’re now back in Manchester for a while, as we have a short sojourn coming up, and, as James was in desperate need of a hair cut, he thought he’d go for a short one to match to upcoming event !!!</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-52725836404119535792017-09-07T21:18:00.001+01:002017-09-07T21:18:18.765+01:00Manchester Pride 2017 and a Birthday Celebration.<p>Well, August Bank Holiday came round again and that meant the biggest party weekend of the year. It was Manchester Pride! This year was our first as “plastic northerners” and things felt very different for us. We weren’t on our annual 2 week visit to the city, living on “Chance” in Castlefield Basin, but we now had our own “crash pad” to go back to. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8C8KRxNal8g/WbGnyBLnt3I/AAAAAAAAoDs/Wbmo6kyP3_cnQYQpt7xC57EFAbaisRBeACHMYCw/s1600-h/5a458777-82d6-4a7a-97f6-b96ae08def70%255B1%255D"><img width="503" height="260" title="5a458777-82d6-4a7a-97f6-b96ae08def70" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="5a458777-82d6-4a7a-97f6-b96ae08def70" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UoJJx4ecKYM/WbGnzP1qmzI/AAAAAAAAoDw/jaFuvEF2sSogbUxEjcv5H17R0bPnTmqxQCHMYCw/5a458777-82d6-4a7a-97f6-b96ae08def70?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This year we viewed the parade on Saturday near to the glorious Midland Hotel. We missed the first few entries but luckily got there just in time to see the very popular Coronation Street float. (that’s not the Midland Hotel behind though!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XMmQuKY8ylI/WbGnz1ennxI/AAAAAAAAoD0/aRE69IDQCLEhS7vdvqnVX9gFzyLWxh4FQCHMYCw/s1600-h/21443217_1527666790589967_2084270151%255B1%255D"><img width="242" height="424" title="21443217_1527666790589967_2084270151_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21443217_1527666790589967_2084270151_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2ApOGW2A4qY/WbGn0hrjuoI/AAAAAAAAoD4/eWaIODAfVpYHDA-fg8urFkbakih1N1xegCHMYCw/21443217_1527666790589967_2084270151%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We paid a little more attention to our own appearances this time. Doug sported a magnificent hair piece (bought in India and the only one around!) and James’ hair was also pink but rather outdone by Doug’s colourful barnet. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PZ7iZ5jcAH8/WbGn1aaHCII/AAAAAAAAoD8/qmhlLc4mxkIqfIi9t0bGukiHB1eEnfqpgCHMYCw/s1600-h/8ea89ada-51d2-416a-b307-3dfd9ffe1446%255B1%255D"><img width="498" height="280" title="8ea89ada-51d2-416a-b307-3dfd9ffe1446" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="8ea89ada-51d2-416a-b307-3dfd9ffe1446" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MYXAwvqFWbM/WbGn2XRrcuI/AAAAAAAAoEA/ROEmpcoACL85YeQGvM4FGV1SWVdOqdMZgCHMYCw/8ea89ada-51d2-416a-b307-3dfd9ffe1446?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>This year’s Pride theme was ‘Class of 2017’ and there were quite a few entries representing school years. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2auDmNtX5KQ/WbGn3XLQttI/AAAAAAAAoEE/c1g716ZCOd8MH1DirSy8BNeTKlLTMMe8gCHMYCw/s1600-h/9e5ddef3-d79c-4203-b0ad-863ac47befea"><img width="500" height="276" title="9e5ddef3-d79c-4203-b0ad-863ac47befea" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="9e5ddef3-d79c-4203-b0ad-863ac47befea" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_KbUfNRiacY/WbGn4E2zFiI/AAAAAAAAoEI/8M5uvIFbRusTsFftIIF-j9OK8eG8Nt_aQCHMYCw/9e5ddef3-d79c-4203-b0ad-863ac47befea%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Many entries were old favourites – the Outdoor Lads being just one of them. (and that IS the glorious Midland Hotel behind this time!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_oIlg0M7BE4/WbGn5FBVCZI/AAAAAAAAoEM/WaLhr-IQa1IQ_FmKvAyzD80JHPaxEy6TgCHMYCw/s1600-h/23cc66dd-ee19-495f-bb10-550937ba573a%255B1%255D"><img width="502" height="280" title="23cc66dd-ee19-495f-bb10-550937ba573a" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="23cc66dd-ee19-495f-bb10-550937ba573a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xJxJSBodXAU/WbGn6H7r1eI/AAAAAAAAoEQ/_KfaGuOAY6AzAwDR_qApoyZOtfTqdthsQCHMYCw/23cc66dd-ee19-495f-bb10-550937ba573a?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Pride is Manchester’s party time and thankfully the sun shone for us and it was warm enough for some of the parade participants!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U7qSwvoT0co/WbGn7MOqVBI/AAAAAAAAoEU/ksvQt-CxUgs0gNoJag3s0c5vKDNcR0aRACHMYCw/s1600-h/26ed9897-e643-430c-9cba-12aabc8e7c26%255B1%255D"><img width="504" height="288" title="26ed9897-e643-430c-9cba-12aabc8e7c26" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="26ed9897-e643-430c-9cba-12aabc8e7c26" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qHk8PoGja9o/WbGn8GJsdEI/AAAAAAAAoEY/zyqdLQZWg4kgQLQuVEgFa8c0A09CS9CFQCHMYCw/26ed9897-e643-430c-9cba-12aabc8e7c26?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Pride is all about acceptance and diversity and the transgender community is just one group in the parade that’s always cheered and whooped! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GTt6VD2rJG8/WbGn9PZ68rI/AAAAAAAAoEc/TTD_uOD0z1Ui28zaFRJp1HBrnOn9b-PhQCHMYCw/s1600-h/33b5c4c5-cb7e-44eb-9a2a-d58da661e09e%255B1%255D"><img width="503" height="269" title="33b5c4c5-cb7e-44eb-9a2a-d58da661e09e (1)" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="33b5c4c5-cb7e-44eb-9a2a-d58da661e09e (1)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XFcjm4hyUKI/WbGn-H5dJpI/AAAAAAAAoEg/jDkMOpR6e4Ib98zxMknrtfG0tMbdXJGuQCHMYCw/33b5c4c5-cb7e-44eb-9a2a-d58da661e09e?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The Fire Service excels each year in it’s presentation. This year the most fantastic paint job on one of their tenders.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-to6mlzgwPTE/WbGn-03wU7I/AAAAAAAAoEk/k7umH9-myNMFUyjkFdjyKfPgrXNKmc-tACHMYCw/s1600-h/47c75380-08c7-48ae-bbe6-0daa521f356d%255B1%255D"><img width="503" height="286" title="47c75380-08c7-48ae-bbe6-0daa521f356d (1)" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="47c75380-08c7-48ae-bbe6-0daa521f356d (1)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vuc6bIAHeEQ/WbGn_yCBkpI/AAAAAAAAoEo/W_m41MnmD9wLRokNBol8DkB7vWz1TJ6_gCHMYCw/47c75380-08c7-48ae-bbe6-0daa521f356d?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-g1xKKgH3rA0/WbGoA1HRD7I/AAAAAAAAoEs/LmhPOE1bafQ6NKKzYDAms1Dz0dCpr-ZiwCHMYCw/s1600-h/50f8d6ba-0af9-46d5-86ad-33d7ea2e2e94%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="272" title="50f8d6ba-0af9-46d5-86ad-33d7ea2e2e94" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="50f8d6ba-0af9-46d5-86ad-33d7ea2e2e94" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1XPMPT_lcLA/WbGoBu4iMNI/AAAAAAAAoEw/e0_rS-Z_4aw6oX9JD4bNnsO7KTC3xo8kgCHMYCw/50f8d6ba-0af9-46d5-86ad-33d7ea2e2e94?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A0KN2Fx2Uqc/WbGoCqeTzoI/AAAAAAAAoE0/t4CH8XzzrkoTqSq-1PGMC1z2KmrBkxkzACHMYCw/s1600-h/54d17e59-9437-4fab-aceb-49f31d5ca724%255B1%255D"><img width="496" height="282" title="54d17e59-9437-4fab-aceb-49f31d5ca724" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="54d17e59-9437-4fab-aceb-49f31d5ca724" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IebFfft0G3M/WbGoDm0xR7I/AAAAAAAAoE4/MKddhmijElgdoD4P0-BnV_Plu5svhcFxgCHMYCw/54d17e59-9437-4fab-aceb-49f31d5ca724?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sJaU2g2t-Pw/WbGoFNawWwI/AAAAAAAAoE8/8N9fFCA4_lYWpATSH9VEi1ozUpl7Yw6CwCHMYCw/s1600-h/58c0f856-3458-44c9-b8e1-3818006a2a5d"><img width="496" height="274" title="58c0f856-3458-44c9-b8e1-3818006a2a5d" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="58c0f856-3458-44c9-b8e1-3818006a2a5d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yAhYWwl5oo8/WbGoGLQEBaI/AAAAAAAAoFA/IKfAO7eDn34ClpsLOxhz-MBKz4hlZ1_WwCHMYCw/58c0f856-3458-44c9-b8e1-3818006a2a5d%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Occasionally, with all the fun and excitement going on, it was difficult to see the difference between the enormous crowds and the parade.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1WfhCvu-q5k/WbGoG7cNEYI/AAAAAAAAoFE/wfGPEwWAAJwNRPhPhllCtubeX4xCIknKACHMYCw/s1600-h/6618f295-d0fb-4bb3-9cea-c6257469af54%255B1%255D"><img width="498" height="281" title="6618f295-d0fb-4bb3-9cea-c6257469af54" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="6618f295-d0fb-4bb3-9cea-c6257469af54" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JRs8fCbdMO8/WbGoHjAKKVI/AAAAAAAAoFI/oMAa52gvqLsCsn8wypjo9jm0kJZMaMsMQCHMYCw/6618f295-d0fb-4bb3-9cea-c6257469af54?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The police contingent was heralded by their superb marching band and the city’s Police Service always gets the most amazing reception.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TJNLnzAAbLM/WbGoIdPNzCI/AAAAAAAAoFM/OUWEc7D7Q9IRp0fFaieHONHw1gkRSwdVgCHMYCw/s1600-h/85287dbb-6468-4424-a161-4351ee17fff8%255B1%255D"><img width="501" height="275" title="85287dbb-6468-4424-a161-4351ee17fff8" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="85287dbb-6468-4424-a161-4351ee17fff8" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fIXsXh_xXfE/WbGoJKly2SI/AAAAAAAAoFQ/1kFs9VL_lEI6o9bFTgD0vNEnn1oPqVyiQCHMYCw/85287dbb-6468-4424-a161-4351ee17fff8?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Every Pride parade has an entry which has obviously been fashioned by the gods!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MZi7dT8uDtw/WbGoKA6iahI/AAAAAAAAoFU/zwMf33ucDS4cW4LTvL89EgJcP6y63tvCwCHMYCw/s1600-h/98023fcf-7698-437b-a5de-ff442248408e"><img width="494" height="269" title="98023fcf-7698-437b-a5de-ff442248408e" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="98023fcf-7698-437b-a5de-ff442248408e" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4RNIdNEFRAg/WbGoK-cg6AI/AAAAAAAAoFY/R-WNbQoihdY7_GtiBH_TE-Mii8E4iQstwCHMYCw/98023fcf-7698-437b-a5de-ff442248408e%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Some entries are very ingenious and effective. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MhOalO1ZW68/WbGoMPrhr-I/AAAAAAAAoFc/Shex_wboauc3VBTD6c8d-OS-siMP5zSdwCHMYCw/s1600-h/c3a26dbd-6b80-4a53-b561-97dd8cb0db57"><img width="506" height="295" title="c3a26dbd-6b80-4a53-b561-97dd8cb0db57" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="c3a26dbd-6b80-4a53-b561-97dd8cb0db57" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tToWUs6NAwI/WbGoM4UGYgI/AAAAAAAAoFg/pn_7a8_smKMiZ6JpHvKKFGVx9O4B36bNACHMYCw/c3a26dbd-6b80-4a53-b561-97dd8cb0db57%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uMiH2wuBb_M/WbGoOK29MHI/AAAAAAAAoFk/CENSVQrDjW4hrQSzCecqvpzSHOlWp91BgCHMYCw/s1600-h/d8db0ea3-3c2a-49fa-b2a4-f0e9a857f199%255B1%255D"><img width="505" height="271" title="d8db0ea3-3c2a-49fa-b2a4-f0e9a857f199" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="d8db0ea3-3c2a-49fa-b2a4-f0e9a857f199" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bzWPkCehrBk/WbGoO0m6fQI/AAAAAAAAoFo/TnfWuzCjIwoP-lGA8a5FOyVuBcEeptG_QCHMYCw/d8db0ea3-3c2a-49fa-b2a4-f0e9a857f199?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WM4y1nGsuBI/WbGoPzj_mrI/AAAAAAAAoFs/eHMBOyK9-twEMHz7H6G_0YBRoWQAcCzQgCHMYCw/s1600-h/d12f5a93-41bc-4331-b2eb-0218d25bbf4f"><img width="496" height="274" title="d12f5a93-41bc-4331-b2eb-0218d25bbf4f" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="d12f5a93-41bc-4331-b2eb-0218d25bbf4f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xPKzwpAZpbA/WbGoQgZkCgI/AAAAAAAAoFw/YC-hOo8YefMjIatnhcji_Hyjh4PEDEp7ACHMYCw/d12f5a93-41bc-4331-b2eb-0218d25bbf4f%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xoVKwwbhWH0/WbGoReuX3XI/AAAAAAAAoF0/jMNg3E80ZiUMycLYgPGO5xV56ykwTZLfACHMYCw/s1600-h/f731de8c-0ca4-4b3a-9f96-7884e8ea8911%255B1%255D"><img width="265" height="410" title="f731de8c-0ca4-4b3a-9f96-7884e8ea8911" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="f731de8c-0ca4-4b3a-9f96-7884e8ea8911" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-03p3OhfNmI8/WbGoR-daeCI/AAAAAAAAoF4/ePji33IDkfUAROxUbcDmMWEfVobcTIJ-gCHMYCw/f731de8c-0ca4-4b3a-9f96-7884e8ea8911?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>There’s that fabulous hair piece again!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n_9py0cPO5A/WbGoS2ZduMI/AAAAAAAAoF8/Bmq-0qWZ8XYeRlhhJmMZK0xWZp48THcvwCHMYCw/s1600-h/fe621d7e-5534-47b3-8481-1e81ada03238%255B1%255D"><img width="496" height="274" title="fe621d7e-5534-47b3-8481-1e81ada03238" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="fe621d7e-5534-47b3-8481-1e81ada03238" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nqo3NUYX3dE/WbGoTjOOCEI/AAAAAAAAoGA/pKf6wtToIGQLiVcUhUMAgHNbiiXeWBpWgCHMYCw/fe621d7e-5534-47b3-8481-1e81ada03238?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Standing in a different part of the city this year we got to see different things and one of them was a release of thousands of balloons. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-50wJCGWsl-k/WbGoUoG8-9I/AAAAAAAAoGE/XMSRrKjfxg4e9kgzLwJuMJcy3b5VXLiowCHMYCw/s1600-h/51f011dd-6b0b-498f-ba13-a311d99f5619%255B1%255D"><img width="487" height="282" title="51f011dd-6b0b-498f-ba13-a311d99f5619" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="51f011dd-6b0b-498f-ba13-a311d99f5619" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bkjhUNttSW0/WbGoVbezcMI/AAAAAAAAoGI/NjeswBxJJmICCIc46165Ja-JQE5C1aspQCHMYCw/51f011dd-6b0b-498f-ba13-a311d99f5619?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After the parade (which lasted two and half hours!) everyone with a wristband (purchased up to a year ago!) headed for the Gay Village centred around Canal Street to meet up with friends. We hadn’t seen Olly for quite some time so it was good to chat again.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vLKwLB0bzOk/WbGoWL7cZQI/AAAAAAAAoGM/DzvH_sqmfZkepYFpufjkA07MqIsYVZQMwCHMYCw/s1600-h/6c5b883e-d2f2-407b-80ca-3dd735898776"><img width="497" height="285" title="6c5b883e-d2f2-407b-80ca-3dd735898776" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="6c5b883e-d2f2-407b-80ca-3dd735898776" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yi3I9700e0Y/WbGoW1I2cMI/AAAAAAAAoGQ/qqJYeGJpxXU2mEIN02AbrcgegBC8yUfMACHMYCw/6c5b883e-d2f2-407b-80ca-3dd735898776%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A close look at this pic and you get some idea of what Manchester’s biggest party weekend is like! </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NARPBpS4nHU/WbGoXnMZBnI/AAAAAAAAoGU/3z_n0a5gr_gsWfD7-shdusnR4yBygZROgCHMYCw/s1600-h/21442997_1527666483923331_585029641_%255B1%255D"><img width="492" height="267" title="21442997_1527666483923331_585029641_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21442997_1527666483923331_585029641_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CYTs8KE8XVM/WbGpGOh-JII/AAAAAAAAoGY/B5n6squ7M68-cYyUso2ZkbDL23nWsqjcQCHMYCw/21442997_1527666483923331_585029641_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After a quick catch-up with a few people in the village we headed back home, where our friend Cris joined us to to do a little more dressing up ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VQ8zDjWXMfQ/WbGpHDH-StI/AAAAAAAAoGc/p58lkqSPfsY_O7HX-uMSzTmMc3rIIoE2wCHMYCw/s1600-h/21469661_1527666673923312_1609982432"><img width="259" height="430" title="21469661_1527666673923312_1609982432_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21469661_1527666673923312_1609982432_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YvziVuZEh28/WbGpIdICa5I/AAAAAAAAoGg/22Ch3YfbW6gAe0VkviMQMEWVIbqPIFYdACHMYCw/21469661_1527666673923312_1609982432%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…… before heading back to Canal Street for one hell of a party!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C2ghiPXflzQ/WbGpJhDOkUI/AAAAAAAAoGk/Tj7HFeB6jOoDPlcXr9odqRbk8Fn80BrXgCHMYCw/s1600-h/8ba3924a-a9b8-456a-a621-5f8e4b7e95ed"><img width="491" height="268" title="8ba3924a-a9b8-456a-a621-5f8e4b7e95ed" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="8ba3924a-a9b8-456a-a621-5f8e4b7e95ed" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-766uhhsGkIY/WbGpKZpBJDI/AAAAAAAAoGo/azFrFx5xckMDkz7Qf7O7XI4yc7-zpVkMACHMYCw/8ba3924a-a9b8-456a-a621-5f8e4b7e95ed%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>All weekend, one of the street’s best bars, put on the most wonderful daytime entertainment. Here’s a friend of ours, Christopher Jackie Kibbler (Jackie Love to her friends!) comparing on Bar Pop’s outdoor stage.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DkWzXtwNS-A/WbGpLYASMII/AAAAAAAAoGw/Hc7oKPWtnzgDefs_ZhzZJb0IxmWxLaWVACHMYCw/s1600-h/21397614_1527666487256664_1636953491"><img width="240" height="403" title="21397614_1527666487256664_1636953491_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21397614_1527666487256664_1636953491_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Sl05O-Ium8U/WbGpMaFaDiI/AAAAAAAAoG0/AKt1DubIftAinxecbtVOm2x2ZkuImd4cwCHMYCw/21397614_1527666487256664_1636953491%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We first met ‘Jackie Love’ on a Caribbean Cruise last year and not in Manchester where you’d perhaps expect. It’s a small world!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_bCyjkRm-_Y/WbGpNuROHUI/AAAAAAAAoG4/8JFLQynkuD8EmJ7Lr4i_pK6M3IiKrD-UQCHMYCw/s1600-h/19066ba2-47a6-441f-b886-e01a48a0df35%255B1%255D"><img width="491" height="283" title="19066ba2-47a6-441f-b886-e01a48a0df35" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="19066ba2-47a6-441f-b886-e01a48a0df35" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tcHa1KrKebI/WbGpOQGp4nI/AAAAAAAAoG8/9ql98AZ0Rt8VxTM0lFN50q4KF10B8O4XQCHMYCw/19066ba2-47a6-441f-b886-e01a48a0df35?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>In the frenzy and excitement of the weekend, it took us two days before we caught up with friend Seb. It was Monday by this time, and the the last day. At the Centre Stage where we spent time together and listening to ………… </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uzFeuN7kfZs/WbGpPmm3PUI/AAAAAAAAoHA/IhFfPxV9YVs2hTwuDa4qO3deQmSaYG4nACHMYCw/s1600-h/54ae5b45-1d3f-4ff3-bb91-9f1348ed3b2c%255B1%255D"><img width="495" height="281" title="54ae5b45-1d3f-4ff3-bb91-9f1348ed3b2c" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="54ae5b45-1d3f-4ff3-bb91-9f1348ed3b2c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5cPhL3O5uXE/WbGpQU-5BqI/AAAAAAAAoHE/OgOEt8Y_0KwF5V9V1D5d10pLsIXOROzEQCHMYCw/54ae5b45-1d3f-4ff3-bb91-9f1348ed3b2c?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. the incredibly talented Danny Beard. His superb vocal range, great presence and personality made for a terrific performance.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d66jJje97E8/WbGpRcXGi-I/AAAAAAAAoHI/5FDq-1o9X_QPtdW9wRw3FH9f_ALzEFo9QCHMYCw/s1600-h/21476062_1527666573923322_1739656508%255B1%255D"><img width="498" height="294" title="21476062_1527666573923322_1739656508_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21476062_1527666573923322_1739656508_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b67_u_t2iEk/WbGpSBGcW_I/AAAAAAAAoHM/DT0ImkA_lz87pP87mTXzYV14XOElqlwnQCHMYCw/21476062_1527666573923322_1739656508%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Oh yes! Nearly forgot – “Take That” popped in to say ‘Hello’ as well. How about that then!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HOoD_RfPlqI/WbGpTFXNUkI/AAAAAAAAoHQ/Xv6CUqzcVDMdm8Nqj1OrORbnqYPohjmdACHMYCw/s1600-h/235f10ba-95e0-4dda-a8f2-4ad829cf79ca%255B1%255D"><img width="493" height="275" title="235f10ba-95e0-4dda-a8f2-4ad829cf79ca" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="235f10ba-95e0-4dda-a8f2-4ad829cf79ca" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eoA-qrfUQAU/WbGpT1o2UQI/AAAAAAAAoHU/RJYG3kmwStIAkyRKP1xkuAOSaCQUhDrEQCHMYCw/235f10ba-95e0-4dda-a8f2-4ad829cf79ca?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Well, the weekend was nearly at an end. Monday night came and it was time for thousands of us to attend the vigil. Canal Street was beautifully decorated for the Pride celebration ………. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S8kvg1nmQGo/WbGpU-0UEPI/AAAAAAAAoHY/jCTO_xOQDHII-vmX01w1r8Vo6hM_b8Z2wCHMYCw/s1600-h/21442912_1527666603923319_386167236_"><img width="261" height="410" title="21442912_1527666603923319_386167236_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21442912_1527666603923319_386167236_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5G4eUmH_yRM/WbGpV7QnItI/AAAAAAAAoHc/wy1w_uIZuGoFe8JdQ9-XL7NYste64AWtQCHMYCw/21442912_1527666603923319_386167236_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and, in the evening, it looked it’s best. (and look at the crowds – four days of partying and still a sea of people.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gOMG8aD6Igo/WbGpW9Py9oI/AAAAAAAAoHg/qERzM7yrFKEmOwXVttVkJEqMWn3u6AA4QCHMYCw/s1600-h/74026097-aab9-4aa2-a820-b9d58a89d416"><img width="482" height="287" title="74026097-aab9-4aa2-a820-b9d58a89d416" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="74026097-aab9-4aa2-a820-b9d58a89d416" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HdvsHfK0dKo/WbGpXgalbaI/AAAAAAAAoHk/8N8LCPxZCk84iMx1AxEO-zgJOXbX-YWkgCHMYCw/74026097-aab9-4aa2-a820-b9d58a89d416%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Sackville Gardens soon filled with thousands of people for the candle;it vigil at 9 o’clock. the hour was spend in thought and consideration for those who’d lost their lives due to an AIDS related illness and for those who are still living, and managing their lives, with HIV.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EK3Qttu7gB0/WbGpY_f61DI/AAAAAAAAoHo/j0sEP9cRyfIcJiwWBa7ylFZtYUdGYw1DQCHMYCw/s1600-h/7224febe-37b3-4ccd-a5ff-672070909a5e%255B1%255D"><img width="476" height="284" title="7224febe-37b3-4ccd-a5ff-672070909a5e" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="7224febe-37b3-4ccd-a5ff-672070909a5e" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2Yy5ZxFheww/WbGpZh8ljhI/AAAAAAAAoHs/Y2BCXHz9aHohykq981QAmlbRjGznzg1YACHMYCw/7224febe-37b3-4ccd-a5ff-672070909a5e?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p> Additionally this year we remembered the 22 people killed, and the hundreds injured, in the terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena earlier in the year. </p><p>It seemed that the city pulled the stops out this year with this, it’s annual (Pride) celebration of unity, acceptance and love. It was said at the vigil – terror tried to divide this great and vibrant city but, instead, it did the opposite. It brought a close community even closer together. We had another great time over the four days.</p><p>Hard on the heels of the Pride weekend came James’ birthday and our wedding anniversary. It was a real treat that Doug’s sister Dawn flew in from her home in Ireland for that weekend.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AFcKmpvMOdM/WbGpa2d25zI/AAAAAAAAoHw/YY9WcnWV5IMDBM0BxPWAuX0DvAICmdnHQCHMYCw/s1600-h/21476359_1527666223923357_1557254592%255B1%255D"><img width="493" height="273" title="21476359_1527666223923357_1557254592_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21476359_1527666223923357_1557254592_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dD_rOmPAR0A/WbGpcYuEk_I/AAAAAAAAoH0/Rt1A9L0GNWIxzkpg1bk0rveDpoO71FadQCHMYCw/21476359_1527666223923357_1557254592?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here are the two siblings – peas in a pod?</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AHI3MtkO-NU/WbGpdb368SI/AAAAAAAAoH4/C_d9MU2WVFYk9R2rL5BUlFOiaMD-Ouz3ACHMYCw/s1600-h/21442333_1527666143923365_406606969_%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="277" title="21442333_1527666143923365_406606969_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21442333_1527666143923365_406606969_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NiASQcHj7rQ/WbGpee5q5nI/AAAAAAAAoH8/malhjCQKwAUXpLeV_MoiawC65bqj7kDOgCHMYCw/21442333_1527666143923365_406606969_?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Cris joined us and we all went for a celebration meal in Zizzi ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pAQLM2eopBo/WbGpfCw4d8I/AAAAAAAAoIA/KlaOF2X8wbYMSQ2s3kKDPie2J9fsHk1TQCHMYCw/s1600-h/21397670_1527666323923347_1949335601%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="266" title="21397670_1527666323923347_1949335601_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21397670_1527666323923347_1949335601_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1CjgumM4YCk/WbGpgBPC-dI/AAAAAAAAoIE/poLwsrKPkVknUajAZcBdxasfQp5y1q2bACHMYCw/21397670_1527666323923347_1949335601%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… before hitting the village for a few drinks. We’re on the roof terrace of G-A-Y in Canal Street here ……….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wL-oxJVFQs8/WbGphET7vyI/AAAAAAAAoII/ZRVFMbO5nho89ZKhkiGJdY3LK5NphaDKgCHMYCw/s1600-h/21552857_1527666393923340_1833563536%255B2%255D"><img width="271" height="428" title="21552857_1527666393923340_1833563536_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21552857_1527666393923340_1833563536_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rpsojv4ZVok/WbGpiKzBMlI/AAAAAAAAoIM/xMTli1mHjnAAGc6mOIX4Xr9BEoqd5U6QwCHMYCw/21552857_1527666393923340_1833563536?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>………… and then on to ‘Via’, where James took the chance to use the massive “throne” chair. Dawn had a splendid time visiting some of her old haunts during the time she was at Manchester University a few years ago and another good weekend celebration was had by all of us!</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-42574847096977766192017-08-25T17:04:00.001+01:002017-08-25T17:04:33.117+01:00Lazy - Days in Gran Canaria<p>A couple of weeks ago we took ourselves off on a last minute booking to Gran Canaria. Play del Ingles to be precise. Doug wanted a bit of sunshine (which had been sadly lacking in the UK) but we’d forgotten that it was, in fact, high summer in the Canaries and it was HOT!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4yX1a4g-dog/WaBI5WGjkoI/AAAAAAAAn_U/LrIlqoHPleczdOvSUc8TsqfLXunf7I8YQCHMYCw/s1600-h/769a97fd-e0ff-4d89-9395-04341551c65a"><img width="493" height="268" title="769a97fd-e0ff-4d89-9395-04341551c65a" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="769a97fd-e0ff-4d89-9395-04341551c65a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fznJplarllg/WaBI6DQp8wI/AAAAAAAAn_Y/x69iP2NM6cgcbEOdO0gypQIZ6jGkDcRcACHMYCw/769a97fd-e0ff-4d89-9395-04341551c65a%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our little complex of “adults only” villas was extremely well cared for and was the nearest thing to “Benidorm” we’ve experienced! Lol. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_H-UHHeXjCk/WaBI66WVHwI/AAAAAAAAn_c/PNkdP4ec_M89Ds2I7kvK52a_9Vi6W_MmgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20914378_1510226822333964_5589953677%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="285" title="20914378_1510226822333964_5589953677908000947_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20914378_1510226822333964_5589953677908000947_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NmBugwqC4wQ/WaBI7jDA7rI/AAAAAAAAn_g/5yeTmZaqcR8yt5rh1hhwSTAM9mE-1n4mQCHMYCw/20914378_1510226822333964_5589953677%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Being summer (and very hot) in the Canaries it’s termed as “low season” so nowhere was very busy.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mzky8ElfphE/WaBI8cOx0FI/AAAAAAAAn_k/1Tty9tCYP3AigL5Sx0jJJJqWOWhaYE7FQCHMYCw/s1600-h/c3b6e1ec-bd90-4aa9-8d07-7aa9b12e3e15%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="282" title="c3b6e1ec-bd90-4aa9-8d07-7aa9b12e3e15" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="c3b6e1ec-bd90-4aa9-8d07-7aa9b12e3e15" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cfRRVwiC95o/WaBI9MQ0V0I/AAAAAAAAn_o/pMQkc4Ru8-8chkx4eo6nDAoZ5sFtwF1sACHMYCw/c3b6e1ec-bd90-4aa9-8d07-7aa9b12e3e15?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We were situated about 20 minutes walk from the centre of Playa del Ingles so we got good exercise doing it twice a day. Everywhere is perfectly manicured ……… </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pUF-VBtAPcI/WaBI92PoHSI/AAAAAAAAn_s/upIPD0X9lZkDeEaKIE036gHqbodjDOEHACHMYCw/s1600-h/0fa1d9bb-ab14-4109-a28b-9fca56df630c"><img width="240" height="350" title="0fa1d9bb-ab14-4109-a28b-9fca56df630c" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="0fa1d9bb-ab14-4109-a28b-9fca56df630c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S3C4wMKvq7g/WaBI-u9ixmI/AAAAAAAAn_w/TLk5T3tXoKc3v3Oa2OdAxjwNT_gbzMmNQCHMYCw/0fa1d9bb-ab14-4109-a28b-9fca56df630c%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and, with all the plants and trees trimmed and watered …….<br></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4nN0eDadMEM/WaBI_A6ureI/AAAAAAAAn_0/BZbdl51m404W1HXueyM6uPbLrvQKaiqxgCHMYCw/s1600-h/17ba236a-c687-49ea-af6a-3cf871d250e5%255B1%255D"><img width="490" height="259" title="17ba236a-c687-49ea-af6a-3cf871d250e5" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="17ba236a-c687-49ea-af6a-3cf871d250e5" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C6nA5VC7m44/WaBI_8MPVuI/AAAAAAAAn_4/XvnelL-slfEWplez2nSpwFE42FP_dXm8ACHMYCw/17ba236a-c687-49ea-af6a-3cf871d250e5?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…… it felt rather like walking through a botanical garden. The watering, we found out to our cost, is done automatically in the late evening just when we took our walk back into town for some ‘night life’. It’s a bit of a shock when you walk into the sprinklers in the dark!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bwE0BN6Eh-Y/WaBKKdElNaI/AAAAAAAAoAA/z4X0X7TYk987zf8v1-apaq2Rudhm7oqvgCHMYCw/s1600-h/6b86d780-e84c-4233-acd9-73000a26d320"><img width="500" height="275" title="6b86d780-e84c-4233-acd9-73000a26d320" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="6b86d780-e84c-4233-acd9-73000a26d320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qB7cugZeut0/WaBKLGBCfoI/AAAAAAAAoAE/12evl9n07HUdNOeM41AbxaSOKfWxqcuPACHMYCw/6b86d780-e84c-4233-acd9-73000a26d320%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Between Play del Ingles and the beach is an awesome area of dunes which stretches for a long way. Walking across them to the beach is not recommended in the temperatures we were experiencing. According to the digital display in the town it was 37 C at 7 o’clock one evening. That would put these dunes at well over 40 C at mid day.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vF3Boki_dSw/WaBKMRumrhI/AAAAAAAAoAI/tH4vwqBodnc4ZLWrZrVkcqoAZd8FjFkTgCHMYCw/s1600-h/34794bdd-a3cc-472f-b363-4c2e4341e5b6%255B1%255D"><img width="496" height="271" title="34794bdd-a3cc-472f-b363-4c2e4341e5b6" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="34794bdd-a3cc-472f-b363-4c2e4341e5b6" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GB7-gBmjwG4/WaBKNG6o7mI/AAAAAAAAoAQ/yd5XaWawWTo67r3bOCNLM0zCi-O26e-jwCHMYCw/34794bdd-a3cc-472f-b363-4c2e4341e5b6?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>One of the main attractions at Play del Ingles is the Yumbo Centre. It’s basically a huge hole in the ground filled with shops, eateries and large open spaces for recreation. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jCUaXAN3UQ8/WaBKOCYC_aI/AAAAAAAAoAU/LH2OQXbKamwvZTnEvy7mNLY5HaI6tjALgCHMYCw/s1600-h/14e8a482-0a51-44c3-8f15-d05365100b16%255B1%255D"><img width="498" height="278" title="14e8a482-0a51-44c3-8f15-d05365100b16" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="14e8a482-0a51-44c3-8f15-d05365100b16" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uEciULw41H4/WaBKO_1J8zI/AAAAAAAAoAY/osMaTThd4oYNVGsIpiMdYHml1Ibo25b_ACHMYCw/14e8a482-0a51-44c3-8f15-d05365100b16?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>At night (11pm onwards) it comes alive with bars, clubs and cabaret venues with lots of loud music and partying. This was our view at ‘Mardi Gras’ bar as we relaxed and supped our aperitifs before the clubs opened at eleven. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-okD8j6GCbIk/WaBKPmXhzSI/AAAAAAAAoAc/hhN_XQsDs_c-hfvMgPyV10ytfJMlZ4hnACHMYCw/s1600-h/fca6dc28-c609-47a5-ba64-5603fa454c5d"><img width="500" height="282" title="fca6dc28-c609-47a5-ba64-5603fa454c5d" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="fca6dc28-c609-47a5-ba64-5603fa454c5d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lV5n8XndDhk/WaBKQmqbVYI/AAAAAAAAoAg/YwF0Dp02-nsGf5RGi4foKhSEYUIN4UFYQCHMYCw/fca6dc28-c609-47a5-ba64-5603fa454c5d%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>People were able to walk around in a much cooler temperature during the late evening and eating al fresco was a real pleasure.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PnjI-ugycIw/WaBKRvB3JtI/AAAAAAAAoAk/rF0GXPGXI50NIXGQUghaNXD-mBfGN1P0ACHMYCw/s1600-h/21150716_1516801145009865_1634240827%255B1%255D"><img width="495" height="278" title="21150716_1516801145009865_1634240827_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21150716_1516801145009865_1634240827_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DBp8LrlHJ-M/WaBKST6X5GI/AAAAAAAAoAo/2JZZIuoLHIMbOuoLRH25KQSpI0kFi6o_QCHMYCw/21150716_1516801145009865_1634240827?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>With clubs opening at 11pm the partying went on until 4 or 5 in the morning and it was an incredibly friendly atmosphere. We met people from many countries who’d also flown in for a week of “night life”. This is Tommy from Poland – an international hair stylist, of all things, and a real character. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FOZ8g_atCx8/WaBKTYcIG3I/AAAAAAAAoAs/oQ2ww5hj0Fs74MjG5sbjjI0lOyeB_41QACHMYCw/s1600-h/21076837_1516801011676545_1455628688%255B2%255D"><img width="251" height="409" title="21076837_1516801011676545_1455628688_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21076837_1516801011676545_1455628688_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fi7KmXfaEGM/WaBKUYAlPOI/AAAAAAAAoAw/26DGNbhspj4XLpu8cIECFaPsQC1DKQqswCHMYCw/21076837_1516801011676545_1455628688?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The bar staff also added greatly to fun and vibrancy of the night and this one – Mark, was just one of the amazingly nice guys that supplied the lubrication for our partying.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-acieiO_6R0k/WaBKVbInxEI/AAAAAAAAoA0/tHdX0EksXUojwAP4gZX0hp6QmUbJTQbegCHMYCw/s1600-h/21101061_1516801115009868_1666496125%255B2%255D"><img width="492" height="278" title="21101061_1516801115009868_1666496125_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="21101061_1516801115009868_1666496125_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ECPwkN2kTDw/WaBKWCJgSwI/AAAAAAAAoA4/BMHLIOgNOKYxF4Erj03Il2yU5nd5SwRnQCHMYCw/21101061_1516801115009868_1666496125%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We dined out twice at La Gustera. A wonderful restaurant with friendly staff and excellent food. The attire is very informal – sadly dictated by the heat!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qALVFJTjmFk/WaBKWz8bB-I/AAAAAAAAoA8/ajhksKTa9rcBSJxEvGAo1hkD970QXjHagCHMYCw/s1600-h/af08c8de-af93-4633-a599-c685143e2c60"><img width="498" height="263" title="af08c8de-af93-4633-a599-c685143e2c60" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="af08c8de-af93-4633-a599-c685143e2c60" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qY5df1szFAg/WaBKXjDZpDI/AAAAAAAAoBA/9E-yJRPWrE8M3BHlN0D413i9ywqXpjy0ACHMYCw/af08c8de-af93-4633-a599-c685143e2c60%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Think this must have been an early selfie as we look decidedly pasty. Not so by the end of the week!</p><p>Well, we had a very lazy week in the sun. Sleep all morning, beach in the afternoon, a quick evening kip before dinner then party all night. Living life on the edge occasionally just has to be done. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DYlSq5x6VmA/WaBKYPpPO2I/AAAAAAAAoBE/LK6HyCvXzj88IXADeT2tvJHenW0rgsSLACHMYCw/s1600-h/1e122910-23a2-4436-8241-963af9f2f93e%255B1%255D"><img width="492" height="273" title="1e122910-23a2-4436-8241-963af9f2f93e" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="1e122910-23a2-4436-8241-963af9f2f93e" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FSh-EqGAA2o/WaBKZJxlWBI/AAAAAAAAoBI/xluoLzDU50gfpjHUuadxBGgtDICiDaQngCHMYCw/1e122910-23a2-4436-8241-963af9f2f93e?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Flying back to Manchester was so simple. We’re just a twenty minute train ride to the airport which meant, with just hand luggage, we were back indoors, unpacked, washing on and in bed in just over an hour after landing. As soon as we got back we were in time to catch up with friend Regu who was in Manchester on business. We had a few drinks and dinner at the newly opened “No 1 Canal Street”. Great food and company and we hope to catch up again with Regu soon.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8ZIMUQxBuXg/WaBKZ8MYU8I/AAAAAAAAoBM/y8FVRhjlUGk2JPS1t7BRpnjMZXPujznLACHMYCw/s1600-h/2fda791e-51b3-4d8e-86d6-b30e315ec157%255B1%255D"><img width="490" height="284" title="2fda791e-51b3-4d8e-86d6-b30e315ec157" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="2fda791e-51b3-4d8e-86d6-b30e315ec157" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aXYqCiNrC2M/WaBKau7qHyI/AAAAAAAAoBQ/YPZwSEllWX4tGrTgGD73khOfroQwK5eZwCHMYCw/2fda791e-51b3-4d8e-86d6-b30e315ec157?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Yesterday we took a quick trip to Chester. Its a while since we’ve been to this charming walled city. Normally we’d have travelled by narrow boat but this time we had to find a car park. (That’s Doug in the pink shirt.)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xtvjGnV5zCY/WaBKbuZ7ieI/AAAAAAAAoBU/8VH9uFx6xWYQk0gMXwhYRRFWFiti2OhlQCHMYCw/s1600-h/5623d733-47da-4053-80a6-b529e2811dd7"><img width="488" height="259" title="5623d733-47da-4053-80a6-b529e2811dd7" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="5623d733-47da-4053-80a6-b529e2811dd7" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ouVOdeJgdw4/WaBKcEX9noI/AAAAAAAAoBY/sMhqpXlzIsAPN_u9nHMtjTvbMutoT3xtACHMYCw/5623d733-47da-4053-80a6-b529e2811dd7%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A view looking towards the famous clock.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q0go4WYc5NI/WaBKdHWNuRI/AAAAAAAAoBc/A_Er3qoVQBQ7feWBj5Z6ZZbWlYjWK3aJACHMYCw/s1600-h/4c57592b-902f-4e5a-9ef3-4ab25527ba3d"><img width="499" height="251" title="4c57592b-902f-4e5a-9ef3-4ab25527ba3d" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="4c57592b-902f-4e5a-9ef3-4ab25527ba3d" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_pZUtu791y8/WaBKdgQLiLI/AAAAAAAAoBg/Csv3X2Llbh8YUScstzUOYjvxPd1EbMlcwCHMYCw/4c57592b-902f-4e5a-9ef3-4ab25527ba3d%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Chester’s charm is enhanced by the numerous raised arcades and walkways in the timbered buildings.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PSp1jZ2jGk0/WaBKef2QUVI/AAAAAAAAoBk/GBDv2MS4TxU3QP9Bjl1pLOgUR977oUiFACHMYCw/s1600-h/8d2592ca-b428-4fe1-8a04-2c286bfb2983"><img width="488" height="261" title="8d2592ca-b428-4fe1-8a04-2c286bfb2983" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="8d2592ca-b428-4fe1-8a04-2c286bfb2983" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M0BjLQUfqsk/WaBKfKTKMMI/AAAAAAAAoBo/wxTBMmgJXIY8Q0zFwxvew9gGMV8zSfEfQCHMYCw/8d2592ca-b428-4fe1-8a04-2c286bfb2983%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Close by we found somewhere for a spot of lunch. The Victoria Inn – a lovely interior fit out. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rDR8r03BGy4/WaBKf-D8WHI/AAAAAAAAoBs/cdLsfO0ed7Ekh5bi2pk5n91-gwQzmB07wCHMYCw/s1600-h/2c0c6bd2-c698-49f1-9f47-883171b82681"><img width="487" height="257" title="2c0c6bd2-c698-49f1-9f47-883171b82681" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="2c0c6bd2-c698-49f1-9f47-883171b82681" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uiNzq9TL8Hc/WaBKgnZr01I/AAAAAAAAoBw/N6HsCbF-r4IlCB7Ody7Hktr4K1zc1xNbACHMYCw/2c0c6bd2-c698-49f1-9f47-883171b82681%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s a pic of us, in one of the pub’s little cubby-holes waiting for lunch, taken by …….. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3ZVpFGHEDHY/WaBKhVQPCdI/AAAAAAAAoB0/eukw0b083dk7O-c9dWVq1o6dhtlohBVqgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20993102_2056096758048997_1909929283%255B2%255D"><img width="488" height="261" title="20993102_2056096758048997_1909929283861884881_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20993102_2056096758048997_1909929283861884881_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-38sI0mI1qzI/WaBKiLyqptI/AAAAAAAAoB4/k_CxQWYXQtU6x2KlNaPh_lYHIkTNoEWwwCHMYCw/20993102_2056096758048997_1909929283?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……… the lovely cheerful barman John. It’s a small world – just chatting to him and we find we have a number of FB friends in common!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RZo4KIlT9gg/WaBKjAMlyHI/AAAAAAAAoB8/3lGi4t3uEXQWYmuNmcEYYGufCLKIlzFvACHMYCw/s1600-h/3ff733ce-11b8-4c14-8658-cc4b0d100697%255B1%255D"><img width="490" height="268" title="3ff733ce-11b8-4c14-8658-cc4b0d100697" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="3ff733ce-11b8-4c14-8658-cc4b0d100697" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Fg4m9eSS8WI/WaBKjx-QyYI/AAAAAAAAoCA/TWcH7D6G3hUC-TcrPDLf3ZTUU1JXpUL0gCHMYCw/3ff733ce-11b8-4c14-8658-cc4b0d100697?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>It’s a dreary pic but James wanted to take a photo of the canal as we left to find the car park. We’ve travelled into Chester many times on both our boats “Spirit” and “Chance”.</p><p>Next event – Manchester Pride bank holiday weekend!</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-14942283459128657272017-08-12T09:56:00.001+01:002017-08-12T09:56:58.496+01:00Goodness – We Haven’t Blogged for Ages!!<p>It’s been over two months since we took over our apartment in Manchester and some of our first visitors were Lake District friends Pam and Geoff.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tw2qcOJb7rA/WY7B-o1zoSI/AAAAAAAAn30/95FYSV0PEbkUVMCI9z1U5yMoZYjfvGycACHMYCw/s1600-h/P103090711"><img width="491" height="326" title="P1030907" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030907" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u0RBM6smkd4/WY7B_mhzP3I/AAAAAAAAn34/jtlZOfWfCDYUz9SxV24U3kf13_X463JowCHMYCw/P1030907_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After a bottle or two of bubbly at home (something which has, in a short time, become a bit of a tradition!) we took a walk across the city centre (stopping for some shopping and a pit stop) ………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_E6bQe1R7dw/WY7CAeliitI/AAAAAAAAn38/rqDWoY-vLaAXFkVPqWmuDoujdMvCFxuSACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10309112"><img width="486" height="326" title="P1030911" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030911" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HixJE0u-lxg/WY7CBACl7aI/AAAAAAAAn4A/fP3w-Q92F5EiqGmA_jlL3cQjid5zX007gCHMYCw/P1030911_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. to Albert’s Shed in Castlefield for a splendid late lunch. It’s always a hoot with Pam and Geoff and we look forward to seeing them again soon. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YdGNbWXgsfA/WY7CBw8B0mI/AAAAAAAAn4E/Tg8QpHdeu5cFqnCoJX-N18EunbWoCgn4QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10309121"><img width="485" height="324" title="P1030912" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030912" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UsPgYjx7Q9Y/WY7CCo6ghXI/AAAAAAAAn4I/f1VsWWwby-QrzW3_OF9hNuhPE2JCZeUTgCHMYCw/P1030912_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After the initial few weeks of decorating and furnishing the Manchester ‘pad’ we travelled south for a couple of weeks in Selsey. During our absence the dear old Lifeboat station building had been removed – leaving us with a full panoramic view across the bay and the brand new lifeboat in it’s brand new, land based, lifeboat station.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-49HYrQq7cSs/WY7CDV1TS0I/AAAAAAAAn4M/o0xiDnUG5MQs1xhDIfp_vMFg3r2ubRfCQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10309141"><img width="486" height="324" title="P1030914" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030914" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZqjBMV7EFw4/WY7CEKX_PPI/AAAAAAAAn4Q/ZULBt3yTuHQLrCHVq_QHXQ606E3Ybu-vgCHMYCw/P1030914_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We soon managed to catch up with Kim and Alan (from just along the coast) who popped over to join us enjoying the sunshine. First we had bubbly on the beach (which was terribly crowded as usual) and then ………….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nyvMIxnNrgk/WY7CEyxnHGI/AAAAAAAAn4U/VmVgFiwK33Q7Z5oVo-dTUBj-UbFNWSgTgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P103091911"><img width="484" height="309" title="P1030919" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030919" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9mKgjapojic/WY7CFudpmeI/AAAAAAAAn4Y/JInHkHAVqq8x6P0g5_daP_L-ALVcSfvMACHMYCw/P1030919_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>………. a BBQ in the back garden. A splendid day we all had and thanks Alan and Kim for popping over to brighten an already very sunny day.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nuwazg3GfU4/WY7CGd8z7SI/AAAAAAAAn4c/_AmkLytJC60PwBhftj06gl0u6L3xX6E4gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P103092811"><img width="491" height="322" title="P1030928" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030928" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_1e7Aizg8D0/WY7CHHdjsbI/AAAAAAAAn4g/okiPoYAiW3ktvdFsYjnJzZ0yr1CVmt4CgCHMYCw/P1030928_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Next it was off to Southsea and Portsmouth with a friend who’d “popped” down from Manchester to see us. As always, James has to get a photo of the Isle of Wight hovercraft!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fUKfv6X-biY/WY7CHpG7tfI/AAAAAAAAn4k/U4ap6Jd-kMY6UGgE_qXrp92JJyu1mslMwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10309331"><img width="486" height="319" title="P1030933" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030933" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NA9Ecy6K5qY/WY7CIQ5IllI/AAAAAAAAn4o/6d-Abv4d5u4wwC0O5FS2nYgolt559AEngCHMYCw/P1030933_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>It’s always a treat to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere of Old Portsmouth ……… </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Smj2pf_ZMTY/WY7CJF-UPOI/AAAAAAAAn4s/UDDDKinUoiAxRSyXAQu0aC0CcOJzx-dmQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P103093411"><img width="283" height="398" title="P1030934" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030934" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yn2T9Hau2r8/WY7CJji578I/AAAAAAAAn4w/Sen8ZUL97F8tD8MA8-bCfZ6Q5Pz577yBACHMYCw/P1030934_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…… here’s Sammy and Doug in front of one of the old battlements and the massive round tower which held the winch gear for the huge chain which was pulled across the entrance to the dockyards to protect it from enemy ships.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8MyFCsp4VT0/WY7CKcbHhyI/AAAAAAAAn40/J_d1lPWsDpgtsM4vPv2WOpyiS7MDFVMnQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10309441"><img width="479" height="320" title="P1030944" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030944" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nWKc-Co__70/WY7CLC1ivRI/AAAAAAAAn44/LY9lB8SDLjIcsgi6Yfk2TxUspgFeA0P9wCHMYCw/P1030944_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A classy sight on Southsea Common – a wedding carriage with two magnificent horses. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jeA4S4uj2zk/WY7CLrjTiBI/AAAAAAAAn48/5yJWdkIhm1I0rFyt7p2IHevCiLN5pq4-ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P103096611"><img width="482" height="319" title="P1030966" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030966" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zXJ11a_ndCc/WY7CMg7hShI/AAAAAAAAn5A/sYoPlV3e0BwrBf59nhlWR0kijImDpyV2wCHMYCw/P1030966_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>In Selsey, a few days later, we experienced a tremendous thunder storm with continuous lightening from 11:00 until 2:30 in the morning. The lightening was so intense that James was able to take numerous photos from the bedroom window ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lyoK2juNVZk/WY7CNBPutdI/AAAAAAAAn5E/wzJC1gZZPcw8188JbTXNRYdVRpU1VXjtgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P103096711"><img width="483" height="325" title="P1030967" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030967" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wZSL2jwDqro/WY7COF1claI/AAAAAAAAn5I/7KP5IbUPCag_1e8u7aTBt5m78fyt9jBtQCHMYCw/P1030967_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. but he managed to time one of them to exactly coincide with one massive lightening flash. This is 1 o’clock in the morning!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BsxGdeda9N0/WY7CO5dVZDI/AAAAAAAAn5M/ACgy_KEItQ4175no4FJ1JkdVYq0l-SYUACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10309821"><img width="477" height="312" title="P1030982" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030982" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qmoOkY3CZTM/WY7CPvPtLCI/AAAAAAAAn5Q/YHLMwYz_aX4MFYzad7_0n0DYxpGoc_2vACHMYCw/P1030982_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>James decided to take Doug’s new ‘toy’ on a little outing to nearby Arundel on one gorgeously sunny evening ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PycG6m9BP8k/WY7CRPBC9qI/AAAAAAAAn5U/dnCB6p9zVdEFNF9F1PH1Yspp6HBsu1ywgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P103098311"><img width="476" height="321" title="P1030983" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030983" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vmbbXafWmbE/WY7CR8sny2I/AAAAAAAAn5Y/bbHJ5Y44J-kLz0EXOMHNkFiTPlqImcDqQCHMYCw/P1030983_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. and, deviating slightly from the usual route out of the town, passed the awesomely handsome Roman Catholic Cathedral.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kT7fpiIQpos/WY7CSqbdnvI/AAAAAAAAn5c/vRDPlAJ68rITGpwIvMMQeV-LxJPvnp4YwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20597316_1493931643963482_8830532780%255B2%255D"><img width="481" height="275" title="20597316_1493931643963482_8830532780032639111_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20597316_1493931643963482_8830532780032639111_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FbxRO1bh8kc/WY7CTKMzTII/AAAAAAAAn5g/9xs5d6heMMo0eIuItJPvqtBy5X40G82hwCHMYCw/20597316_1493931643963482_8830532780%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We got back up to Manchester again just in time to meet up with with our very close friends Pete and Rose who had travelled up to see Pete’s niece Ferne. Here’s Doug, James, Pete, Fern and Rose enjoying lunch at Zizzi.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cSixpN5ofXY/WY7CUFM9ExI/AAAAAAAAn5k/TQWEp9owmr8SMJ1nzdNm3MASlepNLPnRACHMYCw/s1600-h/IMG_340911"><img width="484" height="292" title="IMG_3409" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="IMG_3409" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h-m8JY8Yimk/WY7CU1Qs4dI/AAAAAAAAn5o/OGp9kAJ_mb49qKniSZFHeGcVoSp141koACHMYCw/IMG_3409_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We had a marvellous day out at Tatton Park with friend Cris where we enjoyed a Segway adventure. This looks very clever but these machines do all the balancing of course!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_bE73iPVvg8/WY7CVW5lqoI/AAAAAAAAn5s/zzZG8hj6qb4Xn0eKAeDVjm5LAtPLKMffQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20476512_1495199267170053_6843023077%255B1%255D"><img width="487" height="260" title="20476512_1495199267170053_6843023077993047988_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20476512_1495199267170053_6843023077993047988_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PwuwviELacw/WY7CWGRgYMI/AAAAAAAAn5w/e6CmJkm6-Lk2Mnb2bpbdkCqfgLVKX4jKQCHMYCw/20476512_1495199267170053_6843023077?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Two very familiar narrow boats came into town a short while back. Del and Al on “Derwent6” and Sian and Mark on “Mochin Du”. We had a few catch-ups with them over the few days they were around. This first one, of course, was to celebrate our meeting up (at BarPop in Canal Street). Al, James, Del, Mark, Sian and Doug.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b9qUCrr8kFs/WY7CWycHSgI/AAAAAAAAn50/TT_T4qoKCCoEDPWDl79wZJayQFvKH6vbQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20525423_1497650373591609_9586320467%255B1%255D"><img width="483" height="318" title="20525423_1497650373591609_958632046743489759_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20525423_1497650373591609_958632046743489759_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m-KswF1Mp4w/WY7CXlGzjpI/AAAAAAAAn54/PMP9KjzSSOEPIS9dWQ14l0vFP_1Rkkt-gCHMYCw/20525423_1497650373591609_9586320467?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We all took a day out to Blackpool for a visit to the Pleasure Beach (which was much better than we’d expected having not been for many years!) ………. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC0nIMhuPCdv9Lrvs9Vs-jUuuiBjs2uqB58DeOyfCDbjAuSSLc9UdUbZrOuHxy2Kb34p67ydzxJM2gfQdm3RQH_LXynUrVTr6M846hcOJ0ykqqrhYdQ6LcXbipyGeGDqsjfVOAssQNry8/s1600-h/20525650_1497650663591580_4769396952%255B1%255D"><img width="244" height="359" title="20525650_1497650663591580_4769396952092546500_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20525650_1497650663591580_4769396952092546500_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sNrp_-G6iWE/WY7Cbhf_8tI/AAAAAAAAn6A/pVyIwBtj7408rCdHkHkDs7NFhNhiutRBwCHMYCw/20525650_1497650663591580_4769396952?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. this is a very skilful selfie by Doug on one of the Roller Coasters! Del and Al are in the carriage behind.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OVr9z2urh6c/WY7CcV9KxNI/AAAAAAAAn6E/sMt-EEuz0fYisDMZzOlvUuq7CMbpcDOeACHMYCw/s1600-h/20479892_2046196432372363_6284405675%255B2%255D"><img width="482" height="246" title="20479892_2046196432372363_6284405675168696366_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20479892_2046196432372363_6284405675168696366_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U3xcbX9D7a4/WY7CdNsf_mI/AAAAAAAAn6I/-jismK-9_7MBPK2bSYmE0CqUDEx49YBbQCHMYCw/20479892_2046196432372363_6284405675?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>(Doug, Al, Mark, Sian and Del). It wouldn’t be Blackpool for us if we didn’t visit Funny Girls Show Bar in the evening where Betty “Legs” Diamond leads all seven cabarets during the evening plus a stunning finale …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y7xzzS0opbE/WY7Cd0nbAzI/AAAAAAAAn6M/WL-akuA7-xAxqt9yu1IapdQx2OIx8wuLgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20525221_1497797556910224_7568946366%255B2%255D"><img width="487" height="250" title="20525221_1497797556910224_7568946366326964049_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20525221_1497797556910224_7568946366326964049_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mx24QNlJ69Q/WY7CeV4clZI/AAAAAAAAn6Q/u1z54_pwfi0eJPPqOEd4mn7NhkGd743AQCHMYCw/20525221_1497797556910224_7568946366?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. and DJ “Zoe” holds the evening together with her own brand of humour (and mickey-taking if you don’t watch out!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ECu3taKedjg/WY7CfE4obbI/AAAAAAAAn6U/vWpVr93Ms9Y2jHsR9sgzpGOmBty5RQx2QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400311"><img width="486" height="322" title="P1040031" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040031" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-85l_XcJGXHE/WY7Cf1OsQvI/AAAAAAAAn6Y/a-BcdRam5bgNciPhDRIHKvxBXUrkppNxACHMYCw/P1040031_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Back in Manchester again, after a great few days with Del, Al, Sian and Mark, James occasionally takes himself off around the city for a bit of (what he calls) culture. The John Rylands library is a regular haunt. This stunning mock Gothic architectural masterpiece is even better inside than out.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q9k1lox52Es/WY7Cgud9GqI/AAAAAAAAn6c/Gx9N3BtZ_LIPktPzMT4WO7P_vmOW8CfGwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104000111"><img width="273" height="359" title="P1040001" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040001" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KGs2YKWp6kU/WY7ChD_P-NI/AAAAAAAAn6g/Gmk_iTBnGxAsIj0MY139_rj_F4JKx9z8ACHMYCw/P1040001_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Enriqueter Rylands had the building constructed in memory of her very wealthy Manchester textile merchant husband John. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IHP3EhYPF44/WY7Ch_3R9FI/AAAAAAAAn6k/Shim2iV05CwsE478UL19QNJzo2ouCedXwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400021"><img width="487" height="307" title="P1040002" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040002" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lR6xQJwkt-A/WY7Ci7uMYBI/AAAAAAAAn6o/729TeMybGtgSP7Tp34IhUAC36DtrIlVMACHMYCw/P1040002_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Started in 1889, a year after John’s death, it took ten years to finish at a cost of £224,000.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-snqxfSl03Rw/WY7CjtdQbhI/AAAAAAAAn6s/pNR3kATHI6EzTPrYLUmdH9wwBjmSlx6WACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400031"><img width="238" height="313" title="P1040003" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040003" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k0Jg-xKBnSQ/WY7CkNMGbtI/AAAAAAAAn6w/suC2Bh8GRr0MRhFnlJJE74ydLMc4D9oQQCHMYCw/P1040003_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TSeuYVMYoJs/WY7Ck9MO9bI/AAAAAAAAn60/Xd9Bj2iUQsAa6U6shQOs50hMPr9sjf9ggCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104000611"><img width="251" height="312" title="P1040006" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040006" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8PCxIOaIC5w/WY7ClvCsx-I/AAAAAAAAn64/stodoR7s_pcx2Y6JXr9iZ321t8BFRNHjwCHMYCw/P1040006_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The architectural detail is magnificent wherever you look.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CsLUcDH-dVc/WY7CmBbZxUI/AAAAAAAAn68/UQlw0NGL0vMbWBMvJgrxjl2wesm8dwhSACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400071"><img width="478" height="320" title="P1040007" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040007" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-838VtWNM1Uc/WY7Cm0RCQLI/AAAAAAAAn7A/hgu0mnpiMmsXhp7AMQczb2mFAiJ5xs3YgCHMYCw/P1040007_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aiJ6XARauro/WY7CnV-tLQI/AAAAAAAAn7E/ZhEb44pyttYc0pYN5AV5CdHKEQudmH8SwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400081"><img width="474" height="341" title="P1040008" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040008" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hJ25lps_oAA/WY7CoJLz3cI/AAAAAAAAn7I/Du3FtZAwxS046Agg7r6gLkwZG_XPLMDSACHMYCw/P1040008_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The main Reading Room is like the nave of a cathedral. All the lights are designed to look like cotton flowers and ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OU0LBRDil-c/WY7Co1YbbnI/AAAAAAAAn7M/Na0QZzWlYPgf1RMum9jVWAgRILzuGG7PACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400111"><img width="231" height="287" title="P1040011" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040011" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q8D0JXjWytA/WY7CpTV7rtI/AAAAAAAAn7Q/J75H67ZbuyAPlwsEV0l7Jta594hSANe8QCHMYCw/P1040011_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y9yjCsb9vvE/WY7CqEXbeyI/AAAAAAAAn7U/3IF3LNElzQEzOF4ciw0bKwida-HFz5b1ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P104001311"><img width="240" height="294" title="P1040013" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040013" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eJ5LLELSR70/WY7Cq912IUI/AAAAAAAAn7Y/416mi00ejMsFMqEHqZshmQbC8RFVP1ZSACHMYCw/P1040013_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>….. down both side of the Reading Room are eight exquisitely carved statues of the good and the great. There is always an exhibition taken from the millions of treasures which are housed in the building and it’s always worth a visit – even if it’s just to see the building itself (and the oldest working gents toilets in the country!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nPTzhvxA5aQ/WY7CrjAsvyI/AAAAAAAAn7c/vjBIOqHXLvc2zXa7IfGId6RVtg8kyDSIQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400271"><img width="244" height="330" title="P1040027" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040027" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BmRdOQe9N0E/WY7CsOevOEI/AAAAAAAAn7g/J1v0LbqS1M8kmeI7lKOlaUE9DZPvjUaXQCHMYCw/P1040027_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Leaving the John Rylands library you can glimpse a view of another of Manchester’s great buildings – the Town Hall and Clock Tower.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wn-zwfTkCQI/WY7Cs3oLQnI/AAAAAAAAn7k/NnI1zNz5wk0RTADjAdTKeEIvH0ybtxtsQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400361"><img width="485" height="327" title="P1040036" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040036" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Qf66U1XKANo/WY7CtVPRQSI/AAAAAAAAn7o/vdMaJTMsnd4pmPIlebhZHVrTRVpkz005gCHMYCw/P1040036_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Many other things interest James on his walkabouts – this gold Hummer was one! Look at the size of it next to the Mercedes!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TPpZshKt9Bk/WY7CuhoBSkI/AAAAAAAAn7s/WBLEw0LuEpMBknwDE96iKcLRetUF9GSWQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400391"><img width="486" height="345" title="P1040039" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040039" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XriNbFz86No/WY7CvcAc_-I/AAAAAAAAn7w/q7z1EIOlpIE2T_hNob0MrQfY5JUCE6hCACHMYCw/P1040039_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Looking up is much better than looking down. All sorts of treasures and information await the eye when you look around. Who knew that Charlotte Bronte started writing “Jane Eyre” in Manchester?</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4nK9HqcnOE0/WY7Cv6jkZ1I/AAAAAAAAn70/LHjudRjOje8_jtzWBF-x_Yn_QYjEhPy2ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400401"><img width="481" height="310" title="P1040040" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040040" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YHhD63rGslc/WY7CwrL0sBI/AAAAAAAAn74/3AZjwIUkoQofYuAWfLwIwahFxeF3bI7OQCHMYCw/P1040040_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On another walkabout (this time down Oxford Road) James visited the city’s Museum. Housed in a fabulous building, the façade being a bit reminiscent of London’s Natural History Museum.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GQzB71dqoTY/WY7CxWAZHUI/AAAAAAAAn78/3nkQxGxpxbs-x7qgzzj_7kdvhOn8d8lJgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400441"><img width="480" height="325" title="P1040044" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040044" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Clt3GvIJDk4/WY7CyAm54pI/AAAAAAAAn8A/Jj8TY6aHlucZur0z5aqI5QgB5j8_pboBgCHMYCw/P1040044_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Further down Oxford Road is the stupendous Catholic Church …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Igxh5P86zKE/WY7CyhHnCsI/AAAAAAAAn8E/OtUNC2YEKbgnrNSIs5RpYQp-imbE3leEgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P104005311"><img width="487" height="319" title="P1040053" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040053" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LmVWaVlBnZ0/WY7CzayF-dI/AAAAAAAAn8I/TC97X2t72to3d2IqzmDBGKxeTG1S4DTvACHMYCw/P1040053_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…… and, across the road and part of the University complex, is the wonderful Whitworth Building. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SwQ7MH2kZP8/WY7C0J9QaTI/AAAAAAAAn8M/VM77leXtB0QOmz8rusx-6KOhDJ6MO_dpwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10400552"><img width="486" height="325" title="P1040055" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1040055" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xCxpYUQw0hg/WY7C0wCk1pI/AAAAAAAAn8Q/dJ5DqQnd8zo7kHbNATbDGTPUQ1SLYPxCQCHMYCw/P1040055_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A quick look inside the main hall just takes your breath away!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-49xelwV8fto/WY7C1lIAhTI/AAAAAAAAn8U/VdiBtV73pPg8NKP2HpZWOLx0QkO-a93iwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20621096_2047736065551733_4396594836"><img width="485" height="274" title="20621096_2047736065551733_4396594836612115124_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20621096_2047736065551733_4396594836612115124_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hk3JzgdpxS4/WY7C2HDbdgI/AAAAAAAAn8Y/FHAZuSIdI08aGrfVAui6zlHy0N3vJjQmwCHMYCw/20621096_2047736065551733_4396594836%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>As we started this blog with friends, we will end with them also. We had a visit from the lovely Bill and Eileen. Again the day started with bubbly at home followed by a delightful discovery of a Chinese restaurant in the city’s China Town district (obviously!). A laugh a minute was the order of the day and we look forward, as always, to seeing them again.</p><p>Life at both ends of the country is beginning to settle down and hopefully we’ll start to explore some of Northern England in addition to parts further afield. That reminds me – I need to pack that suit case! </p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-39384350088655331422017-07-12T06:26:00.001+01:002017-07-12T06:35:43.874+01:00Farewell “Chance” and THANK YOU!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The keys to “Chance” were handed over to the new owners a couple of days ago and we are to meet up with them shortly to familiarise them with all the various workings. We sincerely wish them the very same pleasure that we’ve had over the last six years on this very special boat.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D4XTAlxfpog/WWWyKXnQY8I/AAAAAAAAnw0/4_dRf-xcH6ItoBt04YOB7CmcI0aiV4O3ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10808061"><img alt="P1080806" border="0" height="264" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_MErLoyM6_0/WWWyLnFia3I/AAAAAAAAnw4/f_jUiy5kCAYhwo7G4DZDlLXdlIsEhbTdgCHMYCw/P1080806_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="P1080806" width="483" /></a><br />
We love this photo of “Chance”, taken by Carol and George from their boat “Still Rockin’” on the River Thames in May this year - and we happen to be waving goodbye as well! <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cG_rd6UOvD8/WWWyM-cS9mI/AAAAAAAAnw8/FwWDvv_26Kc0B-eHTs4-w_B9qPAL-4H_gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P103088711"><img alt="P1030887" border="0" height="325" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6wNj5RKN7Q4/WWWyN9EaEaI/AAAAAAAAnxA/y8QusDdwvFYMDtfoVql-vNaFHuHMfMHmQCHMYCw/P1030887_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="P1030887" width="491" /></a><br />
We haven’t really left the canal environment as our recently purchased apartment in Manchester overlooks the first lock on the Ashton Canal. We can spy on the comings and goings below us and there was one boat recently that was familiar to us – nb “Ketura” with Chris and Christine on board.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ewq1olL4YKY/WWWyO2P0lGI/AAAAAAAAnxE/MoBw6qSuuKkxgOlPt4Z1sieYcm70RqsQwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P103088811"><img alt="P1030888" border="0" height="307" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IpBJNgrWjJc/WWWyPydHzXI/AAAAAAAAnxI/V8Gx_z8yaRc5QgcTV8GtLY581O45TyzjgCHMYCw/P1030888_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="P1030888" width="489" /></a><br />
We’d bumped into them quite by chance the previous evening on the towpath of the Rochdale canal but their very early morning start up the Ashton flight of locks rather stymied our chances of grabbing our windlasses from the cupboard (yes we’ve kept a set!) and giving them a hand. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wA9n3o40i_I/WWWyRJhtYhI/AAAAAAAAnxM/lB9FCCtFXH8eU8A0UUvnIFLUV7OVPNqFQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P103088911"><img alt="P1030889" border="0" height="311" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NZLTDyxMRuY/WWWySKsLu2I/AAAAAAAAnxQ/vjlUjtKhr1UIKe27lWWt7gU3xrPhcr2PQCHMYCw/P1030889_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="P1030889" width="485" /></a><br />
Doug has acquired a uni-cycle (as you do!) and he had his first attempt to ride it just outside our apartment – in a quiet spot where some maintenance work was being carried out. The whole event was rather precarious and took place within yards of the canal! James stood by with the camera just in case there was a chance of winning £250 from “You’ve Been Framed”! <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-V8WRr6INwP8/WWWyTVyjtpI/AAAAAAAAnxU/RefjZwufp2AasjotgVhXcTFP0SfjK8QRACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308931"><img alt="P1030893" border="0" height="318" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kYVCMhhAfIU/WWWyU6SqwhI/AAAAAAAAnxY/zNTOglEqGlcd_1clSTQFcjx4IP0oTAh-wCHMYCw/P1030893_thumb1?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="P1030893" width="487" /></a><br />
Our friend Cris was on hand to help Doug before it was his turn to try his luck. He should have adjusted the seat height from Doug’s position though! <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BdRC9fH5MBA/WWWyVl_LHXI/AAAAAAAAnxc/cObx6O1DNK862JKHu2kY4o5CIBmrSNW1gCHMYCw/s1600-h/20046168_1473943075962339_1174919870%255B2%255D"><img alt="20046168_1473943075962339_1174919870_n" border="0" height="272" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pvNtyuPKGZA/WWWyW3HSGdI/AAAAAAAAnxg/K9klwvE0uRo5lYBsqJYr9WrAFXzBYNF6wCHMYCw/20046168_1473943075962339_1174919870?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="20046168_1473943075962339_1174919870_n" width="484" /></a><br />
With the decorating and home-making all but finished we soon got down to one of our favourite pleasures - meeting up with friends. On this occasion cruise friends Margaret and Peter came to see us for the day and, after imbibing three bottles of Prosecco between us in our ‘pad’ (thank you M and P for bringing two of them!) we walked down to G-A-Y in Canal Street where, for £1.60 a drink, it was the perfect pit stop on our way to ……… <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jM-daAX3hBg/WWWyYChQiYI/AAAAAAAAnxk/TKQVv95anu0gB6uoslf-0mf4pWmgf2osQCHMYCw/s1600-h/20045877_1473942915962355_546664867_%255B2%255D"><img alt="20045877_1473942915962355_546664867_n" border="0" height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_SwJpza3tc8/WWWyZF7P2bI/AAAAAAAAnxo/v6SYo8jV0SczQ8aRQJWcxNqqJOfyaw9ogCHMYCw/20045877_1473942915962355_546664867_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="20045877_1473942915962355_546664867_n" width="484" /></a><br />
…….. Albert’s Shed in Castlefield for a rather late lunch. The company was even better than the superb food and a splendid time we all had. After lunch it was a walk back to the ‘pad’ for coffee and cake before Peter and Margaret took their leave and headed home. As always, every hour was filled with laughter and we look forward to seeing them again soon.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h6txmOiOp3U/WWWyaL2OiKI/AAAAAAAAnxs/Y6UTIng5GqsQYGgjXBiZXUp142j9I_MegCHMYCw/s1600-h/20030863_2032664343725572_1315462068"><img alt="20030863_2032664343725572_1315462068_n" border="0" height="250" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kL7XJYF9K9I/WWWybcchpPI/AAAAAAAAnxw/mSB0K8ePXoAVCBlkUOtpGKoPwHuvF2NVACHMYCw/20030863_2032664343725572_1315462068%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="20030863_2032664343725572_1315462068_n" width="487" /></a><br />
Around most corners there’s something happening in Manchester and, here in Dale Street close to where we are, a new TV series called “Age Before Beauty” is being filmed.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ap79HmSuEHI/WWWycd-0LBI/AAAAAAAAnx0/wf4wtNslzWs0xSC5i1SHbIHYPU48R4zmwCHMYCw/s1600-h/19964790_1473942759295704_470406645_%255B2%255D"><img alt="19964790_1473942759295704_470406645_n" border="0" height="259" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aP57Xx_f5UM/WWWydXowpeI/AAAAAAAAnx4/AcQ-4GO2DW0mjdIR9cxUxaxEBdrzuCkOQCHMYCw/19964790_1473942759295704_470406645_?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19964790_1473942759295704_470406645_n" width="487" /></a><br />
There are various props and period vehicles around the place and occasionally ……..<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ruDrxIYAeHY/WWWyeUVVYuI/AAAAAAAAnx8/wA44q6KQhc8b4_RVBIIboVcoDmCbJox7ACHMYCw/s1600-h/19988984_1473943099295670_1892950574%255B1%255D"><img alt="19988984_1473943099295670_1892950574_n" border="0" height="262" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OElZVqTvE9Q/WWWyfjZKBDI/AAAAAAAAnyA/T6aAlHA8K0EHj3Cpile-7zFIgK5WyCqSACHMYCw/19988984_1473943099295670_1892950574%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19988984_1473943099295670_1892950574_n" width="480" /></a><br />
…….. even some action! Here’s one of the stars – Robson Green, standing behind the truck. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DUIXEu8k06A/WWWygrONihI/AAAAAAAAnyI/afjbuyzOe2g85maBzJrdS52a-kRJabHRwCHMYCw/s1600-h/19987659_2032665243725482_535872698_%255B1%255D"><img alt="19987659_2032665243725482_535872698_n" border="0" height="264" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wul35Vg8D_Q/WWWyh2Mc-bI/AAAAAAAAnyM/dn8kpgED2sQaFamlmCd3UqBjgYhQZKysQCHMYCw/19987659_2032665243725482_535872698_?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19987659_2032665243725482_535872698_n" width="487" /></a><br />
Stars of the human variety are missing from this set but the superb 1967 E-Type Jaguar makes up for it a bit.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BYP1odTxpLI/WWWyjLmlqTI/AAAAAAAAnyQ/46vdtFJ063QpS4kqabJZADSegr9ckiNvwCHMYCw/s1600-h/19748801_2031482840510389_5204842293%255B2%255D"><img alt="19748801_2031482840510389_5204842293513645745_n" border="0" height="278" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c269Rt_DwTU/WWWykY9VhxI/AAAAAAAAnyU/hrmRv7KaH-UBp3JnGVg2WHuVz_Bi1AW5QCHMYCw/19748801_2031482840510389_5204842293%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19748801_2031482840510389_5204842293513645745_n" width="496" /></a><br />
Manchester gets more than it’s fair share of rain but sometimes the sun shines and the city comes alive even more than usual. Here’s Doug looking rather suave and sophisticated on one of the first sunny weekends we had recently …….<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sdjKKTIyuBY/WWWylrKg8OI/AAAAAAAAnyY/3SXBbV1IehEGqXcWRbMPSTLZyeHohYgmgCHMYCw/s1600-h/19601170_2028439967481343_8995578062%255B2%255D"><img alt="19601170_2028439967481343_8995578062085191338_n" border="0" height="268" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HomMOhjVQ3E/WWWynCKNOsI/AAAAAAAAnyc/rcGvZlxIfFM93YuUP4DS0cmkk9uXzWPWwCHMYCw/19601170_2028439967481343_8995578062%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19601170_2028439967481343_8995578062085191338_n" width="492" /></a><br />
….. and it doesn’t take long before we meet up with a few friends like Cris and ……..<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QwwAxJ5yMlo/WWWyoQNBSMI/AAAAAAAAnyg/ipNe78YfgZwxTnoPY1RBFuzZ24MjRRyiQCHMYCw/s1600-h/19987336_1473943315962315_1669564936"><img alt="19987336_1473943315962315_1669564936_n" border="0" height="264" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I7IiFT21QJ0/WWWypkIDBNI/AAAAAAAAnyk/71eSJbfWlBIjrP4zwEwYTn2JSMuxDOTqwCHMYCw/19987336_1473943315962315_1669564936%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19987336_1473943315962315_1669564936_n" width="492" /></a><br />
….. Sammy who happened to be around when the camera was thought about!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-11wCxXesxK0/WWWyq9EZdqI/AAAAAAAAnyo/V4PH_kcjxdMG0ehYDrz-nzXDp2rHTeXpQCHMYCw/s1600-h/19970954_1473943402628973_408070725_"><img alt="19970954_1473943402628973_408070725_n" border="0" height="273" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-f2LtN4k1DmE/WWWyr2tqejI/AAAAAAAAnys/SkZJmbSPO4473Arm7mgaB2Y-q5I5YL4ZgCHMYCw/19970954_1473943402628973_408070725_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19970954_1473943402628973_408070725_n" width="491" /></a><br />
The gay village surrounding Canal Street buzzes with activity well into the evening on such sunny weekends.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--oEuRHSMygc/WWWyufBJXKI/AAAAAAAAnyw/JRm17jXVdD4zuwq3rQLPLiNJ0kHJTlObACHMYCw/s1600-h/19732037_1470118469678133_2348246362%255B2%255D"><img alt="19732037_1470118469678133_234824636219951851_n" border="0" height="278" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o4luKDwGf3Q/WWWyvuu8c3I/AAAAAAAAny0/3NZk7CK-Xr8AMh4IVyJQP2MbWUL33hXkwCHMYCw/19732037_1470118469678133_2348246362?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19732037_1470118469678133_234824636219951851_n" width="492" /></a><br />
Canals and ‘boatie’ friends are never far from our thoughts and, in this case, not far from us full stop. We drove out to find this rather motley crew on their way to Liverpool! Here’s Mark and Sian (nb "Mochyn Du") and Del and Al (nb “Derwent6”) playing catch-up with us beside the Bridgewater Canal. Soooo good to meet up with these lovely people again!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ONOlqlT5HPg/WWWywmLmBEI/AAAAAAAAny4/LZA3nPedcRQTg0VKFFu2pafiPWZA24T1gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10309001"><img alt="P1030900" border="0" height="304" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jRwr_P97tvo/WWWyyPCKaNI/AAAAAAAAny8/lvQr45Hr2JEF0-DNIlKgzyoE-Y4bSpA_wCHMYCw/P1030900_thumb1?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="P1030900" width="490" /></a><br />
Yet another canal fix – this time very close to home. We’d tracked friends Chris and Tim in their boat “Elusive” coming down the Ashton flight of locks and met them at “our” lock at the bottom.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B0C1839d_0Q/WWWyzW_2KVI/AAAAAAAAnzA/-8aGC0chWIEPP1-Y8cEjwl5ENLmEG95OwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10309021"><img alt="P1030902" border="0" height="318" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-umfWS6sIxzg/WWWy0lURmmI/AAAAAAAAnzE/QdwU7eEZux0swoWyczRXH2tTjx5NHD0OwCHMYCw/P1030902_thumb1?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="P1030902" width="485" /></a><br />
It was a short distance to Piccadilly Village where they intended to moor up so Doug cadged a lift with Chris on “Elusive” while Tim and James walked beside.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ugZFNES0RCE/WWWy11E85PI/AAAAAAAAnzI/hZKbMsO5P5MzEsfGyZueuKS5qiK8pg9PQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10309041"><img alt="P1030904" border="0" height="309" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ko1srEX3qbA/WWWy3SecEaI/AAAAAAAAnzM/qms5-z6NijcmlIXm6tqoe84ECQdqhEEwgCHMYCw/P1030904_thumb1?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="P1030904" width="481" /></a><br />
It was a tight turn into the little basin but Tim managed it very well.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fau2kanSBpk/WWWy47fFzCI/AAAAAAAAnzQ/lGQxmK5luA4B6PwKjZqfLJsaziPo_Y92gCHMYCw/s1600-h/19866739_2032657253726281_917893239_%255B1%255D"><img alt="19866739_2032657253726281_917893239_o" border="0" height="267" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JcurjUIAoQc/WWWy5yDqp5I/AAAAAAAAnzU/ggneoBA7OtEa7DFBMbz8m6cNZTupjIKCACHMYCw/19866739_2032657253726281_917893239_%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19866739_2032657253726281_917893239_o" width="488" /></a><br />
This last weekend turned out to be beautifully sunny again and perfect for Manchester’s annual celebration of the national transgender charity event – “Sparkle”. As usual, Canal Street was heaving with people enjoying each other’s company and promoting diversity in society.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OxY-VhBRebs/WWWy7Gi5euI/AAAAAAAAnzY/dC7CfCipYScWc0tDVPpEHMQOBbrQ50nzACHMYCw/s1600-h/19988876_2032657260392947_844710893_%255B1%255D"><img alt="19988876_2032657260392947_844710893_n" border="0" height="257" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Uu5eKO6RUfA/WWWy8DGfoZI/AAAAAAAAnzc/iNXDSzi1PbUEmN3NqnjZ0RXOGcH_ycPuACHMYCw/19988876_2032657260392947_844710893_?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19988876_2032657260392947_844710893_n" width="483" /></a><br />
Here are three happy people who’s company we enjoyed out of the thousand or so who attended the weekend’s celebration. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N9Fa3MfskkY/WWWy9W9VoTI/AAAAAAAAnzg/9oosly-hnfs17Bz3HKQjPx8oNIyg0ZWOgCHMYCw/s1600-h/19965038_2032657387059601_1597685012%255B1%255D"><img alt="19965038_2032657387059601_1597685012_n" border="0" height="416" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ro7Tli1TyKQ/WWWy-smir-I/AAAAAAAAnzk/Se281zKP1bobv14-_nQNZKOvpH5T_GT9ACHMYCw/19965038_2032657387059601_1597685012%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; display: inline;" title="19965038_2032657387059601_1597685012_n" width="253" /></a><br />
And it was good to meet up with Chris and Tim (and their pretty little dog Peggy) again in the afternoon after we’d helped moor up their boat and enjoyed a cup of coffee with them afloat earlier. Great to meet up again guys.<br />
Life has been rather hectic recently (what changes?!) but we seem to have settled into our “northern crash pad” rather well. We’re looking forward to spending time at both ends of the country, meeting up with friends, making new ones and exploring the north of the country in the future. </div>
nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-45390933299533269152017-06-22T22:15:00.001+01:002017-06-22T22:15:18.836+01:00A Couple of Days in the Lake District<p>Having finished all the decorating and settling in to our Manchester “pad” we took advantage of the kind invitation, by friends Pam and Geoff, for an overnight stay with them at their lovely home in the Lake District. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h52vcDhy_XE/WUwx35R1HXI/AAAAAAAAnn0/U9eG5jHuEUAYji_12q8D3KnWkqpKO_lEwCHMYCw/s1600-h/19059751_2015043528820987_5781561635891298702_n"><img width="501" height="266" title="19059751_2015043528820987_5781561635891298702_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="19059751_2015043528820987_5781561635891298702_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aXIAIg1pxe8/WUwx5Fs7oWI/AAAAAAAAnn4/gErMFbEsYEMqmExW4Eqevc6T-5Dy0NbOgCHMYCw/19059751_2015043528820987_5781561635891298702_n_thumb?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After a short journey (much, much less than we’re normally used to from the South Coast!) we arrived in the South Lakes at Pam and Geoff’s. They soon had us out and about in this gorgeous corner of England with drinks on the terrace of a hotel overlooking Windermere.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-usq3XxQ0vPY/WUwx6RfFKPI/AAAAAAAAnn8/eKUJJ3IPc78Er6DwGmkVurmdtqr730uoACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308371%255B1%255D"><img width="486" height="317" title="P1030837" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030837" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gnnpa6YOpAQ/WUwx7TpjTXI/AAAAAAAAnoA/jcMf75GPw9E7JrXyHba0zgATNSuDo1IYgCHMYCw/P1030837_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Then it was onwards up the eastern side of the lake to Bowness-on-Windermere and a visit to a rather splendidly named venue ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WCPnrxbxut4/WUwx8j8KoxI/AAAAAAAAnoE/X0Y_DGDmDLApLy43yUU_GDQOWnnAPERlgCHMYCw/s1600-h/19149094_1446673668689280_7932108141%255B1%255D"><img width="486" height="273" title="19149094_1446673668689280_7932108141771938258_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="19149094_1446673668689280_7932108141771938258_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9p_fYv-00r0/WUwx9lV1wkI/AAAAAAAAnoI/cAVh0GpE-hgRl5FuHm3Vmmgv5WCyLpj8QCHMYCw/19149094_1446673668689280_7932108141?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. for cocktails.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gpYq2MBubQA/WUwx-ox8hwI/AAAAAAAAnoM/jTYwyZfGaykfg9WExe_FEhr9akqr1Xe7wCHMYCw/s1600-h/19059268_1446673752022605_5637038709%255B1%255D"><img width="231" height="389" title="19059268_1446673752022605_5637038709902258621_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="19059268_1446673752022605_5637038709902258621_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MzfTFATXoMY/WUwx_mG0cRI/AAAAAAAAnoQ/_FoB1NLcKck1NtOeUYqSlTKrWR1icEPxgCHMYCw/19059268_1446673752022605_5637038709%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Pam – we wouldn’t dare to make a comment!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pAB7ok-FsyI/WUwyAxEEQaI/AAAAAAAAnoU/u_8DgoccBC0OjIvtVnkRDyMbL0p92chLQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308391"><img width="486" height="331" title="P1030839" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030839" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BCALRvx8e_0/WUwyCKFFHRI/AAAAAAAAnoY/TDkIQtiWz1QLOvb594afKW7ScvT-NZ9ZACHMYCw/P1030839_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>And more cocktails!! – with Geoff, as the our chauffeur, on the non-alcoholic variety of course</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tMxMjkb-iBc/WUwyDqn14WI/AAAAAAAAnoc/y2ce5oGZkw0iKWCll2B8PmXeZl4r8Af9gCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308411"><img width="488" height="367" title="P1030841" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030841" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tb_gH4XQhf8/WUwyE1KGJWI/AAAAAAAAnog/x1-FC8omApU6HLCGq9s7ltEnmAa3cRLIgCHMYCw/P1030841_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Onwards then to Ambleside, at the northern end of Windermere, for early dinner at the lovely vegetarian restaurant Zeffirellis here on the corner. As the day drew to a close we headed back to their home for a charming relaxed evening (and a lot more laughs!).</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IfDvTr03uSc/WUwyGB6o3wI/AAAAAAAAnok/ZkiG62BKBoMwnauuUZEcl5Q0-f6RE7F4ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308431%255B1%255D"><img width="490" height="328" title="P1030843" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030843" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vxBZyFX7bMQ/WUwyHM0CLoI/AAAAAAAAnoo/AXChxK5lWmk7X6KP5OgdPpXUwqdycgX0ACHMYCw/P1030843_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The next morning we awoke to this fabulous view from our room and breakfast on the terrace in the sunshine.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R_peOInByIE/WUwyIZ2ZpLI/AAAAAAAAnos/ETTOWuRYD5skSTaE6c179vdDc9KhqabogCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308481"><img width="490" height="323" title="P1030848" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030848" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xZdfjAf9APA/WUwyJS5c5KI/AAAAAAAAnow/ovOJsocx3hYbcyZCWunAiYtBd0MOMEO-gCHMYCw/P1030848_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Pam and Geoff decided to take us to nearby Cartmel. Famous for it’s racecourse and Abbey, we hadn’t seen a great deal of the village as we were last here primarily for the races.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xbtJy0oT0RQ/WUwyKhSB1NI/AAAAAAAAno0/sm_7mrvZmQ0mvuBi7vX0t0XffpDY1yFIACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308461"><img width="489" height="344" title="P1030846" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030846" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gFm-2qvhS10/WUwyLnbajCI/AAAAAAAAno4/ER25AdLmCyIWzbtTAUAI1rWT6w7YLGJ9ACHMYCw/P1030846_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Cartmel isn’t the only racecourse to traverse a road but this one does seem to have a certain charm about it.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8IDj8E3M0UM/WUwyM_axfcI/AAAAAAAAno8/HZsz-OijlHwYvzXJt-kuBEbvLgvMOyRZACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308531%255B1%255D"><img width="487" height="319" title="P1030853" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030853" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0hYAGasxQ6w/WUwyOPwIW_I/AAAAAAAAnpA/jwbfjUVIOjsYhXU5scGVYo7K2zpakcLCwCHMYCw/P1030853_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Close to the racecourse is an opportunity to have a go at Segway and it was for this (after some excited discussion the previous evening about it) that we were here! We’ve both done Segway a couple of times but it was Geoff’s first time.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bEHyo6QAMlA/WUwyPIt89CI/AAAAAAAAnpE/PieF5kwTY08ameWDjjn9GsLqTitpsoatQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308541"><img width="487" height="322" title="P1030854" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030854" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8bp5zf36duo/WUwyQbiopyI/AAAAAAAAnpI/e-Kq5klfc684xHwy1vBLMYq4kVnNrxXDgCHMYCw/P1030854_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We’ve seen quite a few learners but never have we seen anyone take to Segway quite like Geoff. He was a natural!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B8CL9_uWMgs/WUwyRlbnkbI/AAAAAAAAnpM/ISii-IhseJ0PD0KxmeBswDsNt-QYBIxVwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308571"><img width="489" height="328" title="P1030857" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030857" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5XiZJMnSizs/WUwyS_FkfII/AAAAAAAAnpQ/zq6p8JBt5HkDO9yNBeBdbMUmIooj2je_gCHMYCw/P1030857_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>These were excellent, and very new, machines with programmable speed and reaction restrictions but it wasn’t long before the tutor uprated them to full speed. Doug had a great half hour!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2P7V9GI5Lxw/WUwyUD930nI/AAAAAAAAnpU/OT9DGBWsYX87C9spRtW8lkjGCgokwk1wwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308581%255B1%255D"><img width="492" height="326" title="P1030858" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030858" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tcvc2WJF1uA/WUwy8HmSktI/AAAAAAAAnpc/tD_cdCSe0SY9d0oItL8CC9kTCjuH3o44wCHMYCw/P1030858_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Here’s Geoff showing perfect control and stopping the machine on inclines.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0c8FDTqbGzs/WUwy9TPVSiI/AAAAAAAAnpg/_pX4M7X_ACAwRnOHFx8soSARssu7TjIhgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308601%255B1%255D"><img width="488" height="340" title="P1030860" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030860" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A6-ZgucJp4E/WUwy-ma3f3I/AAAAAAAAnpk/Ta02vksTiLM5RW4_oZ3IWPuxSAA6wbwgACHMYCw/P1030860_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Couldn’t help taking a picture showing some of the wonderful traditional stonework you can see around the Lakes.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m0V5YZtHqfE/WUwy_tmhqCI/AAAAAAAAnpo/4NX9NWfAg5geg3nC1YAixkX6kkp3pLVhwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308611%255B1%255D"><img width="485" height="325" title="P1030861" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030861" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bVoQNgw2PbA/WUwzA4rWpBI/AAAAAAAAnps/EgMtookcjRUw5VsL-UUaKVJrqV751KQWQCHMYCw/P1030861_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After Cartmel and the Segway session we took a ten minute drive to Grange-over-Sands railway station. This stunning Victorian station was built between 1864 and 1872 (eight years is a long time to build a station, but there we are!), restored in the late 1990’s and is Grade II listed and a real gem. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mn5mDNAV6VU/WUwzB2U6kHI/AAAAAAAAnpw/pN4q4eX448AareBjrpNH1o_0zZlih32XACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308661"><img width="497" height="344" title="P1030866" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030866" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iI-tgigxSGg/WUwzDGc4dPI/AAAAAAAAnp0/9CGd1QN7hEUtt__gowzyWdu-pKsDkCGyACHMYCw/P1030866_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A ten minute train ride took us across the awesome Morecombe Bay. A vast tidal area as far as the eye can see, it is so flat that the tide is infamous for coming in faster than you can run and has claimed many lives in the past.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--JtEIsXZJM4/WUwzEKGx-VI/AAAAAAAAnp4/XzFQn7v4MXQANXAkR04DX44aDP-oPnHGgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308681%255B1%255D"><img width="494" height="327" title="P1030868" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030868" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lXP-bWEduR8/WUwzFFjdCsI/AAAAAAAAnp8/fzfwor5YHPMuNOGtlmHM3xYtuUAM181NgCHMYCw/P1030868_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We disembarked at the charming “estuary side” village of Arnside …… </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vDRVJNlojCs/WUwzGMSTmMI/AAAAAAAAnqA/-hZyzCKhf2E7IP_qQBBMZuCv5y6JMD5uwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308701%255B1%255D"><img width="492" height="327" title="P1030870" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030870" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0lu98sIM-Pk/WUwzHGxb6sI/AAAAAAAAnqE/-1hjRmB2i04lh3g_XmdIYher8mpQvaEJQCHMYCw/P1030870_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. where we had lunch and watched the tide come in. Within 20 minutes this view towards the railway viaduct across the sands was completely covered by sea.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OJ0Aj1dF7bM/WUwzIKP5GyI/AAAAAAAAnqI/LePJBbSmNvkQ_43G2wgchBqMZqALWPBBwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308711%255B1%255D"><img width="491" height="321" title="P1030871" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030871" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CtLV6TLMvAE/WUwzJDhKZrI/AAAAAAAAnqM/E5aXh9TMEN4yjf1ckkrPoEzjoGH9MUcLgCHMYCw/P1030871_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We enjoyed more stunning, and almost infinite, views across Morecombe Bay on our train journey back. This time the heat haze obliterated the horizon – giving the impression that the looming mass of Heysham Nuclear power station was floating in the air.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JG_CbT67hpE/WUwzKfIqdiI/AAAAAAAAnqQ/dYdx4WF1WqEa8KZfhTY7YyyWKz7HnZm1wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308721%255B1%255D"><img width="490" height="328" title="P1030872" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030872" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mLSUKFi8hqo/WUwzLtUraII/AAAAAAAAnqU/ErAnPeQjKjUiIOemDM1IL8YN8rzvuhadgCHMYCw/P1030872_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A close-up shows the power station looking as if it really was floating. (James was interested because of his background in nuclear energy but no one else was!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CYLywClomuU/WUwzMpoe1WI/AAAAAAAAnqY/-pLz9neQOAUpnyk4wHkq3FUEcnDZsRpwACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308761%255B1%255D"><img width="492" height="326" title="P1030876" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030876" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R1kvef2YeAQ/WUwzNr6PrTI/AAAAAAAAnqc/3Fl5FTy_4_sydgQ3qqYZNzBECZT4IRTmQCHMYCw/P1030876_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Back at Geoff and Pam’s home Doug indulged in something he’d been looking forward to all day – feeding the sheep!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G9Bxj_kOK50/WUwzOi7s58I/AAAAAAAAnqg/Ou0vQaBbZTkzisNZnQ0aW2mEhVH5VVT5ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308771%255B1%255D"><img width="494" height="322" title="P1030877" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030877" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zp8EgYwvBlw/WUwzPuHZqSI/AAAAAAAAnqk/Yqb0Q05Zu54AjDex6aws_YywhgY7HdZmgCHMYCw/P1030877_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>What a fabulous view these sheep have!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2sIJqqPw7nI/WUwzQ_scW8I/AAAAAAAAnqo/Rr2iIvbJytwVkkwkP33dn9OeVsxnxKukgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308781"><img width="492" height="334" title="P1030878" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030878" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2Cim88NLiMc/WUwzR8doBYI/AAAAAAAAnqs/3t5Z5kGb-Vcow7oQMrMMbPVpEZIFPaKFACHMYCw/P1030878_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>In Pam’s enormous and beautifully kept garden the rest of us were preparing tea …….</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1vOfO5C3wE4/WUwzTAzo5DI/AAAAAAAAnqw/t_vWKd68KesI0u95i7Df9Him7YgxrmnTgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308791"><img width="491" height="328" title="P1030879" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030879" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HhcEKLk31Sg/WUwzUez0j0I/AAAAAAAAnq0/8PJpD7hHB-wbp5vbn6UBQhA742beG8knwCHMYCw/P1030879_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. next to the lily pond. And, after tea, we took our leave and headed home to Manchester. We’ve always enjoyed the most wonderful hospitality when staying with Pam and Geoff and this occasion was no exception. Thanks so much both of you and we’re looking forward to your visit to us in the near future.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UCwzcCAteU4/WUwzVv7tRmI/AAAAAAAAnq4/oGN-eYlVLWYGaM3WJrU-6yug6oBt7ScSACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308842"><img width="489" height="330" title="P1030884" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030884" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JQLAx6c8crg/WUwzWpCHUQI/AAAAAAAAnq8/D-QOGNojyyENoFwd82OPUyUuC4NiRWA4wCHMYCw/P1030884_thumb3?imgmax=800" border="0"></a> </p><p>Meanwhile, back in Manchester, the weather turned (so we’re led to believe) quite abnormal and the sun shone, temperatures rose and people took to the grass areas wherever they could. In this case on the Ashton Canal Lock landing just below us.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-79uzY13KmtM/WUwzXwCMVDI/AAAAAAAAnrA/zqydMnemcIY355xAxRI6zD2wGqmHXYD2wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308811"><img width="273" height="409" title="P1030881" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030881" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LKwipI3E66I/WUwzZK-Kx2I/AAAAAAAAnrE/nU7ydhtWn1QNlGTeZ_XsJtFMBDmzbgOFgCHMYCw/P1030881_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We took to using our “garden”. We are immensely lucky to have a large garden area, complete with BBQ’s, planted boxes and REAL grass on the roof of the two story garage of the apartment block. This last weekend saw quite a few residents taking advantage of this lovely space.</p><p>Today we caught up, quite by chance, with Chris and Christine on nb “Katura” who were with a group of boats heading for a CRT organised cruise on the Huddersfield Canal. We had a lovely chat with them but forgot to take a photo (!). Poor form it has to be said but very nice to see you Chris and Christine.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-40899617949996872662017-06-17T19:14:00.001+01:002017-06-17T19:14:17.662+01:00All Change! – a Northern “Crash Pad”.<p>It’s been a while since the last blog entry but there are good reasons for that. It’s been rather a hectic few weeks for us as, three weeks ago, we took ownership of an apartment in Manchester. We have always enjoyed our visits to Manchester and had great fun with what the city has to offer. We can now stay for longer periods and catch up more often with the friends we have in the area now that we have our own “pad”. It will also allow us to explore the north of England and Scotland a bit more than we have.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5mvLLPHf_f4/WUVvoaa68II/AAAAAAAAnkA/MluXTPqhATgIzIzrmrZzOHIP_seZpcoHwCHMYCw/s1600-h/20170603_132637_resized1"><img width="246" height="351" title="20170603_132637_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20170603_132637_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P43Ne3iPUto/WUVvpwD0ZwI/AAAAAAAAnkE/eo1uR-Jj8KQsouPX3g82IBUMhwDrRB5cQCHMYCw/20170603_132637_resized_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Our building is a bit unusual and stands next to the Ashton Canal (with the Rochdale Canal not far away either!)</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5cTY3J5j_P0/WUVvrpCGtkI/AAAAAAAAnkI/U5bC2xUv1mgzZUv14rN_HtrZtfmnVeNQgCHMYCw/s1600-h/20170526_151746_resized1"><img width="480" height="251" title="20170526_151746_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20170526_151746_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ixGLYcDsjvE/WUVvs9K1wRI/AAAAAAAAnkM/DXIp2Se1D_AjU957JDzbMFzFChrzqbECgCHMYCw/20170526_151746_resized_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We look down on the first lock of the Ashton flight ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ItuMGdTh6Og/WUVvuY0cAQI/AAAAAAAAnkQ/KdL9geA1lbM3V4XgWouRer39Jexm70FNQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308322"><img width="481" height="279" title="P1030832" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030832" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q9y_iH_P0iU/WUVvvg8cuhI/AAAAAAAAnkU/sd88rKoi8OgvN4MglrBvbozbzNeoFpq2QCHMYCw/P1030832_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…… and can see boats approaching – usually having just climbed the “Rochdale 9” lock flight from the Bridgewater Canal at Castlefield. We have windlasses at the ready (should we be around) to help friends up through the Ashton Flight.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xGBaRsryNwQ/WUVvxT208hI/AAAAAAAAnkY/3A5Pmj7IizYM0SKQ0I9uvdJVrk9nQ346wCHMYCw/s1600-h/20170528_192719_resized2"><img width="490" height="261" title="20170528_192719_resized" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="20170528_192719_resized" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AsGjouiCfqE/WUVvyp3pZRI/AAAAAAAAnkc/15pte2H9wmsZuZVgqRCmXcdZqkcKcINhACHMYCw/20170528_192719_resized_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We had a welcome break from cleaning and decorating when an old friend of James’ contacted to say she was in the city with a friend. It was just a case of slinging on some ‘glad rags’ and heading off to Canal Street for a very long overdue meet-up with Jen (middle) and her friend Elspeth. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gh4C4jEGzww/WUVv1Ehlu4I/AAAAAAAAnkg/m_QPKLm33f0JBryxnbllWu02vtjPsbxhwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10307751"><img width="491" height="313" title="P1030775" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030775" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DIWjWnCqt9o/WUVv2rPNjDI/AAAAAAAAnkk/-i34jhCZ4XQxXUbL6X9DAk2WnopEN3-7ACHMYCw/P1030775_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We took over the apartment only a couple of days after the horrendous suicide bombing at Manchester Arena where 22 people lost their lives. St Ann’s Square became the centre of the city’s grief and also the scene of the National ‘one minute’ silence for victims of the London terrorist attack just a week later.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e-Z9vh3qOyo/WUVv4ERJPyI/AAAAAAAAnko/TmXZ_4Pkg788jeRNXQlk26W-CKNo-rVWQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10307761"><img width="489" height="303" title="P1030776" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030776" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VjLFrJexgIE/WUVv5neGhVI/AAAAAAAAnks/ke05m4x_z9cR44iBYC2Ff3wrFLt613wwgCHMYCw/P1030776_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>We joined the many who paid their respects for all the victims of the two attacks ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bSPkWR8SfsM/WUVv7OTkMTI/AAAAAAAAnkw/SHkArSdfv4Al5a4mEIeWp2pUcCKCeRzygCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10307771"><img width="490" height="315" title="P1030777" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030777" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c7nqrBV__KY/WUVv8u76NjI/AAAAAAAAnk0/xIABiLgSe9wwhwJaRrRTsiDjvkSQOVEtwCHMYCw/P1030777_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>……. and we were joined by a large contingent of police who also attended to pay their own homage.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ush38m2UaaM/WUVv-KEO-HI/AAAAAAAAnk4/C9dfexxrRgAjMt3ayjChBIzJyZYZdxxlACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10307781"><img width="493" height="325" title="P1030778" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030778" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HoFra1KjeEc/WUVwENoHN8I/AAAAAAAAnk8/odAyg2SmHn88oYnFMYC-2GUN_R8l7sOHACHMYCw/P1030778_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>St Ann’s Square became filled with tributes of all kinds.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hWWOVFnSrXI/WUVwLnFpuZI/AAAAAAAAnlA/_WmmGvU7dRg--SPoWWwMfahhODtKyxi4wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308072"><img width="323" height="415" title="P1030807" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030807" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tgPEP6mSoQw/WUVwVlRH-cI/AAAAAAAAnlE/6JF5YDhBse0pYzzgj2hUgduWS0PZpMZkwCHMYCw/P1030807_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>On a lighter note we took a couple of days off from our labours and went up to Blackpool. Although very windy during our brief stay the sun shone through for us.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wpAhoE0Arto/WUVwg1f3wkI/AAAAAAAAnlI/g57tP9vqIdgIlFDQY8l47EVo2BT8szavgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308101"><img width="485" height="328" title="P1030810" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030810" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B6BjD6h3lRM/WUVwvhkHt0I/AAAAAAAAnlM/ompqNnwC06kIbWIdTvNDZRFKgzoD8wn7ACHMYCw/P1030810_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Blackpool hasn’t a great reputation these days but, in our experience, the town and seafront are very clean and tidy and there are some interesting buildings and good architecture to be seen if you look around. The Opera House in the Winter Gardens is said to be the second largest in Europe.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ab1S-7mASS0/WUVwy1SAi_I/AAAAAAAAnlQ/RWeodTUUomsjriTnNWxemrQW9SzErAKuACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308141"><img width="485" height="310" title="P1030814" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030814" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4fl3iStf6rk/WUVw1oAOH8I/AAAAAAAAnlU/BKqJkf6JYqQVlvbXcXJzmoCEzM_nK1YXgCHMYCw/P1030814_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The main reason for our visit was to attend the first night of “Funny Girls” summer season show. Housed in the old cinema it is (in our opinion again) the best value-for-money entertainment in the country. That evening we, and our friend Cris, were to enjoy a really good time!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8i2c0CcGGj0/WUVw3Cn-WmI/AAAAAAAAnlY/XwlKxLldiZsqWeLo_uzVYzpyXniw_01wACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308151"><img width="486" height="310" title="P1030815" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030815" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P475jyACNYE/WUVw4xUIE2I/AAAAAAAAnlc/ViRzbDdsdWIVx-UPDWBmH0VCdoZH2jnDQCHMYCw/P1030815_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>But, before “Funny Girls”, we enjoyed a good walk along the seafront and around the town. Millions of £’s have been spent over the last few years on sea defences and marvellous improvements to the seafront – and Blackpool can still boast three piers. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_wwB-f-7dcc/WUVw9fudGCI/AAAAAAAAnlg/h4O92ctfL94yLJqOx2Ny1bv6TnJ-qsPuQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308161"><img width="486" height="320" title="P1030816" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030816" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-13mV00C_Lf0/WUVw-1pzCKI/AAAAAAAAnlk/qaeK_nXDPR85ezvV3uKp9F1TtL2h3HYoACHMYCw/P1030816_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The new trams are a great improvement but we felt a little bit sad that the old, noisy, wooden ones were gone.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NazxCKPSZ_Q/WUVxAWZHc9I/AAAAAAAAnlo/dfK_BAEs8XsEbmtfmohLfTuiyPYNuPYJgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308171"><img width="492" height="316" title="P1030817" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030817" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y1LxRAVwElc/WUVxBra-gtI/AAAAAAAAnls/nung6FKXiOAPoy0SoFbOj6AzgMUIHlMGACHMYCw/P1030817_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>All the piers are in very reasonable condition but sadly not appreciated as much as they should be these days.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6CALELMiP4k/WUVxC178NjI/AAAAAAAAnlw/tlS91BI2uuMr6TwRAYEwomA1TfTZOLH7wCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308191"><img width="290" height="381" title="P1030819" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030819" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KjIUUFNcTis/WUVxEXXD1lI/AAAAAAAAnl0/iH8i9mKSl4Y6SfKOa1HYczVB2h0KlYrKwCHMYCw/P1030819_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The flag atop the famous Blackpool Tower was at half mast as a mark of respect for the recent atrocities in Manchester and London.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BhqVbzXceQs/WUVxFu7kdxI/AAAAAAAAnl4/euFrhz1WlIYBfh_86NzCs-JOja04eLA9ACHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308221"><img width="289" height="375" title="P1030822" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030822" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Pzl4SyWwomY/WUVxHPeS1dI/AAAAAAAAnl8/uCfUo4MScDAnHMOgm1dIfjzcm2vTO6deACHMYCw/P1030822_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The massive Tower, and it’s supporting building which holds the awesome and beautiful Tower Ballroom, the Circus and much more, is truly a national treasure. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gks-rJ29tOQ/WUVxIR1oqCI/AAAAAAAAnmA/ynJQEiKoSBQB8Q63BzOjhUlCqJ4cdpG1QCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308241"><img width="289" height="372" title="P1030824" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030824" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1fDTReSVI8M/WUVxJyJplbI/AAAAAAAAnmE/wETNEVkT6i8M7TgzjB7ZdViyTQ2t-cmLwCHMYCw/P1030824_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The promenade is wide, clean but, on our visit, rather windy!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Pcc-D-rgLPs/WUVxLX0ExII/AAAAAAAAnmI/FnpvcH_AnrwZgGo5cs8BpjwfHewfgGhIgCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308251"><img width="494" height="356" title="P1030825" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030825" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ofIqli2Apek/WUVxMpSnRlI/AAAAAAAAnmM/NwNtt4L4lF8w1GpHzo9D3l1OiiH7GwBFACHMYCw/P1030825_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Walking out to the end of the Central Pier provides a marvellous view towards the north pier and the Tower. The vast beach area, at one time, used to be crowded with holiday makers ……..</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n0nGCrHlMgo/WUVxOECGjlI/AAAAAAAAnmQ/D7Cw0-Usdow3Z9VkK8pdsyU_mNAsE5bsQCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308271"><img width="491" height="321" title="P1030827" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030827" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Tj3DRIJegm8/WUVxPrAxWgI/AAAAAAAAnmU/ayyWmKxoo9oL223KSFXGVPuunLxkwYuvwCHMYCw/P1030827_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>…….. and the view to the south was equally deserted!</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3ozJdoTXL-U/WUVxQyrNteI/AAAAAAAAnmY/p12Aj_354sQ6NC9kvPY_-Fv29JYTqFgSQCHMYCw/s1600-h/18920265_2012270562431617_6218362501%255B1%255D"><img width="261" height="367" title="18920265_2012270562431617_621836250148819987_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18920265_2012270562431617_621836250148819987_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AU4xqmPMrzo/WUVxSOynvMI/AAAAAAAAnmc/Ej9WQRLVjvUsMoI44i0wEPqraKYZeUIgACHMYCw/18920265_2012270562431617_6218362501%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Well, Thursday evening came and our prepaid (£3.50) tickets got us in to the most hilarious and entertaining evening at “Funny Girls”. The main entertainer and choreographer, Betty “Legs” Diamond, hosts six or seven cabaret shows and ends with a stunning finale. Unfortunately on this evening (being the first show of the season!) the costumes hadn’t arrived so we were given a further cabaret. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aC9Bz0nyuF4/WUVxTT6s3sI/AAAAAAAAnmg/_W5W_Rh6Qmw5UG4OrIH04y4qdtWe81r8ACHMYCw/s1600-h/18893179_2012270602431613_3642202142%255B2%255D"><img width="490" height="263" title="18893179_2012270602431613_3642202142392143691_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18893179_2012270602431613_3642202142392143691_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-72MZzwjpwd0/WUVxVak6ojI/AAAAAAAAnmk/ObYtqrQrLxIngY-l2SdNNlWAYdF9x68UwCHMYCw/18893179_2012270602431613_3642202142?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Betty’s boys and “girls” give a very energetic 10 minute performance for each cabaret. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k5npsT-AUow/WUVxWiAAhUI/AAAAAAAAnmo/kck8yrH8Kqca0xAwBlYiTfm4uL-OPy15QCHMYCw/s1600-h/18922126_2012317255760281_7361511207%255B1%255D"><img width="497" height="271" title="18922126_2012317255760281_7361511207143282578_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18922126_2012317255760281_7361511207143282578_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xQc8jlW6uEk/WUVxYIW0xkI/AAAAAAAAnms/uJxhN3pECWITrV8UQnxKktMe7Q6o-6OugCHMYCw/18922126_2012317255760281_7361511207?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The performances are basically a take-off of popular musicals and shows and Betty, the consummate performer, is very clever and very funny.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w5YDJsL_T9Y/WUVxZTzi-NI/AAAAAAAAnmw/5Eg-tqHtVR8iaC_hkQqLM_PLoIz7gzDlgCHMYCw/s1600-h/19029372_1442059942483986_5651848294"><img width="246" height="420" title="19029372_1442059942483986_5651848294322278243_n" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="19029372_1442059942483986_5651848294322278243_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uJ5DRiPY_D0/WUVxauUIMII/AAAAAAAAnm0/aPURSIdJSkMOud4G1eQeUOrd-HeyHrfPgCHMYCw/19029372_1442059942483986_5651848294%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Between each performance we have time for chatting and socialising and an opportunity to request songs from the obliging, but rather sarcastic, DJ “Zoe” – seen here receiving a request from friend Cris. </p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CdGcdtf12CM/WUVxcFxha1I/AAAAAAAAnm4/wCrVm_cuU20Uwxe_ABOfYTRcD7gXcujXwCHMYCw/s1600-h/P10308282"><img width="489" height="323" title="P1030828" style="display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030828" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pdNHKRBQK30/WUVxdl3UO7I/AAAAAAAAnm8/1eRNH1GtS-gzPwGH6iBXGFwkQ3TkRnTiwCHMYCw/P1030828_thumb2?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>Friday morning arrived after a wonderful and late Thursday night (!) and, before we left, we partook of a scrumptious Blackpool breakfast fry-up in the sunshine. A great end to a great stay.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-72054350547081879752017-05-25T06:20:00.001+01:002017-05-25T06:20:38.392+01:00The Day We’ve Been Cruising For!<p>Almost two weeks ago now that “day” was almost upon us but first we had to leave Paddington basin (where, at 10 am, our friend Jonathan, who’d travelled from the Isle of Wight to be with us, came aboard) ……..</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lRbijPYMOZc/WSZnlhNIRFI/AAAAAAAAnbU/yqzOun9bg8U8yW71yDNJ7mK2VuyT0zD2gCHM/s1600-h/P10305761"><img width="492" height="323" title="P1030576" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030576" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HLz5jTaCtc8/WSZnnS2zklI/AAAAAAAAnbY/cPTxiHsNC4kHn60N7GYNlOSdk_s-mXnIgCHM/P1030576_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>…… and we set off for a cruise down the Regent’s Canal. Through London Zoo where we passed the iconic Snowdon Aviary ……….</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SJQEPCQMR_Y/WSZnp3C8KFI/AAAAAAAAnbc/H-mnNuCcJ3gfROtanVBLF4QVqOBGWbWzwCHM/s1600-h/P10305831"><img width="494" height="320" title="P1030583" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030583" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zUiaFH2loro/WSZnrcTWbwI/AAAAAAAAnbk/obCnkfSBm-MtDxK3QzkPcLkHrSzZ5dd-ACHM/P1030583_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>……. through King’s Cross, where once stood a forest of cranes, there is now the most amazing development. You can now live in a gasometer apartment!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xrCjYCcyJ8Y/WSZntRbHimI/AAAAAAAAnbo/i7mG367gbWAjWrOzF_6JT3lECtnmyJBzACHM/s1600-h/P10305911"><img width="495" height="314" title="P1030591" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030591" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cSoFHAe6OJQ/WSZnueOq7aI/AAAAAAAAnbs/eCjBnpVDvfglNFyOBAyk94sLJvhzhQxCwCHM/P1030591_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>With Doug and Jonathan’s hard work on the lock operation we soon had the majority of the Regent’s Canal behind us and the startling view of Canary Wharf in front.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-82w1MuPUvok/WSZnwZ9zTmI/AAAAAAAAnbw/oJCj_ZYLXowUHG0tH-elByoIkuQUn842gCHM/s1600-h/P10305941"><img width="498" height="333" title="P1030594" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030594" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fjcBsMQ5wcM/WSZnxcasxTI/AAAAAAAAnb0/jBeQguQPhZA64g3dFRj-8lFJzG_VOTGeACHM/P1030594_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Jonathan’s partner, Graham, joined us at Bow and before we knew it we had arrived at Limehouse Dock and moored up on the wall behind our friends Andrew and Frances on nb “Doris Katia”. It was a well deserved G and T in the Limehouse sunshine – Graham, Jonathan and James.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ILvTf1c8NLs/WSZny2uTyJI/AAAAAAAAnb4/c3DCT6oF9zAG6OAh7S6xJ9_ricHSXmYkwCHM/s1600-h/P10305961"><img width="489" height="319" title="P1030596" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030596" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--lV3ub9_zqo/WSZn0XxdWwI/AAAAAAAAnb8/nxnnuGOGkmcOt64ppIUoP7Zmmr_oDjypgCHM/P1030596_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>After a great meal and catch-up with friends in the Yacht Club on Friday evening, where Andrew and Frances gave us a very comprehensive safety briefing and itinerary of the following day’s events – the BIG DAY had arrived! Being just one of twenty six narrow boats to leave Limehouse Dock on Saturday morning, we were ‘locked out’ at 06:45hrs and onto the big wide River Thames for the annual St. Pancras Cruising Club’s tideway cruise.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5sEM-53vuy8/WSZn2Vcd4_I/AAAAAAAAncA/BmhZERfJjjItmOQeZAcREm1P8XIIJYmWgCHM/s1600-h/P10306031"><img width="488" height="322" title="P1030603" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030603" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pDfmT-iaU_E/WSZn3cjgNxI/AAAAAAAAncE/TZ1NrKxqi4wFrSurOLabJx4o_5D5DEo5QCHM/P1030603_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Turning left out of Limehouse we headed downstream on the rapidly flowing outward tide – past the Cutty Sark ………</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0IupRWgvjPE/WSZn5ibBq-I/AAAAAAAAncI/CzKrVqKRWygkK7oiBYXCbbBhsqu6124tQCHM/s1600-h/P10306051"><img width="492" height="343" title="P1030605" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030605" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GztOyyimLgY/WSZn61ZWVNI/AAAAAAAAncM/JhdFHrWzt08tVpJuOYysbePzUHgWEUrdQCHM/P1030605_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>…….. past the fabulous architectural symmetry of The Royal Naval College at Greenwich……… </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XQxrc0946t0/WSZn8FQICCI/AAAAAAAAncQ/3o4E4IwG02gHIfJqZuI17nnwL4NFbp-HQCHM/s1600-h/P10306061"><img width="490" height="326" title="P1030606" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030606" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u0gG6Ne5Rug/WSZn8xKb8AI/AAAAAAAAncU/lMBCxPuxOaAsQgo-XNeCELV_5CIqhoDBQCHM/P1030606_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>…….. and on towards, and past, the O2 Arena.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wOvtefkWwM0/WSZn-g7IjDI/AAAAAAAAncY/lrTIR84WJAkliUdsi4HNNP-6Pl6Ex6xeACHM/s1600-h/P10306201"><img width="493" height="320" title="P1030620" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030620" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kiFrm1ZTeBU/WSZn_mS6DzI/AAAAAAAAncc/F70Y2doVX1c2TOe4j_6XugqyIzCthIJUACHM/P1030620_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Coming up next was the huge Thames Flood Barrier.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_6v29XrpVjg/WSZoBQVEv3I/AAAAAAAAncg/SAzNsvgudCkOIeKlgaYkKd67yKkrJi9SgCHM/s1600-h/18447468_10154358901086836_359214501"><img width="243" height="308" title="18447468_10154358901086836_3592145012808110921_n" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18447468_10154358901086836_3592145012808110921_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l8GMsGpR18o/WSZoCPE0MgI/AAAAAAAAnck/6V53pOdSfEMmBpdWh4WvDzmp9yoM8jBTwCHM/18447468_10154358901086836_359214501%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Here we are, with the tide almost complete (and a nervous Graham taking the tiller while James went for a pee!) drifting on the current and approaching Margaretness ……..</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4mQDwHCDHdQ/WSZoD_C33ZI/AAAAAAAAnco/2euB20oALk4rawjy80WMPFR2Si11XXpUQCHM/s1600-h/P10306351"><img width="492" height="323" title="P1030635" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030635" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-03ms6WiRi_Y/WSZoE0tQQCI/AAAAAAAAncs/7ZhrvQFnh8UP4dhIFo0iEy33_1SxZZjaACHM/P1030635_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>…….. where we turned across the river, stemming the tide with the other boats that had got there before us and waited for the arrival of the other six boats which were somewhere on the river behind us.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UPynRF-HIeE/WSZoGjdEQbI/AAAAAAAAncw/9493JkK_AG83hChSxXZ1i7CaDNqBVYVmACHM/s1600-h/P10306381"><img width="489" height="334" title="P1030638" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030638" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CuuWQbRtQN0/WSZoHjRokxI/AAAAAAAAnc0/dAS8pxRKcywgrEu6s0njsQA8tqN3EXMMQCHM/P1030638_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>As the tide turned our flotilla of 26 boats started to make way back up stream. The calm, leisurely pace so far allowed us to relax with a warming cup of coffee. Here’s Graham, Jonathan (with the massive Barking Creek Flood Defence structure sticking out of his head!) and Doug.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DyxPabA2vyg/WSZoI4HCzqI/AAAAAAAAnc4/FvcUVdgIUUMUs0SLrS4L3aQL-1nh9c-rwCHM/s1600-h/P10306421"><img width="488" height="348" title="P1030642" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030642" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NFmu0c5VjY8/WSZoJ10dEgI/AAAAAAAAnc8/g_ihZtbvstYeIQ_emhKDxpI_EZzO3tfHACHM/P1030642_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>A lovely line of narrow boats making their way up towards the city of London.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6gda0nWszE0/WSZoKxA0EZI/AAAAAAAAndA/wN7BgS-mMKkmUGR-e_DWdauxU-pssr6VACHM/s1600-h/P10306481"><img width="484" height="329" title="P1030648" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030648" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P3yMxahXawM/WSZoL1l79NI/AAAAAAAAndE/Rjbpg6Eb8WYxseSEDybDbxkeB3m1qrIygCHM/P1030648_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>As we got closer to the city we started to encounter the early morning commercial traffic (here in the guise of the very fast Clipper catamaran!) The wake left by some of these craft needs to be tackled with respect ………</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c-OSxOh0E7A/WSZoM9Iz7YI/AAAAAAAAndI/9cyiuf6tKKok3lw8qnWCnbncXqcUgQ9cgCHM/s1600-h/18446551_1416779581678689_5990862705%255B2%255D"><img width="501" height="288" title="18446551_1416779581678689_5990862705302029996_n" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18446551_1416779581678689_5990862705302029996_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z7eCHIDfyNI/WSZoN-LQJTI/AAAAAAAAndM/_j57Yqm8JjoBFh_h4FF5r5h9wBLmYiKSgCHM/18446551_1416779581678689_5990862705?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>The calm before the ‘not so calm’!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yQsqCHVvNng/WSZoPCc7IdI/AAAAAAAAndQ/vCTzuuM9XcsmhoEB8C0E0bZ6p8vV2J4GgCHM/s1600-h/P10306521"><img width="483" height="332" title="P1030652" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030652" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rr5semx-6cM/WSZoPzEtcyI/AAAAAAAAndU/ZEw9zaGlNkgUc99-p3SSjF5pAAvYiLmgACHM/P1030652_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>………. as the water gets decidedly choppy the nearer you get to the action! It got a lot choppier than this but it’s difficult to hold the camera still under those conditions!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tKpYF-Q5LBQ/WSZoRJDwaYI/AAAAAAAAndY/Jdi26m6i1TcrtULgQDyJeIl39T7T4VjzwCHM/s1600-h/P10306561"><img width="480" height="329" title="P1030656" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030656" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SQtr7uv_zSM/WSZoRx5_WwI/AAAAAAAAndc/fePVZTw2OzU5pmEK0wFAei9sQ75dWNQ9QCHM/P1030656_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>“Our “26” is the most St. Pancras has ever had on the river in one go and we fetched a rather beguiling sight as we approached Tower Bridge with the Shard on the left.<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sH_AHIdKsvI/WSZoTr5-M6I/AAAAAAAAndg/N0YgFdTDBSogxqd8Fcb56fLWIVskV4O9ACHM/s1600-h/P10306571"><img width="486" height="325" title="P1030657" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030657" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IrjIucD2SVM/WSZoUi5oM7I/AAAAAAAAndk/d0EqfOLZ0KIP8H1lnyYvaRhfAZuwv8QEwCHM/P1030657_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>On the opposite side to Tower Bridge is the rather odd shaped “Walkie Talkie” building ………</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_p49mFoDlJo/WSZoV40xpYI/AAAAAAAAndo/-FZ3-58qUWEniAj1alNkiTthyW7ZtPVqgCHM/s1600-h/P10306581"><img width="485" height="322" title="P1030658" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030658" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tMg6OWSQB6o/WSZoWyCHA6I/AAAAAAAAnds/ZzLWL5Z3_pMdHQvo0Ty7ujjD6wKKNsMeQCHM/P1030658_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>…….. seen again here with the equally odd shaped “Cheese Grater” and “Gurkin” buildings.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zuwmUHW7ROc/WSZoY9YPX5I/AAAAAAAAndw/h8yz3U74lbMCWgYP9el_X6fvhWqU0pIEgCHM/s1600-h/P10306601"><img width="480" height="329" title="P1030660" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030660" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OATb7jPSVTg/WSZoaHIqvoI/AAAAAAAAnd0/Jejy8FljgYoXJEL-eDS8lWBhqqCLzKzKACHM/P1030660_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>It really must be one of, if not THE, most exiting and amazing things to do with a narrow boat – to pass under Tower Bridge!!!!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nXAeus4SlSQ/WSZobzkBzhI/AAAAAAAAnd4/_m62LLxrJAokhp_ospea0oPw31ZStKjSACHM/s1600-h/P10306611"><img width="485" height="331" title="P1030661" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030661" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ofVKh5GFzQk/WSZodLCUbqI/AAAAAAAAnd8/jHay31iAqXEGLtY3h5iQua6y6T5GTFwAgCHM/P1030661_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>We feel very small sometimes!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SlGEPYYFqyg/WSZoeyQ4sYI/AAAAAAAAneA/HtyQVqkKwFY-paRiGVNMnEGhqtyC2yKngCHM/s1600-h/18424160_1416779701678677_2956409543"><img width="505" height="337" title="18424160_1416779701678677_295640954390055744_n" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18424160_1416779701678677_295640954390055744_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xuTUu3_HFWY/WSZogB-_jrI/AAAAAAAAneE/Qww3UlMJEv0UbebRrxePQhfl9HmUu6ybgCHM/18424160_1416779701678677_2956409543%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Two rather chuffed “sea-dogs” after enjoying an exciting moment.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZONuq-EYPHQ/WSZohpNzrpI/AAAAAAAAneI/5jEZsQk1478wmGxrv2QTSOoldm3V8wQ6gCHM/s1600-h/P10306701"><img width="483" height="325" title="P1030670" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030670" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IM-iGkPK9pY/WSZojJcUEUI/AAAAAAAAneM/DZlSUV7yYl0MdwU3Jsro5xU-1Q6LzdPigCHM/P1030670_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Past Cleopatra’s Needle.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WihdZcDBtKU/WSZokwqmgUI/AAAAAAAAneQ/z6TiqCjLU2wRZOAgKagQ3RS0U-ee63umwCHM/s1600-h/P10306721"><img width="482" height="312" title="P1030672" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030672" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uowkh-LlZOE/WSZomC8KyNI/AAAAAAAAneU/0454C7SIqKExLe7RDef5thM55fYQnvEPwCHM/P1030672_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Approaching the seat of government on the right and the London Eye on the left.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BrMSPr7dcP0/WSZon9m9N4I/AAAAAAAAneY/unfjJEk2pT8xoEwAdt6SscHeeglTtC9qQCHM/s1600-h/P10306781"><img width="484" height="328" title="P1030678" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030678" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S4LkRlneaFw/WSZopK_iwvI/AAAAAAAAnec/GYaRftGEzfQPNaAiKs5HjVDki7t9CIQogCHM/P1030678_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>After Tower Bridge the second most celebrated icon we passed has to be the Houses of Parliament.</p><p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-snbZ2NdVh6Y/WSZoqKv4gdI/AAAAAAAAneg/yjz06At7mOMGq2rrLkWRoKREsU_TXIXGQCHM/s1600-h/18423985_1416779981678649_6156707385%255B1%255D"><img width="218" height="328" title="18423985_1416779981678649_6156707385897745720_n" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18423985_1416779981678649_6156707385897745720_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zls9RS7RJSs/WSZorbIgv0I/AAAAAAAAnek/-F-kLkm2lUgceeizI_ol9nGXFdIDxusWACHM/18423985_1416779981678649_6156707385%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>A selfie outside the Palace of Westminster.</p> <p><br></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-85IocYCwp7M/WSZotIEjriI/AAAAAAAAneo/H7ZIDLjsps0YOA4ny8KRLeFDCntBOx9HgCHM/s1600-h/P10306801"><img width="491" height="331" title="P1030680" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030680" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-x42Cr3bKQbU/WSZouFlpJfI/AAAAAAAAnes/udbv9yjFJ-IoQKrJENX2qgO0w5cDz9-DACHM/P1030680_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Keep well clear of the security cordon, marked by buoys in the water, our flotilla is almost in the centre of the river at this point.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SIvKOFlJpPg/WSZoviXTg6I/AAAAAAAAnew/I8aG3vpe6aYRF_Ei7cGYAc_VKhd8_ME2QCHM/s1600-h/P10306841"><img width="488" height="323" title="P1030684" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030684" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JUmqVdxlVrU/WSZowt-TMYI/AAAAAAAAne0/leGIa9mM5OEsTOI4-8OpWoI8wtmWdC8KACHM/P1030684_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>The next noticeable building to appear is the tower at Vauxhall. It had a helicopter crash into it during its construction some years ago. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UebKBGIVLiY/WSZox621BhI/AAAAAAAAne4/cVXIokv4yIcWXBjtkmYAwPT487C3z5cXgCHM/s1600-h/P10306871"><img width="490" height="328" title="P1030687" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030687" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-V1DqJgGcw3Y/WSZozFBcpqI/AAAAAAAAne8/iRUwrSzqES4bfubrNKNyHCd9vTfdwLHXACHM/P1030687_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Further on and we passed the new American embassy under construction.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GzEXlmtxo8U/WSZo0653WKI/AAAAAAAAnfA/a2IqfiReKQUrtGD3KsPrSsMpRV5DH81_QCHM/s1600-h/P10306881"><img width="495" height="328" title="P1030688" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030688" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YD_ATAZ_C10/WSZo1-WjrnI/AAAAAAAAnfE/vuUTdyBgbs0au6H_HCZ_t3w7O40xkgWBQCHM/P1030688_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>and even more construction – the multi million pound renovation and rebuild of Battersea Power Station.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FVCTvClHjK4/WSZo3fTck8I/AAAAAAAAnfI/E3oRm95nMj4c1JVy2VT8ZSwoCmhEUmTOwCHM/s1600-h/P10306971"><img width="496" height="330" title="P1030697" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030697" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WatexCkXdHk/WSZo4QPLBnI/AAAAAAAAnfM/poi_4bV_dpUhEjRgcVAkmhdZKZXmtv3JwCHM/P1030697_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>After Chelsea and Kew we near the point at which we took our leave of the Thames at Brentford. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6KFA0VFO3zw/WSZo6O2m3mI/AAAAAAAAnfQ/35Ez7-doqygyzawfzt8jt1TL9_liIs6wwCHM/s1600-h/18446787_1417104094979571_1471763961"><img width="241" height="331" title="18446787_1417104094979571_1471763961736939535_n" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18446787_1417104094979571_1471763961736939535_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DiQxguFjKdM/WSZo7DqQqXI/AAAAAAAAnfU/Ai-oIjQLHHwvtaJhA7MN60MWLudL7DbJwCHM/18446787_1417104094979571_1471763961%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zGOE63FQGDY/WSZo8Vh_NPI/AAAAAAAAnfY/-js6qUpNBOsgSKmS3CNTMGu35OluM_t3ACHM/s1600-h/18423708_1417103988312915_1280031111%255B1%255D"><img width="255" height="332" title="18423708_1417103988312915_1280031111117905598_n" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18423708_1417103988312915_1280031111117905598_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fj3aVTZs0K0/WSZo9RH9MZI/AAAAAAAAnfc/V4FY9zMisM47wq_fCeuGSU6YGB9FxioZACHM/18423708_1417103988312915_1280031111?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Getting through the Thames and Gauging locks at Brentford and onto the Grand Union Canal we have a (celebratory this time) G and T.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-waTUO5yf1qY/WSZo_kITH2I/AAAAAAAAnfg/sErXcccrcYss78ocRR1nZ4AlRX-m9E3qACHM/s1600-h/18403687_1417103894979591_1427642800"><img width="495" height="317" title="18403687_1417103894979591_1427642800047430625_n" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18403687_1417103894979591_1427642800047430625_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mgh3p-LYPMU/WSZpAbsLNQI/AAAAAAAAnfk/4GVmR-PexwwFHlbVWUrVFeZU0TE9lS0GwCHM/18403687_1417103894979591_1427642800%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>This is the second time in just over a week that we’ve been up the Hanwell flight of locks/ This time quite rapidly thanks to the help of Jonathan and Graham who decided to stay aboard to help us.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l-x0WnYmd0U/WSZpBpXaiUI/AAAAAAAAnfo/SuYoCp8vLLET3kU8GjSESE1cOfRQ7HEegCHM/s1600-h/18403644_10154359649951836_802024802%255B2%255D"><img width="278" height="372" title="18403644_10154359649951836_80202480216511681_n" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="18403644_10154359649951836_80202480216511681_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jWJyixaNbro/WSZpCvmZKxI/AAAAAAAAnfs/Y7OsdGybp9MVYzHJRROppSWPrL9lWpZbACHM/18403644_10154359649951836_802024802?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>We got to the Slough Arm of the GU at Uxbridge where we’d planned to moor for the night when Jonathan and Graham did a u-turn in their plans and decided to stay on board overnight. It might have been something to do with the fact that it was the Eurovision Song Contest on the tele that night! So it was out with the wine and nibbles and Doug’s disco light to make a proper evening of it.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rb94bCDvv9g/WSZpFB9mqcI/AAAAAAAAnfw/0oTFaFy7B4onRlDItDdlYcDKYSYCKt8-gCHM/s1600-h/P10307001"><img width="497" height="326" title="P1030700" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030700" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wDZKtoa3OWc/WSZpGbF7QCI/AAAAAAAAnf0/yTEW_JCbuosWN2c-sPBsz6eJUCuR5lJiQCHM/P1030700_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>On Sunday morning J and G took their leave and we have to thank them for both their company and help for the day before. It was truly a wonderful tideway cruise with them on board.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eFmlYqAXF0E/WSZpIKMBjiI/AAAAAAAAnf4/k4ZzBo29lvkVPdjvdGsVBDnpB9MHwUoaACHM/s1600-h/P10307041"><img width="479" height="297" title="P1030704" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030704" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mcHyqVBAS_o/WSZpJR-ot2I/AAAAAAAAnf8/aLP6ZKLuLCcijqQffO0QJch_yHMYq6XNQCHM/P1030704_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>We decided to moor just short of Lady Capel’s Bridge on Sunday night. You can always tell that the local landowner got a bit ‘uppity’ about the canal being built through his land – a fancy bridge was demanded instead of the usual modest one.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eM3uHH6Zi78/WSZpLt1xpII/AAAAAAAAngA/rFxmtfmCFg4r_lh2dql3SvGNGxnEzsktACHM/s1600-h/P10307081"><img width="488" height="317" title="P1030708" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030708" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-trhnCzX43Tc/WSZpNX5TnlI/AAAAAAAAngE/Dldtmf65M2APEyVb8zrsX3NDVsKoUl40ACHM/P1030708_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>The approach to the (Port of) Berkhamstead is very pretty and you feel that the urban sprawl of London is starting to be left behind.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-evAwVjWG5O4/WSZpP2rRRsI/AAAAAAAAngI/YCk7QWBt0m8yUdb4KIwPLb8Zc4IpbpgHQCHM/s1600-h/P10307111"><img width="487" height="317" title="P1030711" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030711" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fKpsFKT4N4k/WSZpQqVK6wI/AAAAAAAAngM/gVQdYV-JgIIGBT46dywA6ErzdcdrzkrpQCHM/P1030711_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>The large number of locks on the Grand Union makes for quite a heavy amount of locking work. It doesn’t help when there’s more water flowing out through the bottom gates than is coming in at the top ones!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wdy1XRaLUUw/WSZpT4m8IAI/AAAAAAAAngQ/Ce0mKaZlz6skjPHR4AIF6zkqi_56NYFEQCHM/s1600-h/P10307121"><img width="477" height="302" title="P1030712" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030712" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gMUmf3prFaw/WSZpVLPExUI/AAAAAAAAngU/NL8_mD_HS4w181YyEO_tygBe5qek8Iq-QCHM/P1030712_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>We anticipated that we’d catch up with friend and fellow boater Ray on nb “Stronghold” but he certainly had no idea until Doug surprised him by appearing at the lock and calling out “Hello Ray!”</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SX8SjG5hUek/WSZpXDe7zmI/AAAAAAAAngY/vr65KkxmnwgwABSVfbPFa3WRHNvikMYyACHM/s1600-h/P10307131"><img width="481" height="306" title="P1030713" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030713" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ITUrQH7QN1c/WSZpZKnpNGI/AAAAAAAAngc/tX0MsDRGYhsrkBCRO550WvaFPIda4-WhACHM/P1030713_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>We managed to share two or three locks with Ray before his planned mooring for the day. It was a very short catch-up but sweet nonetheless.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m-pgR4GOJU4/WSZpbNmjzII/AAAAAAAAngg/NZaz9TqjfxghnDp2IIuFBc8I1mGNP06bgCHM/s1600-h/P10307181"><img width="489" height="318" title="P1030718" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030718" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mJ5gGBS0lcM/WSZpcfRABuI/AAAAAAAAngk/3mwkIZI9dZgbdc7Z3WuP09YJSg3htF1GACHM/P1030718_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>Almost at Milton Keynes the lock at Fenny Stratford is very unusual in that it has a swing bridge passing right through the middle of it!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ghxe8FYq4EU/WSZpeEfDu1I/AAAAAAAAngo/2HHTyA7H9bQ2itIu2xlLGcwmTSk_P5UkQCHM/s1600-h/P10307191"><img width="494" height="316" title="P1030719" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030719" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1CYxlNQXNKo/WSZpfRXghJI/AAAAAAAAngs/RrgR4w7927khjqZ4W01o9IZBOKNur-YVQCHM/P1030719_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>After a peaceful night’s stop over at Milton Keynes we journeyed on in the pouring rain (which lasted all day!) and, we’d have missed our friend Jaq on nb “Valerie” had she not seen us and yelled at us from her window! James was supposed to keep a look out as we knew she was somewhere near but he was cold and wet and couldn’t concentrate on everything! Well, that’s his excuse! Anyway, all’s well that ends well, and Jaq came aboard for coffee and home made coffee cake and a wonderful chat. Thanks for yelling out Jaq!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Dr1hUGPu6f8/WSZpiiKkbpI/AAAAAAAAngw/ycLgo8Vuj8kCzQDF86D1XdsA5fp-94jeQCHM/s1600-h/P10307201"><img width="490" height="320" title="P1030720" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030720" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-apceeY-NBO0/WSZpj6Wl03I/AAAAAAAAng0/QcojqTr8u3UNKQT3TVpbFgJgwKXqWIHzgCHM/P1030720_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>A very rare sight these days – a wilderness boat in very good condition as well.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Btz6gdkmTwU/WSZplNDeH8I/AAAAAAAAng4/ZC-bAiHPlr0DetuWMB3YaT9lo0VnG4ebgCHM/s1600-h/P10307231"><img width="488" height="300" title="P1030723" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1030723" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BM3c1fGTei0/WSZpmBx6IYI/AAAAAAAAng8/Vga_0UmQnmw1yh4S-rVAgOuvbjl2lqdqQCHM/P1030723_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p> <p>On Thursday mid afternoon we moored up at Weedon Bec. Here’s “Chance” looking splendid after a wash and polish and general clean up after the rigours of the tideway cruise and the Grand Union.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eRA-HihUNz4/WSZpnzf9RsI/AAAAAAAAnhA/Br5Hnqf-gkcEZSW8cCB5hSwiIykvgDfDwCHM/s1600-h/P10808061"><img width="487" height="279" title="P1080806" style="border: 0px currentcolor; border-image: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; background-image: none;" alt="P1080806" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wEN9j7D26Ns/WSZppFAKg7I/AAAAAAAAnhE/NEk36TxO-CMwZRfJOZveU7sjwmiv1-a1ACHM/P1080806_thumb1?imgmax=800" border="0"></a></p><p>And quite out of sequence, here’s one of our favourite pics of “Chance” at Runnymede on the River Thames taken by Carol & George from their widebeam boat “Still Rockin’ ”.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-68032894274533608882017-05-16T16:53:00.001+01:002017-05-17T11:50:09.405+01:00A Short London Break (Again!)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q-rID3vIA74/WRsd9UGDw4I/AAAAAAAAnRA/4ovzEFg4LHUX5f9UIxFNGc0mg8xeeRgfwCHM/s1600-h/P10305375"><img alt="P1030537" border="0" height="332" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UdIwamuqD1A/WRsd-8FZFFI/AAAAAAAAnRE/0H_kJ1HGKYYox2esfp-KaEI2r_TXVvF8QCHM/P1030537_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030537" width="495" /></a><br />
Well, our journey along the (controlled) part of the River Thames was almost over and we were about to enter the tidal stretch for a short while. First, though, cruising past the fabulous and unique Hampton Court can’t be done without a photo. Sadly, we didn’t have to time to moor up outside and soak up the ambience and onwards we went ……..<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6hN5ASn49HA/WRseABz05SI/AAAAAAAAnRI/ovmo7I3QRrE_0KVFpU1vsFYzIjzLoZdjwCHM/s1600-h/P10305391"><img alt="P1030539" border="0" height="322" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mN8OP_aoxEw/WRseBfIOrnI/AAAAAAAAnRM/KlfLW_wfwVgQMMkBAcnKY_yS6ToSgW7swCHM/P1030539_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030539" width="489" /></a><br />
……. towards our mooring for the night in Kingston-on-Thames. It’s a marvellous view upstream from the Kingston Bridge. We’re moored somewhere on the far right by the trees!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4xTnujHnTZM/WRseDtVtvWI/AAAAAAAAnRQ/UiQ1Sii3wIANAMS2IZwEmDKxwSIVeoVhwCHM/s1600-h/P10305441"><img alt="P1030544" border="0" height="330" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-00BH5fk9iTk/WRseFAeTjOI/AAAAAAAAnRU/Lp247AEXdn80SrDzSL1ZjH6PD3m4jr3vACHM/P1030544_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030544" width="491" /></a><br />
A walk around the town wouldn’t be complete without a photo of the famous telephone boxes.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Z2pfTHvJ3PQ/WRseG-5aKbI/AAAAAAAAnRY/dKc2CN5JaewxAS2XWgMyT1Q8KjfIsPLkQCHM/s1600-h/P103054511"><img alt="P1030545" border="0" height="330" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uM4VSvEtfZ8/WRseJEjVDYI/AAAAAAAAnRc/pj3ijM2CQKQ4xU6BpTjBUaRxf2uIYoJFwCHM/P1030545_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030545" width="486" /></a><br />
The main point of our stop in Kingston was to catch up with friends Anita and Alan who we dined with every evening on our recent Caribbean cruise. We had another wonderful dining experience with them, this time in Cote Brasserie.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vDi_WDXlON0/WRseLy8EkHI/AAAAAAAAnRg/ozDryt13VsI5nPcgnBxNIie9nsPkNosPACHM/s1600-h/P103054811"><img alt="P1030548" border="0" height="336" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_UiBTa5cf5s/WRseM_xZbtI/AAAAAAAAnRk/VuByOQKyHpILU5u4kNf5VaOsRippMdVxwCHM/P1030548_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030548" width="491" /></a><br />
The evening view of Kingston Bridge from the embankment is stunning.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-seFEWnnUYo0/WRseOP2mFXI/AAAAAAAAnRo/fUHUeGtskhUNjxErb0STxWw5gnwUSb2QQCHM/s1600-h/P103055011"><img alt="P1030550" border="0" height="345" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A7FCIHRtIgg/WRsePH2a9jI/AAAAAAAAnRs/YZFqLTkZPH0TILFsDEIgsiTViQ0SDJulQCHM/P1030550_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030550" width="489" /></a><br />
Anita and Alan came back with us (walking across the fabulous blue bridge) to “Chance” for coffee - but the cheese and biscuits soon came out as well and the fabulous evening was rounded off nicely. It was lovely to catch up with them both again! <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KvXDZrMk84A/WRseQRZtXQI/AAAAAAAAnRw/x-P7O7WDui0OmclLxGvbKpYETK52BJA5QCHM/s1600-h/P103055111"><img alt="P1030551" border="0" height="331" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nsopivberjM/WRseRze2wqI/AAAAAAAAnR0/HeyScPQGEOcUeX7W_kJKqHgSMP1IR8EBwCHM/P1030551_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030551" width="490" /></a><br />
The next morning we had to be at Teddington Lock at 09:30 to be locked out and onto the tidal section of the river for our journey into Brentford. Here we are entering Teddington lock.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ck709zwVaAs/WRseS9ek_YI/AAAAAAAAnR4/3hThGqm69vIXUFdeIgfOHp29tJ6fD1VrQCHM/s1600-h/P103055311"><img alt="P1030553" border="0" height="343" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--6s6h7wVNd0/WRseTxt80eI/AAAAAAAAnR8/OWGlZA7WBRgwFAT9p6Ol_gYk-C8zOM8PACHM/P1030553_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030553" width="490" /></a><br />
One of the most charming sights on the 1 hour trip to Brentford is the river frontage at Richmond.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lbRifSGPR3o/WRseVR6UZTI/AAAAAAAAnSA/4gEOke5xVQInYhRiUPSffx1uUk-hB_tVQCHM/s1600-h/P10305541"><img alt="P1030554" border="0" height="324" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-piuR9blgJJI/WRseWjgnf7I/AAAAAAAAnSE/Sjahq28HCDkBI0QnWuVY_UK2g_fPOCTXgCHM/P1030554_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030554" width="493" /></a><br />
We were soon off the tidal Thames and onto the Grand Union Canal at Brentford. Passing quickly through the Thames and Gauging locks we were onto the Hanwell flight of six locks (known as the “Thick of Hanwell” by the old working boatmen). The building dominating the locks here is the old Victorian mental asylum.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wMi5FcMPO90/WRseXsn-D6I/AAAAAAAAnSI/473wtNCH9O0bbbdKMF2XqfooaKSDRPhHgCHM/s1600-h/18342333_1995360637455943_6764294862%255B1%255D"><img alt="18342333_1995360637455943_6764294862637312654_n" border="0" height="250" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8ar6DwU_1Dk/WRseY4Fe4AI/AAAAAAAAnSM/RX1nuR1D4UAW6zU1870Iv9WvUZUOS-j0ACHM/18342333_1995360637455943_6764294862%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="18342333_1995360637455943_6764294862637312654_n" width="487" /></a><br />
The long day’s cruising from Teddington ended when we reached our goal of Paddington Basin – our ‘home from home’ in London it seems! We have been immensely lucky that, on the many occasions we’ve visited, we always managed to get a mooring.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8ktcodIxgyo/WRseZwJHgAI/AAAAAAAAnSQ/Jr6QTWgvCSsCHesQn74QEbmwxnuvq33rQCHM/s1600-h/P103055711"><img alt="P1030557" border="0" height="323" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LvmPbArauvs/WRsebA8nN_I/AAAAAAAAnSU/363oJ2-yIhEDSl4Kjd_HAlZL3-ls-QVeACHM/P1030557_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030557" width="489" /></a><br />
We weren’t moored very long before we had an impromptu visit by ‘boatie’ friends Heather and Roger (nb Celtic Kiwi, on their annual boating holiday from their home in Australia.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QfeqLJhINeQ/WRsecF-RDYI/AAAAAAAAnSY/c3uoeOj7cTIIt6gtnAUdDwYZAoIgy_VqACHM/s1600-h/P103055911"><img alt="P1030559" border="0" height="323" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ODQwRzmT_V4/WRsedffdXUI/AAAAAAAAnSc/9a4-wfLARg88q7jQGx5BlvY4TbuUs5TygCHM/P1030559_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030559" width="490" /></a><br />
We’ve watched the redevelopment of Paddington Basin over the years – it’s now complete and one attraction is a spectacular second bridge which is raised periodically as an art form. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-drjFszKiwns/WRseepUeTZI/AAAAAAAAnSg/WMVxYEKT_5UWg5wOD5mBHE0n_42VkbowgCHM/s1600-h/P103056111"><img alt="P1030561" border="0" height="310" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8dkISKAYZG8/WRsefnBneII/AAAAAAAAnSk/vQ178ndeXVIojBLGKgA688_IbJy9L3h4QCHM/P1030561_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030561" width="488" /></a><br />
It looks lovely but it’s a bit of a hindrance (haha) when you want to use it and have to walk all the way round!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oBEKMUVsTns/WRsehHZfA2I/AAAAAAAAnSo/pUgpVBWNfS4mMwbXBWrgdyFw5m2st1rUwCHM/s1600-h/P103056211"><img alt="P1030562" border="0" height="309" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oyCEOG_DmR4/WRseiQcs6uI/AAAAAAAAnSs/Cj7z4tuAyPoh6lWEiFchh1nVqe2o0OaigCHM/P1030562_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030562" width="487" /></a><br />
We had another lovely visit by local Sussex friends Alan and Kim and their daughter Sophie. They were ‘in town’ for the day and we’d arranged to have lunch with them.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aVNYJa0m-sQ/WRsekJqU83I/AAAAAAAAnSw/maCmvaUbcuY9Ums85w0TkUhpuy5JEytQgCHM/s1600-h/P103056411"><img alt="P1030564" border="0" height="325" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-i-2XKJYNpD8/WRselvzlHZI/AAAAAAAAnS0/OllvAnKwBCg0XyqKB4ROGI6r1eJAa91rACHM/P1030564_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030564" width="487" /></a><br />
After lunch there was time to have a coffee on the rear deck of “Chance” before they all headed off again. It was a real treat enjoying your company guys.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D2_ftyeXDJs/WRsemxaBYzI/AAAAAAAAnS4/WU35iLkUcTYfumE81-6Cha_tTty1S0ifgCHM/s1600-h/18342703_1995108287481178_6045773800%255B1%255D"><img alt="18342703_1995108287481178_6045773800459338979_n" border="0" height="266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kbrA9sih_is/WRseoLSGf7I/AAAAAAAAnS8/m6_mjX7HEnAwWsVuLpAZ08fyWsgIHRFlwCHM/18342703_1995108287481178_6045773800%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="18342703_1995108287481178_6045773800459338979_n" width="489" /></a><br />
We had time during the week to see a couple of shows in the West End. At the Leicester Square Theatre we enjoyed “Pam Ann” in her bawdy, “say it as you mean it” show based on her ‘experiences’ as an air stewardess on her own airline! At the end of the show she allowed us to take this pic.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Yfy4jfjHL4g/WRsepoc3SPI/AAAAAAAAnTA/e6fRUoI45n8ffsIL2rMOnoHmDhVYoNHuACHM/s1600-h/P10305651"><img alt="P1030565" border="0" height="313" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DviDJAB1IWU/WRseq280TKI/AAAAAAAAnTE/Z8VbxzNMo_8Bh65JTY2f5fdDnLPS9Rm4ACHM/P1030565_thumb2?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030565" width="489" /></a><br />
We had another ‘knock’ on the boat during our stay in Paddington, this time from friend Nick (nb Marpessa 2) who was moored in Little Venice for a few days and noticed us as he walked through the basin. We had a great catch-up chat for an hour over a coffee so thanks for popping in Nick. Give our love to Emma please - it was such a pity she wasn’t with you!<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1fSo61yyiUQ/WRsesbzITvI/AAAAAAAAnTI/C4CAPwpXLvEWYQ3Ro2hallNvY0qewz1iACHM/s1600-h/P10305691"><img alt="P1030569" border="0" height="342" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Bz21T8Dp6xU/WRsetoLL3yI/AAAAAAAAnTM/5ExwhVr7z0o5ybcW9Xn_5J8bGAottTncwCHM/P1030569_thumb1?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030569" width="494" /></a><br />
We hoped, in vain sadly, to visit the Diana, Princess of Wales costume exhibition in Kensington Palace but could not get tickets on the day so …….. <br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o79DQxof6q8/WRsgU5KkMmI/AAAAAAAAnTY/BUU9hVy9Xj4OrUkk-a3j6JQx1m8vcdQ9gCHM/s1600-h/P10305721"><img alt="P1030572" border="0" height="328" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-T5XUS1VLX6I/WRsgWDSY_7I/AAAAAAAAnTc/rfe-c4vvnic_2dgei-Wfq_Qt3JlcYLbiwCHM/P1030572_thumb1?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1030572" width="488" /></a><br />
…… we made do with a visit to the White Garden which the Palace gardeners have created this year to commemorate the twenty years since Diana’s death.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FVSGd7-I5Qo/WRsgXfb3geI/AAAAAAAAnTg/kMJtNyOyEyMkCNy-PM5vdF0b7yV8ngY8ACHM/s1600-h/18359231_1414492528574061_8135787689%255B2%255D"><img alt="18359231_1414492528574061_8135787689891696115_o" border="0" height="347" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lj70dcz-jdA/WRsgYdmOgnI/AAAAAAAAnTk/jlVQeC6yRmgM6--RZcATScKqnEO0LpPTgCHM/18359231_1414492528574061_8135787689%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="18359231_1414492528574061_8135787689891696115_o" width="231" /></a><br />
The second West End show we saw was the much acclaimed “Kinky Boots” at the Adelphi Theatre.<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bbjdWJB4Gi4/WRsgZRkhn6I/AAAAAAAAnTo/f_m25D_niokeQCDT1oBiBQrfrpK0V2OWACHM/s1600-h/18447266_1995494717442535_8405182589"><img alt="18447266_1995494717442535_8405182589085926582_n" border="0" height="273" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kqpz-0hzcbo/WRsgadrLXKI/AAAAAAAAnTs/lDSb0HUljgstLUGnCgGvtT8ZyWrm0J-HgCHM/18447266_1995494717442535_8405182589%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="18447266_1995494717442535_8405182589085926582_n" width="497" /></a><br />
As always, there was a ban on all forms of recording during the performance so this one is of the basic stage set. It really was, as so many have said, totally amazing. Simple but clever scenery and first class performances by all the cast – it’s well worth a visit.</div>
nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-81427973136538121762017-05-03T18:33:00.001+01:002017-05-03T18:33:24.294+01:00George Michael and Five Catch-ups<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Xm9FsqoJT_U/WQoSzl5yF_I/AAAAAAAAnJM/gRS-c_utKjUh80H7JdE171dJH_u8Fno2QCHM/s1600-h/P10304375"><img title="P1030437" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030437" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OKcCb9vLNG8/WQoS0yzcsqI/AAAAAAAAnJQ/illnfujZ1yAew8WI6Yso0roz-wF2YvkWACHM/P1030437_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="495" height="340"></a></p> <p>Our mooring on Wednesday in Wallingford gave us a magnificent night time view of the bridge and river frontage. Had to take this shot for posterity.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jUCI4UW_0ZY/WQoS2MgFTNI/AAAAAAAAnJU/SHAHFdfI3H8I4f4PHf2pKcBdOSLZ8EgYgCHM/s1600-h/P10304425"><img title="P1030442" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030442" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4Ut9sAUwpJU/WQoS3QCFuVI/AAAAAAAAnJY/oadaSOvdbvQHPQqEmWVlqOX594eIZPsTACHM/P1030442_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="491" height="322"></a></p> <p>Thursday saw us moving on downstream and stopping briefly at Goring-on-Thames to pay our respects to George Michael at his home, Mill Cottage, where he was found dead on Christmas Day last year,</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-21tU0EQ04kY/WQoS4pPDK_I/AAAAAAAAnJc/qC76OCYaJnUh8Sxwh1fUF8ikV5fGbdFbACHM/s1600-h/P10304435"><img title="P1030443" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030443" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sHK7pQlWHdc/WQoS5m6qplI/AAAAAAAAnJg/qXYUjeHYJ_IkM1CacGz1P4Yb_Y1G_v6TwCHM/P1030443_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="494" height="327"></a></p> <p>Outside the cottage there were many, many gifts of love and respect for the amazingly talented man who was taken from us far too soon. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YmHVG6_gnqw/WQoS63pTjnI/AAAAAAAAnJk/2PAzmVFzJnAQrR3UCgl5flRqN9JLfj_TwCHM/s1600-h/P10304455"><img title="P1030445" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030445" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r298GjuNN8c/WQoS7kRbCWI/AAAAAAAAnJo/4Qq8ZCUq0Yg6GCaKIJ3I-7OUxNK-ecysgCHM/P1030445_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="494" height="335"></a></p> <p>It was a humbling experience to read some of the notes, poems and verses to George. This one, of course, refers to his song “Careless Whisper”.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gGN4V0QYj-w/WQoS8_a4kXI/AAAAAAAAnJs/NT1xJFPi0Y4Mog0lwZbeicNUO3ivzGRnQCHM/s1600-h/P10304465"><img title="P1030446" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030446" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k6uE3BG5R50/WQoS9ysOuGI/AAAAAAAAnJw/JNQ6adjrVJQoXkncvl9z_wrqGW0hcnrEgCHM/P1030446_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="493" height="319"></a></p> <p>Many tributes dated back to his early years.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xaQWJEgWmP0/WQoS_GBY5TI/AAAAAAAAnJ0/gQMFQ9QsRdISlvLyWpDIMi4g-lKmQPSCgCHM/s1600-h/P10304495"><img title="P1030449" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030449" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5HkV2CFIi9o/WQoTAAnxyLI/AAAAAAAAnJ4/3PM_zXk9SqI4ei6B0nERCgKBC9Zr2ivPwCHM/P1030449_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="285" height="383"></a></p> <p>His front door was covered in heartfelt messages of love and respect.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-juuK-_AExFg/WQoTBEMZpiI/AAAAAAAAnJ8/lGCBOEREHxs96GE5l7KGpBdnwBqNV-3cACHM/s1600-h/P10304515"><img title="P1030451" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030451" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ezP6AKBJXcQ/WQoTCKs_LLI/AAAAAAAAnKA/6bN36xkkkDI4UEXFaJwPkLBlWALp8YzPwCHM/P1030451_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="480" height="311"></a></p> <p>All items left at the cottage are carefully and regularly tidied and important items are passed to the family. It was a terribly sad few moments we spent there but one we would not have missed.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DOdh2eQzyS0/WQoTDVg7fJI/AAAAAAAAnKE/K_icpp7GNpszcPX6GILUL3dmMU9eRwi4QCHM/s1600-h/P10304595"><img title="P1030459" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030459" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GSivHErUZzk/WQoTEVhzXzI/AAAAAAAAnKI/oUvZeUT_ZNMsGCJg1jXHjOKIBKXmHztjwCHM/P1030459_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="494" height="315"></a></p> <p>Cruising downstream towards Thursday night’s mooring (which we’d not decided upon but we knew who had!) there were numerous impressive residences to be admired and wondered at. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IwAgXliWnUo/WQoTFak3USI/AAAAAAAAnKM/phnDfddW0Vc9SzhL7SkcgAQy1PwihcBeQCHM/s1600-h/P10304635"><img title="P1030463" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030463" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qxMemp_pbvE/WQoTGZmNh-I/AAAAAAAAnKQ/KwWfVhG6HW8u6S4AwUfDz0yRJcDE6IYgACHM/P1030463_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="495" height="344"></a></p> <p>If you keep your eyes peeled there are some very odd sights to be had. This post box, mounted in a wall, can only be reached by boat!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6V87e3_xNBQ/WQoTHQcpokI/AAAAAAAAnKU/qTLMYeIuVhEXz5Z-kCpFYpXG_-wd97oLwCHM/s1600-h/P10304645"><img title="P1030464" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030464" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-p2YkZMW_NOA/WQoTIaX0oJI/AAAAAAAAnKY/i6oorO0bl0k4JHi87nBM1o3NLCAQau_vACHM/P1030464_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="499" height="332"></a></p> <p>Our night’s mooring was, sort of, chosen for us. We’d managed to catch up and surprise our friends Pauline and Neil on nb “Waterlily”, who’d moored just above Sonning Lock, and four excited people were to enjoy an evening together! It was also to be one of those rare occasions these days when we needed to use our gangplank!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5kHW4sajG3A/WQoTJbNGz5I/AAAAAAAAnKc/Kyt54sXm9PMFENfsM4SBQ9RqZZaxDVNzACHM/s1600-h/18118648_1988793841445956_7006497557%255B1%255D"><img title="18118648_1988793841445956_7006497557031969569_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18118648_1988793841445956_7006497557031969569_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NfDL7eU0q90/WQoTKWdD4II/AAAAAAAAnKg/piXr8VYuW4wrNaTsSEnMBZSuZOMkRT6RQCHM/18118648_1988793841445956_7006497557%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="495" height="280"></a></p> <p>Here’s a very pleased, and surprised, Neil and Pauline with Doug …….</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E7taSIlqvtc/WQoTLTOR0GI/AAAAAAAAnKk/GkqP2EEJN2orjI03nDOD-qN6K5HzkLG9wCHM/s1600-h/18156901_646400842151161_89792914241%255B2%255D"><img title="18156901_646400842151161_8979291424137008063_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18156901_646400842151161_8979291424137008063_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F_UJToF6XJU/WQoTMesxQ-I/AAAAAAAAnKo/oHoYO75d4-orOw5oxweMcd1bQGPqvxfbwCHM/18156901_646400842151161_89792914241?imgmax=800" width="495" height="333"></a></p> <p>….. and here’s Pauline’s three favourite men!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lg0A_PyL4l0/WQoTNV5eKtI/AAAAAAAAnKs/sSx-R1042uI-mDaRqFeiVDT0qykuzcNxwCHM/s1600-h/P10304655"><img title="P1030465" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030465" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wBhL5QggbxE/WQoTOuyjLGI/AAAAAAAAnKw/wX1bEXhjYHMZh2GVwygM0kf5gYMsZbg1gCHM/P1030465_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="486" height="330"></a></p> <p>After a joyous meal together (of combined foodstuffs!) we relaxed and laughed until late into the evening.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xZ-dj1nTtHg/WQoTPp_a_6I/AAAAAAAAnK0/N8gu6VfTMis81xRf9RHZ3Xek7NwfAlzrACHM/s1600-h/P103046713"><img title="P1030467" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030467" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SEHgAlMlO_4/WQoTQukFJFI/AAAAAAAAnK4/2U1Luc5Dz3cfL6xTgvspqsdbRDxY_ddcQCHM/P1030467_thumb4?imgmax=800" width="479" height="310"></a></p> <p>Next morning, Friday, we both set off together for a days cruise. Our first lock was the pretty one at Sonning.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QgJmRKTiwq4/WQoTR0z5bAI/AAAAAAAAnK8/FzaxPYEmkwwXYw6vC142LheFTLQfJfpnwCHM/s1600-h/P10304735"><img title="P1030473" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030473" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k058DQ3qYmE/WQoTSzizhFI/AAAAAAAAnLA/skE4oT9cnnIfSYXhEvV50PtjoOvN1lA1wCHM/P1030473_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="477" height="306"></a></p> <p>More impressive residences …….</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sZCkY5MKXwU/WQoTTygHh0I/AAAAAAAAnLE/kxpMlM7xez89JvicpSNKI14QsgcTKK8ygCHM/s1600-h/P10304755"><img title="P1030475" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030475" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--quS46WJQFU/WQoTU-sM9qI/AAAAAAAAnLI/ruorXBotDZEo9mBlTGDv8lK8cTPVod3vgCHM/P1030475_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="479" height="329"></a></p> <p>……. to marvel at! One wonders about who had these fabulous places designed and built. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1mkyNTDCmAo/WQoTVwUmXgI/AAAAAAAAnLM/GxcDWOHJJRkHmt91dlseEkOePA-fgzr1gCHM/s1600-h/P10304815"><img title="P1030481" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030481" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nnK1Omvwp_U/WQoTWs1K-VI/AAAAAAAAnLQ/9U6C0i9UqiYrGBxDNJ2nXFiUo5fFolAegCHM/P1030481_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="277" height="357"></a></p> <p>Well, Friday night’s stopover was to be Henley-on-Thames where we had agreed to meet up with boating friends Richard and Linda on nb “Mary H”. Pauline and Neil, with Richard and Linda (and their charming little dog Muffin), came on board “Chance” for lunchtime drinks which soon turned into afternoon drinks! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0sx7vGlKZt4/WQoTXoKwzoI/AAAAAAAAnLU/bFK94VG0wBES50P5Cu3Bo1Y_MAK-14Z9QCHM/s1600-h/18157790_646964665428112_41768613714%255B2%255D"><img title="18157790_646964665428112_4176861371438581721_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18157790_646964665428112_4176861371438581721_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DYuOKx4sByE/WQoTY3KpuxI/AAAAAAAAnLY/xTV_Ro5L-18yt1CENqnDfmy3FNR7azL1gCHM/18157790_646964665428112_41768613714?imgmax=800" width="485" height="318"></a></p> <p>That evening we all crowded into The Angel for a lovely meal together. Richard, Linda, Neil, Doug, Pauline and James.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1IVtP4_n5oA/WQoTZ6X7CcI/AAAAAAAAnLc/dM3WStu89kMxeUSF9UlnU8CPyKig0kB4wCHM/s1600-h/P10304845"><img title="P1030484" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030484" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R2lhrgFIqII/WQoTawuuQpI/AAAAAAAAnLg/DeG7olKFK94GlirlOKUhL7OXMlj9US00wCHM/P1030484_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="493" height="368"></a></p> <p>Being the May Bank holiday there were many tourist craft plying the river past us. This one, a perfectly preserved steam launch, was one of the most special.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-56QEl4fKVqg/WQoTb7z_MrI/AAAAAAAAnLk/JpEN9SPog28fRawLW_S0tMJF0BqRqCo8QCHM/s1600-h/18221892_647199532071292_81275958297"><img title="18221892_647199532071292_8127595829738460620_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18221892_647199532071292_8127595829738460620_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yHGAtwVtLV0/WQoTc-q9r9I/AAAAAAAAnLo/c03vOW9JAQczA29FMvnB3khowzo6mxnFgCHM/18221892_647199532071292_81275958297%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="491" height="329"></a></p> <p>On Saturday morning we said farewell to Linda and Richard, who were going in the opposite direction, and also Pauline and Neil who had planned to stay a couple more days in Henley (but we’d be catching up with them again later).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EojvUPDELO0/WQoTd2peknI/AAAAAAAAnLs/l75AEy0UX9AW15-53PIKh9dj7lhH8PZsQCHM/s1600-h/P10304855"><img title="P1030485" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030485" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y6mnbJA78xM/WQoTexXik0I/AAAAAAAAnLw/EylydQOn1bc-tdtsbw5dMmWILY_ytMGsQCHM/P1030485_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="485" height="374"></a></p> <p>Henley is a popular and charming place. The river frontage and bridge make for pleasant sight.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uAmIahzQYsE/WQoTgH3GeBI/AAAAAAAAnL0/ILxTIzcYOrobpA-3EeAgjjIz1E1kvIlGgCHM/s1600-h/P10304865"><img title="P1030486" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030486" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tyI4Cx1T_Vg/WQoTg6zPQsI/AAAAAAAAnL4/trqUs1Ri4DQsg_8VdLGiLXpzUPMd1MyZwCHM/P1030486_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="491" height="313"></a></p> <p>Just before the bridge we passed The Angel where we’d all spent such a grand previous evening.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lkHJszZYwZY/WQoTh6KrKDI/AAAAAAAAnL8/6bSx75WP2o8HTYJ1iTYRoc8rhwRGfmJVgCHM/s1600-h/P10304935"><img title="P1030493" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030493" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PQs156diNrQ/WQoTiziqIxI/AAAAAAAAnMA/knez3kDSbusdloYi2r5VghBAzxD0hhV8wCHM/P1030493_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="492" height="323"></a></p> <p>More spectacular and ………</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jfBP_-ySe5U/WQoTkPNV4sI/AAAAAAAAnME/4fbW_ctBdBY4M2ORGdzENbf7WApGJmrcACHM/s1600-h/P10304955"><img title="P1030495" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030495" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6R_K2LAj7fM/WQoTlCFXSTI/AAAAAAAAnMI/sVcw8d_F6lQw6UaNYQ_dkx6_9mzJ-ZSLACHM/P1030495_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="495" height="335"></a></p> <p>enormous residences to wonder and marvel at!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vHANhQ5LAnY/WQoTmak3FxI/AAAAAAAAnMM/0ArOyEpJAloeOc98titT9uf5u1nga3EQACHM/s1600-h/P10304995"><img title="P1030499" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030499" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VJ77jovC0Io/WQoTnW9HxpI/AAAAAAAAnMQ/POixQJUy_6ETjGbn-YQ8ROJqiG3dZbl8ACHM/P1030499_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="491" height="334"></a></p> <p>And some which stretch the understanding a little bit! This seems to be a floating “garden room”!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ooOUMkU6rBI/WQoTont8dmI/AAAAAAAAnMU/p_RMIFCPKH8dh2_SNq0_RQwzwxlKRls_QCHM/s1600-h/P10305005"><img title="P1030500" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030500" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C_aTOh_4IEQ/WQoTplgagXI/AAAAAAAAnMY/g2NxS2yQsusDiIRgPubQYMdhZWtD75pHgCHM/P1030500_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="491" height="330"></a></p> <p>Marlow, like Henley, presents itself spectacularly with it’s Victorian suspension bridge and lovely river frontage. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-32m-k2AYQTc/WQoTquL5q2I/AAAAAAAAnMc/ZbdADPHTXYwbQ7ekXUvvo2Ocidm8yJvWwCHM/s1600-h/P10305055"><img title="P1030505" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030505" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8HtICXEUCzg/WQoTr8cwhJI/AAAAAAAAnMg/ouNGVeh8u1wheoaBPJTxjglUkrNtYI6BwCHM/P1030505_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="487" height="326"></a></p> <p>Along the Marlow, Bourne End, Cookham stretch of the river, and it’s associated locks, we had the privilege of travelling with another “Chance”. This time “Happy Chance”!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-F7sbEVqvqA8/WQoTs6Dq4KI/AAAAAAAAnMk/ZYcHfQkxQvUsWVcoVF5nlY0VM1fueP0LQCHM/s1600-h/P10305075"><img title="P1030507" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030507" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W83vdG7o7X4/WQoTtxK05aI/AAAAAAAAnMo/p8JDjWx-dHkJv64VPZEQPMSgmS6QW3QOwCHM/P1030507_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="485" height="345"></a></p> <p>Passing through Bourne End was to rekindle memories going back to 2007 and our first boat “Spirit”. In the November we had alternator problems and the kindness of the owner of The Bounty and his staff giving us free mooring, free electricity and occasionally even food (!) during a very cold two weeks when we couldn’t move. We’ve visited many times since then to catch up with these kind people.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cMB8XiWDG84/WQoTu483ZJI/AAAAAAAAnMs/kscdyQwTyIQUIPoTp2qiYnw8cNXW9VTjwCHM/s1600-h/P10305095"><img title="P1030509" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030509" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nV_AnCp8Mak/WQoTv97ehyI/AAAAAAAAnMw/C2fwIGiZifE-0Ma1WdxXNSkAo_X3BdG_ACHM/P1030509_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="487" height="328"></a></p> <p>High above the lock at Cookham is Clivedon. A very impressive house built in the 1850’s for the Duke of Sutherland. It’s most famous for later being the home of Nancy, Lady Astor. These days it’s used as a hotel. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_FdO0KOCKfs/WQoTxKtcC4I/AAAAAAAAnM0/Q8cb9kUK1lMJNQ_vCtx4PkWQesEm2SSvwCHM/s1600-h/P10305125"><img title="P1030512" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030512" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Yh2PquTvbG8/WQoTyJcgNMI/AAAAAAAAnM4/gY-RTNRoC9snEqiHP4smDKlDuf-lqtEbgCHM/P1030512_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="484" height="317"></a></p> <p>Downstream of Maidenhead and Bray are the dilapidated buildings of the disused Bray Studios.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XfpDXA5tNGQ/WQoTzbIEfoI/AAAAAAAAnM8/FeMfshBHDw85ZZz13gNFc4KvrhnZY_l9wCHM/s1600-h/18195049_1405534276136553_3336573656%255B1%255D"><img title="18195049_1405534276136553_3336573656952526480_n (1)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18195049_1405534276136553_3336573656952526480_n (1)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Td3l_J_XGqk/WQoT0fTDgoI/AAAAAAAAnNA/CiFzXtIHRnALaoU2xNSvg99nVOmwcjRKQCHM/18195049_1405534276136553_3336573656?imgmax=800" width="489" height="273"></a></p> <p>Soon after Maidenhead we arrived in Windsor and our stopover for the night. Even though it was Bank Holiday weekend there were still moorings to be had. We chose a quiet location on Baths Island where we could see what was happening on the river. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1uqLf_OmK-4/WQoT1W4UhaI/AAAAAAAAnNE/unoxjoR0ciscM69-aeabqbcUXBk97uS9ACHM/s1600-h/P103051513"><img title="P1030515" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030515" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xsshMM7Jkxs/WQoT2faPLpI/AAAAAAAAnNI/gTD3GMARE3QWkO0YNoKogWhAFpMqx0EsgCHM/P1030515_thumb4?imgmax=800" width="487" height="314"></a></p> <p>That evening friends Chris and Alastair, who live close by, came over for the evening and brought the adorable six month old “Maggie” with them.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-72mhpLgnCSA/WQoT3uQAMvI/AAAAAAAAnNM/x5HU3qyPCwQ9tX2BxyUQyGG7qhuToatYgCHM/s1600-h/P10305165"><img title="P1030516" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030516" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-stNaCoC1vM0/WQoT4gPpYfI/AAAAAAAAnNQ/rIYEdeilafsbDxupgy-w1wLyrOfI4PeFQCHM/P1030516_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="487" height="330"></a></p> <p>Maggie a lot of cuddles from Doug!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4ujS6bLWt7Y/WQoT5pBA-jI/AAAAAAAAnNU/sgqokDvWUToTRCmV-K-zZ3eFRoraJqEJgCHM/s1600-h/P10305175"><img title="P1030517" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030517" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hbwp4rYFZig/WQoT6m1lo5I/AAAAAAAAnNY/GmXZGjm114ExCyhPq4aGvA_ZHagJx15qgCHM/P1030517_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="481" height="311"></a></p> <p>Egyptian geese seem to be more common on the Thames these days and, this time, we saw our first Egyptian goslings.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TgXn8MAkYuU/WQoT7-KPE8I/AAAAAAAAnNc/4vu88-oPQykOVUe0OgXRBRBNyNHNE4vvACHM/s1600-h/P10305195"><img title="P1030519" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030519" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MOZkobI5_3I/WQoT83aP0cI/AAAAAAAAnNg/057pKcFlNjEzxKIYBI2WR570PwA4P9tTQCHM/P1030519_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="484" height="315"></a></p> <p>As we didn’t have too far to travel on Bank Holiday Monday we used the morning and took a walk into town. Wherever you look there is generally a view of the castle which dominates the town completely.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9gO6NaLgpz8/WQoT9-Ak4TI/AAAAAAAAnNk/giuXlm24SJkxqcHI0MyzitfhpOBvEeBgQCHM/s1600-h/P10305225"><img title="P1030522" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030522" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4rd_ihNmhBo/WQoT-xXvnuI/AAAAAAAAnNo/pDqsPPWb1LM4O77OlEpN32cRRUsMzPNQACHM/P1030522_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="485" height="317"></a></p> <p>Although the weather was pretty dyer there were masses of people around. The queue for the castle was a couple of hundred yards long!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7xU4ewurtoM/WQoUAOAB4cI/AAAAAAAAnNs/dGRf5vdbJ1oaIIX9IwsRAv4aRoXR2CmWQCHM/s1600-h/P10305235"><img title="P1030523" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030523" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-H89m_WVejuw/WQoUBcOxz7I/AAAAAAAAnNw/4COAin6tcqQrROmwKiKd66ITIaOP37CNQCHM/P1030523_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="488" height="324"></a></p> <p>You can tell that the Queen lives at the end of the road by the quality of seating in the pavement cafes!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WjURwk_Ox4M/WQoUCOk3rYI/AAAAAAAAnN0/ci6k-tsCMa0cwIBVd9--2dtUtDuw9ap4gCHM/s1600-h/P10305245"><img title="P1030524" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030524" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G7psWEQMxcA/WQoUDjHXrwI/AAAAAAAAnN4/5d0VYjQnLpsLs-PO3OOIMp69MkS7JA5lQCHM/P1030524_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="281" height="362"></a></p> <p>There’s a terrific view of the castle Round Tower at the end of the High Street.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LiO1QLLghP8/WQoUEk3aC2I/AAAAAAAAnN8/9MLhvfJUyb0wsbqAvzeKogP_tHmfOLfpwCHM/s1600-h/P10305275"><img title="P1030527" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030527" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1JBHT_Mr5Xw/WQoUFn8mu_I/AAAAAAAAnOA/2C1ZOib1o2UAFE-GMtsvq4UtM0NT05FhQCHM/P1030527_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="489" height="321"></a> </p> <p>It’s a very special feeling to cruise past Windsor Castle, the oldest inhabited castle in the world, as we left our moorings and headed further down river.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-laGNRSpZNqM/WQoUGjS1AbI/AAAAAAAAnOE/jfVg25U6FQYnHdBUpUwbqXtfl6ZfIaBWQCHM/s1600-h/P10305319"><img title="P1030531" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030531" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HnAtVrjb9-Q/WQoUHhPnN_I/AAAAAAAAnOI/49HjstkhXRoTU5ss0til2XDQJAKqgNKCgCHM/P1030531_thumb3?imgmax=800" width="482" height="326"></a> </p> <p>It was to be a short hop for us on Monday to moor up at the National Trust moorings at Runnymede and to catch up with boating friends Carol and George on their wide beam “Still Rockin’”.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0URFskAEjp0/WQoUIgks1hI/AAAAAAAAnOM/bd9i2DA_yoA5n8maXZlIpmj72UYSVnzcACHM/s1600-h/P10305309"><img title="P1030530" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030530" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--ZJZbdNlaa0/WQoUJnqgiOI/AAAAAAAAnOQ/Mu4mljBayiweJmNFQFdCxUw7HR9fTY-wwCHM/P1030530_thumb3?imgmax=800" width="484" height="317"></a></p> <p>Carol and George came on “Chance” for a drink during the afternoon. The expression on Carol’s face is because of something James said to get everyone laughing! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_m80Hz-D5sg/WQoUKnmdsWI/AAAAAAAAnOU/uGLYHxKpDVQNePylPAHttJwBCQd0nN-_ACHM/s1600-h/18198290_1406510882705559_4307726098"><img title="18198290_1406510882705559_4307726098995452695_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18198290_1406510882705559_4307726098995452695_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yOtEvcHo-mc/WQoULg46LxI/AAAAAAAAnOY/kJi6hYoeoFoI5aV0Gw4g6Y6NFyDDsW7QACHM/18198290_1406510882705559_4307726098%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="493" height="327"></a></p> <p>In the evening we went aboard “Still Rockin’” for Chinese and Indian Waitrose meals for two – supplied by us and cooked by Carol in the galley on their super boat. We had pre dinner drinks, and then dinner, on their vast rear deck, all warm and cosy beneath the canopy.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tCQx5EWXBbE/WQoUMoZC4pI/AAAAAAAAnOc/P6d3AyPo7c8XkrY4K36XI9LOwiiBV7RZQCHM/s1600-h/18194225_1406510759372238_2618484280"><img title="18194225_1406510759372238_2618484280465821208_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18194225_1406510759372238_2618484280465821208_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Cl_CTDLlw1c/WQoUN-hOHjI/AAAAAAAAnOg/pCn_dV0qUbY05C3LfSaldNUEQBXHKKCEQCHM/18194225_1406510759372238_2618484280%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="490" height="282"></a></p> <p>George worked hard to set up the camera for the preceding pic!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q74mCkn4tho/WQoUPPgo_sI/AAAAAAAAnOk/fboXeI14fI0KOFovILhrYhnkO4_f2COrQCHM/s1600-h/P10305365"><img title="P1030536" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030536" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PyspmgzDbMY/WQoUP_4DYyI/AAAAAAAAnOo/IZECP30sPE8OWi-Tugl01a4e9b8YFvQnQCHM/P1030536_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="493" height="322"></a></p> <p>On Tuesday we said our farewells to Carol and George and thanked them so much for the most fantastic evening.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NQElPPiKJc8/WQoURLXxSWI/AAAAAAAAnOs/6FZnL6UkajwK3tDsK839ITT2SnT7yg0cQCHM/s1600-h/P10305349"><img title="P1030534" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030534" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mgwPAfzRlMs/WQoUSHdMvGI/AAAAAAAAnOw/3huLyvK9N2gn4tJnH5dp04TetPsnnCSDQCHM/P1030534_thumb3?imgmax=800" width="495" height="324"></a></p> <p>The fabulous “Still Rockin’”!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b5w-dPqoWc4/WQoUTInuleI/AAAAAAAAnO0/VIkfZGzeBpE2Xs8v8oCus5NV4CXN_FCdQCHM/s1600-h/P10808062"><img title="P1080806" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1080806" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AfE8vBMwrZE/WQoUUCBG7oI/AAAAAAAAnO4/YFMVoD4xHwwkUnHMZo7Rd6ZNLvDD_nysQCHM/P1080806_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="493" height="267"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LFUNXWFKjqY/WQoUVLBIItI/AAAAAAAAnO8/hIjQIWwNNnMiIXRLl8bFbQZAZ79kAX59QCHM/s1600-h/P10808082"><img title="P1080808" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1080808" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CjMbmG49S6I/WQoUWLItmkI/AAAAAAAAnPA/Ybd1YYH_mwkwAzvPtxMVFoGshbIlC9G0wCHM/P1080808_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="496" height="342"></a></p> <p>A couple of pics, courtesy of Carol and George, as we left our mooring. (can’t think why James is looking so confused!)</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1zH2H9rQblg/WQoUXIr0fvI/AAAAAAAAnPE/UrtqTGGOwNI4VzUDSHvLVbODFY4mTOnLACHM/s1600-h/18268610_1991208911204449_5508775050%255B1%255D"><img title="18268610_1991208911204449_5508775050923359194_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18268610_1991208911204449_5508775050923359194_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vYHgCYrTANI/WQoUYPimEYI/AAAAAAAAnPI/nRYycsxBz8osEOY4OGWVHH3L_btQluRQQCHM/18268610_1991208911204449_5508775050?imgmax=800" width="494" height="273"></a></p> <p>Tuesday’s mooring was one we’ve used many times at Weybridge, just below Shepperton lock. A walk into town to get some groceries was followed by us hunkering down by the fire for the rest of the day. Let’s hope the weather starts to warm up a bit!</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-13192423340084696562017-04-30T11:01:00.001+01:002017-04-30T11:01:40.537+01:00Oxford and Beyond<p>We continued down the length of the Oxford canal …..</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CH_FhfzHvDg/WQW1IcR_n-I/AAAAAAAAnE4/CEXkCDS1AFkO9PC2e5u-1EpuziEbmadFACHM/s1600-h/P10302731"><img title="P1030273" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030273" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eUrQCo9xANE/WQW1JvbLu7I/AAAAAAAAnE8/9LxilGpBPDMXrIJWXhNtTxcQWX89JWU-ACHM/P1030273_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="500" height="321"></a></p> <p>…. passing through Somerton Deep Lock. At 12 feet it’s probably one of the deepest locks on the system. With the very pretty cottage next to it, it’s a well known landmark.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WSCdzSiIDcg/WQW1LAg5tRI/AAAAAAAAnFA/t5D9dxsN4ckr5TDOIOH7PufXhWuoLfKdQCHM/s1600-h/P103027911"><img title="P1030279" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030279" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eaVwJbf60gs/WQW1L3jCCAI/AAAAAAAAnFE/V2QG4gQ9teQ_Wej5UDoYIjuE_VVZrtBNgCHM/P1030279_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="495" height="321"></a></p> <p>Our mooring for Sunday night was Thrupp – a tiny village but a very welcoming one to narrow boaters. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hmvV6t9jH4w/WQW1M5nTR-I/AAAAAAAAnFI/nFi2h85ruj4sXtlSbAp0ulgk3-GUT5UZgCHM/s1600-h/18056914_1399947430028571_1177583654%255B1%255D"><img title="18056914_1399947430028571_1177583654204234643_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18056914_1399947430028571_1177583654204234643_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8PPrvmsxBaQ/WQW1Nu8qSBI/AAAAAAAAnFM/8VQsYERovOA7k9Xf0QUwjx6YiUSATpCNACHM/18056914_1399947430028571_1177583654?imgmax=800" width="488" height="279"></a></p> <p>Quite by chance narrow boater, and blogger friend, Maffi (nb “Milly M”) was ‘in port’ when we arrived in Thrupp and we just had to meet up with him in The Boat for a few pints together. Grand evening Maffi – thank you for your company!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bxZHnsBO_-Q/WQW1Okegy7I/AAAAAAAAnFQ/7McfWqU5feQ7oulCAbzIO9du4M9XQUE3ACHM/s1600-h/17992137_1986455058346501_6619419616%255B2%255D"><img title="17992137_1986455058346501_6619419616669033150_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="17992137_1986455058346501_6619419616669033150_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tIRvTpUnzoU/WQW1PVhxNtI/AAAAAAAAnFU/RN9hnkWDXCEQCE7h-AJ1PWkE34Bi8q5VQCHM/17992137_1986455058346501_6619419616%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="484" height="308"></a></p> <p>After our evening with Maffi we were on our way Monday morning, reaching Oxford by mid afternoon. We were pleased to find our favourite mooring free. Just a few yards from Hythe Bridge Road and a five minute walk to the city centre, it’s not an easy mooring to get at as it’s a 100 yards down a dead end with no way of turning – so you either have to reverse down or reverse back wards. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CfOMi3gdEcM/WQW1QK0bRaI/AAAAAAAAnFY/44aNKr0mwCAGJgmGsMYAdA61SWsCvJ-nACHM/s1600-h/P10302801"><img title="P1030280" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030280" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zQmkUSDXECs/WQW1RAp55AI/AAAAAAAAnFc/6fiDBlGxHxUx8GnvQTrST0k48MZdQAyxQCHM/P1030280_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="485" height="311"></a> </p> <p>That evening our friends Marcy and Phil drove over from their home in Abingdon to spend the evening with us – and a lovely time we all had together. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8nwrq0PyuRo/WQW1SElJGUI/AAAAAAAAnFg/q7r_VDD7CcMjgCG5YhjOOXo1ZleWtKIYwCHM/s1600-h/P10302921"><img title="P1030292" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030292" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9WlVCCWUriY/WQW1Sz-ulaI/AAAAAAAAnFk/kq8-YMweZf0paBuwYk_MimpsS7mQRt_BgCHM/P1030292_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="491" height="323"></a></p> <p>On Tuesday James ‘slipped the leash’ and had an afternoon wandering around this “city of dreaming spires” by himself – a place he’s very familiar with and which holds many memories for him. Oxford can’t be experienced without reference to some of the most stunning architecture to be found anywhere. Oxford University was founded in 1161 and Balliol (above) dating to 1263 has a good claim of being the oldest of the colleges.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fFGn2UI_xGY/WQW1T7FvflI/AAAAAAAAnFo/-7qpxAGHNtMD3zj9qwRLOedGHlPYXkWewCHM/s1600-h/P10303001"><img title="P1030300" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cito3WUX8q8/WQW1UhNZRaI/AAAAAAAAnFs/n1gWdcU8Zj4Rz1DO7drWhlMq9HjcUydIwCHM/P1030300_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="490" height="322"></a></p> <p>The Sheldonian Theatre is a stunning building both inside and out. It was built in the mid 1600’s after a design by Sir Christopher Wren.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JWPdatyQeME/WQW1VqSDiNI/AAAAAAAAnFw/7WFluC5acwkHJqQOUccAmnLODutL-ka7ACHM/s1600-h/P10303031"><img title="P1030303" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030303" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nXi-QBstgcM/WQW1WvVEQUI/AAAAAAAAnF0/7m5Mg8lpH6UeXz5haRAGpcJSfs0tF3KTQCHM/P1030303_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="487" height="312"></a></p> <p>Oxford has its own Bridge of Sighs. Built in 1930, two years after Cambridge built theirs as Oxford could not be outdone! The one in Cambridge is built over a lovely river but Oxford had to make do with a road! It is, however, a beautiful construction. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EnQAmKum7Xo/WQW1XmnkwhI/AAAAAAAAnF4/0rT-IGsM3cAbxwS_hQ0CCz28rNW5WRxmQCHM/s1600-h/P10303061"><img title="P1030306" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030306" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9wxIDG7zkl4/WQW1Yb-QZhI/AAAAAAAAnF8/cVfTp3nIvJ4WBaQdVqMR071bbmslvRNAQCHM/P1030306_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="482" height="305"></a></p> <p>The oldest pub in the city, and one of the most difficult buildings to find, is The Turf Tavern. Its use can be dated back to 1381 when it was called the Spotted Cow. Due to it’s reputation as a centre for horse betting it was renamed the Turf Tavern. It was used many times in the filming of the TV series ‘Morse’. [it’s location can be found down a narrow alley, on the left, just past the Bridge of Sighs]</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mt_m4atxNgI/WQW1ZUGU9iI/AAAAAAAAnGA/R02Exa900lg5ThLOz0QZmK5PV76lVB7uACHM/s1600-h/P10303171"><img title="P1030317" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030317" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PrCSE-6k4rs/WQW1abSrtlI/AAAAAAAAnGE/cgT22Hglg7QTOrhvz4BQdvCzOixH0SfDgCHM/P1030317_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="483" height="319"></a></p> <p>A visit to the Botanical Gardens is a delight – especially on a sunny, if somewhat chilly, day in April! This is the original gateway into the gardens with the bell tower of Magdalen College behind.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PM53sqTC56I/WQW1cJ_ih9I/AAAAAAAAnGI/1_2naLeiLBwNxKOcagURaEZliXZKFRHLgCHM/s1600-h/P103033711"><img title="P1030337" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030337" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ke4Db71sQYs/WQW1c1FoftI/AAAAAAAAnGM/Bto18zkM7mET941-dKW01m6GXZUUd1lTgCHM/P1030337_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="484" height="321"></a></p> <p>On the edge of the Botanic Gardens runs a back water of the River Isis. (traditionally the River Thames, as it runs through Oxford, is called the Isis) – and an old traditional Oxford pastime is punting. It’s a pity they didn’t tell him that he’s standing at the wrong end of the punt!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xmzLnHEHtQU/WQW1d-W-N8I/AAAAAAAAnGQ/YwH5oc_8dOow_j1kRpxwzozQjUAgnwk1ACHM/s1600-h/P10303511"><img title="P1030351" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030351" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CLrgKs7EbeQ/WQW1elJ1e1I/AAAAAAAAnGU/sRSCrQhmcrM8P-Jd3agDrCWkQX2E5q2BACHM/P1030351_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="480" height="314"></a></p> <p>This is a view of the High Street with some of those wonderful ‘dreaming spires’ which Oxford is famous for. The number of Grade I listed buildings in Oxford is exceptional!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eG9uN2_-5XI/WQW1fn1AWtI/AAAAAAAAnGY/aHwUVPTxX-cxSZzKzHD9d65N5NvoI5IrwCHM/s1600-h/P10303561"><img title="P1030356" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030356" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JFeawTwMi9E/WQW1gaybXZI/AAAAAAAAnGc/cDTKfBkyYu0QKSdMxYUL7Iwl47GNzjbmACHM/P1030356_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="479" height="314"></a></p> <p>On of the oldest buildings in the High Street is the University Church of St Mary. It’s been the official church of Oxford University since the 1200s and is the resting place of Dr John Radcliffe. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q9mRewZAqqs/WQW1hT5cQvI/AAAAAAAAnGg/-GkS1C5iEG8vzfgdWZMvqndWpx6lGKFewCHM/s1600-h/P103036711"><img title="P1030367" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030367" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uvwyIKWioqM/WQW1iLVjoFI/AAAAAAAAnGk/OfoEi1Wnu7M3ptz1mHvtywF30MprCmY2gCHM/P1030367_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="487" height="343"></a></p> <p>John Radcliffe died in 1714 and left £40,000 to the university (equivalent to £500 million today). From the original sum the Radcliff Camera (above), the Radcliffe Infirmary and the Radcliffe Observatory were built and the trust still exists today.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FU_C1J8kj3w/WQW1i5Q5lVI/AAAAAAAAnGo/CrQSNI2qQ1041Dw1gUSXKD1c_HcaKQMUACHM/s1600-h/P10303721"><img title="P1030372" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030372" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rS3Ha-9X-8M/WQW1jyUEbBI/AAAAAAAAnGs/HcFsKfJiv1Avey5fzUTDo2eq8zm_64N-QCHM/P1030372_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="484" height="314"></a></p> <p>At the head of the High Street is Carfax Tower from the top of which you can get the most amazing views of the city.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fO3D8tXx_aU/WQW1kl479-I/AAAAAAAAnGw/NrwioZO-_qY-o9cFNHOvpoIrK--MllQOgCHM/s1600-h/P10303781"><img title="P1030378" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030378" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hZ54DSi5oHQ/WQW1lryyJJI/AAAAAAAAnG0/csyO9NoKOJIp_XrTegdV6Fbd--ODlxEegCHM/P1030378_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="485" height="304"></a></p> <p>This view from the tower (on the right) shows Christchurch College and Christchurch Cathedral (which serves as the college chapel!) </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Jc6wyegpDLo/WQW1mgxg3BI/AAAAAAAAnG4/Es7yhRlAZa47buMoqgBWTkJZbgFG3kDWQCHM/s1600-h/P103037911"><img title="P1030379" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030379" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KJz7JqRwHck/WQW1nh3oZBI/AAAAAAAAnG8/rlBgVO4esboHZw5Vd36wiU4f_OLMs1iWwCHM/P1030379_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="487" height="308"></a></p> <p>The Ashmolean Museum is a must to visit – a day is not enough!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Sv6WNUH3Nu0/WQW1oWbEquI/AAAAAAAAnHA/_o-nrVwAPKgH4AimPycqYpeqoGWnybdNwCHM/s1600-h/P103038011"><img title="P1030380" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030380" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nA0ApVZe2TI/WQW1pT5KMqI/AAAAAAAAnHE/G3F10L7SnS8-hxiaJXjTRNvdgNKSXattgCHM/P1030380_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="490" height="317"></a></p> <p>And, opposite the Ashmolean is the fabulous five star Randolf Hotel.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QFThH8RzEUA/WQW1qH0s7GI/AAAAAAAAnHI/rX6TE2gPjoYr0rvCdwaj2SSdcaD5k7IBgCHM/s1600-h/17992053_10212476732137373_456922716%255B1%255D"><img title="17992053_10212476732137373_4569227166130604786_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="17992053_10212476732137373_4569227166130604786_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YICks8mHPr4/WQW1q9sdA0I/AAAAAAAAnHM/9dpWloba9UEv0rIO_Y3ARgVntWNpljaHgCHM/17992053_10212476732137373_456922716?imgmax=800" width="487" height="332"></a></p> <p>On Tuesday evening we had visits from two friends. Debbie (one of James’ oldest and dearest friends). The catch-up conversation was so animated and hectic that we forgot to take a photo! (sorry Debs!) and Paul, who by chance arrived in the afternoon from his home in York for a work appointment. Here we are having a great Thai meal nearby.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Gkv9vDaxrKU/WQW1rzkf46I/AAAAAAAAnHQ/cXVURVyNzR8LMkAKXSmu4FCDT8Z9esdjQCHM/s1600-h/P103040011"><img title="P1030400" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UjR8dSN_0II/WQW1slfrB6I/AAAAAAAAnHU/-vItaAI3LrI0MyKR0v9EglPgPnh6IVZ-gCHM/P1030400_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="481" height="325"></a></p> <p>On Wednesday we left dear old Oxford, passing through Louse lock with it’s elegant cast iron footbridge, and headed onto the River Thames.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fljkk3FRLus/WQW1trtHubI/AAAAAAAAnHY/QTfaZfUcnJsgu1hDzOLfovYeF5vCQzdxwCHM/s1600-h/P103040211"><img title="P1030402" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030402" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oKPvMucWevI/WQW1uUvmGwI/AAAAAAAAnHc/fChNy1BVshAXBlyty08iwpSIwjGel44dgCHM/P1030402_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="480" height="306"></a></p> <p>Its always a great delight to be on “Old Father Thames” – probably our favourite waterway. After the rather underwhelming Osney lock, and still technically in Oxford, comes the delightful setting of Iffley Lock. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6aq-_vQ4ZSQ/WQW1vDPI4nI/AAAAAAAAnHg/0rRl3asuMzUPtqI3rwoT1DBs-xQv7he3wCHM/s1600-h/P103040411"><img title="P1030404" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030404" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FmO3LefpdBE/WQW1wEr_TtI/AAAAAAAAnHk/Mqx0Ls-tlVkn-RwaH_n4IlGlJCHDrJm8gCHM/P1030404_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="481" height="336"></a></p> <p>Onward to Abingdon lock, and our stopover for the night, and we get a rather sarcastic and humorous warning from the lock keeper!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xtXRavYFTAw/WQW1xNBkLMI/AAAAAAAAnHo/u1j7Hahp4Xc4qbqHQiLaztjXRyKlzjVQACHM/s1600-h/P103040611"><img title="P1030406" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030406" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hfOFgXv-848/WQW1yuu89aI/AAAAAAAAnHs/bASzODGEyCYz_VVynGZxlYyESM0X97RpACHM/P1030406_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="476" height="301"></a></p> <p>This is our very pleasant mooring below the bridge in Abingdon.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-L3iv2zrFvNs/WQW1zY0VL5I/AAAAAAAAnHw/8ZYSsF400HIT7jV4uiRXD31mLid1MgrBgCHM/s1600-h/P10304051"><img title="P1030405" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030405" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C2197k9iGVY/WQW10BITf7I/AAAAAAAAnH0/o2fpEjlRKoEzOvSblcCQY6b2dpiXG1UcgCHM/P1030405_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="481" height="325"></a></p> <p>That evening, at Abingdon, we had a visit from friends Simon and Steve who drove from their home nearby to spend the evening with us. We hadn’t seen these boys for quite a while so a catch-up was very necessary. Thanks for coming to see us guys!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gQyn8oq1-ZQ/WQW11B7AjoI/AAAAAAAAnH4/f_PRujtIHjEpCSFs_N3cbofJnoVWBbUlwCHM/s1600-h/P103041311"><img title="P1030413" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030413" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vtPARj3Tyt4/WQW111n2M1I/AAAAAAAAnH8/8UVLaj7Pf7gFn76-H6x-5wQMEAlelEjtACHM/P1030413_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="475" height="311"></a></p> <p>Onward the next day and the Thames throws up something wonderful at every turn on it’s meandering course through Oxfordshire and into Berkshire. This stunning brick built bridge at Clifton Hampden is by Sir George Gilbert Scott.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wreC5u3CmKM/WQW12iLd3qI/AAAAAAAAnIA/GJL0lbfG0bIcPhglJf1jk40LTZByoHH0gCHM/s1600-h/P103042111"><img title="P1030421" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030421" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rpKDGHIlJB4/WQW13ldjDqI/AAAAAAAAnIE/JSu0PszhBYszn2YzuRqy0tf7z57MYNBIACHM/P1030421_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="478" height="314"></a></p> <p>The approach to Day’s Lock is dominated by the famous Wittenham Clumps.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0WIseiNIyVI/WQW14WbSdKI/AAAAAAAAnII/2epMQN-HhPsmnlFAbNBgPvy1EL9k6NRXwCHM/s1600-h/P103042311"><img title="P1030423" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030423" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DULRTauuyJg/WQW15DWrKPI/AAAAAAAAnIM/niweU356zvcbT3ot2cPzFLEslQiCgh6wQCHM/P1030423_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="480" height="306"></a></p> <p>Just after Day’s Lock is the confluence of the River Thame with the River Thames (rather confusingly!). It’s upstream of this point that the Thames has been historically known as the Isis. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Bio_WzcwweU/WQW16Nv74RI/AAAAAAAAnIQ/u81MAmUzbL4gGfUzwULY-fcsdqOkc0gOgCHM/s1600-h/P103042711"><img title="P1030427" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030427" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MEh2OOzx7Cw/WQW169m_7aI/AAAAAAAAnIU/AZONQ5Z1fcw04M_AeMJWM8ND5y3aK53awCHM/P1030427_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="472" height="311"></a></p> <p>On a very tight bend in the river at Shillingford we start to get a taste of some of the truly impressive residences that share their frontage with the water.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hpeDtwaRU_Q/WQW18TUQhNI/AAAAAAAAnIY/iHstMDWU1pQY946Hz5dCIZWHaP_7tJjNgCHM/s1600-h/P10304281"><img title="P1030428" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030428" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OWkqM_lEIHo/WQW19EU5HRI/AAAAAAAAnIc/6r4HC4Azm2oH_5LImzFq5zmuR3PBqEsNgCHM/P1030428_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="475" height="313"></a></p> <p>The quiet ancient market town of Wallingford had the privilege of our company on Thursday night. Today there are still quite a few buildings dating back to the 16th century which survive to this day.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bfQTNgLSgDg/WQW191TylXI/AAAAAAAAnIg/flj1eHRmgoE_30gduDma14NkMU5kmFbgwCHM/s1600-h/18119278_1403578636332117_2822606593654858929_n%255B5%255D"><img title="18119278_1403578636332117_2822606593654858929_n" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="18119278_1403578636332117_2822606593654858929_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JUizKh64ifE/WQW1-4LIj4I/AAAAAAAAnIk/96sj0nKHl4M1nM7mWzNKBG3guB6L2-o7ACHM/18119278_1403578636332117_2822606593654858929_n_thumb%255B3%255D?imgmax=800" width="477" height="326"></a></p> <p>The town may have had the privilege of our company but we had the privilege of the company of boating friends Sue and Vic (wb “No Problem XL”) who were moored just upstream of where we pitched up for the night. We were invited onto their new, and very impressive, wide beam boat for drinks - which went on until quite late! A grand evening was had by all and thanks to you both for your company and comfort aboard the marvellous “No Problem XL” </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-46o4emkmKOw/WQW1_gZIvnI/AAAAAAAAnIo/cKsnvLl5KiI7f_sUa0LGMvjkZlbgqpXzQCHM/s1600-h/P103043211"><img title="P1030432" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030432" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nQOdaYSqprA/WQW2ASKz08I/AAAAAAAAnIs/5aIVpEiAj9YJB27FknoTvT94KkqzJwS_ACHM/P1030432_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="479" height="318"></a></p> <p>A serene scene of the river from Wallingford’s seventeen arch bridge (!) – we’re moored far centre of the pic. So far the weather has been good, if a little parky occasionally, and the river has behaved itself with just a gentle flow to help us on our way. We look forward to the rest of this magical waterway.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-45036973380884597012017-04-26T13:09:00.001+01:002017-04-26T13:09:03.923+01:00An Island visit and then “Chance” at last!<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zPkP0jgMEOw/WQCLPwUtuOI/AAAAAAAAm_w/k4c6m4LH_NU-GnSEUtC4irvxip7XtMZEQCHM/s1600-h/P103018311"><img title="P1030183" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030183" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6TT_R7-vM0w/WQCLQ6zQkwI/AAAAAAAAm_0/pg5Sero34hoQmw0_RfJEvcbaZxqUryB4gCHM/P1030183_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="488" height="321"></a></p> <p>The Easter weekend had us travelling to the Isle of Wight for a couple of days. The journey across the Solent just had to be done on the new hovercraft, which has recently been brought into service. This craft never ceases to impress as it slides gracefully from sea to land ……..</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DDS_ykkj1bQ/WQCLSDUTTpI/AAAAAAAAm_4/hqQe6Y_TFIsD0AVzBgYVA9xUUO8TOjPXACHM/s1600-h/P103018411"><img title="P1030184" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030184" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oDd8pUfgwBg/WQCLTCR3ffI/AAAAAAAAm_8/AQKuXRmBYtUfekOSp7ETx69_9l28Wez8gCHM/P1030184_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="489" height="330"></a></p> <p>……. and then settles down, skirt deflated, onto it’s hardstanding ready to disgorge it’s passengers.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wtUnP5tA3c0/WQCLUSOjidI/AAAAAAAAnAA/78wyN_tkq1I3RF8DZLKIanF0d3QaRvqPACHM/s1600-h/P10301851"><img title="P1030185" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030185" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yQ6TE066nzE/WQCLVYmr5kI/AAAAAAAAnAE/Yh8381QexS4mwiBihhUjwqnNy11sQIn7ACHM/P1030185_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="492" height="329"></a></p> <p>Within minutes a full compliment of passengers were offloaded and then it was our turn to step aboard.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--M9jyVDzrZY/WQCLWX6XxYI/AAAAAAAAnAI/f_qoit0hSoMHIop8a1ywcbcMcUppwtW8ACHM/s1600-h/P103018611"><img title="P1030186" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030186" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JV4XvhE449E/WQCLXUVKoMI/AAAAAAAAnAM/mJbLu5yjjyQVNng2gU_Gz35LIVs-bxzZACHM/P1030186_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="492" height="329"></a></p> <p>Being almost the first to get on we briefly had the entire craft to ourselves. It’s very much like boarding a plane with very similar layout – just a lot shorter! Ten minutes after leaving the mainland we arrived in Ryde and were met by friends Jonathan and Graham.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZIdokiAwftw/WQCLYgQhttI/AAAAAAAAnAQ/l99YBnhpm5oPZum6dT_Y1mXzakrC0Qn-QCHM/s1600-h/17883794_1390983830924931_8665895655%255B2%255D"><img title="17883794_1390983830924931_8665895655789308415_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="17883794_1390983830924931_8665895655789308415_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M54XD1E1HSA/WQCLZoeHvHI/AAAAAAAAnAU/oDp0YZY1hLQy_NlONJYANY8RMgomlEMTgCHM/17883794_1390983830924931_8665895655?imgmax=800" width="491" height="319"></a></p> <p>They took us straight to one of our favourite places on the island for a cup of coffee and to meet up with his parents Sylvia and John who we hadn’t seen for quite a while. Here we all are enjoying the delights of Bembridge Harbour.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FSplX7VXZ9w/WQCLasVux3I/AAAAAAAAnAY/fzVbrYmDWM4GqmVYq3Haqdg8CTQCEOWSgCHM/s1600-h/17903690_1390983207591660_3735321986%255B1%255D"><img title="17903690_1390983207591660_3735321986250560264_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="17903690_1390983207591660_3735321986250560264_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DXme_ERKAsE/WQCLbyHn9II/AAAAAAAAnAc/LTXCFzfl26sZFS7uAebMALHEhqNUyxIdwCHM/17903690_1390983207591660_3735321986?imgmax=800" width="500" height="336"></a></p> <p>After going back to Jonathan’s to dump our overnight gear, and to enjoy a celebratory glass of bubbly to mark the occasion of meeting Graham for the first time, we headed off for a walk over Bembridge Downs and onto one of the many fabulous beaches the island has to offer. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YsZ4wFNDV2w/WQCLdGgdrXI/AAAAAAAAnAg/TTQ-M1qCM0Av2VTXCFKcPlHAhHgpmf7dgCHM/s1600-h/P10302051"><img title="P1030205" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030205" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n8BjhF2emH0/WQCLfjHqbyI/AAAAAAAAnAk/eLENxY31ZWMkqPF8rC3-1VFrOeSY63BOQCHM/P1030205_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="494" height="342"></a></p> <p>Varied and spectacular beach scenery to be enjoyed. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QyqSeyip0Eo/WQCLgoNVjCI/AAAAAAAAnAo/W_c88GpT3RMmGFtIcSG0Uz3pBfnOSGQ_gCHM/s1600-h/P10302001"><img title="P1030200" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SdS0izg3XZE/WQCLhlS9FyI/AAAAAAAAnAs/A6e80RxVPko1yUVxGWxqjsJQ0fn6qX_TQCHM/P1030200_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="493" height="337"></a></p> <p>Here we are on our way back across Bembridge Down after spending some time fossil hunting along the beach. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MsuiSQUwLLg/WQCLiy-1vtI/AAAAAAAAnAw/VPCVjjIovYQCnQauwB5k2l7aX3FqTBxBQCHM/s1600-h/P10302061"><img title="P1030206" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030206" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B-NSE7DRxg0/WQCLkL9DjlI/AAAAAAAAnA0/WHA1EvFXcXYWv3HyrsAFviBpxNPTF5_YwCHM/P1030206_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="494" height="339"></a></p> <p>Back at Jonathan’s home we sat outside and watched the evening sunset and the awesome views which he enjoys every day.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fvA89Hb-PBI/WQCLlO_lQ0I/AAAAAAAAnA4/q4niyerPOYo2SKLLqaKie8UiCaC1MBO1gCHM/s1600-h/P10302161"><img title="P1030216" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030216" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mdqIXr0coXI/WQCLmGUb_UI/AAAAAAAAnA8/kpoXBVu5UykQDVgTKM1sU9o7U4Ump1YNgCHM/P1030216_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="287" height="377"></a></p> <p>This is the huge obelisk on Bemdridge Down which Jonathon calls one of his “garden ornaments”! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6Epc9JbRcVY/WQCLnZMIchI/AAAAAAAAnBA/8X4dWgf0c58UzJN5-5hjiwaD47o-K9zawCHM/s1600-h/P10302171"><img title="P1030217" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030217" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xZCoF4H9eho/WQCLopv75XI/AAAAAAAAnBE/caOXliIRpwsU8LLmrfJy_s-9h_F5JfNqQCHM/P1030217_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="485" height="329"></a></p> <p>After a lovely meal in the local pub, and a very good night’s sleep, we headed off on Saturday morning for another good walk along the cliffs towards Sandown.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zZFhUsBUmUE/WQCLp3X0dtI/AAAAAAAAnBI/JJ9mWHbuHscgUH71LrP3iumCTKAO19yfgCHM/s1600-h/P10302181"><img title="P1030218" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030218" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rjoPGdbWams/WQCLq98W2fI/AAAAAAAAnBM/Px5jYfcHfd4kNPcNKq2o8GsmgTK2e5pngCHM/P1030218_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="484" height="322"></a></p> <p>Graham, Jonathan and Doug at the half way point.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MwwygId4CjA/WQCLsKTMvaI/AAAAAAAAnBQ/6gVe9cPIWXQvUUDgEIaGJauqRqg5pNSnQCHM/s1600-h/P10302201"><img title="P1030220" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030220" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uDXYdiunMkc/WQCLtIludUI/AAAAAAAAnBU/idK08byNavQDoEBPo_UNUQkh0FXiBoGTACHM/P1030220_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="485" height="337"></a></p> <p>Deciding that the beach looked a more interesting place to walk we took a precipitous route down the cliffs where there had been one the island’s many landslips. A good fifty acres of land, probably a few hundred years, decided to head towards the sea and neatly slipped down to reveal a new cliff some two hundred yards further back. Sadly this natural phenomena continues to this day and the island is steadily loosing ground.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-N6RxogOpQOg/WQCLuAWwHvI/AAAAAAAAnBY/50n0NZ1OI9Unqb9uX_Di7WDeLAjmdBrUgCHM/s1600-h/P10302211"><img title="P1030221" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030221" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y_P7ueycf1E/WQCLvF80rpI/AAAAAAAAnBc/pFC3zH0hYtk-BEVYrWQE53ehJwuduAaLwCHM/P1030221_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="287" height="383"></a></p> <p>On the beach, and heading towards our brunch at a café in Yaverland there was some interesting features to see for those with a geological bent. (James!).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-elpxfL17HSs/WQCLwU89F8I/AAAAAAAAnBg/wAUkZuInxPof4RPDuq7LLdeZYdeqAtpyQCHM/s1600-h/P103022811"><img title="P1030228" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030228" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8IHgVzZrSgg/WQCLxSPYItI/AAAAAAAAnBk/1lup53EuSzMXdo_gTSqc9k_0caC28YNdACHM/P1030228_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="486" height="332"></a></p> <p>Well, our 24 hour visit to the island, and the tremendously enjoyable catch-up with Jonathan and Graham, came to an end and they took us back to the hover terminal at Ryde for the journey back to (as the Islanders call it) the “north island”. It’s great to watch as this unique method of transport glides smoothly but rather noisily onto the concrete standing. We had a brilliant short stay on the island and thanks so much Jonathan and Graham for such an enjoyable 24 hours – marvellous to be on the Island again!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PPTDZX3OKxU/WQCLy1oAiRI/AAAAAAAAnBo/DF96kGDp0FgjnbYG32w9Do4j_oa3zsOaQCHM/s1600-h/18011174_1393687610654553_3156257735"><img title="18011174_1393687610654553_315625773516351720_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18011174_1393687610654553_315625773516351720_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qzgq9p8_dEQ/WQCLz2dJtsI/AAAAAAAAnBs/c3sfiux52Dw3N43bEyGhGNM6x86jDQtJgCHM/18011174_1393687610654553_3156257735%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="493" height="230"></a></p> <p>Another 24 hours was to pass and we were up at Barby marina, loaded up “Chance”, did the necessary inspections before taking to the waterways for the first time this year. “Chance” weathered the winter extremely well and all that was needed was to attach the Taff rail and dodger at the stern, carry out the engine checks and press the start button.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-X8ns2l3yeYY/WQCL0reBFiI/AAAAAAAAnBw/jobvGI_4AKMIFEzbUJEwXqB_LZT9y3LtwCHM/s1600-h/17991981_1393687557321225_8978592620"><img title="17991981_1393687557321225_8978592620107055702_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="17991981_1393687557321225_8978592620107055702_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z2RksoafFB0/WQCL1ohhRUI/AAAAAAAAnB0/uxqJQr5sBNEZQQcomvv5VYtRirgy_zhhgCHM/17991981_1393687557321225_8978592620%255B2%255D?imgmax=800" width="230" height="421"></a></p> <p>Here’s James, doing a short stint as a lone boater, while Doug transferred the car to Braunston - our destination for the first night..</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--e0kQeAVpx8/WQCL2g39LqI/AAAAAAAAnB4/8_Z5Osv8fJEH67DheehKqcqehDoK5N4OQCHM/s1600-h/18010374_1394896200533694_2736226779%255B1%255D"><img title="18010374_1394896200533694_2736226779025304259_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18010374_1394896200533694_2736226779025304259_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WhkPzZFT36s/WQCNRJg0BnI/AAAAAAAAnCE/ec5FH9ZYpz88YwhhzmUfnm_I9G7ELLgvQCHM/18010374_1394896200533694_2736226779?imgmax=800" width="492" height="283"></a></p> <p>Our stay at Braunston was enhanced wonderfully and dramatically with a visit by boating friends Del and Al (nb “Derwent 6”). Here we are in the Plough having dinner together. There was much laughter and mucking about ……… </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gix07M-At70/WQCNSJwNjpI/AAAAAAAAnCI/-iaKiWhL2dMOCPe1FRjBNQPpoii5kXNDACHM/s1600-h/18033997_10211799382170273_200221028%255B2%255D"><img title="18033997_10211799382170273_2002210280430486916_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18033997_10211799382170273_2002210280430486916_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nYZS9SVbjE4/WQCNTOvfKjI/AAAAAAAAnCM/lxjB3iMK0co0tHCiyU7bJETb3z5xQxSbwCHM/18033997_10211799382170273_200221028?imgmax=800" width="248" height="340"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IQt53UfpzDE/WQCNT_5et7I/AAAAAAAAnCQ/y4RTGKPLDhkAoi5oA_k6l6eVHs1Ei918QCHM/s1600-h/18034180_10211799145084346_308197763%255B2%255D"><img title="18034180_10211799145084346_3081977638900723886_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18034180_10211799145084346_3081977638900723886_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SSlOpjTldzs/WQCNUxFOXmI/AAAAAAAAnCU/VmeEVcpIib047zQPWiw33ca9ZB99EGcKACHM/18034180_10211799145084346_308197763?imgmax=800" width="244" height="340"></a></p> <p>….. as can be seen in these pics. This was a Facebook contest to decide on the best looking couple! Thanks Del and Al for an amazing evening (as always!).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CGMIYc9BanQ/WQCNWPWJqgI/AAAAAAAAnCY/g8vDIfBiOoo9zfpKgdtk_fp8GS6MEf45ACHM/s1600-h/P10302371"><img title="P1030237" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030237" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jpL443zAm84/WQCNXdM3JNI/AAAAAAAAnCc/TPNlBsOZKF0rqm9AEamC8Aid0RWY6cDbQCHM/P1030237_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="483" height="312"></a></p> <p>From Braunston we headed down the Oxford canal which was made all the more delightful by the springtime country views.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-brVYkJJwL_Y/WQCNYiv2vAI/AAAAAAAAnCg/o36z8dElcFEWh7bi4_eDwWZYMm9E3U-KQCHM/s1600-h/P103023911"><img title="P1030239" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030239" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Kg_0nYoCkbI/WQCNZjRW-QI/AAAAAAAAnCk/-K_hrN-wpyU_x35syvGJM3R3MpI05qQYACHM/P1030239_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="485" height="327"></a></p> <p>As we were experiencing the “Blackthorn Winter” (a traditional couple of weeks of cold weather during the flowering of the Blackthorn) there was a comforting wisp of smoke out of the chimney from the stove below.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yRDB0iITQsE/WQCNbVkhJpI/AAAAAAAAnCo/Tkg1hD2SR5QmXitEPvQbZ1kjSFYCAJfRwCHM/s1600-h/18136187_1985778045080869_882372315_%255B2%255D"><img title="18136187_1985778045080869_882372315_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="18136187_1985778045080869_882372315_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aIS-G9JmWRo/WQCNdsBxE2I/AAAAAAAAnCs/Ks0sd_2lE0MkqEVPdc33XJWqYHm94V44gCHM/18136187_1985778045080869_882372315_%255B1%255D?imgmax=800" width="493" height="263"></a></p> <p>Getting to the bottom of the Napton flight of locks for our second overnight mooring, we caught up with another couple of boating friends, Sian and Mark (nb “Mochyn Du”). There was another great catch-up we enjoyed over a lovely meal in The Wharf that night. Here we are :- Sian, Doug, Mark and James with the landlord, Mark (who provided some astonishing entertainment for us with his card tricks.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dB9iAj1GMYk/WQCNe4aUdZI/AAAAAAAAnCw/59bNHogPpU44wZg6QAJLV9utRyxWzttrwCHM/s1600-h/P10302412"><img title="P1030241" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030241" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FUxa9pzFznY/WQCNgO8oopI/AAAAAAAAnC0/ONfFV396lbwh9O80vsvzCDyxyepjihcEACHM/P1030241_thumb3?imgmax=800" width="490" height="337"></a></p> <p>After another good night’s sleep we were on our way again, starting our journey up the Napton flight with the help of Sian and Mark – bless them!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VU-DXCuBoLY/WQCNhDv5bqI/AAAAAAAAnC4/_iXsLrWwSJI2V83XdcPNPvdk7jmN4twlgCHM/s1600-h/P103024311"><img title="P1030243" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030243" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3Sqx66KuuTY/WQCNiFrHSvI/AAAAAAAAnC8/TumvnNOzy2IApkGnpAEsYr1SRzEs-m4LwCHM/P1030243_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="490" height="348"></a></p> <p>Thanks to you both for a grand evening and help with the locks.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QpWVVBOl5oY/WQCNjnFj_hI/AAAAAAAAnDA/nIXhH-cHgCcSruttoAsZTSaKc0cxGbD9ACHM/s1600-h/P10302451"><img title="P1030245" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030245" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5D7n_FyhX-k/WQCNkoNy-gI/AAAAAAAAnDE/yillWJLxyp4Ux6NVUWdthpNnFfuErtXxwCHM/P1030245_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="494" height="329"></a></p> <p>After the Napton lock flight we were on the top “pound” of the Oxford canal and enjoying mile after lockless mile of gorgeous countryside.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--56kGBibKp0/WQCNlXhia0I/AAAAAAAAnDI/XNcQ5GIb5zAnuNmRWLnDwhpMZp3jtRlRACHM/s1600-h/P10302491"><img title="P1030249" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030249" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-96lOCT1_6io/WQCNmz224cI/AAAAAAAAnDM/CgmykHDtYzEVlbC8eeBh-2xUvVjXl1FSACHM/P1030249_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="497" height="327"></a></p> <p>Wonderful ! - this has to be ultimate definition of tranquillity.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j61jsI6UoPY/WQCNoJzxBLI/AAAAAAAAnDQ/HvvHXtO1p9wLZeAXuoorPXmDnakmYcPJQCHM/s1600-h/P10302501"><img title="P1030250" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030250" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RfjS_0Jly8U/WQCNpHrLC4I/AAAAAAAAnDU/3iI3Nfrr1KM1Y_uDYW-7SgTRlO1q6mVZACHM/P1030250_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="496" height="328"></a></p> <p>We stopped for our third overnight mooring at Fenny Compton were we met up, for the first time, with internet correspondents and boaters Rick and Tim. Here’s Doug, Rick, and Tim with their dog on board “Chance” before going to the pub for a meal together. It was great to meet these guys at last! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ncThRU6plVY/WQCNqRNj03I/AAAAAAAAnDY/NzME3du3GK4pdotQW0DfELwsIx6IT9ZDwCHM/s1600-h/P103025111"><img title="P1030251" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030251" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NyWUV5287-I/WQCNrqMO2pI/AAAAAAAAnDc/jQOytfNlr5Uj6zufKpEC1Q--ekuBzAJfQCHM/P1030251_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="494" height="324"></a></p> <p>Up and away again the next morning we continued our enjoyment of the Oxford canal. So much to look and wonder at – here’s a wonderful rookery, very visible at the moment before the trees come into leaf to hide it.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9CRR3_X2eWw/WQCNsxDNxeI/AAAAAAAAnDg/r2b5QEUphaM5oyR4-BcfjHIA648Mir5mwCHM/s1600-h/P103025311"><img title="P1030253" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030253" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KC-SueKYacA/WQCNtxhSB9I/AAAAAAAAnDk/-Kl4QPjMd-YGEMIy8tePy3UmhUhylzXpwCHM/P1030253_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="496" height="330"></a></p> <p>The southern section of the Oxford canal is regularly punctuated with lift bridges. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ndh_QeStYaY/WQCNvStlKCI/AAAAAAAAnDo/goYGrDvK1wYk1KxINBTvqxzHfOTqrn-NACHM/s1600-h/P103025511"><img title="P1030255" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-WBSsLoyFmMQXkyLxD4qpRVzmHb3OF0jf0Q9ULSnuniQmj8Whv8FmdhUUEAVfyqKzIvSAktr2iAyr1YOZlzM8-nv9I67KwskN6PQLnBDtNU_tY9ud3ATG6GrjW3JOZ7v-j_qUEAiNuo/?imgmax=800" width="495" height="326"></a></p> <p>Thankfully these days they are all left in the raised position, saving us a great deal of time and effort.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9nPk01sJUOU/WQCNx9ZK8VI/AAAAAAAAnDw/fb4Vv2cSYo8n3I7xbNdPbt_hfitqC8T9ACHM/s1600-h/P103026011"><img title="P1030260" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030260" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C9tOzRubIAQ/WQCNy1RFkWI/AAAAAAAAnD0/pBQtak4x-cwPEo0YZOsegDp9NeZmMn4DwCHM/P1030260_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="497" height="331"></a></p> <p>Here’s “Chance” temporarily moored up and waiting for the lock at the pretty village of Cropredy …….</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zcr0xyMWr_8/WQCN0H_yr8I/AAAAAAAAnD4/ODp1wu6ZoFArx_g5yfe1tzYbB9G2LelPACHM/s1600-h/P10302661"><img title="P1030266" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030266" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Qj93XkuggeA/WQCN1J5aBtI/AAAAAAAAnD8/Z1MmtKfqbXw0Yutx82LRWKor_6A5I0EWgCHM/P1030266_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="495" height="328"></a></p> <p>……… and after that we were soon moored up in Banbury to do a bit of shopping. Very few boats around at this time giving us as much mooring space as we liked!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KzXVRZ0QO68/WQCN2Xrs2sI/AAAAAAAAnEA/pp8OBWaQZC8CxBH9kuxNlvtWklC7eVwiwCHM/s1600-h/P103026911"><img title="P1030269" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030269" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4WrZadtZvpQ/WQCN3TpTnZI/AAAAAAAAnEE/bgS-rrnjBqYtJtkLVbwxuopPp771nTmJwCHM/P1030269_thumb2?imgmax=800" width="496" height="327"></a></p> <p>Further on, after the shopping was done, we continued south towards Oxford, getting on and off the short bit of the river Cherwell buy using a couple of these very strangely shaped locks to do it.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-63740671068813624362017-04-13T18:05:00.001+01:002017-04-13T18:05:35.382+01:00“Chance” is for Sale!<p> </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m81aRuXDfV8/WO-vgRK0QAI/AAAAAAAAm9c/ZkIuA8WZEBs/s1600-h/Cam-ARA_10235.jpg"><img title="Cam-ARA_1023" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Cam-ARA_1023" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yFqp7J3nJRE/WO-vjEtarlI/AAAAAAAAm9g/tN6jFVwO43k/Cam-ARA_1023_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="495" height="324"></a></p> <p>We’ve decided to put “Chance” up for sale from Easter this year for £85,000. Detailed information can be found on the enclosed website. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4uSq1GWxl-k/WO-vkji3HNI/AAAAAAAAm9k/4W8M5OKiGOE/s1600-h/Chance-exterior-35.jpg"><img title="Chance exterior (3)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Chance exterior (3)" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iA0K_gezUmM/WO-vli1NSgI/AAAAAAAAm9o/e92O3u101q0/Chance-exterior-3_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="501" height="327"></a></p> <p>Built by MGM Boats in 2011 “Chance” is 58 ft cruiser stern narrow boat with traditional layout (rear bedroom). Beta Marine 43hp engine with PRM gearbox. Mikuni powered central heating feeding bedroom, dining and saloon radiators and bathroom towel rail.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CD2GuhJMobM/WO-vokrtLRI/AAAAAAAAm9s/bq_rfhklxVY/s1600-h/IMG_07455.jpg"><img title="IMG_0745" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0745" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VVX5ST878LE/WO-vsIx5evI/AAAAAAAAm9w/2gH2kCQ54XU/IMG_0745_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="505" height="338"></a></p> <p>4x110 amp hr leisure batteries, electric bow thruster. Large fresh water, black water and diesel tanks. Hot water by immersion heater, engine or Mikuni. Fitted with 240v travel pack and 1800w inverter.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eVZUTyOHXi8/WO-vumcYShI/AAAAAAAAm90/zT9UfJQB8Kg/s1600-h/Chance-0085.jpg"><img title="Chance 008" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Chance 008" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A1-deWe44Y4/WO-vvrW_jPI/AAAAAAAAm94/MyKoM-i3gBw/Chance-008_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="339"></a></p> <p>Galley comprises:- double stain steel sinks, gas hob and oven, 240v fridge freezer and full size automatic washing machine. Galley and bathroom extract fans.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_4mt-Z5z5Uc/WO-vyxFIm2I/AAAAAAAAm98/-MVnpFo4qi4/s1600-h/Chance-0155.jpg"><img title="Chance 015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Chance 015" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IJWFR7Zh15U/WO-v0B-kDMI/AAAAAAAAm-A/5AabQdhIhHY/Chance-015_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="501" height="350"></a></p> <p>L-shaped diner converts to large double bed, large and small dining tables. Two side hatches.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mptc0LydlPs/WO-v2GTl_AI/AAAAAAAAm-E/Slt2GMM8BXw/s1600-h/0025.jpg"><img title="002" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="002" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZYNTEztup0Y/WO-v3cC_4NI/AAAAAAAAm-I/YsYp0TWxvZ8/002_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="505" height="348"></a></p> <p>The interior is fitted out in American Light Ash. Carpeted saloon with two leather reclining chairs and foot stool. Morso Squirrel solid fuel stove. Double doors to front well-deck with lockers for gas and bow thruster. TVs in saloon and bedroom.</p> <p>Full details are on the website below. </p> <p><a title="https://www.apolloduck.com/feature.phtml?id=513096" href="https://www.apolloduck.com/feature.phtml?id=513096">https://www.apolloduck.com/feature.phtml?id=513096</a></p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2523079345071110804.post-29192781442110046072017-04-12T18:20:00.001+01:002017-04-12T18:20:50.946+01:00A Marathon Blog!!<p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m08hjgZSwww/WO5hIZM7m9I/AAAAAAAAm6Q/X3wCvog4OXc/s1600-h/P10301281.jpg"><img title="P1030128" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030128" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tZ5SI8B5IfM/WO5hJpNYxpI/AAAAAAAAm6U/SfRDeXU9kr8/P1030128_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="495" height="338"></a></p> <p>A week ago we had a long overdue catch-up with friends Alan and Kim when they came to see us. After a pleasant walk along the sea wall to see our new lifeboat station we went back home for dinner (cooked by James! – surprise or what!).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q5yjz9GhwWw/WO5hLDvopuI/AAAAAAAAm6Y/gLZX5S25w8g/s1600-h/P10301241%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030124" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030124" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h0VS8JU6ZYk/WO5hMC9iglI/AAAAAAAAm6c/A3svl66ZrhA/P1030124_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="285" height="384"></a></p> <p>On our return we found squatters in the back garden!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M0C9AlN9o7U/WO5hNXYr8sI/AAAAAAAAm6g/ssNtC4ZVWME/s1600-h/P10301381%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030138" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030138" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BWs8Ytt0exQ/WO5hOBtgkPI/AAAAAAAAm6k/gDh9pA-E_BE/P1030138_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="502" height="348"></a></p> <p>The weekend of the 8th / 9th April was the Brighton Marathon and our daughter Vicki, and her partner Ian, came to stay with us as they were due take part. After getting to our designated park and ride venue at 7 o’ clock Sunday morning we found we had to walk a mile to board the buses! On the way we popped into the Brighton and Hove Albion stadium for a wee-stop. James has never seen inside a football stadium before! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2EN5uCS9mD8/WO5hPWLT54I/AAAAAAAAm6o/3_OARgT9xRo/s1600-h/17861477_1385648988125082_1988340928%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="17861477_1385648988125082_1988340928061901040_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="17861477_1385648988125082_1988340928061901040_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ys8daaJQ_Vs/WO5hQTXqhLI/AAAAAAAAm6s/FESI4kgZTfo/17861477_1385648988125082_1988340928.jpg?imgmax=800" width="499" height="284"></a></p> <p>At Preston Park we met up with Vicki and Ian’s friends Fiona and Robbie. Here’s James (who was not running), Vicki (who was to run the marathon but she developed ankle problems and has deferred until next year), Fiona (running the 10k), Ian (running the 10k) and “Ironman” Robbie (running the marathon).</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TuMa1cdzavk/WO5hR92ZrjI/AAAAAAAAm6w/OEBSZgCGPBo/s1600-h/P10301431.jpg"><img title="P1030143" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030143" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lh_9IMPOj9M/WO5hStx50eI/AAAAAAAAm60/0dbo3S3mNqA/P1030143_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="496" height="319"></a></p> <p>The 10k race started at 8:30 and Fiona and Ian are about to go through their respective ‘start gates’ – red and blue. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-w9lDroCdO0o/WO5hUESbFKI/AAAAAAAAm64/A9wnr8Ne7m4/s1600-h/P10301451.jpg"><img title="P1030145" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030145" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gNFegDhBfg0/WO5hU965wnI/AAAAAAAAm68/yHuudGXggzo/P1030145_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="493" height="324"></a></p> <p>The crowds in Preston Park were quite amazing! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SJ8ifxJgavE/WO5hWQZ1uAI/AAAAAAAAm7A/zRsDQgbgceM/s1600-h/P10301471%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030147" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030147" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aexLQB0DvHw/WO5hXIDZ15I/AAAAAAAAm7E/y8UIhpHZWfM/P1030147_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="493" height="325"></a></p> <p>Ready, steady ……..</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ei4PAOHVXVQ/WO5hYukMSVI/AAAAAAAAm7I/p0LW7ctU-Gw/s1600-h/P10301481.jpg"><img title="P1030148" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030148" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xvYNjyAx7f4/WO5hZnl4efI/AAAAAAAAm7M/UTFwzTSZxIE/P1030148_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="495" height="332"></a></p> <p>…….. go!!!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fdhVknLOFcU/WO5ha__pGQI/AAAAAAAAm7Q/su-bl5skMwQ/s1600-h/P10301491%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030149" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030149" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WLtrxugOyTU/WO5hb3-qLCI/AAAAAAAAm7U/pkmRVaf-omM/P1030149_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="494" height="321"></a></p> <p>We managed to spot Ian, who was well towards the front of the ‘red’ group who started first …….</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jYjKoY4JazQ/WO5hdQK2SwI/AAAAAAAAm7Y/b6wtDbwiadA/s1600-h/P10301501%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030150" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030150" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YicS0xt39hM/WO5heMoG1qI/AAAAAAAAm7c/lcCbinqTD-c/P1030150_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="493" height="311"></a></p> <p>……. and, not long after, the ‘blue’ runners started to come through with Fiona looking very buoyant!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xiZyEDj1Svw/WO5hfjwvy_I/AAAAAAAAm7g/QJfEb4g2I7I/s1600-h/P10301581%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030158" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030158" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LtZ6pmSiAz0/WO5hgeVZPZI/AAAAAAAAm7k/rBPfpz_qwMA/P1030158_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="496" height="330"></a></p> <p>Vicki, Doug and James took a brisk walk through the town towards the finishing line at the seafront and were able to see some of the 10k runners (on their much more tortuous route to the finish!)</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5wqhYanMGg0/WO5hh6KHFRI/AAAAAAAAm7o/nJ78WcfsjLU/s1600-h/P10301611.jpg"><img title="P1030161" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030161" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dR9ESk6cmOA/WO5higoV3JI/AAAAAAAAm7s/jwyE7LTMvfk/P1030161_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="491" height="321"></a></p> <p>The iconic Royal Pavilion looked glorious in the morning sunshine. </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--6ebiIp_D_g/WO5hji8SG-I/AAAAAAAAm7w/mOtEMVgLJ-k/s1600-h/P10301641%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="P1030164" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030164" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RDSivWCo4EU/WO5hkohsrBI/AAAAAAAAm70/zU_OEKiSO7k/P1030164_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="490" height="328"></a></p> <p>We managed to get as close as we could to the finishing line just before Ian came past. With just 100 yards to the finish he had a very respectable time under his belt.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EXhq1Qv4gIo/WO5hly3kDGI/AAAAAAAAm74/rGGhJIiNj6s/s1600-h/P10301661.jpg"><img title="P1030166" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030166" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WBr7R6Lg_VI/WO5hmqLpHpI/AAAAAAAAm78/atpMhcinkGc/P1030166_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="488" height="330"></a></p> <p>Here are the lovely couple reunited after Ian had collected his medal. Well done Ian!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HFRwg_4s1Lg/WO5hoD6FrkI/AAAAAAAAm8A/78QmrFeagkM/s1600-h/17634789_1385709811452333_6763053111%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="17634789_1385709811452333_6763053111949460043_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="17634789_1385709811452333_6763053111949460043_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W2Y1x6ODzws/WO5ho6Rs23I/AAAAAAAAm8E/8SyUvUDzv9E/17634789_1385709811452333_6763053111.jpg?imgmax=800" width="489" height="255"></a></p> <p>For James it was also very tiring work watching all these people running around! Joking aside, at the end of the day, Vicki’s fancy wrist watch cum ‘everything medical, physical and sporty’ said that we’d actually walked over 10 miles! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lYxNnxPjUck/WO5hpxYUFEI/AAAAAAAAm8I/KQdYyiLmRaY/s1600-h/P10301721.jpg"><img title="P1030172" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030172" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t5jYWW90O6U/WO5hq4EKOII/AAAAAAAAm8M/8lEeNlMWJ-c/P1030172_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="493" height="343"></a></p> <p>After Ian and Fiona finished we were able to watch the marathon runners (who started at 9:15am) at various points along the route. Here’s a very fit Robbie (who’s seems to have enough energy to lark around as well!) coming along the seafront before heading off to Portslade and back! </p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-utmhCCSXMj0/WO5hsV50ojI/AAAAAAAAm8Q/T8GTlLg_Fxw/s1600-h/P10301731.jpg"><img title="P1030173" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030173" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zVlOSgDW2iA/WO5htKuG6RI/AAAAAAAAm8U/CBzuL_NeCjQ/P1030173_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="494" height="316"></a></p> <p>After seeing Robbie off on his way to Portslade we all went to a café in St James Street for breakfast and it was there that we were able to get close up with some of the 20,000 marathon runners.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YNep1r0C7cA/WO5hurkfJ-I/AAAAAAAAm8Y/fvnpgQLgElw/s1600-h/P10301741.jpg"><img title="P1030174" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030174" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zifTHPDOlNI/WO5hvdLWbHI/AAAAAAAAm8c/RHSe92-l8Nk/P1030174_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="495" height="332"></a></p> <p>Some sporting some weighty outfits! ……..</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3xzirkSD1N4/WO5hwz1WwrI/AAAAAAAAm8g/NIAEA0eBuZU/s1600-h/P10301751.jpg"><img title="P1030175" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030175" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-obTJx8O8nZg/WO5hxxXwZiI/AAAAAAAAm8k/RGoft-1gnqc/P1030175_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="492" height="335"></a></p> <p>…… and some entrants putting the rest of us to great shame!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5K0afSmn9Uw/WO5hylnXW-I/AAAAAAAAm8o/bqVq-MX7aAc/s1600-h/17796795_1385821044774543_4735054522%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="17796795_1385821044774543_4735054522171610033_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="17796795_1385821044774543_4735054522171610033_n" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sk0yS-faYks/WO5hza17dXI/AAAAAAAAm8s/PSdePG6ur8Q/17796795_1385821044774543_4735054522.jpg?imgmax=800" width="497" height="254"></a></p> <p>It was a great surprise to find a couple of our cruise friends (all the way from Ipswich) also in town. We joined Darren, who’s wife Jen was running in the marathon, and his friend Tracey for drink while all the others were pounding the streets!</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JUYXoA9jEzU/WO5h0mvI6NI/AAAAAAAAm8w/U7lsz_Fuz9k/s1600-h/P10301771.jpg"><img title="P1030177" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030177" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-E4zXLOHwQA0/WO5h1kfbQsI/AAAAAAAAm80/MeMKbhYc7Ho/P1030177_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="493" height="320"></a></p> <p>Here are some views of the seafront, the crowds and the runners.</p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m39ezpgq6tA/WO5h2zmssuI/AAAAAAAAm84/m5YjTv6sG98/s1600-h/P10301781.jpg"><img title="P1030178" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030178" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PFeyxgyqDas/WO5h3-XziHI/AAAAAAAAm88/3ZM0Xgu98Lg/P1030178_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="490" height="313"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-19Z3tXJEGTY/WO5h5a16wBI/AAAAAAAAm9A/xlq-t8WPXPQ/s1600-h/P10301791.jpg"><img title="P1030179" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030179" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WxG0F9OJSWc/WO5h6dyEknI/AAAAAAAAm9E/3B38lu3H_bU/P1030179_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="490" height="333"></a></p> <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o-hiQ2c6R3M/WO5h7kxjNCI/AAAAAAAAm9I/hnf9vZtmUcI/s1600-h/P10301811.jpg"><img title="P1030181" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="P1030181" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kAusN00jECA/WO5h8WQlSdI/AAAAAAAAm9M/HhGv-PcH4os/P1030181_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="491" height="329"></a></p> <p>It turned out to be an amazing day of excitement and success for Ian, Fiona and Robbie, who all returned amazingly good times. Vicki was disappointed not to have been able to enter but there’ll be other marathons and, of course, Brighton next year. It was a great day to remember.</p>nb Chancehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02516211585572154808noreply@blogger.com0