Annie Ogg

I’ve Been a Day Rover for many a year…..

2011-10-04T04:09:00.001-07:00

Well the title isn’t quite true as I was a Day Rover for only a day but hey was a pleasant day out. As far as my Blogs go I’m still back in the summer holidays this particular day I thought I’d get a day rover ticket from the post office go to Leeds and then get the first local train from the station. The ticket is good value £6.50 and is valid for trains or buses in Metro area.

If I had thought earlier I would have got my ticket the day before as I meant I had to get a later bus into Leeds than I wanted. Got the bus that went the long way round but didn't mind as I enjoyed the ride looking at the scenery and listening to an audio book. The main problem I have is been attracted to Junk food on these trips, it was near dinner time when I arrived so ended up in MacDonald's.

Its surprising what you find down side streets, this time it was a large glass fronted building.

The first train in was going to Bradford so got on that planning to go to the Photography Museum.

It had been years since I was in Bradford and was pleasantly surprised seemed to have cleaned and continuing to clean up the place.

Although some buildings have seen better days a shame really. Think it may be the New Victoria theatre although it doesn’t look very new now.

Near by is the Alhambra Theater

The new and the old.

Very close by is the National Media Museum. This is another of these places I hadn’t visited for years, well before my kids were born. My main memory of the visit was seeing a life-sized hologram (well I thought it was a hologram) of Lord Litchfield or was it David Bailey. Been trying to look it up but can’t find a mention of it on the internet, so may be a figment of my imagination. I was a little disappointed with the Museum bit of the place as not as much there as I remembered but there again I may have missed big chunks of it, found it hard to navigate. The main reason for going was to see an exhibition called “The Lives of Great Photographers”. That didn't disappoint. Images from all the expected people such as Daguerre and Talbot to people like Bill Brandt and Tony Ray-Jones.

http://www.nationalmediamuseum.org.uk/PlanAVisit/Exhibitions/LivesOfGreatPhotographers/Gallery.aspx

The link above has a selection of the images that were there.

In future I will have to write my blogs while the exhibitions are still on that is if I ever catch myself up.

On my way back to the station I called in at another gallery advertising a photo exhibition. The most memorable bit of this visit was the chewing gum I has stood on sticking to the highly polished wood floor and making a loud squelching/squeaking/sucking sound every time I lifted my foot.

The Photo’s themselves were odd, well in my opinion, they were all to do with people who want and have been frozen so they can be brought back in the future. There were some of the containers that are used for the process. I found the whole thing macabre especially the portraits of the future users of this process. I didn’t look too long as I found it a bit disturbing but I got the impression these people were going to end their lives in a controlled way so they could be frozen. Although I don’t disagree with assisted suicide, this some how seemed different and to an extent sinister. Perhaps that’s my lack of understanding. Any way I didn’t think the photo’s were very good.

It was still only mid afternoon and it was a lovely day when I got on the train. So rather than go home I decided to get another bus and go to Kirkstall Abbey.

Across the road from the Abbey is the Kirkstall Museum, in the past I had been there a few times its like a condensed “Castle Museum” in York. Across the road lay the ruins of Kirkstall Abbey. From the road the ruins look impressive but as it’s in an urban area and I had only seen from the road before had somehow believed the ruins were small. Yet again I was proved wrong. The size soon became apparent and I saw lots of it was in pretty good nick too.

I had about an hour before it closed so I did feel a bit rushed but its free to get in so another trip could well occur. There is a public park area close by and perhaps by walking a bit further from the ruins in that direction I could get some good shots. This trip I had to make do with around the abbey instead.

So here ends another enjoyable day out.

All the photos can be seen Here

Painter of Moonlight and a walk by the river.

2011-09-06T08:24:00.001-07:00

Another day I had free I thought I would go to the Mercier Gallery in Harrogate to see an exhibition by Atkinson Grimshaw. He was a Victorian painter born I believe in Leeds. He is a painter I hadn’t heard of before but having looked him up on the internet thought he would be well worth a visit.

This day it was raining so seemed the ideal day to go to a gallery. To get there I had to go to an area of Harrogate I hadn't been to for years, around the pump rooms and the valley gardens.

All seemed even posher than I remembered and if it hadn't been for the rain could have been some where much warmer sitting out eating yer tea.

The exhibition itself was incredible the feeling of light in his paintings smacked you in the face. The pictures I had seen on internet just didn’t do them justice. There was also an exhibition of photo’s by Liza Dracup called Chasing the Gloaming, which are images made in response to Grimshaws. I enjoyed both these exhibitions immensely.

old hall under moonlight Atkinson Grimshaw

It was still raining when I left the gallery so on my way back to the car I found myself in various shops, so had to do some shopping cos it would be rude not too.

Not so long before I had been for a short walk by the river and saw there were some impressive reflections and had thought they could make some nice photos. That evening the rain had stopped so decided to return there with a camera this time instead of the battery guzzling excuse of a compact. I also took a tripod as well but found there was a light breeze. Not much but enough to cause ripples and the grass and wild flowers to move. All though I could get what I was after still took some photos.

To take photos I have to take off my glasses this time I put them in my camera bag which I left open each time I moved further along the bank. I finished and put my camera away and walked carrying my semi folded tripod to the car park. I dumped the gear in the boot then realised my glasses were in the bag. Nooooo they had fallen out so had to back track along the river bank and was very lucky to find them in the long grass. This was the first stage of me taking on the role of Granny. I decided to buy a cord to hang my glasses around my neck.

More What I did on my Holidays, Skipton Castle and Embsay

2011-09-06T04:02:00.001-07:00

Skipton was a place that when I was younger had been to a few times mostly at night to pubs for the odd folk night. Was never really impressed and in my memory at least the pub landlords were never that receptive to the music. On these visits I had seen signs to and walked past the castle but had some how got the impression there wasn’t much of it there. However something clicked when I was in the Dales shortly before reading leaflets in the pub, the Castle turns out to be one of the best preserved in Britain and nearly 900 years old. Was last modernised 300 years ago. Lady Anne Clifford carried out extensive restoration, after it was damaged during the Civil War.

This spurred me on to visit, and I wasn’t disappointed. On arriving in Skipton I parked the car up and decided to walk along the canal to the road near the Castle. This was perhaps a mistake as I have a fear of deep water and stayed as far from the water as possible on the tow path. But then had to go under a bridge only enough room(or so I thought) to just pass someone. So this evolved me standing pressed up against the bridge wall as people came passed I couldn’t bring myself to set off until everyone had passed. Finally I set off and half ran to get to the other side. Anyone who knows me will know I’m fairly fat and built for comfort not speed and will realise I must have looked a sight.

The offending bridge yes I know there is a fence. But I was still way too near the water.

On entering the castle I was very impressed with what I could see and the further in I went it was still impressive. There was still a roof and everywhere just looked as if people had just moved out.

Arched doorway to the courtyard.

The Courtyard with the 300 year old Yew tree

Kitchen roof

View down the toilet.

The great Hall

various rooms windows and drainpipes.

After a walk around went back outside and had a coffee sat out in the sunshine and then set off to go home stopping again near the canal where there is a statue to the great Yorkshire bowler Freddie Truman.

There was still some afternoon left so stopped on the way back at Embsay Station bought a platform ticket and found there was a train coming in shortly. I know nothing about trains and was a little disappointed when the train arrived and the engine was coming in backwards. This was the last train of the day and I very nearly got on it for a ride to Bolton Abbey and back again. I decided it would then make it too late for me getting home.

This is somewhere I intend to visit again when I have more time.

To end the day I had another hiccup in my navigation skills and drove home nearly getting lost after taking a wrong turning was too busy singing along to Bob Dylan. Wasn’t really lost but had a bit of a detour before I got back to more familiar roads.

See all photos here.

There and back again………and we finally got there.

2011-08-29T01:29:00.001-07:00

On the day before I went to collect my Mum from respite I woke early for some reason. My two daughters had said they were going to come over that afternoon and we would go out. I lay in bed and was thinking I had while until they came around and in a moment of madness decided to drive out to West Burton and back. When I had been up there earlier in the week the photos I took weren’t very good so had another go. Didn’t work that well this time either but a bit better. No matter though I enjoyed the ride out and the messing about with my camera.

Got back home again well before dinner time. Had arranged with my two daughters an afternoon out and perhaps a picnic. Got a few butties made and Lois and Kat arrived, we had decided to go to Brimham Rocks a place we would go occasionally when they were kids. Unfortunately I think I had warn out my internal navigation system with the 96 mile round trip I did in the morning. Lois drove and I navigated from the back seat. For some reason I went totally the wrong way and it was only as I realised we were getting near Bolton Abbey that the penny dropped, we were miles away. No problem I thought we would back track and turn off again towards Patley back up the road. Still wasn’t 100% sure of directions despite comments from Kat, saying we most be it right area as we were driving through countryside. Well we saw lots more “countryside” before we got there. The countryside there is beautiful and so in my opinion was worth the extra hours driving through it. Well that’s my excuse and I'm sticking to it.

Brimham Rocks is an area of weird and wonderful rock formations,the area is managed by the National trust who look after the car park and paths. We only managed a short time there as we had arrived rather late eating our picnic in the car and a rushed walk around. All in all was a good day.

All photos can be seen here

What I did on my holidays 2011 Whitby.

2011-08-18T11:16:00.001-07:00

My future son in-law works in Whitby and my daughter had suggested that one day I could get a lift with him to Whitby and then get a train back. So on the Thursday evening I went over there and stayed over night so I was up the same time as them.

Our first stop was dropping Kat of at work and then we went to Costa coffee and Steve bought me a coffee. This was to kill a little time as Steve had to call at a wholesalers on the way this morning.

Had a very pleasant journey over there, stopping once at a view point. I did take some photos but none I liked, its a breath taking view but hard to get a photo that expresses it. A panorama might have worked but I didn’t pull it off.

Steve is the manager at Graverley’s fish restaurant in Whitby so that's were my day started from along with a coffee I admired the incredible views. Must have have the some of the best views in Whitby. The headland here looks especially when the sun is rising or setting.

After my coffee I set off for a walk around after been told to ring if I wanted some lunch. First off I went upwards up the Khyber Pass and up the steps so I was virtually above the restaurant.

Again great views. Some young sea gulls been fed too total oblivious to all the humans around them.

Down again and a walk along the pier. As I have a fear of deep water I stayed close to the centre of the pier when there was water close and didn't even attempt to go to the end. Not many people about here just yet and most people that did come were a lot braver than me and went further along than I did.

Time now to gird my loins and tackle the 199 steps up to the Abbey over in the old town at the other side of the harbour. There is the choice of the steps or the Donkey Slope up to the top.

Its well worth the climb up there. First arriving at the Saxon Church of St Mary.

Instead of carrying on to the Abbey I wandered around the other side of the church to the cliff top a cracking view from there too.

The views from the cliffs

Next I went to have a look around the Abbey this is now an English Heritage site. I do realise these ruins do take a lot of maintenance but I did think it was expensive for what is there. Still an interesting place lots of atmosphere.

Set of back down to the old town

great views out to sea.

One of the many ginnels.

By this time I was getting hungry and rang Steve to tell him I was going to go for lunch. When I arrived I was made very welcome and seated at a table looking out at the harbour and was soon tucking into a fabulous meal. I have no idea what it was called but it looked fantastic, my only regret was that I didn't take a photo of it. The whole thing was served on a grey slate. A selection of various fish and seafood. I don't know much about fish and its a few weeks ago now so I hope Steve will forgive me if I get the types of fish wrong. There was Halibut some cod I think, scallops, Big prawns and deep fried battered whitebait, this was served in a miniature deep fryer basket. I really enjoyed the whole meal. After that I had a black forest cheesecake which was also delicious. The waiting staff were excellent too and very friendly. I would recommend Graveley’s any time and not just because of family connections. Thanks Steve for one of the best meals I have had in a long time. While eating I was able to watch the tide come in.

on the way to the Station

By this time it was time to set off to the station. The quickest way I think would have been a bus to Scarborough then train to York. But I decided on the more picturesque route and took a train across country to Middlesbrough then on to York. Part of this journey is part of the north yorks moors railway when the steam trains run to Whitby but if you get off at Grosmont to get steam train to Pickering. I love train journeys as its easy to relax perhaps listen to music and look at the scenery. All in all another good day out.

See all photos from this Album here

What I did on my Holidays 2011….. Wensledale and beyond..

2011-08-08T05:08:00.001-07:00

On the last morning I had thought to go up to the gallops early and take photo’s of moving horses. At 6 am I woke to the sound of hooves on tarmac. The first batch of horses were on their way up to the gallops to exercise. Getting out of bed yawning I made my way to the window and looked down on the passing horses. The next thing I knew I was curled back up again in bed and snoring. Finally rousing myself around 7.30. got up grabbed camera and went out. Was too late to go up to the gallops as I would have missed breakfast so I sat outside trying to get a shot of the horses coming over the rise near the village cross thingy. The landlady saw me outside and very kindly brought me some coffee, they treat their guests well at the Black Swan.

Yet again I had a full cooked breakfast and after another few coffees got my bits and pieces together and set off home. As it was still early I drove home via Knaresborough and had a wander around this time leaving my camera in the car. Sat a long time near the castle gazing at the famous chocolate box view. I love it there no matter how many times I see it.

After an enjoyable few days away I arrived home, decided that had lots of the day left and would go for a walk towards the fly over and down a public footpath I haven't been down before.

Race Course from the flyover.

The path looked inviting and mysterious but lead, just as I thought, to a path at the side of the Old A1.

Lots of wildflowers and insects at the side of the path though.

Further down the path and close to the new A1 some fields.

What I did on my Holidays Wensledale day 2.

2011-08-06T07:16:00.001-07:00

Got up early ish and had a very unhealthy cooked Breakfast. Decided on a round trip in the car through Coverdale and ending up at Hawes then back to Middleham. The drive through Coverdale was beautiful. Landscape very bleak a lot of the way narrow single track roads, which I wouldn't want to tackle in bad weather. In snow they would be impassable. Just my luck though for the first few miles I hit road works so was either following a tar wagon or waiting to pass one. Then had a few miles of loose chippings so the speed was down to a minimum as I listened to the chips ping off my car. Eventually arriving in Kettlewell and walk about and a coffee. Don’t know why but I took no photos here. Its a very pleasant place to stroll through two or three pubs some coffee shops and the usual gift shops. What I remember it most for is the place where the Leed’s Morris tour starts and finishes on the May bank holiday.

Kettlewell Leeds men’s morris tour may 2010

They dance at Kettlewell despite the weather Kettlewell 2010 at the end of the day.

From Kettlewell headed out for better roads to go to Hawes but went on a slight detour to go to Hubberholme to the George pub. Was very disappointed to find it was closed and had a for sale sign up. Didn’t get to look around the church either as a couple of vans were parked near by in the easy parking spot and I had lost the enthusiasm for looking by this time.

Onwards towards Hawes stopping at West Burton on the way. We have a couple of photo’s on the wall at work of the falls there and although I have been with the Morris there many times I have never seen them and wasn't really sure where they were. But they were easy to find and well worth the visit. Although I felt would need to go back again to get better photo’s.

Had a good walk around Hawes then went to the rope works not much happening there and down to the old station.

Here there is an old steam train which is used as part of the Museum next to it. Thought it was a good way to exhibit old things. Yet again didn't take many photos.

Set of back to Middleham going along better roads stopping on the way at Aysgath and a pub there ( i don't remember the name) for lunch had a very tasty but expensive wild mushroom risotto. A slow touristy drive back. A kip then a fish from the chippy in Middleham and a walk around the village and just outside it. Followed a public footpath that appeared to go no where just lead to some goats in a hut. Then a night in the pub.

What I did on my Holidays 2011 Wensley Dale, day 1

2011-08-06T02:57:00.001-07:00

It seems ages ago since the Scottish trip but over the last couple of weeks I have managed to get out and about a bit more.

The last week in July Mum was in respite for a week so made the most of it . This is a continuation of that week.

Tuesday morning found me taking a leisurely drive up to Middleham on arriving there dropped of bags and booked in and then went off to Leyburn for lunch where it is always impossible to park. The plan was fish n chips out of the paper but couldn’t find a chip shop that was open so had to settle for a pub lunch that was very good. I had Cumberland sausage in a giant Yorkshire pudding, yum.

Then a short trip to Aysgarth falls. Only went up to the top falls but not much water in them, plenty of people paddling and walking out on the rocks.

There were no cafes or shops open around about as the electric board were doing some work so decided to go up to the cafe up the road for a coffee. That was closed too. Had a strange War wagon thing from the film Gladiators. Seemed a bit random to me as I hadn't heard it was filmed around here. Robin Hood was and a few other movies too. Anyway didn't take many photos of it as had a long range lens on camera and didn't have time to change it as would have had to pay for parking.

A detail of wagon

church at Aysgath from the same car park

After that went back to Middleham had fish and chips there in a (polystyrene tray not paper) had a mooch about Middleham and then a few pints in the Richard the third before bed.

some buildings in Middleham.

What I did on my holidays 2011 day 1 Leeds.

2011-08-02T11:17:00.001-07:00

On Monday I took my Mum into respite for a week and although I felt guilty leaving her I was determined to make the most of my week.

As I arrived in Wetherby a bus to Leeds was in although I saw its was the one that went “around the houses” to get there. Undeterred I got on the Bus and settled back relaxing to listen to my Audio book. Although the journey was enjoyable my choice of bus turned out to be a mistake as be made clear later. So now for a wander about lunch and a look see.

A was told years ago when I was a kid that if a virgin walked past these lions they would roar. I have never heard them!

Outside the Art Gallery people playing on the giant chess boards. (wanted to say playing in the Sunshine but the day was dry at least)

The main reason for my visit this time was to look at the Damian Hirst exhibition at the Art Gallery it is part of the “Artist Rooms” exhibitions that are doing the rounds at the moment. I have never been sure about his work all though some I do like its the using dead animals and pulled apart butterflies I’m not too sure of. Never having seen any of them in the flesh I thought I would at least give it a look and perhaps I might change my mind.

This was one of the exhibits “Away from the flock” a dead lamb in a tank with formaldehyde.

Even less sure now.

Its only a few months since my last visit so I only went in the rooms that had changed since the last time, the idea was I would move on to what had been the The Civic Theatre when I was at art collage a few (well a lot) years ago. The theatre is now the Leeds City Museum .

When I was a student Jacob Kramer Collage had buildings at either side of the theatre. We had to get from the main building to the other via a passage that ran back stage of the theatre. As I hadn't been in that area of Leeds for at least 20 years I was very interested to see how it had changed, I also like museums. I was gob smacked to see how different every thing looked. There was still an Art collage at one side of the theatre not sure about the other though. Unfortunately the museum was closed. Apparently a lot of this type of places do close Mondays for cleaning.

the view from the Museum

The civic Hall

and a rather nice sculpture.

After satisfying my curiosity I decided to head back and get a bus, didn't have to wait long for a bus. This time it was a direct bus great I thought home sooner. Here my mistake showed when I handed over my return ticket a different bus company, hay hum had to pay again. No matter only hiccup in a good day out.

A saunter and a soaking

2011-08-01T15:37:00.001-07:00

My last blog told of a trip to Skye, this one concerns the day after that. Not feeling as energetic as we had the day before. Susan and I set of for a walk into town, while Walter stayed home playing with his photos. I was pleasantly surprised by Livingston, a river walk leading towards the town. We walked as far as a large civic building which had a cafe open to the public. So we stopped to have a drink (well it would be rude not too). I went to the counter to get the drinks and Susan spoke to some of her ex work colleagues . I had just sat down at the small table and put my coffee down and handed Susan the glass of milk she had asked for. So far so good !! Then out of the blue much to the amusement of other people in the cafe Susan had some sort of twitch in here hand and the paper cup with the milk in flew at me, missed me though although it did get my camera bag but it didn't soak in. Had to sponge it down when we got back to Walter’s. Although I liked the idea of the smell of stale milk getting stronger as the train got hotter and a large circle of emptiness developing around me as passengers left my carriage.

Here are a few impressions of Livingstone

A SHORT TRIP OVER THE BORDER

2011-07-25T00:08:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday morning 8.30 I finished work for the summer. So after a few hours sleep I set off for a couple of days with some friends in Scotland. Having arrived at the station early I settled down with a coffee and listening to an audio book on my phone so wasn’t really listening to the announcements a train came in and I heard the name Edinburgh said. Edinburgh was also written on the side of the train so I got on found my seat number then sat down. As the train pulled away I looked at my phone and wondered why the train was pulling out 10 minutes early, about 5 minutes after that I found out. Yes I was on the wrong train the ticket collector told me. At least this train was also going to Edinburgh and the ticket guy said to stay quiet about it so I didn’t have to buy a fresh ticket. Despite this shaky start had a very pleasant journey up laid back listening to the soundtrack of the Clockwork Orange, and looking at some of the best scenery in country. What more can a girl ask for.

passing through Newcastle

On arriving in Edinburgh I was collect by Sid and taken over to Walter’s. Sid went back home to get some sleep and we were joined by Susan and after a natter over a dram we all retired to prepare for an early start.

Very early the next morning we were up and ready, Ionwan and pouch arrived first and we packed up the car then Sid made a brief appearance and as he wasn't feeling to he had to drop out. Walter bravely took over the driving and off we went. The famous five Walter, Susan, Ionwen and Buggod (I not sure of how to spell pouch’s name)

First stop Loch Lubniag, The water in this part of the loch is really still and like a mirror but not much further down it is not as smooth.

This Loch seems to be a popular place with fishermen as there were a few tents about and lots of rods lined up on the shore. No people they must have been still asleep.A place where fishermen leave their tackle out overnight!!!!

Onwards then stopping at Tyndrum for a coffee and bacon roll. Good value for money can recommend the bacon roll, £2.50 stuffed with 4 rashers of bacon. Everyone fed and watered it was back on the road again.

Heading up through Glen Coe towards Fort William stopping near Buachaille Etive Mor and then the Meeting of the waters.

The drive through the mountains was incredible with Buachille Etvive Mor looming up as we passed looking more dramatic due to the cloud covering. All though when we stopped to take photos I seemed to concentrate on the pass ahead and a wild flower (Rosebay Willow Herb) They have recently become a bit of an obsession and feature alot in photo’s on this trip. We drove on in the hopes the clouds would lift the further north we went. We did stop again at the meeting of the waters although not much water in the falls,when we got back Walter showed us some photo’s he took not too long before when the falls had a lot more water in them.

We stopped this time at Spean Bridge,stopped to give the dog a bit of a walk and to stretch our legs.

Then went went to Eilean Doonan or Eileen Donnon or Eric Doorman or what ever we decided to call it, this came about as Walter once miss spelt it and so we gave it a different name each time we mentioned it. Any way we stopped to take photos its such a picturesque place even I couldn’t fail to get a shot.

or two

This was the last stop we made before reaching the Skye bridge. Going over there was a road sign “ Please tell your passengers to belt up” unfortunately I wasn't quick enough to get a photo of it and I think Walter decided that obeying it with three females ( four including the dog but she only understands welsh) in the car perhaps wouldn’t have been the wisest decision.

The drive from the Bridge to Sligachan was breath taking. Looking at the Red Cuillins untill the Black Cuillins finally came in sight. We stayed at Sligachan near the bridge and had a picnic and spent some time just looking around and taking photo’s. I can’t remember the last time I was up in that area but it was certainly more than 25 years ago and being there brought back lots of good memories.

A view of the Red Cuillins

The Black Cuillins

Then it was time to set off back we stopped again at Eilean Doonan this time the light had changed. So got a shot from another angle

And then another shooting into the light from the other side.

The clouds were beginning to close in again on the way back and it started to rain on and off so wasn’t surprised to see lots of rainbows. This next was one of the complete ones we saw.

Despite this rain and incoming cloud we were able to see the Pap of Glen Coe which was covered with cloud on the way up.

The Rose bay willow herb puts in an appearance again.

Passing Buachaille Etive Mor filmed by Susan “Spielburg “ Wales

After retracing our steps through Glen Coe we stopped on the way back for fish and chips in Callander. Yumm although I regretted the mushy peas the next day, enough said. We arrived back in Livingston around 11pm tired but happy after a grand day out. Thanks again Walter, Susan and Ionwen for a smashing day.

The full album is here

Playing Catch up again…

2011-03-12T12:49:00.001-08:00

It’s been a while again since I posted here so I’m going to try and relate what has been happening and what I have been and not being doing.

Last time I was here I was without a car, since then I have finally got one. Its blue, yep that's about the sum total of my motoring knowledge. It’s a KA so just a small car but just what I need to get to work and back, seems in reasonable nick well I like it anyway.

As shown in the pic I got the Kinder egg, sorry car, just in time for the bad weather and apart from once stranding me at work as it needed a new battery, its done me proud.

Around the time I got my car unfortunately my Dad was taken into hospital so it was extra good to be mobile and to be able to visit him and help out at home. Although he improved and came home for a while he got a chest infection and ended up back in hospital where he died just before Christmas. At least he wasn’t ill for long which was as blessing.

A photo of my Dad with Mum taken in the Summer. A kindly funny man who I greatly miss.

As now my Sister and I are the main carers for my Mum we have found ourselves very restricted as to what can do and where were can go. So not been able go far I lost the inclination to take photo’s but have spent some time scanning old photo’s from my Mum and Dad’s Albums, some of which I may post after I finished restoring. I have also spent sometime organizing and editing photo’s I have had hanging around for ages.

At the end of January the RSPB had a bird watch thingy happening. For an hour on one of two days the idea was to note what birds were seen in your garden. There is a bird table in Mum’s back garden and I know my Dad used to put out food for them and was a keen bird watcher. So I decided to take part. Although I know less about birds than I do about cars,i.e.. my entire knowledge can be written on a pin head in capital letters. The hardest part I decided would be identifying them. So decided to use the camera to record then I could look up in a book later. I was surprised with the results having never done this type of photograph before, although not brilliant spurred me on to have another go a few days later.

and I know not really a bird but was in garden too.

This brings me up to February and in the mean time I have a few ideas for Photoshop projects which may or may not work. I still have a part made comic and plenty of other half finished projects perhaps I may have got some completed before next time !!!!!

ghosts goulies and eBooks

2010-11-08T13:15:00.001-08:00

Its been awhile since I wrote in my blog to be honest I haven’t done much to speak of for a while.

I had no sooner got back to work after the collage holidays when my car totally died. I was just setting off to work and the car wouldn't start rang the AA and because they were busy an independent garage came out to me only to confirm my fears, Rover was no more, it was an extinct Rover. The guy who came was really good though he asked what I did for a living as it was obvious I was doing a night shift. When I told him I was a Waking night, he sais his wife ran care homes and realised how hard it would be to cover my shift at such late notice. So he offered to take me to work. This meant going miles out of his way, there are still some decent people around.

bye bye little car.

Not done much photography either as as I have been busing into work not been taking big camera only phone and a pocket one. Mainly took picas of the ginger monster.

seems to have a thing about boxes

Cat and Mouse !!

I did take some photos of work mates the idea was to change in to zombies and things to cut out and use for decorations at Halloween around the house. Only got a few finished though.

Some needed more work than others though heehee.

So photo wise not been too exciting although a couple of weeks ago I did get one of my images in the local paper half a page too so was chuffed at that. The image was one of waterfall in town that I had posted in an earlier blog.

Last week at last I got transport again if only on loan until a suitable car turns up, its so nice to be able to drive to work get there on time and not two hours early and get home half hour after finishing work and not an hour and a half after. I really don't know how people manage public transport all the time 6 weeks or so nearly did my head in.

I have no excuses now I must get back to some photography and some Photoshop stuff which with any luck will be another blog soon.

I recently bought a Kindle eBook reader. This is probably the best gadget I have bought all year. This was to replace reading on my phone. For the past few years 4 or 5 years I have been reading allot of eBooks as my collection of real books had become totally out of hand having filled every available space at home and various books. At first I used a PDA which I loved but then over the last couple of years used various smart phones which were ok but not as good as PDA mainly as the screen was smaller but saved room as only needed to carry one gadget. Now though I find reading on my phone a strain at times so the Kindle with its larger screen seemed to be the answer.

After using this for 2 or 3 weeks I’m still very impressed. I already have a large collection of eBooks and found it easy to convert and put this eBooks on the Kindle. Books for the Kindle on Amazon are now reasonably priced, at one time eBooks could turn out more expensive that “proper” books. Details of the books purchased are kept on Amazon and so they can be redownloaded if needed. These books can be read on kindle reads on other devises to so I can pick up my phone and read if i like and then when i go back to my kindle it will use the wi fi and pick up the book where I left of on the phone.The screen itself is really clear and has the look of a real book. As it isn’t back lit like most other devices which means it reads more like a book and can be read even in bright sunlight. The downside to this is unlike my phone its not so easy to read in bed . I solved this by buying a case which has a built in light. The only other con is that the display is black and white so makes reading the sorts of magazines I like hard. So I’ll still read “real” photo magazines and Art Books.

Hundreds of books in the one place,portable and a long battery life. I’m totally sold and use every day.

What I did on my holidays…….. 6

2010-08-29T10:04:00.001-07:00

After our damp trip to the seaside I thought perhaps the next day I would chance another walk around York hoping the weather would be a bit kinder.

through town to Museum Gardens. Think the stone trough thingys are Roman coffins but I may be making that up.

Stopping next at the Art Gallery for a coffee.

I saw there was supposed to be an exhibition in the University build next door so went for a shuffty but couldn't find it but did find some nice brick work.

Its a cracking old building.

The next bit of my walk around took me on the walls and round to Peasholme Green a few views from the Roman wall.

The Mucky Duck at Peasholme Green

Then I ended up back in town not far from Museum Gardens again. Where I saw an old friend lol. I never seems to see many Buskers but there are apparently a lot. This guy is the only one I ever see if I have my camera.

What I did on my Holidays ………………….. 5

2010-08-21T03:13:00.001-07:00

MY other daughter Lois recently passed her driving test and as thursday is her day off we decided to go for a drive out. Was a bit late in the day but we decided to go to Scarborough and stop on the way for lunch. Almost as soon as we got out of York we hit traffic.

We stopped no the way at a pub I think it was called the “Four Alls” and had an excellent dinner good food good price as well 2 meals for £10. Off we went again into the traffic.

As usual we left bluer sky behind and headed into the clouds eventually arriving in Scarborough in the rain'.

We went and parked up by the sea life centre and went and bought an ice cream and sheltered from rain under the eves of a building.The rain eased to a drizzle so we had a walk around.

Lois thinking “What are we doing here?”

As Lois came down the steps I asked if she would kick the plastic bag that was on the ground out of shot so I could take a photo. What neither of us realised was it had dog poo in it so being a obedient daughter she kicked the bag into the side only to cover here foot with poo.

Not even a very interesting shot but I was thinking more of using in a composite at some time. So hopefully one day it will have been worth the mess.

Took a couple more photos then we headed home again.

What I did on my Holidays ……….. 4

2010-08-20T03:36:00.001-07:00

Part of the reason I was staying at my Daughter’s in York was to look after the house. Kat had asked me to put the wheelie bin out at side of the road as they only come once a fortnight. Easy you may think. But as I went home on the Thursday night I forgot and by the time I got back on Friday morn it was too late. So the first chance I got I decided to take the rubbish to the tip. So I took the bags from the wheelie bin and shoved them in the boot of my car. A bit whiffy and the smell hung around for days.Any way the only dump I knew the way too was in Thorp Arch so that's where I headed.

The job been Jobbed I set of back and realising I had time to spared stopped in the near by Village of Walton to look at the church somewhere I had passed hundreds of times. It didn't seem to be open but I had a wander around outside.

Then I stopped again at Bilton to see church too. I just took some photos unfortunately didn't find out anything about the place.

As I had been to the Castle Museum recently and saw the displays of civil war stuff and read little bits I thought i might do a couple of mile detour to the Battle of Marston moor monument another place I pass often. The battleground is all farm land now and it seems strange to think of the hundreds that died that day 2nd July 1644 and to know people who we were told about at school fought here. Oliver Cromwell routed Prince Rupert and the royalists annihilated the defeated royalist infantry. I always sided with the Royalists don’t know why guess they always looked more romantic and Cromwell the hard killjoy. A few pics I took of the “battle field”.

What I did on my Holidays …………… 3

2010-08-08T05:32:00.001-07:00

As I was to be bunny sitting here for a couple of weeks I made my mind up to visit places I hadn't be to before or not been to for along time. So on Monday I decided to go to the Castle Museum I honestly don't remember the last time I was there. I got the Bus into town then as it was getting near dinnertime I decided to look for somewhere to eat. Every where seemed very expensive but as I walked a bit out of the centre I found a cafe which seemed ok. Only seemed though, when I went up to the counter I was ignored by a young woman cleaning it. Another customer came in she went straight to serve them still ignoring me. Eventually I got served and made my second mistake of the morning. I ordered roast beef and Yorkshire pudding. Why a mistake ? When it arrive its was sliced dried up beef swimming in gravy with a minuet Yorkshire pud and a few new potatoes no other veg. While I struggled through my meal two young boys came in, the waitress tried to tell them to leave as they were alone just as their mother arrived. They all sat down and ordered. Then the Women got her phone out and carried out a loud conversation it was like something from the Jeremy Kyle show. She had he husband arrested for attacking her. Then an older woman came in with ,I think her son, and they started talking loudly about his marriage and how he should have divorced her earlier. What exciting lives people lead. I decided I like boring

Anyway enough of that onward to the castle museum . I didn’t take any pics in there but here's a couple I took on the way.

I spent a few hours in the museum starting in the area where the “street” is. This was what stuck in my mind from when I was there years ago. The room settings we very interesting too and didn't take much imagination to imagine using the rooms. Was a bit worrying though when the Vax they had in one part was the same model as one I still use. Then coming to the 50’s room it didn't look that much different to the back room with my then boyfriend when i first left home. Made me feel old LOL.

Was about to feel even older as I went across to the other side of Museum that hadn't been open last time I was there. The military bit was fairly interesting and dealt in the main with the civil war, which isn't that surprising as a lot of it happened in these parts. There there was a toy part. Brought back lots of memories toys and games I either had or my friends had, a magic robot that answered quiz questions, spriograph the original Denys Fisher ones. Paper dressing up dolls Lego and Mecca no. Away from the magic of the toys and out in the sunshine to what had been the exercise yard of the prison. That was marked out with things like hopscotch and other old street games. There was a way to get out of city walls from there.

Looking back from the passage to the other side of the wall. This leads to the river and an old

mill there.

After a sit down looking at river for a while I went back in and looked out the 60’s exhibition. Yet again full of stuff from my youth sounds as well this time coming from an old juke box. Cindy Doll in a case with the same clothes I had for mine. Screens with old footage on them.Lots to look at an old scooter too. At the far end of the room holding the exhibits there are some big doors with a big sign warning the door is alarmed. There I was minding me own business looking at a “watch with mother” clip and the alarm went off. There’s always one LOL. A guy had decided that alarm wasn't meant for him and pushed it any way. No real harm done apart from me wishing I had put brown trousers on because I nearly jumped out of my skin. Then it was time to go into the dungeon cells. A fastinating insight into prison life. Projected actors telling the stories of the inmates of the cells.

All in all an enjoyable day out.

What I did on my Holidays …………… 2

2010-08-05T11:30:00.001-07:00

Had a few Jobs to do in town bank and mundane stuff like that. So on Friday morning I caught a bus into the city centre did the bits and bobs I needed to do and then took a walk around the town. Found a nice little cafe and had some lunch. Then just had a stroll around.

Lots of bikes every where.

Characters from the past window shopping?

Costa del Jorvik

wildlife

City wall a nice church and modern day bustle

That's where my walk finished I think its Gillygate entrance to the city with a glimpse of the minster taken just outside the Art gallery which happened to be my next port of call. Not before time either as it started to rain. I have past that Art gallery lots of times in the past and have never gone in so spent the rest of the afternoon in there. An interesting exhibition about China and some cracking pictures in there.

What I did on my Holidays……..1

2010-08-05T10:57:00.001-07:00

Wednesday was the first full day I spent house and bunny sitting for my daughter. I didn't really do a lot but this evening was the first I encountered the Weir Rabbit since earlier in the year. So far he hasn’t bitten me although when trying to get is bowl out of his hutch he has tried.

he may look innocent but……….

Tales of the riverbank…..

2010-07-28T14:11:00.001-07:00

I have not had much time to start another project apart from the on going ones which involve film and will take a while to get developed. So yesterday I decided to go down to the river initially thought might be a good subject for my pinhole camera. While I was there decided I’d take some shots with my “proper” camera.

These landscape photos with smooth running water always look effective even though they are common place now. So having looked at the photo I took yesterday I thought perhaps that might just lift a mundane photo. Had a couple of attempts there and then but couldn’t get the shutter speed down. People who know me know how bad I am at the technical numbery stuff. Just couldn't get my head around it. So went home and had a read.

Attempt 1

To cut along story short I went back again today armed with a bit more knowledge.

Attempt 2

In the past I have tried to take a photo of fish statue as well but never got one so tried that too was about to change view point slightly but the heavens opened so I packed up. This is the result I will try again I’m sure there's a photo there somewhere.

Photo Project 1

2010-07-03T16:23:00.001-07:00

After wandering photographically through virtual stagnant porridge I came across a book called “50 photo projects” by Lee Frost and it made me look at things differently. The projects varied a lot and some of the ideas I had seen before but had never got around to doing, things like just going out and looking for subjects of a set colour or looking for patterns. Others involved some financial layout such as investing in one of the many toy cameras out there or digging out your old film cameras. I also had a look through Chase Jarvis’s book “The Best Camera is the one that's with you” . Taking the two together I decided to use just my Iphone and any software I can use on it and spend a week using nothing but that phone. I had originally decided to post from phone too, but I upgraded OS and things have slightly changed to poo so using lappy instead . Anyway here are the images I took.

This was this sky that gave me idea just to use phone.

A pleasant evening at the pub perhaps.

A gate on my way into town .This is a place I had some ideas for an image. I will be back with “proper” camera to take some shots for that image. Watch this space.

Abstract images top is my PC mouse and moving camera

bottom one is taking shot of pavement as I walked.

The now peaceful ginger monster who had just spent the morning killing my bare feet. An attempt at colour popping using phone software.

View from window at work. Very grainy and pixely but I done care I quite like.

A moth and a flannel in a measuring jug!!

What's that all about then?

Answers on a Postcard.

Chairs

Window

I can be cute as well

I learnt a bit from these exercise its fun to just go out and shoot. Phone photos can be fun although I need practise to free my mind from convention then i may get some thing more worth while.

Now what shall the 2nd project be?

Mary had a little ….. rabbit

2010-02-26T01:29:00.001-08:00

This week I have been house sitting at my daughters in York and feeding Barney bunny. Not that he needs much looking after really but has been quite entertaining allowing him out of his cage a little while each day. His main hobby it seems is chewing wires so before he’s allowed out cushions are strategically place around the room before the big opening and then Barney charges madly around then settles some what . The first night he seemed fascinated with my left leg and at one point got so excited and bit my ankle, not so sure if he actually bit me but I did get a crack to my ankle. At the time The Killer Rabbit of Caerbannog from Monty Python and the Holy Grail came to mind. But a friend of mine asked if he was a weir rabbit. So its his own fault he may find himself as a character in my next comic book.

This is Barney sniffing my foot just to establish if I would taste good.

Unfortunately I haven't been able to take full advantage of been within walking distance of this beautiful city as I have been at work as well. But as I didn't start work until Tuesday night I did manage to walk into town in the morning which I really enjoyed . It was dry for once even if I had had the chance the weather has been rubbish the rest of the time.

entering the city walls

Minster

get a quite rest here no noisy neighbours

……. went to market

Some asked a while back if that was a real street name so here’s a pic of sign and most of the street too as there isn't much more of it.

The shambles

Hoping it will get warmer to eat outside.

Well my week in York is about at an end what a lovely place

I’ll be back.

New for old two

2010-02-19T13:47:00.001-08:00

The title of the last blog reminded me of Aladdin the panto I wrote about a few weeks ago. That in turn reminded me of my childhood and as I was messing about on my phone I started doing something else I liked doing as a child that was finger painting this time it's done on my phone with fat fingers at least it's not as messy as it used to be. Lol I ain't gunna give up my day job but it fun.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Old for New

2010-02-16T09:02:00.001-08:00

A few years ago I restored an old photo of my granddad and as I was fairly new to Photoshop I was chuffed with the result. The photo was one of three that were found when we cleared my Granddad’s house out. They were on a card type material and were in frames at the back of some religious pictures such as the “sacred heart” and pictures of the Virgin Mary. They nearly went straight on the fire but the frames were good so I pulled them to bits. All three were bigger than A3 size and so had to scan in three pieces and then stitch together.

Looking at it again now I can see joins and the oxidizing is still there so going to redo it soon and have a crack at the other two which are of my great grand parents.

Old family photos are strange this one struck me because I never knew him at 18 which was roughly his age here but when I first saw his face I saw my son looking out at me. Don't know why that should surprise me as they share the same gene pool.

What brought this back to mind was talking to a friend who was telling me he had an old photo of his Mum Dad and brothers and sisters (he’s not on it as he wasn't born) Anyway it is the only one he has of his Dad who died about four years after this picture was taken. He told me it was very badly damaged. So I heard myself saying “I’ll repair it for you “. I didn't realise how bad it was but hey will keep me out of mischief for a while.

This is the photo I have to work on. I’ll post again with the results in a day or two.

This little piggy went wee wee wee all the way home

2010-02-06T13:22:00.001-08:00

A few months ago as I mentioned in an earlier blog, I got an i phone. This has changed they way I do a lot of things. How? I hear you gasp. Well I rediscovered the “podcast” in the past some friends had made some which I had dutifully listened to but not really found the context interesting enough. Not particularly boring but not so I wanted to take with me on my mp3 player (yep yer don't need an iPod to listen) and listen to. Before Christmas this all changed.

One evening I was browsing through i tunes looking at the various apps and contemplating putting an audio book on my phone. The reason being that I had heard Stephen Fry saying how he lost weight by walking and the way he did that was to listen to a book. I already have a few audio books but being the lazy so and so I am could be bothered with the hassle of transferring them to my phone. I looked at the podcast section and there was an intriguing free audio book podcast. This was “ One among the sleepless” by Mike Bennett It had me hooked straight away. From the start its feels a little bit creepy and has you wanting to hear what happens next. I started walking more just so I can listen and even slowing down so I can finnish an episode before I get where I am going. Has got me some concerned looks as I pass someone in the semi dark and giggle. Oh did I forget to say it is brimming with dark humour. Mike Bennett reads it himself and his voice pulls you in wonderfully. check it out here

http://www.mikebennettpodcast.com/?q=one_among_the_sleepless

episodes can be downloaded from there too.

I was so sad when it finished but the day was saved the “Hall of Mirrors” is his next series of podcasts. This time its a collection of short stories equally entertaining if not more so. I’m not to far into them yet but the few I have listened to have some brilliant twists and turns just the right balance of chills and humour , read in Mike Bennett's unforgettable style.

http://www.mikebennettpodcast.com/?q=hall_of_mirrors

I'm so pleased that there is life after “Hall of mirrors” http://underwoodandflinch.com/ cant wait. Although it might be nice to drive straight to work rather than go the long way round so I can hear more. Yep as well as walking I plug it into car radio as well.

Well if you fancy having a listen and the horror type thingy doesn't appeal there are lots more on http://www.podiobooks.com/

Neither of the pics have anything to do with the books mentioned above but thought the blog looked bare and this are the only images I had made that had a “horror” type theme.

Old Hoss and the Minster

2010-01-29T01:38:00.000-08:00

Another couple of goes at using what I have learnt in Painter. One is of "Dick" the horse belonging to Leeds Morris. Done using the impressionist clone brushes.

The other one is of York Minster this time the exercise was using Textured backgrounds and Chalks.

So far they are a bit paint by number ish but I can see some potential.

This little piggy had roast beef……..

2010-01-28T11:48:00.001-08:00

..... an Italian meal as it happened.

Things have been as usual here always way behind with sorting photos and anything out. I finally got round to November. This particular very wet and windy day I had arranged to meet three good friends in York . Walter, Susan and Sid otherwise known as "The intrepids" hell needed to be intrepid to brave that weather. One of our original ideas was a walk around the walls as the rain was that really serious stuff described as "stair rods" I think, that wasn't going to happen so after meeting the three of them off the train we went for some breakfast and a chat. Suited me if in doubt eat and talk. Where we decide to have a trip around the railway museum its free its indoors and its got lots to photograph.

The Railway museum is one of the places that swallows time. After spending half an hour there we found the whole afternoon had past so we pulled up our collars and brave the weather again this time to have a look at St Nicholas’s fair which would have been good but the rain didn't put you in the mood for lingering which was a shame.

We then had a wet but enjoyable walk in the wet streets of York.

After that we settled on a nice little Italian restaurant were we had more food and a good natter. Despite the weather we had a good day out as always and I’m looking forward to a repeat outing.

This little piggy stayed at home

2010-01-25T16:19:00.000-08:00

I can see this is going to be slow going but I'm just impatient . This is the second lesson I have worked through a bit rough but If i had spent more time would have been better but learnt another method of cloning.

I went through the given images and then tried one of my own. This is the worst part of learning any new software knowing what I want but not able to do it yet . I have been looking at and working from a book called "Painter 11 for photograghers" by Martin Addison. The image types are not really my cup of tea but its showing me where stuff is. So so far I'm finding it an informative book. Going to look at one more section tonight and perhaps use what I have learnt on one of my pics tomorrow.

Yet again this little piggy went to market

2010-01-24T12:52:00.001-08:00

This time last year I counted up my small change and found I had £150 so this year l decided I would save up and get a new tripod. When it came to counting it all there was more than enough for my tripod, so have seen the new bamboo touch graphics tablet I decided to get one as well.. This is my third wacom tablet. The first one replaced a ready cheap tablet which was 0K at the time for handwriting bat nothing much else, and when I finally upgraded to XP it wouldn't work as I couldn't get drivers. After a while I decided to try again. This time I got my first wacom a volito it was a waste of time I couldn't get on with it. I put it down to me been tight and going for the cheap end again.

Just over two years ago I was made redundant and as it happens turned out to be one of the best things that has happened to me, but that another story. The point being that when I had got employment again I spent some of my money on cameras and other stuff needed of my hobby one of this was a wacom bamboo fun still at the cheaper end but was very impressed. This time I took to it like a duck to water and with windows 7 can even write this blog with it instead of keyboard.

A few days ago my new tablet arrived. This time in sexy black and with a touch enabled on the tablet. I liked the idea of that because when i was using the old fun I often use to try touching the working area of the tablet instead of lappy mouse pad. So far I'm loving this its as easy to use as its predecessor but the pen is more sensitive. Its still small enough to carry around with me but the working area it more than big enough and this time its better shaped for wide screen.

The other new thing is I have got a trial of painter 11 and I'm trying with varied success to use. The idea being that I will be able to use for free hand painting and mixed media type stuff. So far I have been just playing with the auto painting and cloning and practising using selection tools. Having used Photoshop for a while I think makes it easier and both can be worked on side by side when i get that far. Anyway here is one of my first attempts reworking an old photo using mainly selected auto painting. Not brilliant I know but the only way to get to know a program is to play.

If i manage to improve I might post some more

He's behind you!!!!!

2010-01-16T14:40:00.001-08:00

Work tonight has been one of the more enjoyable nights I have had to work.
Had to get in a few hours earlier but I don't mind once in a while.
Do what was this big occassion?
It was the anual house trip to the panto.
The magic of the panto never fails to get to me. I boo and hiss with the best of them ( oh yes I do) . The jokes still raise a laugh even though they are the same old jokes every year. This year it was Alladin. Scenery incredible transporting the audience to a far off land. This year there were a few packs of brownies and other small kids there. Their excitment was catching. The students seemed to have a good time too. We had attempted to arrive for performance early as there was a tour organised first. But dispite ordering taxis days ago we were some how late for the tour . I was supporting 2 students 1 a wheelchair user and the taxi that arrived wasn't the wheelchair one we needed so took some time to transfer the student in then out of taxi. By the time we got into the theatre the tour was done. We were then very early lol but at least we were settled.

Then the fun began unfortunatly wasn't supposed to take pics so that's one off my program.

The manager telling us we weren't allowed photos heehee

The interval
A good time was had by all !

This little piggy stayed at home

2010-01-09T14:20:00.001-08:00

On Tuesday I ended up having a day of work as weather was bad. Think perhaps I could have got in but as it was a travel day for students first day back not many turned up so was told i didn't have to risk travelling. So having missed taking photos of the snow before Christmas I went for a walk into town these are a few of the photos i took.

A shed up the back lane took this because I have already got a B&W image of this from a while back.

This was still in the street of the neighbours cant remember what was so funny though

The road into town

Short cut through the churchyard

And on the way to the river

feeding the ducks

I was very tempted to make a snowman band to put in the empty bandstand

Was good to get out and walk in the snow but as I think I have said else where the novelty is wearing off now.

Only kidding myself

2010-01-09T13:44:00.000-08:00

Since Christmas I have been trying to walk more cos let's face it I do need the exercise.
So far I have been walking more but as far as any effect in calory intake goes it's been a bit of a waste of time.
The walking itself has been quite enjoyable having found s free podcast novel I have been plugging myself in and enjoyed the walk even in the snow I have enjoyed it.
A couple of times I have walked the 20 mins into town to get some shopping. The first time I did this I did ok got the few bits I needed and walked back home. Then then a couple of days later I set of again braving the icy footpaths and listening to my podcast. Every thing was going great till I arrived at the supermarket and couldn't find my purse . I did find enough loose change so I could still get some bread and milk so at least wasn't all in vain. The other thing I realised that my occasional trip in the car to the pub been replaced by a walk wasn't having much benifit either instead of just a couple of halves I was having 2 or 3 pints so calorie intake still exceding output. Hay hum.
I did manage to take a few pics on my walk but I will post in my next blog as I'm on my phone at the moment and pics on lappy.
Was glad this morning to Finnish work for a few days the snow was nice to go take pics of but novelty wears off when yer have to travel in it all though it has improved here .

Car park this morning much better

Not too much more snow over night

All though wasn't to impressed with icicles lol

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

This little piggy went to Market

2009-12-27T06:54:00.001-08:00

Over the last few months I have found myself having to upgrade stuff. It started when my PC went tits up, followed a few weeks later by my lappy. This left me with out a PC at all so I first decide to by a new lappy. I decided this time to get a Samsung R522 with which I am really pleased with it is powerful enough to do all that my desktop did. Although for photo editing and playing World of Warcraft I prefer the desktop. Only because of the monitor as it is much bigger and colour doesn't change depending on from what angle it is looked at. The laptop also came with windows 7 and having stuck with xp for as long as I could (before that ‘98 till I had no choice) was a little apprehensive. There was no need I love it seems to be similar to vista but everything (so far) works.

The next thing I got was an iphone I have used smart phones for a while mainly used for reading ebooks and making notes apart from as a phone so when orange offered one as an upgrade I took it. It does everything I wanted my PDA to do which at the time didnt do very well.

The note book works well and I actually use it. I found a really good ebook app “Stanza” which so far has has taken every type of book file I have tried. Although I have only got 8gig it has been more than big enough for my needs including some music and the podcast audio books I have found. Lots of free stuff which is always good. Camera is rubbish but found some fun editing apps and drawing ones either very cheap or free. Even an app that I can write this blog on (I'm on lappy at the moment though.

Not very good but had fun messing.

So now I have more stuff to occupy myself rather than doing what I am supposed to doing.

In the new year I must get around to my proper camera .

A sucker for punisment

2009-12-21T05:51:00.001-08:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Out in the weather again although it is improving a bit.
This time back at church again. Nine lessons and carols this time. I do like Christmas carols was an excelent service . On leaving church saw a light up Christmas tree in the graveyard might be just me but seems Bazaar.
More ramblings later if I do anything interesting lol hopefully will get to post pics taken with a better camera or at least in daylight when they have a fighting chance.

This little piggy had roast beef

2009-12-19T17:19:00.001-08:00

It's a while since I did my first blog so thought it was about time I gave it another go.
This is an experiment after looking for an app to send from my phone.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
The pic is a cheat taken two days ago outside a local bar but it's near where I went tonight and weather ain't changed much Only the snow got deeper.
Tonight I ventured out in the snow and down to the local church to hear the local choral society perform Handel's Messiah. Sitting freezing my butt off was well worth it, the sound was incredible. Roughly a hundred voices and a small orcestra nearly lifted the roof (a bit dodgy really could cause more fund raising already tower dropping to bits)
Every year I go and I enjoy it just as much Christmas starts here.
That's about as festive as I get.

Merry Christmas unroll next time

This little piggy

2009-11-23T02:15:00.001-08:00

This is my first attempt at a blog. Seems perhaps the wrong time to start as I haven't done a great deal for the last few days. Last Wednesday I woke for my nightshift with a cracker of a headache but decided that it would perhaps get better as the night went on. Ha Ha wrong again ended up leaving an hour earlier as soon as other staff arrived. I was lucky it was a quiet night. The next day I was advised to ring the doctors due to type of place I work. Then as Swine flu had been suspected at work the Doc sais she would treat me as if I had it. So this little piggy hasn't left the house since. Now I’m beginning to feel better and contemplating doing some photo editing or something productive or perhaps I’ll just slob and watch catch up TV.

As this is my first blog best introduce myself. I’m Annie and I’m fat and over 50, I’m married but its complicated (on paper only). What relationship isn't? At the moment I work as a waking night at a residential collage for young people with visual impairments. Which on the whole I enjoy, well at least I enjoy contact with the kids they are great bunch. In my spare time I love playing on Photoshop and taking photo’s I can use to do that. Other things I like are gadgets and playing video games especially World of Warcraft which I play most weekends with a really good American friend.

So in a nutshell that about sums me up reading back its not a lot but Hey its sometimes gets more interesting.