Min's Visit

Our friend Min (Munindra) was in Toronto for work from the UK. We used to go to the pub every Friday night with a large group of friends and Min was one of them. The guys used to all drink ESB which Hugh still misses. I usually had half a bitter. Everyone called the pub, the Slaughtered Lamb (after a Werewolf in London) but it was actually called the Goat House. But Min was telling us it is not there anymore, it has been torn down!!

Anyways he was over here to work on some project with Rogers. He emailed me out of the blue and said he had a few extra days. So Hugh and I made arrangements to meet him at College Park for lunch. Min is a vegetarian so we went to a Thai restaurant. I am not too particular about Thai food but in actual fact it was quite good. We had a great time chatting about old times, friends and life in general.

Afterwards Min wasn't up to much so we invited him back to our house to meet the family. As usual it was quite hectic, Miles to Tai Kwan Do, Detta to skating. But he got to see the house and meet the children. The last time he saw Detta, she was about 3 years old and Miles was 1, (Donovan wasn't even a twinkle).

It was great to see him. I didn't meet up with this group of friends when I was England. I should have made more of an effort, oh well.

Another Week

Another week has passed by. I didn't get the job at UOIT. And I had an interview with UofT Scarborough for a night Technician last week. Yes, they are opening their library 24/7 from Oct to Dec and then Feb to May. But I haven't heard anything yet.

But in the mean time I have been looking the the Staffordshird hoard as it is being called. The Saxon gold found in England. It sounds so interesting. You wonder why it was found in the middle of a farmer's field. Was there a building there once and someone hid it? Who knows? Maybe once the area has been excavated the public will find out.


Nothing exciting on the Rodney front. Detta is off to skating - volunteering today. Donovan is at karate and Miles is there watching. I think Miles is going to start up karate also.






I was checking facebook and I see Lisa has added a few photos. She looks so beautiful, I had to add one of them here.

Shopping and more

Yesterday Detta and I had a very slow start. But it was nice to sleep in. Detta and I went up to the shops in Lisburn. I went to the Tourist Information booth to obtain some information on B&B's up by the Giant's Causeway. On Monday we are going to head up that way but spending a night will give us a little more time. I also wanted to buy a couple of Ordnance Survey Maps but they only had local ones.

We headed to the High Street and went to Easton's. I found the maps I wanted and managed to buy the right ones. I have enough duplicates, I don't need any more extras. Detta of course found two more books she wanted to buy, at least they were 20% off. We had a wander around, I went into Smyth Pattersons (bought some Tyrone Crystal, a small piece) and Woodside. We went into the Linen Centre and had a wander around the museum there.

We then drove over to M&S so I could return some items I bought. Marks now has a cafe so Detta and I had lunch there. We both had bacon & tomato sandwiches. Detta now likes BLT's, but it may the bacon they use over here. The coffee was really good.

On the way back to Patricia's, I decided to pop by Susan's house. She was home and we had a lovely visit. We met Susan's fiance, John.

When we got back to Patricia's, we had just missed Valerie, Niall, and the girls. They would have taken Detta bowling but we met them when they dropped Paul home. The girls are 4 and nearly 2.

After dinner, Patricia, Detta and I popped down to Barbara's house in Craigavon. The poor wee baby has had them up all night. When we arrived, they were about to set off for a walk and it had just started raining. Wee Katie has some wind and is keeping her parents up all night.

Today I went to church with Patricia and Detta stayed home. She watched TV most of the time. The PC's battery died but even though Detta plugged it in, she didn't realize she also had to turn the plug on!!! Something we haven't got in Canada. Right now as I type Detta is actually watching motorcycle racing!!!

Richmond Park

Today is the day I planned on repacking. We are off to N.Ireland tomorrow. Alan is giving us a ride to the airport but we are leaving at 7:30 as it is in the direction of his work. Our flight is at 11:00am.

It just chucked it down with rain this morning but then brightened up. But we went for a lovely walk in Richmond Park. We walked through Ham Gate and up to Pembroke Lodge (a lovely Georgian building) where we stopped for tea. Detta decided to have lunch so she had chili con carne with rice and vegetables and then ice cream for dessert. I just had a coffee. We would have sat outside but it was very windy. So we made due with window seat overlooking a very nice flower bed.
We then walked up to King Henry's Mound and had a great view of Richmond looking west. If you look in the opposite direction, you can see the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral. There is some sort of law which protects this view. Nothing can be built taller than King Henry's Mound so the view will be unobstructed. We walked further over and out Petersham Gate. A little further on from the gate, there is a better viewing area which includes a good view of the Thames and Eel Island.

Now we are back I must start packing. At least I have the other suitcase now. Detta and I have decided that we are going to take 3 suitcases. I checked with both airlines and there is no limit to the number of bags, just the 20kg limit. I am sure by the time we leave Ireland, we will be over that. I still have to grocery shopping, I haven't any gravy granules or piri piri yet. Oh and chocolate!!!

Hampton Court

We went to Hampton Court today. Kate came with us. We took the bus into Kingston and of course, it started to rain a little and then it just chucked it down. We had to get the raincoats and umbrella out. We took the boat over to Hampton Court, about 1/2 way there, the rain stopped and the sun appeared again.

Detta and I had our tickets earlier from when we went to the Tower of London. We walked everywhere. The kitchens was the first part of the trip. I like the kitchens the best. Detta especially liked the leeks! We did so much walking. I love all the little court yards and alleyways.
After touring all around the inside of the buildings we went outside. I had promised Detta an ice cream, she had one scoop of clotted cream with port wine and the second of English treacle (or something like that). And with that we had to do a wagon ride, which is a vast improvement on any wagon ride, I have ever had in Canada. Padded seats even. Detta's mood being somewhat improved, we toured the gardens. They were lovely, though planted with some flowers which Kate and I felt were not very Tudorish. We were going to take the boat back to Kingston, but we just missed one, so we took the bus instead. Detta choose us dinner from M&S which was lasagna. I was very surprised, but Detta said I never make it, can you imagine the cheek! I did request some sausage rolls which disappeared very quickly.

Ham House

My feet are absolutely killing me. I went to the post office, I had to mail some of Detta's books. She only brought about 12 with her. We may still have to send some more back, surface mail, of course. I then walked down to the shop to get Travelcards for Detta but it was the far one, they only cost £2.00 a day for children. I thought about taking a bus back but after waiting for ages, I walked back (I bought a Milky Way for a burst of energy). The bus passed me on the way. When I got back, Detta and I then went over to Mark's garage. We took the bus for two stops!! It was so close. Mark has not changed much except for being a bit grayer but aren't we all. Had a great chat, it was so good to see him. He now has an Italian bike, Augusta.

Then we walked back to Kate's. She arrived soon after us with the polka dot suitcase. I have had to buy a bigger case because we have so much stuff. Kate brought cheese and bread with her. I have been loving the Sainsbury's cheddar cheese, just the regular one, nothing special. It just tastes so good especially with fresh buns and butter. We did have some creamy coleslaw so I added that also, delicious.

After lunch, Detta and I set off again. We went to Ham House in Richmond. It is a National Trust property. It was very interesting. The house is very dark with lots of wood paneling, of course all the windows are covered to protect all the paintings in the house. They also had the kitchens open, which were very interesting and the first private bathroom in Britain. We then went and had tea and scones (and ice cream for one particular person) in the Orangery where the old kitchen gardens were. It was very picturesque. There was lots of lavender and bees, I just couldn't resist a photo. The bees were too busy with the lavendar to notice me.The Orangery was covered in wisteria which is all in bloom. Kath would love this. We wandered around the gardens and sat on the steps at the back of the house over looking it all. The gardens here are still waiting to be done up. They would truly be magnificant but I am sure when the National Trust has the money, it will get done. We went through one of the other gardens which is also lavendar with box hedges around. Very pretty, as there are two types of lavender and the one is silver and the other green.

After leaving here we walked around the other way to the bus stop. It was like walking in the country. The walls of the house on one side and the overgrown fields of grass on the other. With rows of trees lining the walkways. It was lovely.

Tomorrow we possibly are going to Hampton Court, more walking (all those cobble stones!!!!!).

Andrew

Today, Detta and I met up with Andrew. It was great to see him. Andrew hasn't changed a bit though, he seems to be doing well for himself. A few properties and horses! Miles will definitely be interested in visiting him.

We met up at Clapham Junction and then went out for Chinese food. We had a great chat and great food. Detta is definitely enjoying meeting her relatives. We then had a walk and ended up at Waterstones. We will have to try and get in touch with Fred.

Visiting Family & Friends

Yesterday Alan gave us a ride over to Wimbledon and then Detta and I took the tram to Croydon. It was very quick and passed through all the areas I used to drive. Though I didn't recognize some as we were in Mitcham Common and not by the road. We did pass by the back of IKEA and Sainsburys.

We met my friend, Lisa Holland and her daughter, Kerri at Pret a Manger. It was so good to see her. It has been at least seven years since I saw her last. And the last time I saw Kerri, she was a wee baby.

We then went over to met Juliet at her work place. It was very interesting to ride the bus and walk in Croydon. So much has changed. Juliet took us back to her house and we met all the family. Robert has not changed at all. In fact it was just as if we saw them yesterday.
Detta really got on well with her cousins like she has always known them. Juliet and I walked up to the high street and bought fish and chips for lunch. She caught me up on all the family gossip. Their house is lovely and Hugh you would love their shower. Detta, Lauren and Nicole decided they wanted to go and see Ice Age 3. So we took them back to Croydon and they were able to see it in 3D. Juliet and I went to Primark and shopped.
I should of course mention Alan and Kate who were are staying with. They have been great. They have driven us around, feed us, housed us. I suggested for next year we should do a house swap.
Their boys are so big now 15 and 13. Lester is so tall and Alex is not far behind.
Alan works more close to home now so quite often drives his bike which is a 500cc moped to work. And Kate works at the library. This is Alan in his studio.

Twilight & London Touring

Detta and I went to the Twilight event at Kingston Library last night. It was very good. The event was put on by the Kingston Library but it was made up of contributions by the public, particularly teenage girls. There were a lot of girls there. Detta enjoyed herself which was the most important. Detta wants to find out if our library can do something like that. Kate was the MC for the event and she did really well. We weren't allowed to leave right away because Prince Edward had come to the building to see another event and while he was entering we had to stay where we were.

Today we toured London. We took the bus to Richmond and caught the Tube to South Kensington. We then took a bus to Cambridge Circus. From there we walked around through the Seven Dials and make our way to Covent Garden.
We had lunch there by the Apple Market. Then we watched a street performer, he put a sword down his throat!!! Detta and I were unable to watch him do it but I did hold the camera up and get a photo at the last minute. He also stood on a type rope and juggled. Detta thought this was great.

We then walked over towards Trafalgar Square, passing by a favourite cafe of Joans and mine. I remember going here 20 years ago.

Trafalgar Square has changed so much. The road in front of the National Gallery is now a pedistrian walkway and there are stairs leading down to the Square. With all the people on the stairs, it reminded me of the Spanish Steps in Rome. There are even a cafe, seating and washrooms in Trafalgar Square now.

We wandered around the National Gallery, saw Van Gogh's Sunflowers. Detta didn't believe that it was the real thing. I dragged Detta around to see the Turners and some other famous painters.

We were both getting tired by this point so we grabbed a bus from there up Regent Street and along Oxford Street. We hopped off at Marble Arch and then took another bus back to South Kensington and home to Kingston. The grand tour. We will probably go back next week and take some other buses. We still have to see Westminster and perhaps the Abbey.

I love this sculpture of the horse's head. It is right by Marble Arch. At first glance on the bus I didn't even notice it. It wasn't till we were around the side, that Detta noticed it was a horse's head.

Cadbury's Trifles

I did forget to mention that Detta and I went to Waitrose, a grocery store. I was looking for Piri Piri spices but I did find Cadbury's Trifles which are so delicious. There are only three in a pack though so I let Detta have two. She thought they were very yummy. Too bad we don't get them in Canada or that may be a good thing.

Tower of London

Detta and I set off for the Tower of London today. We caught the train from Kingston to Clapham Junction and then on to Victoria Station. We took the tube to Tower Hill and of course as soon as we got off the train, it down poured. At least we have raincoats to wear. We bought our tickets and away we went.


It was so crowded. We were going to do the tour with the Beefeaters but the tour probably consisted of 40 people. I couldn't hear a thing so we set off on our own. We walked through all the towers, battling our way through all the crowds. I can't believe there were so many people. Line-ups everywhere!! Detta had an ice cream while we waited to enter the vaults for the Crown Jewels (and in the rain). No one picture of this trip stands out for me but I did like the soldiers (Queens Guard!) walking through the tower.


We did the Henry VIII exhibition of his armour. It was very interesting and I think a very good change to the previous exhibitions of the armour. But we were very tired and very sore feet. I was glad I wore my running shoes (yes, just like a tourist).

There have been some interesting buildings built around the area since I left. One in particular I thought looked like a space ship. I have been told it is the new building for the Mayor of London. It looks a bit odd amongst all the old and you might say normal looking office buildings.


I did end up speaking to my sister-in-law, Juliet so we are going for a visit on Saturday. She works beside Mayday Hospital (where Detta and Miles were born) so Detta and I will have a visit of Croydon high street first. It will be nice for Detta to meet her uncles, aunts and cousins.

Stonehenge

Detta and I had a great day out. We did a day trip with Anderson Tours, it was the' Stonehenge Private Viewing Late Evening'. We went through Victoria station, I though we might have time to go and see Buckingham Palace, but it was cutting it too close to have lunch. I made Detta stop at the Girl Guide shop and we bought a few pins.

We left London at 1:30pm and went to Avebury. We had a great tour guide, he really knew his stuff. I had 1/2 a pint of Old Speckled Hen, it was lovely.


We then went to West Kennet Long Barrow which is one of the largest Neolithic burial bombs in Britain. Detta of course left her imprint, at least it is in chalk (from the barrow). It was incredibly windy and on the opposite field, there was some crop circles with yin-yang symbols.


We stopped for some dinner which had to be really quick. So Detta and I opted for fish and chips, they were very good. We arrived at Stonehenge about 7:00pm which is when it closes. After everyone finished their food we headed up to the stones. It was very exciting. The tour guide had lots of information to tell us. He told us about the ley lines so I had a go with the rods and it worked. I was very surprised.


The weather was on and off raining all day, torrential down pour in fact. We seemed to miss most of the down pours and the sun came out for us during our walk around Stonehenge. This was one thing I have always wanted to do so I couldn't miss the opportunity of visiting Stonehenge. I think Detta enjoyed herself also. Just before we left it started to down pour!!! We had a good time, and there were a lot of nice people on the trip.

England

Detta and I arrived yesterday. It was a long flight and hot. I thought a night flight would be nice and cool. I was so uncomfortable and didn't sleep hardly at all. Detta slept fairly well. We had three children flying unaccompanied sitting in front of us which was interesting. And then there was a 20 month old behind us but she only woke up once, very loudly. I am so glad those days are past for me.

Alan and Kate met us at the airport. They set a room up for us with a pull out couch for me and a futon for Detta. I had a bit of nap and Detta also had one. Kate and Alan cooked us a lovely dinner, hamburgers, chicken wings and bbq English bacon. I didn't try the bacon, I say English bacon as opposed to our Canadian streaky bacon. Their garden is so colourful, so English.

We had a very good sleep and now we are getting ready to head into London. We are taking our coach tour to Avebury and Stonehenge.

Donovan's Birthday Party

Today we had Donovan's Party at Airzone in Oshawa. He had a great time. Five friends were able to make. Being so close to Canada Day, many people were away or having guests. But Donovan and his buddies had a great time. There was lots of popcorn, pizza and cake. And of course, presents.

It has been a crazy morning. Detta and I are packed finally. I keep thinking of more things to bring. I am going to bring my cousin's some Tim Hortons coffee which they love. Hugh packed the boys for camp and then at the last minute we realised the epipens were out of date. One was left at school and Miles opened the other one at school (and poked himself with it!). Fortunately we discovered we had 3 more renewals. Thank goodness.

Trip to England

Things are coming together for Detta and mine trip to England. We have a lot of new clothes courtesy of Anne and Kath. I also bought Detta some black capris from Reitmans. I have been looking at places for us to visit. Things like Hampton Court, Tower of London and the British Museum to name a few. I have also already sorted out a trip for us to visit Stonehenge. We will be able to visit Stonehenge after closing hours and be able to walk amongst the stones. I have heard from our friends, Alan and Kate in Kingston-upon-Thames, we will be staying with them while we are visiting London. Kate works for the library in Kingston and while we are there, she is organizing a 'Twilight' evening. Detta is definitely interested in checking that out. Of course we have lots of people to visit, Hughs' brothers and old friends.

When we visit Northern Ireland, we will be staying with my cousins. I have rented a car while we are there. I plan on driving to the Giant's Causeway, along the Down coast and of course visiting some ancient monument. My cousin's daughter just had a new baby so we will be visiting them also.

Tonight Hugh and I are going out for sushi. We think we may try somewhere new, as long as it is all you can eat.

Stonehenge

Stonehenge, at last I will be able to do something I always wanted to. Walk amongst the stones of Stonehenge. When Detta and I go to England in the summer, I have booked us on a tour where we can have access to Stonehenge. It has been something I always wanted to do, access was closed by the time I moved to England in 1988. I am so excited.

On another note, I finished a tiny hat for Donovan's teacher. She is due in July. But the hat is so tiny I may just knit another larger one, just in case her baby isn't that small.