Friday 27 July, 2012
After seven years of waiting and having listened to all the comments and negative vibes about what was to happen in the opening ceremony, I have to say that I was seriously impressed.
To start with, the Olympic Stadium looks really impressive and is a crown in what was once a contaminated wasteland, in the East End of London. The regeneration that has been achieved will benefit the area, and the City, for many years to come.
The introduction to the London Olympics 2012 began with with a journey along the River Thames, from its source to the Olympic Park. On reaching the Olympic Stadium, the countdown began. The ceremony proper started with 'Jerusalem' being sung in the Olympic Stadium, and with Northen Ireland joining in with 'Danny Boy', from the Giants Causeway, through to the children of Edinburgh singing 'Flower of Scotland' to 'Bread of Heaven' in Wales, then returning to the Stadium, which had been transformed into England's green and pleasant land, I began to get a real sense of what the Ceromony was going to be.
With cricket and football being played on the green grass lands of England, and children dancing around Maypoles, I felt we were taken back to a bygone era, where everyrhing was rosy. Edward Elgar's 'Nimrod' added so much to this scene. This soon changed, when men in suits and tall hats appeared and started to lay out plans for our future. Within moments, Glastonbury Tor spewed forth men and the grass was soon being ripped up, only to be replaced by many belching smokestacks; The Industrial Revolution was here. Amongst this change women appeared, parading with plackards with slogans about equality and the right to vote; The Suffragettes had arrived. With much of the grass being destroyed by the Industrial Revolution, there was a lot less green to be seen in the Stadium, but there were enough Poppy's left to show the inhumanity and waste of The Great War. One of the crowning moments of the Industrial Revolution scene, was the forging of the Olympic Rings. Then it was a chance to show off the NHS with a great seen involving the staff of the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children, which culminated in the arrival of a number of Mary Poppins, who banished the Demons from the Children's dreams. This was accentuated by a special appearance by Mike oldfield, performing an enriched version of his iconic 'Tubular Bells'. We were then taken on a musical journey from the sixties through to the present day, which showed off some of this countries greatest musicians, and the sound of the TARDIS could also be heard. This concluded with an appearance by Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web. A piece concerning the victims of the July 7th Terror attacks, was moving and a little overwhelming, unless you were watching in the United States of America, where NBC cut the scene and replaced it with an interview with Michael Phelps. Losers!
With the introductions of the 200+ competing coutries, a special mention has to be made to the Czech Republic who arrived in blazers, shorts, wellington boots and umbrellas. Each countries flag was then 'planted' on Glastonbury Tor, before the Olympic Flag entered the Stadium. Another emotional moment ensued as the flag stopped before the fragile figure of the Great Muhammad Ali. It was hard to imagine that this thin and fragile man, was once the greatest athlete on Earth. A man who can no longer function without an aide by his side. The Olympic Flame was then transported, via a speedboat driven by David Beckham, to the Olympic Stadium, where it was feceived by England's greatest Olympian, Sir Steve Redgrave. It was he who took the flame and passed it on to seven young up-and-coming British athletes, who proceeded to take the flame around the Olympic Stadium. With their lap of honour complete, they then each took a lit torch and headed into the centre of the Olympic Stadium and put their torch to what looked like metal plant petals. As the seven torches lit the petals, the fire spread and soon all 204 petals were aflame, at which point they began to rise into the shape of a cauldron. The Olympic Flame was back in London, for the third time and, within moments fireworks lit up the Olympic Park.
I have left a lot out, like the Red Arrows flypast. Or, the performing of Vangelis' 'Chariots of Fire', with Mister Bean adding his own unique talents to the score. Or, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who spoke just four words (Good evening, Mister Bond.) and Daniel Craig as James Bond in a short video filmed at Buckingham Palace, which eneded with them suppoesedly both parachuting into the Olympic Stadium. Or, various musical artists who added their talents to the proceedings. Or, the cast of countless volunteers that gave their time and effort to such a worthy cause. And Lord Sebastian Coe, who, despite ever mounting pressure over the past seven years, has managed to deliver so much.
I think that what Danny Boyle achieved, and pulled off, was one of the best opening ceremonies to any of the Modern Olympics... Ever!!!
Let the games begin!
Friday, August 10, 2012
Saturday, July 28, 2012
London 2012: Olympic Opening Ceremony
Friday 27 July, 2012
After seven years of waiting and having listened to all the comments and negative vibes about what was to happen in the opening ceremony, I have to say that I was seriously impressed.
To start with, the Olympic Stadium looks really impressive and is a crown in what was once a contaminated wasteland, in the East End of London. The regeneration that has been achieved will benefit the area, and the City, for many years to come.
The introduction to the London Olympics 2012 began with with a journey along the River Thames, from its source to the Olympic Park. On reaching the Olympic Stadium, the countdown began. The ceremony proper started with 'Jerusalem' being sung in the Olympic Stadium, and with Northen Ireland joining in with 'Danny Boy', from the Giants Causeway, through to the children of Edinburgh singing 'Flower of Scotland' to 'Bread of Heaven' in Wales, then returning to the Stadium, which had been transformed into England's green and pleasant land, I began to get a real sense of what the Ceromony was going to be.
With cricket and football being played on the green grass lands of England, and children dancing around Maypoles, I felt we were taken back to a bygone era, where everyrhing was rosy. Edward Elgar's 'Nimrod' added so much to this scene. This soon changed, when men in suits and tall hats appeared and started to lay out plans for our future. Within moments, Glastonbury Tor spewed forth men and the grass was soon being ripped up, only to be replaced by many belching smokestacks; The Industrial Revolution was here. Amongst this change women appeared, parading with plackards with slogans about equality and the right to vote; The Suffragettes had arrived. With much of the grass being destroyed by the Industrial Revolution, there was a lot less green to be seen in the Stadium, but there were enough Poppy's left to show the inhumanity and waste of The Great War. One of the crowning moments of the Industrial Revolution scene, was the forging of the Olympic Rings. Then it was a chance to show off the NHS with a great seen involving the staff of the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children, which culminated in the arrival of a number of Mary Poppins, who banished the Demons from the Children's dreams. This was accentuated by a special appearance by Mike oldfield, performing an enriched version of his iconic 'Tubular Bells'. We were then taken on a musical journey from the sixties through to the present day, which showed off some of this countries greatest musicians, and the sound of the TARDIS could also be heard. This concluded with an appearance by Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web. A piece concerning the victims of the July 7th Terror attacks, was moving and a little overwhelming, unless you were watching in the United States of America, where NBC cut the scene and replaced it with an interview with Michael Phelps. Losers!
With the introductions of the 200+ competing coutries, a special mention has to be made to the Czech Republic who arrived in blazers, shorts, wellington boots and umbrellas. Each countries flag was then 'planted' on Glastonbury Tor, before the Olympic Flag entered the Stadium. Another emotional moment ensued as the flag stopped before the fragile figure of the Great Muhammad Ali. It was hard to imagine that this thin and fragile man, was once the greatest athlete on Earth. A man who can no longer function without an aide by his side. The Olympic Flame was then transported, via a speedboat driven by David Beckham, to the Olympic Stadium, where it was feceived by England's greatest Olympian, Sir Steve Redgrave. It was he who took the flame and passed it on to seven young up-and-coming British athletes, who proceeded to take the flame around the Olympic Stadium. With their lap of honour complete, they then each took a lit torch and headed into the centre of the Olympic Stadium and put their torch to what looked like metal plant petals. As the seven torches lit the petals, the fire spread and soon all 204 petals were aflame, at which point they began to rise into the shape of a cauldron. The Olympic Flame was back in London, for the third time and, within moments fireworks lit up the Olympic Park.
I have left a lot out, like the Red Arrows flypast. Or, the performing of Vangelis' 'Chariots of Fire', with Mister Bean adding his own unique talents to the score. Or, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who spoke just four words (Good evening, Mister Bond.) and Daniel Craig as James Bond in a short video filmed at Buckingham Palace, which eneded with them suppoesedly both parachuting into the Olympic Stadium. Or, various musical artists who added their talents to the proceedings. Or, the cast of countless volunteers that gave their time and effort to such a worthy cause. And Lord Sebastian Coe, who, despite ever mounting pressure over the past seven years, has managed to deliver so much.
I think that what Danny Boyle achieved, and pulled off, was one of the best opening ceremonies to any of the Modern Olympics... Ever!!!
Let the games begin!
After seven years of waiting and having listened to all the comments and negative vibes about what was to happen in the opening ceremony, I have to say that I was seriously impressed.
To start with, the Olympic Stadium looks really impressive and is a crown in what was once a contaminated wasteland, in the East End of London. The regeneration that has been achieved will benefit the area, and the City, for many years to come.
The introduction to the London Olympics 2012 began with with a journey along the River Thames, from its source to the Olympic Park. On reaching the Olympic Stadium, the countdown began. The ceremony proper started with 'Jerusalem' being sung in the Olympic Stadium, and with Northen Ireland joining in with 'Danny Boy', from the Giants Causeway, through to the children of Edinburgh singing 'Flower of Scotland' to 'Bread of Heaven' in Wales, then returning to the Stadium, which had been transformed into England's green and pleasant land, I began to get a real sense of what the Ceromony was going to be.
With cricket and football being played on the green grass lands of England, and children dancing around Maypoles, I felt we were taken back to a bygone era, where everyrhing was rosy. Edward Elgar's 'Nimrod' added so much to this scene. This soon changed, when men in suits and tall hats appeared and started to lay out plans for our future. Within moments, Glastonbury Tor spewed forth men and the grass was soon being ripped up, only to be replaced by many belching smokestacks; The Industrial Revolution was here. Amongst this change women appeared, parading with plackards with slogans about equality and the right to vote; The Suffragettes had arrived. With much of the grass being destroyed by the Industrial Revolution, there was a lot less green to be seen in the Stadium, but there were enough Poppy's left to show the inhumanity and waste of The Great War. One of the crowning moments of the Industrial Revolution scene, was the forging of the Olympic Rings. Then it was a chance to show off the NHS with a great seen involving the staff of the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children, which culminated in the arrival of a number of Mary Poppins, who banished the Demons from the Children's dreams. This was accentuated by a special appearance by Mike oldfield, performing an enriched version of his iconic 'Tubular Bells'. We were then taken on a musical journey from the sixties through to the present day, which showed off some of this countries greatest musicians, and the sound of the TARDIS could also be heard. This concluded with an appearance by Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web. A piece concerning the victims of the July 7th Terror attacks, was moving and a little overwhelming, unless you were watching in the United States of America, where NBC cut the scene and replaced it with an interview with Michael Phelps. Losers!
With the introductions of the 200+ competing coutries, a special mention has to be made to the Czech Republic who arrived in blazers, shorts, wellington boots and umbrellas. Each countries flag was then 'planted' on Glastonbury Tor, before the Olympic Flag entered the Stadium. Another emotional moment ensued as the flag stopped before the fragile figure of the Great Muhammad Ali. It was hard to imagine that this thin and fragile man, was once the greatest athlete on Earth. A man who can no longer function without an aide by his side. The Olympic Flame was then transported, via a speedboat driven by David Beckham, to the Olympic Stadium, where it was feceived by England's greatest Olympian, Sir Steve Redgrave. It was he who took the flame and passed it on to seven young up-and-coming British athletes, who proceeded to take the flame around the Olympic Stadium. With their lap of honour complete, they then each took a lit torch and headed into the centre of the Olympic Stadium and put their torch to what looked like metal plant petals. As the seven torches lit the petals, the fire spread and soon all 204 petals were aflame, at which point they began to rise into the shape of a cauldron. The Olympic Flame was back in London, for the third time and, within moments fireworks lit up the Olympic Park.
I have left a lot out, like the Red Arrows flypast. Or, the performing of Vangelis' 'Chariots of Fire', with Mister Bean adding his own unique talents to the score. Or, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who spoke just four words (Good evening, Mister Bond.) and Daniel Craig as James Bond in a short video filmed at Buckingham Palace, which eneded with them suppoesedly both parachuting into the Olympic Stadium. Or, various musical artists who added their talents to the proceedings. Or, the cast of countless volunteers that gave their time and effort to such a worthy cause. And Lord Sebastian Coe, who, despite ever mounting pressure over the past seven years, has managed to deliver so much.
I think that what Danny Boyle achieved, and pulled off, was one of the best opening ceremonies to any of the Modern Olympics... Ever!!!
Let the games begin!
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Olympic Torch Relay, St. Albans
Sunday 8th July, 2012
Although the weather wasn't brilliant, a few showers with the threat of sun, Emma and I took Erin to St. Albans to see the Olympic Torch Relay. We left the house and took a slow walk into Watford Town centre, where we bought lunch, before heading on to Watford Junction. We bought our tickets and headed for Platform 11 from which we would take the Abbey Line, or 'Abbey Flyer' as most people refer to it, to St. Albans Abbey Station. (The Abbey Line originally opened on 5th May, 1858 and was operated by the 'London and North Western Railway'. It was the first railway line to St. Albans and had only two stops, Bricket Wood and Park Street. In 1910, another station was opened at Callowland, now called Watford North. Garston station was opened in 1966, followed by How Wood in 1988. This was the same year that the line was electrified. The line is now operated by 'London Midland'.) While we were on the train, Emma fed Erin and managed to change herm before we arrived at St. Albans Abbey Station just before 13:30. We crossed Holywell Hill and walked passed the Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre and the Athletics Track amd continued into Verulamium Park. We walked through the park and, for a brief moment, the sun came out. We exited Verulamium Park on St. Michael's Street and headed up Branch Road and onto Verulam Road, to scout out a good viewpoint for the Olympic Torch. Since the relay wasn't due to reach Verualm Road until 16:50, we had some time to kill, so we headed along Verulam Road and onto Bluehouse Hill. Along Bluehouse Hill is the Roman Theatre of Verulamium, a place that I hadn't visited since school, so in we went. (The Roman Theatre of Verulamium was built in about 140AD and it is the only example of its kind in Great Britain. The arena would have been used for anything from religious processions and dancing, to wrestling, armed combat and wild beast shows. In 180AD the stage came into greater use and the auditorium was extended. By about 300AD the Theatre could seat 2000 spectators. In 1847 the ruins were unearthed and subsequent excavations have revealed a row of shop foundations, a Roman Villa and a secret shrine, all thought to date from the First Century.) As we entered the sky cleared and the sun came out and the temperature rose dramtically. After a good walkaround, where I took lots of photos, we headed back onto St. Michael's Street and wandered around looking at all the old buildings, with their small doorways and wonderful architecture. We then made our way up to Verulam Road, just as the crowds were starting to form. We found a space on the corner of Verulam Road and Branch Road and waited eagerly for the Torch. Erin had some yogurt and then gave her first proper wave, which I managed to photograph. With more people arriving all the time, I knew that getting any good photographs of the Olympic Torch was going to be a real mission, so I decided to video it instead. This proved to be a mission in itslef. As the entourage of cars and sponsorship vehicles approached, all I could do was set my phone to video, raise my arm above the crowds and hope. This actually worked and I managed to get some great footage, which was even more surprising as I couldn't see the phone screen when my arm was raised. After Sarah Toll, the Torch Bearer, had passed us, and before the crowds started to dissipate, we headed off down Branch Road. Once we reached Verulamium Park, we realised that the 'Abbey Flyer' would be busy, so we slowed our walk and sat down to feed Erin some food. Once Erin was fed, Emma and I had an ice cream each and took shelter beneath an Oak tree, while a rain shower passed over the park. We then made our way back towards the station and immediately took shelter on the platform as the Heavens opened. Ten minutes of the hardest rain came down with people scattering in all directions for the tiniest bit of cover. And as suddenly as it had started, it stopped. The rain had been so hard that not a cloud could be seen in the sky. Instead, the sun shone and the sky turned blue and the heat was incredible. The train arrived just before 18:30 and we boarded and headed for home. Emma took this time to change Erin and within minutes we were back at Watford junction. We then took a slow walk home. Another great, but unique, Sunday day out with my family.
Until next time,
May it be well with you.
Although the weather wasn't brilliant, a few showers with the threat of sun, Emma and I took Erin to St. Albans to see the Olympic Torch Relay. We left the house and took a slow walk into Watford Town centre, where we bought lunch, before heading on to Watford Junction. We bought our tickets and headed for Platform 11 from which we would take the Abbey Line, or 'Abbey Flyer' as most people refer to it, to St. Albans Abbey Station. (The Abbey Line originally opened on 5th May, 1858 and was operated by the 'London and North Western Railway'. It was the first railway line to St. Albans and had only two stops, Bricket Wood and Park Street. In 1910, another station was opened at Callowland, now called Watford North. Garston station was opened in 1966, followed by How Wood in 1988. This was the same year that the line was electrified. The line is now operated by 'London Midland'.) While we were on the train, Emma fed Erin and managed to change herm before we arrived at St. Albans Abbey Station just before 13:30. We crossed Holywell Hill and walked passed the Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre and the Athletics Track amd continued into Verulamium Park. We walked through the park and, for a brief moment, the sun came out. We exited Verulamium Park on St. Michael's Street and headed up Branch Road and onto Verulam Road, to scout out a good viewpoint for the Olympic Torch. Since the relay wasn't due to reach Verualm Road until 16:50, we had some time to kill, so we headed along Verulam Road and onto Bluehouse Hill. Along Bluehouse Hill is the Roman Theatre of Verulamium, a place that I hadn't visited since school, so in we went. (The Roman Theatre of Verulamium was built in about 140AD and it is the only example of its kind in Great Britain. The arena would have been used for anything from religious processions and dancing, to wrestling, armed combat and wild beast shows. In 180AD the stage came into greater use and the auditorium was extended. By about 300AD the Theatre could seat 2000 spectators. In 1847 the ruins were unearthed and subsequent excavations have revealed a row of shop foundations, a Roman Villa and a secret shrine, all thought to date from the First Century.) As we entered the sky cleared and the sun came out and the temperature rose dramtically. After a good walkaround, where I took lots of photos, we headed back onto St. Michael's Street and wandered around looking at all the old buildings, with their small doorways and wonderful architecture. We then made our way up to Verulam Road, just as the crowds were starting to form. We found a space on the corner of Verulam Road and Branch Road and waited eagerly for the Torch. Erin had some yogurt and then gave her first proper wave, which I managed to photograph. With more people arriving all the time, I knew that getting any good photographs of the Olympic Torch was going to be a real mission, so I decided to video it instead. This proved to be a mission in itslef. As the entourage of cars and sponsorship vehicles approached, all I could do was set my phone to video, raise my arm above the crowds and hope. This actually worked and I managed to get some great footage, which was even more surprising as I couldn't see the phone screen when my arm was raised. After Sarah Toll, the Torch Bearer, had passed us, and before the crowds started to dissipate, we headed off down Branch Road. Once we reached Verulamium Park, we realised that the 'Abbey Flyer' would be busy, so we slowed our walk and sat down to feed Erin some food. Once Erin was fed, Emma and I had an ice cream each and took shelter beneath an Oak tree, while a rain shower passed over the park. We then made our way back towards the station and immediately took shelter on the platform as the Heavens opened. Ten minutes of the hardest rain came down with people scattering in all directions for the tiniest bit of cover. And as suddenly as it had started, it stopped. The rain had been so hard that not a cloud could be seen in the sky. Instead, the sun shone and the sky turned blue and the heat was incredible. The train arrived just before 18:30 and we boarded and headed for home. Emma took this time to change Erin and within minutes we were back at Watford junction. We then took a slow walk home. Another great, but unique, Sunday day out with my family.
Until next time,
May it be well with you.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
The Ebury Way
Watford is 21miles (33km) from the centre of London, with the M1 and M25 close by. Watford Junction Station offers fast trains and London Overground trains that can get you to London Euston in 18 minutes and 47 minutes, respectively. The Metropolitan Line can get you to Aldgate in 64 minutes. Both of these stations are within walking distance of my house, and with the Croxley Rail Link due to open in the next few years, there will be a new station within 5 minutes walk of my house.
You would think that living in West Watford, I would be surrounded by urban blight, and to some extent I am. But, I am also surrounded by some wonderful countryside and open green spaces. Very close to my house I have access to the Ebury Way which is a pedestrian route that follows the route of the old Watford & Rickmansworth Railway. The Watford & Rickmansworth Railway was a three mile branch line, that opened in 1862. In 1927 the line was electrified but, with more passengers using the Metropolitan Line, the line closed in 1951. Now the 4 mile (6km) route can be walked or cycled from Oxhey Park, Watford to Rickmansworth.
If you begin your walk from Oxhey Park, you follow the River Colne to Riverside Park, where you join National Cycle Route 61. As you head along the Ebury Way, you will see the Lairage Land Nature Reserve, on your right-hand side. The Lairage Land comprises a group of meadows, rough grassland, plantation woodland and scrub, the river Colne, and its margins, and reedbed. There are many types of plant, bird and wildlife species to be found here, including; Yellow water lily, Musk thistle, Green woodpecker, Great-spotted woodpecker, Grey wagtail, Reed warbler, Linnet, Chiffchaff and Blackcap. Cuckoos can also be heard each spring. Gatekeeper, Smaller Skipper & Red Admiral butterflies, among others. Dragonflies and both species of Pipistrelle and Noctule, can also be seen here. Moving along, you soon cross the River Colne via an old railway bridge. On your left-hand side you will see the Electricity Transmission Station and the fields of Oxhey Hall and Oxhey Cottage. Roughlyy 300 metres from the bridge, along the edge of the river Colne, you can just make out a Type 27 variant WWII Pillbox. On the opposite side of the Colne is Brightwells Farm. Continuing your journey, the path begins to rise up slightly as you come to the entrance to Brightwells Farm. The path then drops down again and you pass Brightwells Farm fields to your left and Holywell Fields to your right. A littlle further along and you can see Old Merchant Taylor's School and, in the distance, you can just see Moor Park Mansion. You will then pass under Tolpits Lane, and pass the National Lottery HQ, Watford's Royal Mail sorting office and other industrial units. To your right you will see Croxley Common Moor, a Site of Special Scientific Interest.Croxley Common Moor Nature Reserve is 100 acres of historic grassland, that cover the River Gade's flood plain. Many rare plants and animals have been recorded on this site, including; Water Voles, Red Kites, Red Backed Shrike, Burnet Moth, Purging Flax, Large Thyme, Heath & Lady's Bedstraw, among others. As you reach the end of Croxley Common Moor, you pass under a bridge that carries the Metropolitan and Chiltern Line trains to and from London. From here the Ebury Way is a tree-lined route surrounded by natiral beauty. On your right is the continuation of the River Gade flood plain and to your left are the first of the fishing lakes, known as The Alders. You then come to a bridge that crosses the Grand Union Canal. To your right is Lock 81 and Lot Mead Lock House. From this bridge you have three choices; Continue along the Ebury Way. Follow the Grand Union Canal Towpath to Rickmansworth and beyond, or follow the Grand Union Canal Towpath to Watford and beyond. Following the Ebury Way you will see The Alders Fishing Lakes to your left and Croxley Hall Farm and Fishing Lakes, to your right. Behind Croxley Hall Farm is Croxley Great Barn. Croxley Great Barn is one of the largest of its type, in Hertfordshire. It was built sometime between 1396 and 1401 and measures 101ft by 40ft (31m by 12m). You then continue along until you cross another railway bridge, which crosses the Narrow-boat Permanent Mooring area, which is the end of the Ebury Way.
If you then follow the footpath alongside the Permanent Mooring area, you will come to Batchworth Lock Centre and the Cafe @ Lock 81, where refreshments can be purchased. From here you can follow the Grand Union Canal Towpath towards Watford or head South along the Grand Union Canal Towpath, which will lead you into Rickmansworth Aquadrome and onto Stocker's Lake, Stocker's Lock and the World Famous Stocker's Farm. Stocker's Farm has been used in many film and TVshows, including; The Adventures of Black Beauty, Withnail & I, Ashes to Ashes, Children of Men, Midsomer Murders & Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, to name but a few.
If you do take the Ebury Way, I would love to hear what you think of it.
You would think that living in West Watford, I would be surrounded by urban blight, and to some extent I am. But, I am also surrounded by some wonderful countryside and open green spaces. Very close to my house I have access to the Ebury Way which is a pedestrian route that follows the route of the old Watford & Rickmansworth Railway. The Watford & Rickmansworth Railway was a three mile branch line, that opened in 1862. In 1927 the line was electrified but, with more passengers using the Metropolitan Line, the line closed in 1951. Now the 4 mile (6km) route can be walked or cycled from Oxhey Park, Watford to Rickmansworth.
If you begin your walk from Oxhey Park, you follow the River Colne to Riverside Park, where you join National Cycle Route 61. As you head along the Ebury Way, you will see the Lairage Land Nature Reserve, on your right-hand side. The Lairage Land comprises a group of meadows, rough grassland, plantation woodland and scrub, the river Colne, and its margins, and reedbed. There are many types of plant, bird and wildlife species to be found here, including; Yellow water lily, Musk thistle, Green woodpecker, Great-spotted woodpecker, Grey wagtail, Reed warbler, Linnet, Chiffchaff and Blackcap. Cuckoos can also be heard each spring. Gatekeeper, Smaller Skipper & Red Admiral butterflies, among others. Dragonflies and both species of Pipistrelle and Noctule, can also be seen here. Moving along, you soon cross the River Colne via an old railway bridge. On your left-hand side you will see the Electricity Transmission Station and the fields of Oxhey Hall and Oxhey Cottage. Roughlyy 300 metres from the bridge, along the edge of the river Colne, you can just make out a Type 27 variant WWII Pillbox. On the opposite side of the Colne is Brightwells Farm. Continuing your journey, the path begins to rise up slightly as you come to the entrance to Brightwells Farm. The path then drops down again and you pass Brightwells Farm fields to your left and Holywell Fields to your right. A littlle further along and you can see Old Merchant Taylor's School and, in the distance, you can just see Moor Park Mansion. You will then pass under Tolpits Lane, and pass the National Lottery HQ, Watford's Royal Mail sorting office and other industrial units. To your right you will see Croxley Common Moor, a Site of Special Scientific Interest.Croxley Common Moor Nature Reserve is 100 acres of historic grassland, that cover the River Gade's flood plain. Many rare plants and animals have been recorded on this site, including; Water Voles, Red Kites, Red Backed Shrike, Burnet Moth, Purging Flax, Large Thyme, Heath & Lady's Bedstraw, among others. As you reach the end of Croxley Common Moor, you pass under a bridge that carries the Metropolitan and Chiltern Line trains to and from London. From here the Ebury Way is a tree-lined route surrounded by natiral beauty. On your right is the continuation of the River Gade flood plain and to your left are the first of the fishing lakes, known as The Alders. You then come to a bridge that crosses the Grand Union Canal. To your right is Lock 81 and Lot Mead Lock House. From this bridge you have three choices; Continue along the Ebury Way. Follow the Grand Union Canal Towpath to Rickmansworth and beyond, or follow the Grand Union Canal Towpath to Watford and beyond. Following the Ebury Way you will see The Alders Fishing Lakes to your left and Croxley Hall Farm and Fishing Lakes, to your right. Behind Croxley Hall Farm is Croxley Great Barn. Croxley Great Barn is one of the largest of its type, in Hertfordshire. It was built sometime between 1396 and 1401 and measures 101ft by 40ft (31m by 12m). You then continue along until you cross another railway bridge, which crosses the Narrow-boat Permanent Mooring area, which is the end of the Ebury Way.
If you then follow the footpath alongside the Permanent Mooring area, you will come to Batchworth Lock Centre and the Cafe @ Lock 81, where refreshments can be purchased. From here you can follow the Grand Union Canal Towpath towards Watford or head South along the Grand Union Canal Towpath, which will lead you into Rickmansworth Aquadrome and onto Stocker's Lake, Stocker's Lock and the World Famous Stocker's Farm. Stocker's Farm has been used in many film and TVshows, including; The Adventures of Black Beauty, Withnail & I, Ashes to Ashes, Children of Men, Midsomer Murders & Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, to name but a few.
If you do take the Ebury Way, I would love to hear what you think of it.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
A Blog to the Irrelevant
When I write my blogs, especially those about where I have visited or things that I have seen, I do a bit of research on it. I then include this to fill-out my blog and also to make them more interesting. Having just gone back and re-read all of my blogs, I discovered that I have picked up quite a bit of information, not all of it interesting, but still information. So I decided to collect these snippets and put them into this one blog. Taken completely out of context, this seems like a very random blog, but I believe it is still entertaining and informative.
Please enjoy this blog to the irrelevant.
G. Gibson's has had a stall on Watford Market since 1976, and their most famous product is the Gibson Sausage. Recently they opened a shop, at 13 Charter Place, where they sell fresh British meats, vegetables and exotic meats and burgers. These incude, Impala, Kangaroo, Ostrich, Zebra and Moufflon amongst others. They are definitely the best butchers in the Watford area and well worth a visit.
The Royal Naval College was based in Greenwich, from 1873 until 1998, as a college to teach all aspects of naval sciences. More courses were added as and when new skills were developed.
The Cutty Sark was built in 1869, and, on February 16th 1870, the Cutty Sark left London on the first of eight trips to China. Throughout her working life, Cutty Sark transported cargoes such as Tea, wool and coal. She travelled to China, Japan, South and North America, Angola and more. In 1895, the Cutty Sark was sold to a Portuguese company, and her name was changed to Ferreira. In 1922, she was sold to another Portuguese owner, and she was renamed Maria do Amparo. She was then bought by an Englishman and, in 1923, her true name and nationality were restored. After being berthed in Falmouth and then Greenhithe, before being moved to her current, and final resting place. On May 21st 2007, a fire gutted the Cutty Sark, while she was having restoration work undertaken.
'Company' is a musical comedy, set in New York, that first premiered in 1970. The play is centred on the central character of Robert, a 35 year old single man, via his 3 girlfriends and his married or soon-to-be married friends. Robert has hit a point in his life where he cannot commit to a long-term relationship and looks to his friends for guidance.
The Lansdowne Road Stadium is the oldest International Stadium in the World!
Borough Market is one of the largest food markets anywhere in the World, selling food from all around the globe. It is said that a market has been in this locale since Roman times, but it is first referenced in 1276.
Because the River Thames is tidal, the English sea coast continues all the way up to Teddington Lock. The river has a tidal rise and fall of 23 feet and is the longest river in England.
The old Wembley Stadium was opened in 1923 and was demolished in 2003. Arsenal played their European Games there from 1998 - 2000. The new Stadium was opened in 2007, over a year later than planned.
The 'London Stone' is a piece of Limestone that it is rumoured was the point that all measurements were made from, in Roman times.
Snakeheads are usually found in freshwater in Africa and Asia. There are a number of different species of Snakehead and they can grow from 25cm to over 1metre in length. They are predatory and eat everything from aquatic insects to rodents. They can also breathe air and when they are out of the water they use their muscles and fins to 'walk'. The female can lay up to 150,000 eggs a year! It is a great creature to see in a tank, but people have started to release them into the wild, especially in America, where they are causing havoc with the local ecosystems.
The Clink Prison was opened in 1144 and was one of England's oldest prisons, if not the oldest! It covered an area of 80 acres and was in use for nearly 400 years. Conditions in the clink were diabolical. You had to pay to be a prisoner, which meant that you might get food and clean water. If you didn't pay, you had to beg passersby for food at the 'Grates'. Children were held there and they were treated as small adults. If the weather was bad the prison was prone to flooding with dirty sewer water and waste. Many inmates caught rats to eat.
H.M.S. Belfast was launched on St. Patrick's Day 1938 and was commissioned in August 1939. in November of that year she struck a magnetic mine and spent two years undergoing repairs. She returned to action in 1942 protecting Arctic convoys. She played a major role in the sinking of the German Ship, 'Scharnhorst' in 1943. she also took part in the D-Day landings in 1944. In 1945 she joined the Pacific fleet and then saw action during the Korean conflict between 1950-52. She stayed in service until 1963 and was due to be scrapped in 1967. In 1971 the Government placed H.M.S. Belfast in the hands of the H.M.S. Belfast Trust. She is now part of the imperial War Museum. Her forward guns had a range of 14 land miles and are currently trained and elevated on the M1 Gateway, Scratchwood Services, 12.5 miles from the H.M.S. Belfast.
Please enjoy this blog to the irrelevant.
G. Gibson's has had a stall on Watford Market since 1976, and their most famous product is the Gibson Sausage. Recently they opened a shop, at 13 Charter Place, where they sell fresh British meats, vegetables and exotic meats and burgers. These incude, Impala, Kangaroo, Ostrich, Zebra and Moufflon amongst others. They are definitely the best butchers in the Watford area and well worth a visit.
The Royal Naval College was based in Greenwich, from 1873 until 1998, as a college to teach all aspects of naval sciences. More courses were added as and when new skills were developed.
The Cutty Sark was built in 1869, and, on February 16th 1870, the Cutty Sark left London on the first of eight trips to China. Throughout her working life, Cutty Sark transported cargoes such as Tea, wool and coal. She travelled to China, Japan, South and North America, Angola and more. In 1895, the Cutty Sark was sold to a Portuguese company, and her name was changed to Ferreira. In 1922, she was sold to another Portuguese owner, and she was renamed Maria do Amparo. She was then bought by an Englishman and, in 1923, her true name and nationality were restored. After being berthed in Falmouth and then Greenhithe, before being moved to her current, and final resting place. On May 21st 2007, a fire gutted the Cutty Sark, while she was having restoration work undertaken.
'Company' is a musical comedy, set in New York, that first premiered in 1970. The play is centred on the central character of Robert, a 35 year old single man, via his 3 girlfriends and his married or soon-to-be married friends. Robert has hit a point in his life where he cannot commit to a long-term relationship and looks to his friends for guidance.
The Lansdowne Road Stadium is the oldest International Stadium in the World!
Borough Market is one of the largest food markets anywhere in the World, selling food from all around the globe. It is said that a market has been in this locale since Roman times, but it is first referenced in 1276.
Because the River Thames is tidal, the English sea coast continues all the way up to Teddington Lock. The river has a tidal rise and fall of 23 feet and is the longest river in England.
The old Wembley Stadium was opened in 1923 and was demolished in 2003. Arsenal played their European Games there from 1998 - 2000. The new Stadium was opened in 2007, over a year later than planned.
The 'London Stone' is a piece of Limestone that it is rumoured was the point that all measurements were made from, in Roman times.
Snakeheads are usually found in freshwater in Africa and Asia. There are a number of different species of Snakehead and they can grow from 25cm to over 1metre in length. They are predatory and eat everything from aquatic insects to rodents. They can also breathe air and when they are out of the water they use their muscles and fins to 'walk'. The female can lay up to 150,000 eggs a year! It is a great creature to see in a tank, but people have started to release them into the wild, especially in America, where they are causing havoc with the local ecosystems.
The Clink Prison was opened in 1144 and was one of England's oldest prisons, if not the oldest! It covered an area of 80 acres and was in use for nearly 400 years. Conditions in the clink were diabolical. You had to pay to be a prisoner, which meant that you might get food and clean water. If you didn't pay, you had to beg passersby for food at the 'Grates'. Children were held there and they were treated as small adults. If the weather was bad the prison was prone to flooding with dirty sewer water and waste. Many inmates caught rats to eat.
H.M.S. Belfast was launched on St. Patrick's Day 1938 and was commissioned in August 1939. in November of that year she struck a magnetic mine and spent two years undergoing repairs. She returned to action in 1942 protecting Arctic convoys. She played a major role in the sinking of the German Ship, 'Scharnhorst' in 1943. she also took part in the D-Day landings in 1944. In 1945 she joined the Pacific fleet and then saw action during the Korean conflict between 1950-52. She stayed in service until 1963 and was due to be scrapped in 1967. In 1971 the Government placed H.M.S. Belfast in the hands of the H.M.S. Belfast Trust. She is now part of the imperial War Museum. Her forward guns had a range of 14 land miles and are currently trained and elevated on the M1 Gateway, Scratchwood Services, 12.5 miles from the H.M.S. Belfast.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
My Wedding Day
Saturday 10th March, 2012.
I had stayed at the 'White house' hotel, on the Friday night, at the request of my eldest daughter, who is very superstitious. On waking up I was hungry and ready for breakfast. I decided not to eat breakfast at the hotel, but instead opted for a full English breakfast at 'Ruby's Cafe' in Watford Market. After washing this down with a mug of coffee, I headed into 'Argos' to buy myself a new laptop bag, as my old one just didn't feel right. I then wandered into the 'Harlequin Centre' for a look around. I then headed back to the hotel to relax. A short while later, Steve called and asked if I wanted to meet up for lunch. So, I headed back into Watford and met Steve outside the market. We ordered our food from the 'Roast counter'. As we were waiting, Ben and Laurel arrived and ordered some lunch, too. We then all went and sat down to eat. Once we had eaten, Ben and Laurel headed off shopping, while Steve and I went for a look around 'HMV'. After nearly an hour, we said our goodbyes and I headed back to the hotel to get ready. A shave and a shower later, and with the time approaching 15:00hrs, I was ready in my Star Trek dress uniform, and waiting for Steve. A few miutes later and we were sitting in the hotel bar watching the Wales-Italy match, sipping a beer, while waiting for Len to arrive. Once Len had arrived, we had another drink before we left and made our way to 'The Orangery' on Hempstead Road. The sun was shining as we made the short walk, which was filled with light banter.
We arrived at 'The Orangery' just after 16:15, and were in time to see the previous couple, and their guests, leaving. My friend Rob was the first to arrive, followed soon after by my Mum and the rest of the family and friends. Emma was just pulling in to the car park, as Steve and I made my way to see the registrar. A few minutes later, with all relevant details entered, we made our way into the room to await Emma's arrival. By now most of the room was full of family members and friends, so after saying hello to as many people as I could, I made my way to the front with my best man, Steve. A few moments passed and then Emma's entrance music started. Alysha carried Erin followed by Freya, who was followed by Emma and her father, David. We took our vows and exchanged rings and Steve read the reading we had chosen. I kissed my bride and, too soon, it was over and we were walking up the aisle together as husband and wife. Halfway up the aisle, I felt my mobile vibrate in my pocket, and I knew, without looking, that it was a text. When I checked it a few minutes later, I discovered that my friend, Aaron, had messaged me the score of the Ireland-Scotland match. Ireland were winning at half-time. Ireland did go on to win the match, too!
Outside we walked around and spoke to all the guests, before marshalling everyone for the photographs. After about a thousand camera flashes, the photographs were done, and we made our way to the 'West Herts Sports Club', where we had our reception booked.
All of the guests, that had been to the marriage cermony, were at the reception, and more and more friends arrived as the time went on. When we thought that most of them had arrived, Emma and I cut the cake and took our first dance, which was to 'Amazed' by 'Lonestar'. Soon after this, Emma and I sat on stools in the middle of the dance floor, while Steve gave his 'best man speech'. Soon after he started, he asked Emma Jayne to hold his speech as he was too hot. At which point he began to remove his jacket and tie. As Emma, I and the rest of the guests looked on in bewilderment, he removed his shirt to reveal... A blue Star Trek Original Series shirt! I saluted him for that and he carried on with his speech, which I must say was brilliant. highly entertaining and not too embarrassing for myself and Emma. When Steve had finished, I said a few words on mine and Emma's behalf, and the party continued. Atfer what seemed like an age, and far too many photographs, the party started to wind down. The bar closed at 23:00 and Andi Rob, the best DJ in the business and a long-time friend, killed the music at 23:30, at which time the last of the family members and friends began to leave. A few stayed behind to help us clearaway the rubbish, and put the leftover food into boxes, which were then placed in Emma Jayne's car. When everything was finally done, Emma and I took a slow walk to the 'White House' hotel, where we would spend our first night as husband and wife. On entering the foyer, we were met by my cousin Mark and his fiancee Charlotte, who were having a night-cap. So we joined them. After relaxing and chatting, Emma and I made our way up to our room, very tired but extremely happy.
To all of the members of our families and to all of our friends, some of whom we see weekly or even daily and those that we see far too little and those who travelled great distances.
Thank you for making our day so special.
Special thanks must go to:-
David & Alyson (Emma's parents) - For letting me marry their daughter.
Lynda (My mum) - For simply being the best!
Steve Brown (Best Man) - There are no words.
Freya (Emma's Niece) - For being a superb bridesmaid.
Alysha & Erin (Our daughters) - For being the greatest and most beautiful daughters in the World.
Emma (Wife) - For making me the happiest man on Earth.
And to everyone else...
THANK YOU
Because we couldn't decide on what songs we wanted to play at the wedding ceremony, we decided it might be different to play movie soundtracks, so here is the track listing for our wedding:-
Music to be played while the guests are arriving:-
I had stayed at the 'White house' hotel, on the Friday night, at the request of my eldest daughter, who is very superstitious. On waking up I was hungry and ready for breakfast. I decided not to eat breakfast at the hotel, but instead opted for a full English breakfast at 'Ruby's Cafe' in Watford Market. After washing this down with a mug of coffee, I headed into 'Argos' to buy myself a new laptop bag, as my old one just didn't feel right. I then wandered into the 'Harlequin Centre' for a look around. I then headed back to the hotel to relax. A short while later, Steve called and asked if I wanted to meet up for lunch. So, I headed back into Watford and met Steve outside the market. We ordered our food from the 'Roast counter'. As we were waiting, Ben and Laurel arrived and ordered some lunch, too. We then all went and sat down to eat. Once we had eaten, Ben and Laurel headed off shopping, while Steve and I went for a look around 'HMV'. After nearly an hour, we said our goodbyes and I headed back to the hotel to get ready. A shave and a shower later, and with the time approaching 15:00hrs, I was ready in my Star Trek dress uniform, and waiting for Steve. A few miutes later and we were sitting in the hotel bar watching the Wales-Italy match, sipping a beer, while waiting for Len to arrive. Once Len had arrived, we had another drink before we left and made our way to 'The Orangery' on Hempstead Road. The sun was shining as we made the short walk, which was filled with light banter.
We arrived at 'The Orangery' just after 16:15, and were in time to see the previous couple, and their guests, leaving. My friend Rob was the first to arrive, followed soon after by my Mum and the rest of the family and friends. Emma was just pulling in to the car park, as Steve and I made my way to see the registrar. A few minutes later, with all relevant details entered, we made our way into the room to await Emma's arrival. By now most of the room was full of family members and friends, so after saying hello to as many people as I could, I made my way to the front with my best man, Steve. A few moments passed and then Emma's entrance music started. Alysha carried Erin followed by Freya, who was followed by Emma and her father, David. We took our vows and exchanged rings and Steve read the reading we had chosen. I kissed my bride and, too soon, it was over and we were walking up the aisle together as husband and wife. Halfway up the aisle, I felt my mobile vibrate in my pocket, and I knew, without looking, that it was a text. When I checked it a few minutes later, I discovered that my friend, Aaron, had messaged me the score of the Ireland-Scotland match. Ireland were winning at half-time. Ireland did go on to win the match, too!
Outside we walked around and spoke to all the guests, before marshalling everyone for the photographs. After about a thousand camera flashes, the photographs were done, and we made our way to the 'West Herts Sports Club', where we had our reception booked.
All of the guests, that had been to the marriage cermony, were at the reception, and more and more friends arrived as the time went on. When we thought that most of them had arrived, Emma and I cut the cake and took our first dance, which was to 'Amazed' by 'Lonestar'. Soon after this, Emma and I sat on stools in the middle of the dance floor, while Steve gave his 'best man speech'. Soon after he started, he asked Emma Jayne to hold his speech as he was too hot. At which point he began to remove his jacket and tie. As Emma, I and the rest of the guests looked on in bewilderment, he removed his shirt to reveal... A blue Star Trek Original Series shirt! I saluted him for that and he carried on with his speech, which I must say was brilliant. highly entertaining and not too embarrassing for myself and Emma. When Steve had finished, I said a few words on mine and Emma's behalf, and the party continued. Atfer what seemed like an age, and far too many photographs, the party started to wind down. The bar closed at 23:00 and Andi Rob, the best DJ in the business and a long-time friend, killed the music at 23:30, at which time the last of the family members and friends began to leave. A few stayed behind to help us clearaway the rubbish, and put the leftover food into boxes, which were then placed in Emma Jayne's car. When everything was finally done, Emma and I took a slow walk to the 'White House' hotel, where we would spend our first night as husband and wife. On entering the foyer, we were met by my cousin Mark and his fiancee Charlotte, who were having a night-cap. So we joined them. After relaxing and chatting, Emma and I made our way up to our room, very tired but extremely happy.
To all of the members of our families and to all of our friends, some of whom we see weekly or even daily and those that we see far too little and those who travelled great distances.
Thank you for making our day so special.
Special thanks must go to:-
David & Alyson (Emma's parents) - For letting me marry their daughter.
Lynda (My mum) - For simply being the best!
Steve Brown (Best Man) - There are no words.
Freya (Emma's Niece) - For being a superb bridesmaid.
Alysha & Erin (Our daughters) - For being the greatest and most beautiful daughters in the World.
Emma (Wife) - For making me the happiest man on Earth.
And to everyone else...
THANK YOU
Because we couldn't decide on what songs we wanted to play at the wedding ceremony, we decided it might be different to play movie soundtracks, so here is the track listing for our wedding:-
Music to be played while the guests are arriving:-
- Ilia's Theme - Star Trek: The Motion Picture - Jerry Goldsmith
- First Contact Suite - Star Trek: First Contact - Jerry Goldsmith
- Bruce & Linda - Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story - Randy Edelman
- Fellowship of the Ring - Lord of the Rings - Howard Shore
Emma's entrance music:-
- Sayuri's Theme - Memoirs of a Geisha - John Williams
Signing of the register:-
- I do believe in fairies - Peter Pan - James Newton Howard
- Concerto in E Major - The Boondock Saints - Bach
Leaving as Husband and Wife:-
- Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini Op. 43 - Somewhere in Time - Rachmaninoff
Monday, February 27, 2012
A Distinctly Good Weekend
On Friday, at about lunchtime, I got a call from my daughter, Alysha. She had called to tell me that she had taken an exam, at college, and she had got the results. She needed a minimum 93 points to pass and 118 to pass with distinction. Alysha got 123 points, which was the highest in the class, so I am really proud of her, right now. A little later she called again. This time to tell me that while she had been in Watford for lunch, she had seen a film crew, so had gone to investigate. It turns out that some ‘TV Personality’, named Keith Lemon, was filming for his new show. From what I can gather from Alysha, Keith Lemon was interviewing everyday people about everyday things. Now Alysha, always the one to get into the papers or on TV, decided to stand behind the ‘everyday person’ being interviewed. This meant that she would be in the shot and, therefore, on TV. At this point a lady asked her to sign a declaration saying that they could show her on TV. I can imagine Alysha snapping the poor woman’s arm off to sign it. So, Alysha will be appearing on TV in the early spring, in a show called ‘Lemonaid’. After work, Jason and I went back to mine, as he was going to help me build my new ‘Garden Store’. A seven-foot tall plastic storage box, basically. An hour later, and it was done. A quick beer and then Jason headed home.
Saturday saw a lot of things get done. I managed to move the gardening tools into my new ‘Garden Store’, and go through everything in the garage. Emma phoned her brother, Adam, who for £20 would take away the rubbish. I then put some other things in the loft, put a plug on Emma’s hairdryer and fixed the bird box and reattached it to the wall. I then settled down to watch the Ireland v Italy match. Adam arrived just before half-time, at which point we emptied all the scrap and rubbish onto the back of his van. He was not a happy bunny. He thought it was just a small amount, not a van full. An extra tenner, shut him up. Jason arrived as Adam was leaving, so we had a beer each, before Jason had to leave. We were expecting Len and Emma Jayne to come round, but they decided to stay home, so we had a quite afternoon watching the rugby. With Ireland and Wales both winning, it was a happy household.
Sunday saw us up early. Erin was bathed and fed, before we headed out for a stroll. Last Sunday we had walked to and around Cassiobury Park. This week we decided to follow the Ebury Way to Rickmansworth. The weather was beautiful and we reached Rickmansworth in an hour, only to find ‘Annie’s Café’ was closed. A little disappointed, we headed into Rickmansworth Aquadrome to grab a bite and a drink at the ‘Café in the Park’. Once we had eaten, Erin awoke, so we fed her before continuing around the Aquadrome proper. I carried Erin for a while, and she couldn’t take her eyes off the water. Then she noticed the swans and geese. (In 16 weeks, Erin has barely noticed the cats, and every time we have seen other animals, Erin has been asleep.) So, these giant white things were intriguing to her. Eventually we headed to a little play area, where Erin took her first ride on a swing. (Check the vid on my ‘Movies’ page.) We then walked along Rickmansworth High Street, before heading onto the Grand union Canal towpath. To our surprise, the café was open. It turns out it is now under new management and is called ‘The café @ Lock 81’. So, we had a coffee before starting our walk home. Once home, we had a bite to eat and changed and fed Erin, before deciding to go to the ‘Oddfellows’ for a drink. We sat in the beer garden, and Erin had another go on a swing, and then we headed home. It worked out at a round trip of ten miles, or so.
Once again another great weekend.
Until next time,
May it be well with you.
Saturday saw a lot of things get done. I managed to move the gardening tools into my new ‘Garden Store’, and go through everything in the garage. Emma phoned her brother, Adam, who for £20 would take away the rubbish. I then put some other things in the loft, put a plug on Emma’s hairdryer and fixed the bird box and reattached it to the wall. I then settled down to watch the Ireland v Italy match. Adam arrived just before half-time, at which point we emptied all the scrap and rubbish onto the back of his van. He was not a happy bunny. He thought it was just a small amount, not a van full. An extra tenner, shut him up. Jason arrived as Adam was leaving, so we had a beer each, before Jason had to leave. We were expecting Len and Emma Jayne to come round, but they decided to stay home, so we had a quite afternoon watching the rugby. With Ireland and Wales both winning, it was a happy household.
Sunday saw us up early. Erin was bathed and fed, before we headed out for a stroll. Last Sunday we had walked to and around Cassiobury Park. This week we decided to follow the Ebury Way to Rickmansworth. The weather was beautiful and we reached Rickmansworth in an hour, only to find ‘Annie’s Café’ was closed. A little disappointed, we headed into Rickmansworth Aquadrome to grab a bite and a drink at the ‘Café in the Park’. Once we had eaten, Erin awoke, so we fed her before continuing around the Aquadrome proper. I carried Erin for a while, and she couldn’t take her eyes off the water. Then she noticed the swans and geese. (In 16 weeks, Erin has barely noticed the cats, and every time we have seen other animals, Erin has been asleep.) So, these giant white things were intriguing to her. Eventually we headed to a little play area, where Erin took her first ride on a swing. (Check the vid on my ‘Movies’ page.) We then walked along Rickmansworth High Street, before heading onto the Grand union Canal towpath. To our surprise, the café was open. It turns out it is now under new management and is called ‘The café @ Lock 81’. So, we had a coffee before starting our walk home. Once home, we had a bite to eat and changed and fed Erin, before deciding to go to the ‘Oddfellows’ for a drink. We sat in the beer garden, and Erin had another go on a swing, and then we headed home. It worked out at a round trip of ten miles, or so.
Once again another great weekend.
Until next time,
May it be well with you.
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