tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21200475722301085092024-03-13T21:35:42.696+00:00Once upon a thimbleOnceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.comBlogger321125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-26170516269962033432020-01-07T11:49:00.002+00:002020-01-07T11:49:53.698+00:00New Year and a new post<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">May I wish you all a very happy New Year and my thoughts are with my readers in Australia. It must be quite horrendous and I cannot begin to think how people cope with this. We in the UK, may moan about our weather, either too wet, too cold or too hot but we don't usually have to contend with massive fires like this. At the end of 2019 we have just had massive quantities of rain and where I live in Northamptonshire, the River Nene valley has had controlled flooding to prevent the town of Northampton from floods. It has made my Nordic Walking group walks difficult; where to go without getting our feet wet, but we have managed. We managed this one</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">only to come up against this one<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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which looked a little deep. long and actually fast flowing over the path so we had to turn round and go back through the first flood again!!</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had a lovely Christmas with my whole family in Kent. I had to avoid floods getting there but the weather wasn't too bad on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Before I went I made these<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few mince pies to keep us going!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and this Artisan Apron</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the pattern for which can be found <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/184039707/artisan-apron-pattern-make-and-embellish?ref=shop_home_active_8&crt=1" target="_blank">here</a>. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On Christmas Eve we all went to the Christingle Service in <a href="https://www.mytenterden.co.uk/directory/st-mildreds-church-listing-703.aspx#.XhRls252vIU" target="_blank">church</a> and I noticed that the men in my family are almost the same height and my grandson (age13) is as tall as me now - 5'10' (1.76metres) and the two sons are well over 6 foot and I have to look up at them.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Younger son, grandson, older son</td></tr>
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Stockings were laid out for Father Christmas on Christmas Eve night</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and so we had a lovely family Christmas. Yes, Father Christmas did come - phew, but opening these was too early in the morning for me to take a photo!!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Boxing Day is always very relaxed and younger son and family left to go to his in-laws for the rest of the holiday and with older son's family I went into town for the Boxing Day '<a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7827767/Thousands-hunt-supporters-attend-dozens-Boxing-Day-meets-UK.html" target="_blank">meet</a>' of the local hunt. I know that this is a very emotive subject and in the UK hunting animals with hounds is now banned by law, so this was a drag hunt, but the anti-hunt brigade were out in full force. I think it is still a wonderful sight. I apologise for the quality of the these photos but as usual I pressed the wrong button and got a video!! These are from the video</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A very small pony!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What these photos don't show is that it was pouring with rain so we went home and worked on a jigsaw puzzle </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7cpkucz_VWs/XhRj-KXqdeI/AAAAAAAAGLo/I0dMnRNy1c4tIISXOhJorxJepYWJkxmkwCEwYBhgL/s1600/2a76c9f1-8685-40eb-a7f1-23e4a673ac50%2BOUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7cpkucz_VWs/XhRj-KXqdeI/AAAAAAAAGLo/I0dMnRNy1c4tIISXOhJorxJepYWJkxmkwCEwYBhgL/s320/2a76c9f1-8685-40eb-a7f1-23e4a673ac50%2BOUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">that was completed by the end of the day!!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have my birthday on New Years Eve and I had a lovely time with my son in Cambridge and we went out to lunch, followed by the <a href="https://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/news/cambridge-news/cambridge-arts-theatre-panto-2019-17279866" target="_blank">pantomime</a> which is always a 'must see' at this time of the year. My granddaughter aged 10 made this cake for me, with the only help being to put it in the oven and take it out as it was hot.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0Ti1E0YP9c/XhRkB9-L8wI/AAAAAAAAGLo/QU3kXaYb0SUYKhg60dvti3DMvvfHVbaawCEwYBhgL/s1600/d74d437d-bffb-4430-b37e-2063ec8ae054%2BOUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0Ti1E0YP9c/XhRkB9-L8wI/AAAAAAAAGLo/QU3kXaYb0SUYKhg60dvti3DMvvfHVbaawCEwYBhgL/s320/d74d437d-bffb-4430-b37e-2063ec8ae054%2BOUT.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was very impressed and it was delicious, so well done her.</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-33139548597264409392019-12-20T13:14:00.000+00:002019-12-20T13:14:38.491+00:00A Happy Christmas <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have had a very difficult November and had been planning a post during the month, but it never materialised and I was in danger of not getting up to date for Christmas. However I can report that, after panicking, I have caught up with myself and only have mince pies to make on Sunday.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With some friends I went to a wreath making workshop <a href="https://www.colemans-online.co.uk/colemans-craft-warehouse.html" target="_blank">here</a> and we knew that as it was only 2 hours long we would not be using a basic ring and bound with moss. We were given a ring of floral foam (Oasis) set into another solid ring and already wet. Lots of greenery was provided but plus other items and <i>voila,</i> after 2 hours </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and some dried orange, berries, glitter, a bow etc it is now hanging on my front door.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was unable to attend a Higham Piecemakers workshop in <a href="http://highampiecemakers.blogspot.com/p/diary_16.html" target="_blank">October</a> when members would be making an indoor wreath. However I was lucky enough to have help in cutting out the shapes from SH a member of CUC (we call them Cock Up Corner but they make lovely things!!) and made this</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ThNcIaqoKHA/XfzAIkxeu-I/AAAAAAAAGJU/0GPUtdCsfGwU2JO77SUU6RS29ZorzAHSACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1976%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ThNcIaqoKHA/XfzAIkxeu-I/AAAAAAAAGJU/0GPUtdCsfGwU2JO77SUU6RS29ZorzAHSACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1976%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love it and released my inner designer self!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Luckily I had made my Christmas cake at the end of October and it was maturing well through November and then a week ago I put on the almond paste</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ile8-WdLfQ/XfzAIgQYSBI/AAAAAAAAGJU/TdgeUL5j8zMpkBHQ0Myhl_QpSu8ts8VvgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2051%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ile8-WdLfQ/XfzAIgQYSBI/AAAAAAAAGJU/TdgeUL5j8zMpkBHQ0Myhl_QpSu8ts8VvgCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_2051%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and have just finished icing it I used to spend hours doing smooth royal icing and decorating with piped icing, but now it is rough iced with some treasured figures that are used each year.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h5e7FDR69VE/XfzAJ05o1II/AAAAAAAAGJg/T4efE7oTFbQgpFgnZaGWTt0JvAaW0-OrgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2071%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h5e7FDR69VE/XfzAJ05o1II/AAAAAAAAGJg/T4efE7oTFbQgpFgnZaGWTt0JvAaW0-OrgCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_2071%2BOUT.JPG" width="284" /></a></div>
I only make the cake for my younger son and a little bit for myself, but when I asked whether one was needed this year, he said "Christmas may as well be cancelled" so here it is.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finally Higham Piecemakers had their Christmas Parties this week and the Monday ladies always have a bring and share lunch</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6w8F0oYDuo/XfzAJkUuPZI/AAAAAAAAGJc/dmu_q3VBU74qH0kjIk1uyGTwetzEGVjZgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_2055%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6w8F0oYDuo/XfzAJkUuPZI/AAAAAAAAGJc/dmu_q3VBU74qH0kjIk1uyGTwetzEGVjZgCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_2055%2BOUT.JPG" width="272" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(the desserts were elsewhere!) and as usual there was a great deal to eat and this was followed by raffles and games. BUT the final item is distribution of the <b>Christmas Challenge </b>and for 2019 we must -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"<i>Make a 3D item of your choice using the pack of paper pieces provided. You can use the shape alone or applique it. You also have a fat quarter of fabric which you can use of not, but it would be nice to see it used in some way. You have until 30 March 2020!"</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My brain is working overtime and I will not start it until the New Year as so many ideas are whizzing around.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My apologies for the shortness of this blog, but I have had a very difficult end of the year, but may I wish you all a Happy Christmas and a good New Year to you and your families.</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-35224061332882403362019-11-01T12:34:00.001+00:002019-11-01T12:34:08.936+00:00Spooky goings on<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The day after my last post I incurred an injury whilst walking that has laid me up for a few weeks, hurt to go up and down stairs and generally made me feel grumpy and not wanting to write the blog.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However I am now back to normal and though I am struggling to walk too far feel that I can now 'put pen to paper' so to speak. Actually I wonder if I am the only person who struggles to actually put pen to paper. My hand wobbles, my thoughts race ahead and there is a general blur in my mind, all of which I put down to typing all the time!! I have lost the knack of hand writing with a pen.</span></div>
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A<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">nyway here goes - I have had two outings with the <a href="https://www.fiftyplusadventureclub.org/" target="_blank">50+ Adventure club</a> (we've changed our website so do have a look) in the last month. The Autumn Walk and lunch and our Halloween trip to Nottingham.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have no photos for the walk but we all met up in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandy,_Bedfordshire" target="_blank">Sandy</a> on a lovely day and made our way into the <a href="https://www.wildlifebcn.org/nature-reserves/riddy" target="_blank">Riddy</a> along the River Ivel where we had to cross a ditch with some water in it. The temporary planks looked rickety so I decided to cross on tussocks of grass but put my foot on some and immediately sank up to my knees in water!!!! Great hilarity for the group, but my waterproof boots filled with water over the top and I sloshed for the rest of the walk!! The boots were so well waterproofed that the outsides were dry before I got back to the car but the insides were still full of water!! However the lunch made up for any discomfort!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So to our annual Halloween trip and this was a first as we had to book our own train tickets to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nottingham" target="_blank">Nottingham</a> for two 'Adventures' later in the day!! We all managed that and had the morning to ourselves, so the group I was with headed to the Justice Museum. I loved it and took many photos -<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lyllN_bW3CI/XbwYz8HYrzI/AAAAAAAAF8o/0KZOkLKzF3kUIjVMd8P4tNuskP-snTbRwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010393%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="275" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lyllN_bW3CI/XbwYz8HYrzI/AAAAAAAAF8o/0KZOkLKzF3kUIjVMd8P4tNuskP-snTbRwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010393%2BOUT.JPG" width="137" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Made of Lego</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and read this to see what a criminal looks like<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ktbncPRXW8o/XbwY0ktWPUI/AAAAAAAAF9Q/Av9UQgBEGyAW1rDP1XA4S9UbtLtzWaclQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010400%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ktbncPRXW8o/XbwY0ktWPUI/AAAAAAAAF9Q/Av9UQgBEGyAW1rDP1XA4S9UbtLtzWaclQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010400%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'a thief could be identified by small wandering eyes!!'</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This trunc</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">heon was used at the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peterloo_Massacre" target="_blank">Peterloo Massacre</a> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WMAmXCsXuFM/XbwYz6VeJZI/AAAAAAAAF9U/CTNx-gZRLjEuwiti-eFVZUlUG0RmZhwBgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010397%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="292" data-original-width="640" height="146" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WMAmXCsXuFM/XbwYz6VeJZI/AAAAAAAAF9U/CTNx-gZRLjEuwiti-eFVZUlUG0RmZhwBgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010397%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and my friends sat in the original dock from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bow_Street_Magistrates%27_Court" target="_blank">Bow Street Magistrates Court</a> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRWJJ-6oxns/XbwY1ufACMI/AAAAAAAAF9g/Nrjxp4nHkFwW1SgOJwVHFO_-QT81C_vlwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010405%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRWJJ-6oxns/XbwY1ufACMI/AAAAAAAAF9g/Nrjxp4nHkFwW1SgOJwVHFO_-QT81C_vlwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010405%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
with a photo in front of them of some of the people who would have sat there, including Oscar Wilde, Roger Casement, Dr Crippen and Ethel Neave and in more recent times Jeffrey Archer. Go to the link above for Bow Street and you can see what these people were there for. After lunch in their rather chaotic cafe we went on quick walk round the lace quarter, now turned into flats etc<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ga4-jFR-NZI/XbwY2_bjQoI/AAAAAAAAF9g/NwHpnBUQQykkc2reNfeJ8-CNt-sAwzffwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010410%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ga4-jFR-NZI/XbwY2_bjQoI/AAAAAAAAF9g/NwHpnBUQQykkc2reNfeJ8-CNt-sAwzffwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010410%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adams_Building,_Nottingham" target="_blank">The Adams entrance</a> </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our first organised walk was in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/City_of_Caves" target="_blank">sandstone caves</a> under the city. Considering how soft sandstone is it is amazing that there is a shopping centre above!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lE9Xf2XreEk/XbwY2UCE9eI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/vp8UCzEgIDAKTkTmSreaQR8brAQrVhUbQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010421%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lE9Xf2XreEk/XbwY2UCE9eI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/vp8UCzEgIDAKTkTmSreaQR8brAQrVhUbQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010421%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tannery in the caves</td></tr>
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Lots of talk here about pee and poo being used in medieval times in the tanning process!! Children and the 50+ Adventure Club love it!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VVXPhEPHIHw/XbwY3xnq0wI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/Bsz5U-Kkhr0eTSl18d17owALTpa_wi5GgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010422%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VVXPhEPHIHw/XbwY3xnq0wI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/Bsz5U-Kkhr0eTSl18d17owALTpa_wi5GgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010422%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tanning pits using poo and pee!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zUTMWYfRvg/XbwY4Q9xW0I/AAAAAAAAF9c/fmqk53j0ix4LHqOUYnmV4qmZ3PwO2ZIpgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010423%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zUTMWYfRvg/XbwY4Q9xW0I/AAAAAAAAF9c/fmqk53j0ix4LHqOUYnmV4qmZ3PwO2ZIpgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010423%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More tanning with oak bark in these pits</td></tr>
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The caves were also used as air raid shelters in the second World War.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TuXb_Smr_-k/XbwY5sFeMyI/AAAAAAAAF9k/sD5fsXfDqws4HyAkq8xCcD3t6VMCqJWwgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010438%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="640" height="217" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TuXb_Smr_-k/XbwY5sFeMyI/AAAAAAAAF9k/sD5fsXfDqws4HyAkq8xCcD3t6VMCqJWwgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010438%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The basement kitchen of a dwelling</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Great walk and then a visit to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ye_Olde_Trip_to_Jerusalem" target="_blank">Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem</a> for a drink and meal before the ghost walk <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SOf3ysm7MZc/XbwiLto1jPI/AAAAAAAAF9s/FGVegpk83cQlBS2roN0EHXF4yAxDwYoEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1841%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SOf3ysm7MZc/XbwiLto1jPI/AAAAAAAAF9s/FGVegpk83cQlBS2roN0EHXF4yAxDwYoEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1841%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Even this pub is set into the sandstone cliffs below the Castle. It was packed but we had a reserved room, thank goodness! When it got dark we went on our ghost walk along the castle walls <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2GYwGHaooEc/XbwY5EFr_0I/AAAAAAAAF9g/5zvwDx4MgooYlNqnt2-z7PAcmuF0TfItwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010446%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2GYwGHaooEc/XbwY5EFr_0I/AAAAAAAAF9g/5zvwDx4MgooYlNqnt2-z7PAcmuF0TfItwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010446%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guess who this statue is? Answer at the bottom -</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So ended a very busy, but enjoyable day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been doing some crafty things:-<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XnLBMWE_dj8/XbwjXSFlHXI/AAAAAAAAF-A/6AlOdPI96OMJZyaDg2daplP7YJerjKw3gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/P1010453%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XnLBMWE_dj8/XbwjXSFlHXI/AAAAAAAAF-A/6AlOdPI96OMJZyaDg2daplP7YJerjKw3gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/P1010453%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is an ongoing smocking project for a file cover tht holds all my patterns. The last bay tree is supposed to look like that as I will not be using it. In the meantime I have started this Christmas decoration ring <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GRAx4PW35wo/XbwjWy6pMNI/AAAAAAAAF-M/eSU-6LQU7UEBidvTNUGz9EzZLdjv8BsHQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010452%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GRAx4PW35wo/XbwjWy6pMNI/AAAAAAAAF-M/eSU-6LQU7UEBidvTNUGz9EzZLdjv8BsHQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010452%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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All will be revealed in a few weeks!</div>
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Sock Club continues and I am making a new pair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-saP8GdlFIM0/XbwjWcXxZ1I/AAAAAAAAF-M/m0a80zuviVg9z6jVtL5JUh5CGlhIHzdmgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010454%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-saP8GdlFIM0/XbwjWcXxZ1I/AAAAAAAAF-M/m0a80zuviVg9z6jVtL5JUh5CGlhIHzdmgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010454%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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from this book by <a href="https://www.winwickmum.co.uk/" target="_blank">Winwick Mum</a> and I have also bought another one by her.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hdJ0JNEbcvY/XbwjYxWWTpI/AAAAAAAAF-U/x0Nd60j0MXERiuToLec4GhyLY1LktmWdwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010457%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hdJ0JNEbcvY/XbwjYxWWTpI/AAAAAAAAF-U/x0Nd60j0MXERiuToLec4GhyLY1LktmWdwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010457%2BOUT.JPG" width="246" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't wait to have a go at the pattern on the front!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Answer to photo above - <a href="http://www.nottinghamnow.uk/the-robin-hood-statue-location-history/" target="_blank">Robin Hood</a> </span></div>
Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-69743832767840060162019-09-16T08:05:00.000+01:002019-09-16T08:10:46.943+01:00Norfolk week with friends Part 2<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As I had already walked 16+ miles over three days, on the third day I decided to go and explore on my own. In fact I went with 'L' and we had a great morning in a very strong wind!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had booked us on a boat for a 'Seal Trip' so we headed off to <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blakeney-national-nature-reserve/morston-quay" target="_blank">Morston Quay</a> an hour earlier than booked in the hopes that we could catch an earlier boat, but our provider was not there but another boat was, so after paying we hopped on just as it was departing. I hadn't paid the other people!! What a morning we had.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was quite calm even at high tide, but we could see the breakers in the distance, looking very stormy! We passed this moored up, East Coast Sailing Barge,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TLa0YJJgZ1g/XXjBwYBt5ZI/AAAAAAAAF70/iI43cwr0nDgSqycYL1BZvG0toziKp2jewCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010327%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TLa0YJJgZ1g/XXjBwYBt5ZI/AAAAAAAAF70/iI43cwr0nDgSqycYL1BZvG0toziKp2jewCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010327%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">flocks of gulls fishing,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h5xjSe9x9KA/XXjBxPYaQqI/AAAAAAAAF8E/sfebAmJxnY0l-iWZctwWLbsO43yRQlFbgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010332%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="640" height="178" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h5xjSe9x9KA/XXjBxPYaQqI/AAAAAAAAF8E/sfebAmJxnY0l-iWZctwWLbsO43yRQlFbgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010332%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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until we arrived at Blakeney Point and the open sea! The captain of our boat managed to turn it so that we could get in close to see the seals, but it was rough, with plenty of spray.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCZfdF5yCXs/XXjByQ5BYaI/AAAAAAAAF8E/beBPlX43K2Q7YRDfKnz9hiPcLbDKCicUgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010337%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCZfdF5yCXs/XXjByQ5BYaI/AAAAAAAAF8E/beBPlX43K2Q7YRDfKnz9hiPcLbDKCicUgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010337%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
So many of them hauled up on the shingle - both common and grey seals - who took no notice of us<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lc0Uj01W610/XXjByzihUnI/AAAAAAAAF78/efAwrZlIMCgstdCH-cudo_Tmq6TK78-1gCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010341%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="640" height="207" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lc0Uj01W610/XXjByzihUnI/AAAAAAAAF78/efAwrZlIMCgstdCH-cudo_Tmq6TK78-1gCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010341%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
except this one who came quite close to the boat.</span><br />
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W<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">e saw the old lifeboat station</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsX7oQScmDA/XXjBzSjiiKI/AAAAAAAAF70/P8IDSDRLKpcRHHXscujsMBidcvSo9qfPgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010343%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsX7oQScmDA/XXjBzSjiiKI/AAAAAAAAF70/P8IDSDRLKpcRHHXscujsMBidcvSo9qfPgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010343%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and then it was announced that we could get off the boat for an hour (and would be picked up later thank goodness!) and we could walk around and explore. Off we got, the boat left</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vCn7zvU_Dac/XXjBz8rRW0I/AAAAAAAAF74/ISXKESDTOm4_LSsmYXXrCZpryhoCy-wPgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010344%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vCn7zvU_Dac/XXjBz8rRW0I/AAAAAAAAF74/ISXKESDTOm4_LSsmYXXrCZpryhoCy-wPgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010344%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and I personally wondered it the boat would return because it was a long walk back to the mainland!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zw3tUTla5o8/XXjB0qwpMvI/AAAAAAAAF74/c2VcdqSlOw8ax91b2MmwrMNUF0u3KYxDQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010346%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zw3tUTla5o8/XXjB0qwpMvI/AAAAAAAAF74/c2VcdqSlOw8ax91b2MmwrMNUF0u3KYxDQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010346%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">L and I explored the Old Lifeboat Station and discovered that three wardens live there from the Spring until November. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGumUUMV3zc/XXjB1OJQvwI/AAAAAAAAF74/HZbSb3LY84sYPqSmJiQOY7EgET59-2_TACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010348%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGumUUMV3zc/XXjB1OJQvwI/AAAAAAAAF74/HZbSb3LY84sYPqSmJiQOY7EgET59-2_TACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010348%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I loved seeing the little clumps of <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/plants/plant_finder/plant_pages/11329.shtml" target="_blank">Sea Thrift</a> clinging close to the ground in this exposed position made up of shingle.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-afUaGUxe5Hg/XXjB2RhhNiI/AAAAAAAAF8E/TJjxdpJb23MEK0hn0Z8tgA0vslUNmYpJQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010349%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-afUaGUxe5Hg/XXjB2RhhNiI/AAAAAAAAF8E/TJjxdpJb23MEK0hn0Z8tgA0vslUNmYpJQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010349%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In the Old Lifeboat Station there were boards explaining how Blakeney Point was formed <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pcjgn0UjE9E/XXjB2xxQKKI/AAAAAAAAF78/PZeAY-qTE10C4HO4k80grfejDOBl5RYWgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010354%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="408" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pcjgn0UjE9E/XXjB2xxQKKI/AAAAAAAAF78/PZeAY-qTE10C4HO4k80grfejDOBl5RYWgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010354%2BOUT.JPG" width="204" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double click to get a bigger picture</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and this explains that nature has built up the shingle over hundreds of years and is still doing it. On the return journey we saw more Turnstones (see last blog) very well camouflaged and taking no notice of us!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pc_9JDek-Ck/XXjCKg9WBoI/AAAAAAAAF8M/9xcNuglMx0gHMmd0duz9UxyPEseBktNHACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010359%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1174" data-original-width="1600" height="234" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pc_9JDek-Ck/XXjCKg9WBoI/AAAAAAAAF8M/9xcNuglMx0gHMmd0duz9UxyPEseBktNHACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010359%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While waiting for the boat to return I explored a little and then came to a shallow beach and saw this!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xazNddGzE0Y/XXjB5q4U7ZI/AAAAAAAAF78/-9RaEdkKtp4V4_vhuKZMG7ZO7aaECDNoQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010363%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xazNddGzE0Y/XXjB5q4U7ZI/AAAAAAAAF78/-9RaEdkKtp4V4_vhuKZMG7ZO7aaECDNoQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010363%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Common Seal pup about 36 inches long</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This made my day and I took so many photos and even a little video of him. I did show our warden who said he was a quite late pup, in good condition and just sunning itself. He would keep and eye on it, though I did see a seal quite close in the water so that may have been Mum!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were picked up by the boat and after lunch we drove back to Wells. It was mid afternoon and I decided to ride the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wells_and_Walsingham_Light_Railway" target="_blank">Wells to Walsingham Railway</a>. It was delightful<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Vf3H2iQPKs/XXjB6dsGxDI/AAAAAAAAF8I/OCMG1y6iP3wOKfX4KIuq8p2DRHwqAHSqgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010369%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Vf3H2iQPKs/XXjB6dsGxDI/AAAAAAAAF8I/OCMG1y6iP3wOKfX4KIuq8p2DRHwqAHSqgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010369%2BOUT.JPG" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turning round to go to the front</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">if a little drafty as the carriages are open.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RcBbzMR_qWc/XXjB8oojbBI/AAAAAAAAF8E/f249NMALKv4mfdRX1MzJIIwHdULMYSHcwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010375%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RcBbzMR_qWc/XXjB8oojbBI/AAAAAAAAF8E/f249NMALKv4mfdRX1MzJIIwHdULMYSHcwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010375%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uS9sJs6uUM4/XXjB95ToHWI/AAAAAAAAF8I/d9d98oPm2A8bTAfKJ6DuQTNEMA2O24v7wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010379%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uS9sJs6uUM4/XXjB95ToHWI/AAAAAAAAF8I/d9d98oPm2A8bTAfKJ6DuQTNEMA2O24v7wCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010379%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That evening most of the group met up in Wells, for our final evening meal before returning home after a memorable week away.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-40358676822744768582019-09-10T17:56:00.000+01:002019-09-10T17:56:54.060+01:00Norfolk week with friends Part 1<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Last week the 50+ Adventure Club went away to walk part of the North Norfolk coastal path. What fun I had! Laughter, walking and good food with friends; what more could you ask.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With two others I was based at the <a href="https://www.quaker.org.uk/meetings/wells-next-the-sea" target="_blank">Quaker House</a> in Wells next the Sea and it was basic accommodation. Fine as we were only staying there and going out every day, but I was in the main building on my own and when the main front door was closed late at night, the kitchen door was always open, so my bedroom door was always locked!! </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We walked into <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wells-next-the-Sea" target="_blank">Wells</a> on Sunday afternoon and I took this iconic picture of the town -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iiuOK3D-qjM/XXfBtoVWsAI/AAAAAAAAF5Y/Rz08eKujI1MVKWZHY52MjwzHOScQ_Mr3wCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1668%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1155" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iiuOK3D-qjM/XXfBtoVWsAI/AAAAAAAAF5Y/Rz08eKujI1MVKWZHY52MjwzHOScQ_Mr3wCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1668%2BOUT.JPG" width="231" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the quay and granary with lots of small children fishing for crabs (which they put back because they are small). The <a href="https://wellsguide.com/culture/the-lifeboat-horse/" target="_blank">'Lifeboat Horse'</a> could be seen as it was low tide</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdY2-0GpEaM/XXfBmoykrVI/AAAAAAAAF40/Ao7FOeelPzsUQ66MK1_laooE73tsCm16ACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1669%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="610" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdY2-0GpEaM/XXfBmoykrVI/AAAAAAAAF40/Ao7FOeelPzsUQ66MK1_laooE73tsCm16ACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1669%2BOUT.JPG" width="251" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next morning was not the official start of the walking week as many were driving that day, but some of us met up and went by coastal bus (thank goodness for my 'bus pass' that gives me free travel) to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cromer" target="_blank">Cromer</a>. We walked along the front and the pier, bypassing the theatre to visit the Lifeboat Station behind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sYdPjlVecC0/XXfBsrQLXxI/AAAAAAAAF5E/Xn_p8GCeHNENMdhqf3B4Hz-yN3hhZmjIwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010269%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="381" data-original-width="640" height="190" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sYdPjlVecC0/XXfBsrQLXxI/AAAAAAAAF5E/Xn_p8GCeHNENMdhqf3B4Hz-yN3hhZmjIwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010269%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here I had a minor catastrophe in the shop, as my full water bottle fell out of my rucksack, the top came off and the full contents went all over the floor. The nice ladies behind the till mopped it up with me apologising profusely. "At least it is only water" they said "we have had worse". I leave it to your imagination what it was!! After a brief lunch of Cromer crab sandwiches, a must and delicious, we walked the 4.5 miles back to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheringham" target="_blank">Sheringham</a> and caught the bus back to Wells. That evening we went to <a href="https://www.jollysailorsbrancaster.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Jolly Sailors pub</a> in Brancaster Staithe, where after eating, we watched the <a href="http://www.nelsons-shantymen.co.uk/" target="_blank">Nelson's Shantymen</a> rehearsing ready for the weekend's cider festival and we were mesmerised.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3shWRD8zD_8/XXfBuTpVS7I/AAAAAAAAF50/0NB-z6shi7Av589tdjMV1UN2Sy0DRhWYwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010277%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3shWRD8zD_8/XXfBuTpVS7I/AAAAAAAAF50/0NB-z6shi7Av589tdjMV1UN2Sy0DRhWYwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010277%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The pub was so busy they had to go outside so thank goodness it was a mild evening.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tuesday morning we walked into town to catch the bus and the tide was right in over the quay and the poor 'Lifeboat Horse' was just visible -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mL3A39TO4pw/XXfKeVIoTgI/AAAAAAAAF6g/nP0UFmmqAfAyMWY0bHaTJyHJa3Of4I7uwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010282%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="531" height="289" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mL3A39TO4pw/XXfKeVIoTgI/AAAAAAAAF6g/nP0UFmmqAfAyMWY0bHaTJyHJa3Of4I7uwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010282%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The whole group met up at Burnham Overy Staithe, a delightful hamlet on the edge of the sea and crossed the marshes on a raised pathway and saw this in the distance which was quite unexpected!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oqcbjD2syI/XXfBunD_mJI/AAAAAAAAF5g/wCx8YQuQCDoZCr6QNKGa3x0bYbUGYARwgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010290%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oqcbjD2syI/XXfBunD_mJI/AAAAAAAAF5g/wCx8YQuQCDoZCr6QNKGa3x0bYbUGYARwgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010290%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A very long shot!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A chariot pulled by four grey horses and a charioteer in green - could this be a stand-in for Tom Cruise or George Clooney. No such luck: they were filming a commercial for Haven Holidays to be shown on Boxing Day!! We pressed on until we came to the new <a href="https://www.visitnorfolk.co.uk/inspire/Holkham-new-visitor-facilities.aspx" target="_blank">Visitor Centre</a> at Holkham where we had lunch. The next part of the walk was back to Wells where I cheated for the last part and caught the little <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wells_Harbour_Railway" target="_blank">Wells Harbour Railway</a> into town and saved myself half a mile in a total of 6.5 miles that day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwizFfgypV0/XXfBw7J_M_I/AAAAAAAAF5c/uO0luZ85oE4BOyz__wYJaiheSas4v1sFQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010293%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwizFfgypV0/XXfBw7J_M_I/AAAAAAAAF5c/uO0luZ85oE4BOyz__wYJaiheSas4v1sFQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010293%2BOUT.JPG" width="273" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I also caught the Lifeboat Horse from another angle<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGPjLtO5p4s/XXfBwQG8B2I/AAAAAAAAF5g/xLh8z55G8wEcWHJlTbQS3_IgRxFaLS8FACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010302%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="640" height="234" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGPjLtO5p4s/XXfBwQG8B2I/AAAAAAAAF5g/xLh8z55G8wEcWHJlTbQS3_IgRxFaLS8FACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010302%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tide out again.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next day we were back at Sheringham and before catching the steam train to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holt,_Norfolk" target="_blank">Holt</a> we walked along the front and saw these birds, but what were they? A passing lady said they were Turnstones which I have never heard of before. They over-winter here from Scandinavia and do turn over stones to find little grubs etc.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We arrived at the station and I loved seeing these two together and requested a photo</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very smart station staff!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love trains and this was my second in two days so I was in my element. It was on our arrival in Holt that the heavens opened and delayed our start but the sun soon came out and we started to steam!! A trip on this train is a must if you are ever in the area.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We set out to walk to Sheringham, walking beside the railway at one point and then we heard a toot and our steam train was coming along the track</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and then the path rose and we crossed over the railway and in the distance saw this</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">deer running across the field. At this point we could see Sheringham in the distance and were told that we could either go over the top or down onto the beach and walk on the sand. Mmmm, when we got to edge of the cliff the tide was in so no beach walking and all I could see was this climb!!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gxHgayc5Ncc/XXfRN3IcwqI/AAAAAAAAF6s/hXhfoGjpwyAPIJPKmgRw-xIrNzHGLHxPgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010323%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gxHgayc5Ncc/XXfRN3IcwqI/AAAAAAAAF6s/hXhfoGjpwyAPIJPKmgRw-xIrNzHGLHxPgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010323%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keep walking to the top and the little house!!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I nearly asked one of the golfers for a loan of his buggy, but I find it easiest to keep my head down and keep going under these circumstances and my trusty Nordic Walking poles got me to the top, with just a very short walk to the car the other side. Another 6 miles completed.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That evening our whole party of about twenty went to the 'End of the Pier Show' in Cromer for a night of entertainment. Good fun and we gave a cheer when our group name was called out by the compere for the evening. Very, very windy when we came out and nearly blown off the pier!!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So ends part 1 ....... watch this space</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-59888504956735416202019-08-04T13:03:00.000+01:002019-08-04T13:03:58.035+01:00Out and About<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This week has been very busy. After the heatwave that we experienced the week before when I did very little because it was so hot, the weather broke at the weekend, which was just as well because my younger son ran his </span><span style="color: red; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">100th</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> marathon, in pouring rain. He was supported by his running friends who were brilliant, and because this run was made up of 5 laps of 5 miles many accompanied him on the final lap including my grandson. I am so proud of them both.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u_8Qa8ARUZs/XUa8AzdimUI/AAAAAAAAF2I/lx4OCrISVukavg2tPhcabQ4BNKlxarFJQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1498%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u_8Qa8ARUZs/XUa8AzdimUI/AAAAAAAAF2I/lx4OCrISVukavg2tPhcabQ4BNKlxarFJQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1498%2BOUT.JPG" width="241" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son in the white cap</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPCc3DK4X3k/XUa8CYMD4FI/AAAAAAAAF2M/jXYC2i7HYysimcCvfwVzjmVraaOl3HhHQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1508%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPCc3DK4X3k/XUa8CYMD4FI/AAAAAAAAF2M/jXYC2i7HYysimcCvfwVzjmVraaOl3HhHQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1508%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Arriving at the finish, arm aloft</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhHQc5cSV2w/XUa8CYciVBI/AAAAAAAAF2Q/DNJ5PjLEyQonsKwXIEPYl8xMsWasVkuVwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1511OUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="537" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhHQc5cSV2w/XUa8CYciVBI/AAAAAAAAF2Q/DNJ5PjLEyQonsKwXIEPYl8xMsWasVkuVwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1511OUT.JPG" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The cake!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTVEUL7_uG4/XUa8CxCIPyI/AAAAAAAAF2c/q9H3GbsCskgS3faMsqbsPbiv8K36uO0ZQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1519%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="640" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTVEUL7_uG4/XUa8CxCIPyI/AAAAAAAAF2c/q9H3GbsCskgS3faMsqbsPbiv8K36uO0ZQCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1519%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">His shirt!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were all drenched by the end but luckily the sun came out in the afternoon and we started to dry out.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A few weeks ago I was asked to accompany someone to the <a href="https://www.thefestivalofquilts.co.uk/" target="_blank">Festival of Quilts</a> at the <a href="https://www.thenec.co.uk/#" target="_blank">NEC</a> in Birmingham. Now I don't usually go to this one but I decided to go so off we went from Northampton station on Friday morning. A great many very fit young men on the platform and we realised they were on their way to <a href="https://edgbaston.com/#" target="_blank">Edgbaston</a> where England were playing Australia in the Ashes. However we got off before them </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and after walking round the stalls, where I was extremely frugal and only bought a pattern and some sewing machine needles, we looked at the competition quilts. I took over 70 photos but I am not going to show them all and have just picked out a few.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vgrO64NgXXM/XUbArwbmE8I/AAAAAAAAF3A/rHFuQ65SzC8nAvZG26CgQ2lQxYYxCYj4QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010208%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="476" data-original-width="640" height="238" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vgrO64NgXXM/XUbArwbmE8I/AAAAAAAAF3A/rHFuQ65SzC8nAvZG26CgQ2lQxYYxCYj4QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010208%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> I loved this one based on the London Underground map and entitled 'Mind the Gap'. It was Highly Commended..</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What fun this one was - Dame of Australia - based on <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dame_Edna_Everage" target="_blank">Dame Edna Everage</a> and an Emu and made by an Australian.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gLpo3Nv7mKw/XUbAtenVo7I/AAAAAAAAF3E/rKMurKDcPC0pAayWidrrxWbFss4H5FYFACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010216%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="556" height="276" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gLpo3Nv7mKw/XUbAtenVo7I/AAAAAAAAF3E/rKMurKDcPC0pAayWidrrxWbFss4H5FYFACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010216%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Entitled 'Mary Simon Re-visited' this Baltimore quilt I found stunning. It is hand quilted and hand appliqued.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Finally (I have not subjected you to too many photos), I was pleased that there were juniors exhibiting because I think it is so important to pass on these sewing skills to the next generation. I loved this one:-</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">'I Wore That When'</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Second place in the Young Quilter/Embroiderer aged 10-13 years. This young lady had minimal help and used recycled clothes and buttons. She used hand and machine quilting.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A good exhibition in good company, so thank you for making me go!!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sock club was yesterday and I have finished my 'cable' socks that are the current project. However they will be going off to <a href="https://yarndale.co.uk/" target="_blank">Yarndale</a> for the <a href="https://www.winwickmum.co.uk/2019/06/yarndale-sock-line-2019.html" target="_blank">Sock Line</a>, with my patchwork socks.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nz3rHgdBUFc/XUbHmvP3aYI/AAAAAAAAF3Q/rB37J7LbvbEmGm44ozH8xIwP6OrVVZF8gCLcBGAs/s1600/Patchwork%2Bsocks%2BJune%2B2019%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nz3rHgdBUFc/XUbHmvP3aYI/AAAAAAAAF3Q/rB37J7LbvbEmGm44ozH8xIwP6OrVVZF8gCLcBGAs/s320/Patchwork%2Bsocks%2BJune%2B2019%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Patchwork socks</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGKgX6HIGtA/XUbHpGPo9XI/AAAAAAAAF3U/jIsxmbDM9fAK4jwulMgdUVTUrX22XlBdwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1538%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGKgX6HIGtA/XUbHpGPo9XI/AAAAAAAAF3U/jIsxmbDM9fAK4jwulMgdUVTUrX22XlBdwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1538%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cable socks</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have now started a new pair of socks for a friend, but what will be our next project?</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-69151865444384791842019-07-14T13:26:00.000+01:002019-07-14T13:26:23.634+01:00Crafty at last!!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With June such a busy month at Chester Farm, I have been glad of some time to just sit and finish off a few items and pick up a few UFOs and generally relax.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The first item that I was determined to complete and has been around for 18 months was my <a href="https://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/woodland-blanket.html" target="_blank">Attic24</a> Woodland blanket. I was given the pack as a Christmas present in 2017 so my sons will be pleased to see it finished at last.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have loved making it but I must admit that when I was down to my last few rows I found it was like reading a good book: I didn't want it to end but just go on and on......! However what to do next?</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Well this was a no-brainer because sometime ago I started a<a href="http://fannyludesigns.com/high-tea-crochet-fusion-quilt-tutorial/" target="_blank"> High Tea crocheted fusion quil</a>t, using my <a href="http://iloveonceuponathimble.blogspot.com/2017/09/" target="_blank">Mini Mania</a> squares. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pqfIDcrsL6c/XSsQNSXVbcI/AAAAAAAAF1s/n3cOWfddcQQYaxM94rLSol0-jNVH2kwhQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1431%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pqfIDcrsL6c/XSsQNSXVbcI/AAAAAAAAF1s/n3cOWfddcQQYaxM94rLSol0-jNVH2kwhQCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1431%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Three down and about 15 to go but as they are all different sizes I am going to have to think outside the box for joining them up so that will be a challenge.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My monthly smocking group still meet and I am currently working on a cover for the Lever Arch file that holds my patterns. This is picture smocking and I have found it extremely difficult and has certainly stretched me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-086uLpY4uM4/XSsQOnNhh6I/AAAAAAAAF10/n1g-1SUmHIc26Rxt6_sZMvpF2HX6aq43QCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1433%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-086uLpY4uM4/XSsQOnNhh6I/AAAAAAAAF10/n1g-1SUmHIc26Rxt6_sZMvpF2HX6aq43QCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1433%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These are going to be Bay Trees in blue pots so still some way to go - next will be the tree trunks before I have to do the background. The pleats must be held together either with smocking on the wrong side (back smocking) or on the front and so that is what I have decided to do. Something light, easy and quick before I have to complete some Christmas baubles.</span></span><br />
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S<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ock club has continued at <a href="https://www.purlwise.co.uk/" target="_blank">Purlwise</a> and our latest challenge is to make a pair using proper cables with a cable needle. Isn't that lucky because I am completing this pair</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">which is from a <a href="https://www.loobylouyarns.co.uk/?Page_ID=3610&refpid=28531&id=439350" target="_blank">Debbie Bliss pattern</a> though the wool is the <a href="https://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/brand/womens-institute" target="_blank">WI yarn</a> from Hobbycraft. These are going off to Yarndale for Winwick Mum's <a href="https://www.winwickmum.co.uk/2019/06/yarndale-sock-line-2019.html" target="_blank">sock line</a> for charity along with my Patchwork Socks that I wrote about <a href="http://iloveonceuponathimble.blogspot.com/2019/06/" target="_blank">here</a>. I have until September but am working on them everyday.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once again Higham Piecemakers are going to the Knitting and Stitching Show at Alexandra Palace in October but unfortunately I have a previous engagement. However I did go last year and bought a couple of bag patterns as I thought Piecemakers might like to have a go at this one on an 'All day' session. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xJHRJ07auY4/XSsQMcrW6II/AAAAAAAAF10/z8kdSoIAtYw6zabHpIb0Qld_OAFt-CM5QCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1428%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xJHRJ07auY4/XSsQMcrW6II/AAAAAAAAF10/z8kdSoIAtYw6zabHpIb0Qld_OAFt-CM5QCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1428%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I thought this was interesting because of the <a href="https://www.secretgardenquilting.co.uk/acatalog/Beth_Studley_Woven_Panel_Bag_Pattern.html" target="_blank">woven panel </a>on the front. I have made it in denim though any fabric heavier than a quilting fabric will do. I am very pleased how it has worked out and providing the strips for the weaving are cut out beforehand it should be finished in a day. Note: this is a copyright pattern and I will not be printing it off however if any group members who read my blog want to pay for it that is up to them.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Right that is all so I shall settle down to work on one of my WIPs as I channel hop between the Men's Tennis Final at Wimbledon and the World Cup Cricket Final. Oh it's a hard life!!!!<br />
</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-5085772207909375942019-07-07T15:42:00.001+01:002019-07-07T15:42:47.633+01:00Day dreaming on my bike<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As my regular readers will know I have an e-bike (electric bike) that I try and ride at least once a week in the summer. Now the weather is fine I cycle to <a href="http://highampiecemakers.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Higham Piecemakers</a> with my panniers on the side stuffed with what I shall need and think, virtuously, that I am taking up one less car parking space! It has been helped by having my local 'Greenway' extended almost to the hall, so little cycling on a busy main road, but going home about 4.00pm there are always small groups of school children <span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">wandering home completely oblivious to what is going on around them, and when I ring my bell usually make some remark like 'Love the bike' in a sarcastic manner, to which I always reply 'So do I'. I'll show 'em!!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br />
</span></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Anyway after a party yesterday I decided to get up early and go for a cycle ride this morning. Well I didn't get up early as planned as my bed beckoned, but I did get out later in the morning and I pottered off. The villages I passed through or by were having/or had had f<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">ê</span>tes that are a very common thing at this time of the year.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tghp198EwmE/XSH6IX34kkI/AAAAAAAAF1Q/Iu9ruvFqo0kN7UJ9lzUUEdOYaXTZi2ESACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1419%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tghp198EwmE/XSH6IX34kkI/AAAAAAAAF1Q/Iu9ruvFqo0kN7UJ9lzUUEdOYaXTZi2ESACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1419%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sign behind says 'Cluck Off'!!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Local people are trying to fight having a huge number of chicken sheds being built near their houses. I don't blame them as the smell and flies + the lorries going in and out would be appalling. The roads are narrow country lanes. quite suitable for biking but not lorries.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKVi9GX1mBE/XSH6H4B52sI/AAAAAAAAF1M/wK0QMJEQkHYazRfVZgV4_A1bX3E-gkPgwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1420%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="640" height="201" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LKVi9GX1mBE/XSH6H4B52sI/AAAAAAAAF1M/wK0QMJEQkHYazRfVZgV4_A1bX3E-gkPgwCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1420%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">I thought how typical this is in the UK - every village trying to raise money for charity, their church, their church hall etc. I passed the garden that was open and was quite tempted to stop because there were refreshments! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Carrying on from my last post about Chester Farm and the awful weather we had, by the middle of week 2 things were improving and so they lifted all the pots from the ditch.<br />
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These two photos show the very large pot, probably used for storage. The pitting on the outside was deliberate as something (I can't remember what!) was laid on the outside before it was fired and the pitting was the result. The egg tray is large about 12" square so gives some indication of the size and the pot was very heavy.<br />
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Some very decorative pots above with an indication of size by my finger. It is on occasions like this I wish I had more than one pair of hands!!<br />
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The photo above is the rim of a vessel painted with this simple pattern and I was told it is 'Rushden ware' so locally made.<br />
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A collection of pottery pieces all washed and ready for bagging. I get great pleasure handling these items that are about 2,000 years old and I am probably only the 2nd person to handle them since then - the 1st being the finder.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">A Roman floor tile.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> A Roman coin ( one of many found on the site) though I cannot remember who this was. Apologies for the blurring of the head.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lBvaFaS6QCY/XSH5lCyFy_I/AAAAAAAAFz8/JRsXerbP-AoZ6n452GjzN6xIM_svjOkBQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1336%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lBvaFaS6QCY/XSH5lCyFy_I/AAAAAAAAFz8/JRsXerbP-AoZ6n452GjzN6xIM_svjOkBQCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1336%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wzVGkjLQrkw/XSH5utbl5WI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/CLQjNEw3dNwA3EsRviJ3N1UOIwbS5IcpACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1337%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="458" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wzVGkjLQrkw/XSH5utbl5WI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/CLQjNEw3dNwA3EsRviJ3N1UOIwbS5IcpACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1337%2BOUT.JPG" width="229" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">And finally, a really rare find - Roman glass, from the neck of of a glass vessel. Apparently, as now, broken glass was often re-cycled.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">I decided to go on one of the tours that were arranged whilst the dig was going on and though I didn't learn anything new it was still interesting.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClQSPhY63G0/XSH59vu3biI/AAAAAAAAF1M/VGpUY93ty487GGKH5UV6nu3o862x_QEPACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1349%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="381" data-original-width="640" height="190" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ClQSPhY63G0/XSH59vu3biI/AAAAAAAAF1M/VGpUY93ty487GGKH5UV6nu3o862x_QEPACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1349%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> Our archaeologist on the right with the newly renovated farmhouse in the background.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LirctWrK-Mw/XSH598sAd2I/AAAAAAAAF1A/yyxqhwIG1D4EG_CVZmbkhi9WFaGDEHgsACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1351%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LirctWrK-Mw/XSH598sAd2I/AAAAAAAAF1A/yyxqhwIG1D4EG_CVZmbkhi9WFaGDEHgsACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1351%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">The dig going on in the Orchard, which as it was a Saturday were minus the students as it was the weekend. The archaeologist's arm on the right pointing out burial sites and 20 more inhumations were found by the end of the third and final week.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Nothing to report on the craft side at the moment as I am trying to finish many different projects, whether crochet, sewing or knitting as I have so many different projects on the go and they MUST get finished. However the sunny weather and the garden do beckon and I love being outside.</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span><br />
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</span></span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-91625759251174499512019-06-10T12:45:00.002+01:002019-06-10T12:45:15.007+01:00Chester Farm 2019<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We are back again for three weeks at Chester Farm as mentioned <a href="http://iloveonceuponathimble.blogspot.com/2016/07/hard-digging.html" target="_blank">here</a>, thanks to a collaboration and financial assistance from the University of Leicester. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had a personal email from our archaeologist asking if I was free for these three weeks, so as is usual with me, flattery can get you anywhere! So I said 'Yes' with the proviso that I could no longer dig (I can't get up off the ground very easily) but would be happy to pot wash, which I love.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So last Monday I was there at 8.45am along with some old friends and many students from the University. and after a briefing and a tour of the site we started work. The weather was good to us on the first day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just one of the areas being uncovered</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and I had plenty of washing to do of items that are called 'unstratified' as they come from a badger sett.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then the first 'find' of the week came in - a Roman coin, the best that the archaeologist had seen from this site with the head of </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Magnentius who ruled from 350-353AD and the coin is dated 351. We could see all this with the naked eye and very little damage.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In the meantime I had been washing this piece of Roman <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terra_sigillata" target="_blank">Samian ware</a> and became quite excited by it - I know I am very sad!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">During my work with the Portable Antiquities Scheme (see previous post) I have been looking at 'pot mends' and I suddenly realised what this was - a Roman pot mend and it was confirmed by the archaeologist. Yippee and so exciting. Samian ware was made in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaul" target="_blank">Gaul</a> and therefore would have been an expensive item for Mrs Roman at Chester Farm to own, so when she got a hole in it, it would need repairing and so a lead plug would have been put in.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So the week proceeded with the weather being mainly good, though windy. However Friday was awful and we all left site early looking like drowned and muddy rats. There was one bright light</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This trench full of Roman pots and these were going to be lifted on Monday (today as I write), because the person who found them was not going to be on site until then. Goody thinks I, as I will get to wash them!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was there yesterday, on a glorious sunny Sunday and had a great deal to wash including medieval pottery finds, that I can now recognise and I took this photo to show how the original<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v_7namDT0tQ/XP40-KdYFaI/AAAAAAAAFy8/qMPcLCJTVms-ovfMRR9t0ImLTso90zO8QCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1323%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v_7namDT0tQ/XP40-KdYFaI/AAAAAAAAFy8/qMPcLCJTVms-ovfMRR9t0ImLTso90zO8QCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1323%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
trench was coming on. The two ladies are working on a Roman road and the nearest working is a dwelling. The gap between the road and the house is a ditch so that the road didn't get waterlogged. Clever thinking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What I am not allowed to show you are the skeletons that are now being unearthed to the left of this photo as this is a Roman cemetery. They will be left in situ until the end of the dig, so that the groups of school children and others, who are going to visit can see them. Then they will be lifted, washed (a job for me) and marked (also a job for me and others) before going for examination and research by the experts. This will determine their gender, age, race etc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But today the weather has changed and there has been constant rain and I decided not to go in as I am sure that there will be no digging as the wet conditions cause damage to the site and I doubt that the pots will be lifted. Oh bother!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Still I have been able to write a quick post and sort out my photos and show you these.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B5TtO6xOJ2Y/XP5BMfD8m6I/AAAAAAAAFzI/-T4IvBRIIOog4yD1H5KLyxBjmlD04wchgCLcBGAs/s1600/Patchwork%2Bsocks%2BJune%2B2019%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B5TtO6xOJ2Y/XP5BMfD8m6I/AAAAAAAAFzI/-T4IvBRIIOog4yD1H5KLyxBjmlD04wchgCLcBGAs/s320/Patchwork%2Bsocks%2BJune%2B2019%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">They are my patchwork socks using three different sock wools and from a pattern by <a href="https://www.winwickmum.co.uk/" target="_blank">Winwick Mum</a>. We had to complete them for the June meeting of sock club and I learnt a number of new techniques in sock knitting so well worth making them. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-83812439789658253822019-05-26T11:46:00.000+01:002019-05-26T11:46:11.857+01:00In my element<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Last Monday was another first for me thanks to my volunteering with <a href="https://finds.org.uk/" target="_blank">PAS</a>, so off to London I went by train early in the morning and all expenses paid! I was going here -<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fpfu_ggEv8E/XOpclmX1y3I/AAAAAAAAFw0/igHAO7t-DyoBHoAii0UHQOFT9SE9SgwvACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010140%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="281" data-original-width="640" height="140" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fpfu_ggEv8E/XOpclmX1y3I/AAAAAAAAFw0/igHAO7t-DyoBHoAii0UHQOFT9SE9SgwvACLcBGAs/s320/P1010140%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The British Museum (BM)</td></tr>
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for a training session and introduction to PAS. The items that we were to see are all found by individuals either out walking (possibly field walking) or metal detectorists and some are considered to be 'Treasure' reportable to the Coroner before they go back to the finder who can sell them to museums or individuals. The British Museum do NOT value items but send them to an independent valuer<br />
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Our first speaker was the Curator of the Horological Collection who showed us examples of small clock finds in the ground. They cannot clean them up because they would disintegrate but they do use X-rays, which tell them a lot. Watches were first made in the 1500s, which I did not realise . <br />
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'Treasure' can be different things - precious metals like gold and silver, or large quantities of coins. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXxxwuEzxwE/XOpcmfZUIEI/AAAAAAAAFxY/8CBfRDZzBC4MtQz-Eo6fseKWQ5KIcyasACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010145%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="640" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXxxwuEzxwE/XOpcmfZUIEI/AAAAAAAAFxY/8CBfRDZzBC4MtQz-Eo6fseKWQ5KIcyasACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010145%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">About 2" across with gold rings on the points</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a 5,000 year old Bronze Age '<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bulla_(seal)" target="_blank">bulla</a>' made of gold! Double click on the photo to see the intricate construction made without the tools we use nowadays. Mind blowing.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Axe heads</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These were found in South Wales, date 875-800BC. They could have been buried by a metal worker.</span></div>
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These two photos are a copper alloy strap end, with two silver rivets (hence they are treasure) and are from the 9th century. I love this face and makes me smile.<br />
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This <a href="https://www.staffordshirehoard.org.uk/explore-the-hoard/sword-pyramid" target="_blank">beautiful item</a> is gold with garnets set into it and is part of a sword pyramid.<br />
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This item is a silver barbel for hawks made by Will Englefield in the 17th century. It is tiny.<br />
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We were also shown a gold Roman finger ring that I photographed but cannot show because it hasn't been to the Coroner yet!!<br />
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Next stop was the museum's Coins and Medals Collection, but no photography here at all. It was a numismatist's dream with racks of coin boxes and we were shown different Roman coins. The UK has the best database in the world for coins as we record the best. We were shown Roman gold coins found by a river bank in Kent that could have been buried by a soldier on his way to the North and never coming back for it, as well as coins from the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoxne_Hoard" target="_blank">Hoxne Hoard </a><br />
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After this we had a gallery tour of the BM and actually saw how the Hoxne Hoard was found.</div>
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So ended a brilliant day out, but before I left I had to visit this collection -<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dgIPfKQKfnY/XOpcogwFQjI/AAAAAAAAFxk/lYcd_XlsCfE7hcJeZg4xGMJ-etcjyeqjQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010180%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="506" height="303" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dgIPfKQKfnY/XOpcogwFQjI/AAAAAAAAFxk/lYcd_XlsCfE7hcJeZg4xGMJ-etcjyeqjQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010180%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original helmet from the Sutton Hoo collection</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4l850Q_vrXg/XOpcoc2yQyI/AAAAAAAAFxo/mT_-Jai9daMqGwNdZTjUBuFg-Gx4g8cSACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010179%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4l850Q_vrXg/XOpcoc2yQyI/AAAAAAAAFxo/mT_-Jai9daMqGwNdZTjUBuFg-Gx4g8cSACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010179%2BOUT.JPG" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A reconstruction of the helmet</td></tr>
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I have been to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sutton_Hoo" target="_blank">Sutton Hoo</a> but never seen the helmet before.<br />
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So ended an informative training day, but not before I had booked myself onto a conference for PAS volunteers later in June, also at the BM!!<br />
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For anyone wanting to see crafty things, my apologies but during summer months these get pushed onto the back burner and also because this week I am looking after my younger son's dog so plenty of walks and exercise both for him and me. Our local countryside at its best.<br />
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</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-53358841462674727362019-05-14T15:07:00.000+01:002019-05-16T12:28:11.514+01:00Another tick on the 'Bucket List'!!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Last Sunday saw me on my way to Leicester with the <a href="http://www.fiftyplusnorthantsadventureclub.org.uk/" target="_blank">50+ Adventure Club</a> for another outing on a lovely sunny day. We were going to have a guided tour of the old parts of the city and though Leicester is close to me in mileage I know very little about it historically AND I always get lost when I have to drive through it and usually go a long way round to get out!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I knew that there had been a Roman settlement there and that was our first stop, to see the Roman walls</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RIZlF-gj_Gc/XNqnjRGH4gI/AAAAAAAAFuY/74eHm8pqWwQNeaEFl8Qo_Wm1BD5fmN7CACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010074%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="578" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RIZlF-gj_Gc/XNqnjRGH4gI/AAAAAAAAFuY/74eHm8pqWwQNeaEFl8Qo_Wm1BD5fmN7CACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010074%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and remains of the baths</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then onto the castle area and the church of St Mary de Castro (St Mary of the Castle) whose origins show that it was built within the enclosure of the castle.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jjfdUP5AV_U/XNqniT9u8RI/AAAAAAAAFus/8C-Rb9UcRic6y2KivgosDg-9r-qXFd-MACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010081%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="464" data-original-width="640" height="232" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jjfdUP5AV_U/XNqniT9u8RI/AAAAAAAAFus/8C-Rb9UcRic6y2KivgosDg-9r-qXFd-MACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010081%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Richard 111 would probably have worshipped here before the Battle of Bosworth as he could have stayed in the castle and it is believed that <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geoffrey_Chaucer" target="_blank">Geoffrey Chaucer </a>married his second wife here.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Castle Yard</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The '<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motte-and-bailey_castle" target="_blank">Motte</a>' of the castle is still there but overgrown with vegetation so not easy to photograph and our guide said that the Victorians had chopped the top off to make a bowling green - what vandals they were!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We exited the Castle Yard through one of the old town gates.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were now into the slightly more modern part of the city and passed -<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S8Pi0HRwaD4/XNqroiZCtKI/AAAAAAAAFu0/foRbdg_ufOkS8kQCS3CYqPxsU1gUzx0hQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010091%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="578" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S8Pi0HRwaD4/XNqroiZCtKI/AAAAAAAAFu0/foRbdg_ufOkS8kQCS3CYqPxsU1gUzx0hQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010091%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Chantry House</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">built by William Wigston in 1511, a wealthy wool merchant, to house two priests to say prayers and masses for the souls of the Royal family and his own family. In about 1600 it became a grand domestic residence.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Magazine Gateway -</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">was originally one of the entrances to the religious precinct of Leicester but as I always find when I take a photo was under maintenance!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Something a little more modern, a mural which seems to promote Leicester City football club, who were actually going to be playing against Chelsea FC when we were there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were shown <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KvA2Wh2NojM/XNqrplnfMCI/AAAAAAAAFvo/0xKM1JgAfZcepWciWpB2R97u89FE36HggCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010098%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KvA2Wh2NojM/XNqrplnfMCI/AAAAAAAAFvo/0xKM1JgAfZcepWciWpB2R97u89FE36HggCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010098%2BOUT.JPG" width="302" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.britainexpress.com/counties/leicestershire/leicester/wygstons-house.htm" target="_blank">Wygston's House</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">which is a beautiful example of a late 15th century timber framed wool merchant's house. It is now a restaurant with music blasting out of it!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next stop was the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leicester_Guildhall" target="_blank">Guildhall</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fS-L7Fu2jDk/XNqrr2vANwI/AAAAAAAAFvk/TGY5FjFAwy0B_kk7Eafy0PbU2zdnXRadACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010109%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="509" height="301" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fS-L7Fu2jDk/XNqrr2vANwI/AAAAAAAAFvk/TGY5FjFAwy0B_kk7Eafy0PbU2zdnXRadACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010109%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and we spent sometime looking round here</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Hall is still used for public meetings and concerts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">However the most exciting part was to come when we went into the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leicester_Cathedral" target="_blank">Cathedral</a>. On the tour we had passed this car park</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G0hm29lgizg/XNqrqsgm1gI/AAAAAAAAFvg/5MVmsQJZiREfcggecPtCFKLRZjli9P9RgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010106%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G0hm29lgizg/XNqrqsgm1gI/AAAAAAAAFvg/5MVmsQJZiREfcggecPtCFKLRZjli9P9RgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010106%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">once again having work done to it - just my luck, because this is where the skeleton of King Richard 111 was found. It is behind the stone wall that you can see in the corner.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Though one of the newest and smallest cathedrals in the country Leicester is now famous for this <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exhumation_and_reburial_of_Richard_III_of_England" target="_blank">tomb</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exhumation_and_reburial_of_Richard_III_of_England" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="363" data-original-width="640" height="181" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N3sKLCHEPU0/XNqzCWqXNpI/AAAAAAAAFwE/4Q44FlRgQhM2INHZdXZ0gm4omdsnfkpIwCLcBGAs/s320/P1010129%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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I have been wanting to visit this ever since it was discovered and I found it a very moving experience.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Loyalty binds me'</td></tr>
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The tomb is made of fossilised Swaledale stone quarried in North Yorkshire (he was the last member of the House of York). His coat of arms and the boar are incised on the tomb.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At the other end of the cathedral is the <a href="https://dottietales.wordpress.com/2015/05/17/a-funeral-pall-for-richard-iii/" target="_blank">pall of Richard 111</a></span></div>
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Quite magnificent and the embroiders amongst the group spent a long time trying to work out how it was made!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Finally here is 'the King under the car park' found within the first 2 hours of digging</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q4h8jxMO-zc/XNq44Bcfq_I/AAAAAAAAFwo/kat85e1bEa4mMloRuDKpjXKDloYtm4t4wCEwYBhgL/s1600/King-Richard-III-skeleton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="456" data-original-width="702" height="207" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q4h8jxMO-zc/XNq44Bcfq_I/AAAAAAAAFwo/kat85e1bEa4mMloRuDKpjXKDloYtm4t4wCEwYBhgL/s320/King-Richard-III-skeleton.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and if the digger had gone in a foot further either way he would never have been found!</span></div>
Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-41141367528022883142019-04-23T12:23:00.000+01:002019-04-23T12:23:15.560+01:00Procrastination!<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was reading <a href="http://grannysmithquilting.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">this blog</a> the other day and there was word that I decided suited me to a tee. I am a</span><span style="color: #000032; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Procrastination" target="_blank">procrastinator</a> but not in a negative way: I have been busy lately but there is nothing that would be worth a blog post on its own.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #000032; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="color: #000032; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Since becoming a volunteer with <a href="https://nenescape.org/" target="_blank">Nenescape</a> I have had the chance to do a variety of different projects and at the end of March I went to a conference organised by the <a href="https://www.nenevalleyarchaeology.co.uk/" target="_blank">Nene Valley Archaeological Trust</a> at Castor near Peterborough. It was an excellent conference and so interesting and afterwards I had a look round their <a href="http://www.castorchurch.co.uk/st-kyneburgha-castor/" target="_blank">parish church</a> dedicated to St Kyneburgha. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B1St4gLdzH8/XL7fgAvYChI/AAAAAAAAFrc/ZEDugP-dhx8W4epjcfJ-IViaf6CqkhEpQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010020%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B1St4gLdzH8/XL7fgAvYChI/AAAAAAAAFrc/ZEDugP-dhx8W4epjcfJ-IViaf6CqkhEpQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010020%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What I found interesting was that the graveyard had been fenced and there was a small flock of sheep and lambs in there keeping the grass down - what a good idea, but no good if you wanted to put flowers on a grave!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #000032; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Inside I tried to take a photo of the ceiling and this is the best as I was almost lying on my back!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What wonderful angels!</td></tr>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you read my blog (and I know some do as they ask me when it is going to be written!) you will remember that I recently did a '<a href="http://iloveonceuponathimble.blogspot.com/2019/03/socks-and-other-things.html" target="_blank">litter pick</a>' down the Greenway and we also planted new shrubs and there were some bigger trees planted. Well the vandals did uproot some of the bigger trees and they were replanted, but cycling down there yesterday I was amazed to see these -</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f7pNYYP37rg/XL7ioEd4lbI/AAAAAAAAFr8/CJanucRGRhID57wbX_EzVp5tJkoIwddjgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1202%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f7pNYYP37rg/XL7ioEd4lbI/AAAAAAAAFr8/CJanucRGRhID57wbX_EzVp5tJkoIwddjgCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1202%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">three different seats, that we were told were going to be installed but quite unusual in design. There is carving on the back -</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lK6igc7Pnr8/XL7ionlkGUI/AAAAAAAAFsU/MAOzj6BAcBsPQ6yRPEFK3M0p36GNeCCKACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1203%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lK6igc7Pnr8/XL7ionlkGUI/AAAAAAAAFsU/MAOzj6BAcBsPQ6yRPEFK3M0p36GNeCCKACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1203%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GSXFCYV0Epo/XL7ioTnNpuI/AAAAAAAAFsQ/IsmL-cFHjnICpV9B_JuDSCoBWiSql-jqwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1204%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="640" height="174" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GSXFCYV0Epo/XL7ioTnNpuI/AAAAAAAAFsQ/IsmL-cFHjnICpV9B_JuDSCoBWiSql-jqwCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1204%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Click to get a better photo</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #000032; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">and the third one -</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W0DTbvUwQJ8/XL7ipDWD3qI/AAAAAAAAFsY/P1UyznAYBpcqR9Xi1Z7KvaPR9dYxEMvPACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1205%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="571" height="269" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W0DTbvUwQJ8/XL7ipDWD3qI/AAAAAAAAFsY/P1UyznAYBpcqR9Xi1Z7KvaPR9dYxEMvPACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1205%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="color: black;"> but the trees round it are in blossom, so the vandals have been vanquished for the moment.</span></span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #000032; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This cycle ride yesterday was part of my participation in a scheme called '<a href="https://www.beatthestreet.me/eastnorthants" target="_blank">Beat the Street</a>' that I got into by chance. If you use Facebook, does something flash up and then you can't find it again. Well that happened to me and annoyingly, I couldn't find it again but I did remember something about a cycle ride so I went on the off-chance and it was part of Beat the Street and I was hooked. It is a Lottery funded scheme supported by the local council, to get people out and about, whether walking, running, cycling or scooting, but exercising. A clever scheme because schools are participating and the more points they get, so they get prizes and if the children are out so will be the parents, grandparents etc. I have a credit card and a map showing the 'Beat boxes'</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">fixed to lamp posts and if you can't find it ask any child you see nearby! The first time I went out I met a 'lycra clad' young man (well he was about 30!) in a local village and we teamed up to find the other boxes. As he had only lived in the area for three years I showed him a quick way home and in the course of conversation discovered he had a son at a local school so they are getting all my points - all 660 of them. Over Easter I have covered 30 miles looking for boxes and still have my local ones to tap. I am feeling very 'exercised' at the moment and decided to rest today AND write the blog!!!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #20124d; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Apart from exercising I have been gardening both at home and at my 'Cambridge' allotment.</span></span></span><br />
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</span></span></span><span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When my late husband and I first moved into this house I brought with me a Bay Tree that I had in my last house. It was about 12" (30cms) tall and, like <a href="https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Topsy" target="_blank">Topsy</a>, it grew and foolishly I did nothing about it</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;"></span><span style="color: black;">It was too tall and too dense and was making my garden dark, with too much shade and so I had it cut down </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYFf3nbSUk4/XL7tHw_cQtI/AAAAAAAAFs4/sRCMEqXElh80acIhxU8EDBlMTrpN1teWACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010049%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYFf3nbSUk4/XL7tHw_cQtI/AAAAAAAAFs4/sRCMEqXElh80acIhxU8EDBlMTrpN1teWACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010049%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and what a difference it has made. I am still deciding what to do with the space and have just sprinkled a wildflower seed mix for the time being.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">However, in Cambridge my son and I have been busy finishing 'Muntjac proofing' our raised beds</span></span><br />
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</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;"></span>Wire netting around each bed, with a very smart gate to get in AND it appears to be working. The only problem is pigeons and black netting is all that is required for them and so we have a much more productive vegetable garden from 2 of the beds and third is going to be soft fruit.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">This little fellow was helping us</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AL2fVsWfBPQ/XL7u4rnuMFI/AAAAAAAAFts/5df3dW48apsGFy4Y5uHVkJMqFcCemiHwgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010041%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="540" height="284" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AL2fVsWfBPQ/XL7u4rnuMFI/AAAAAAAAFts/5df3dW48apsGFy4Y5uHVkJMqFcCemiHwgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010041%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;">Mr 'Bailey'!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">who will be coming to stay with me soon when the family go on holiday. I am currently growing seeds in my greenhouse</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1gaib8oiacY/XL70r0diLcI/AAAAAAAAFt0/uLFqO0xQLhEHlZn3fWYKDrLm1wqHJIEAACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1209%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1gaib8oiacY/XL70r0diLcI/AAAAAAAAFt0/uLFqO0xQLhEHlZn3fWYKDrLm1wqHJIEAACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1209%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">for planting out in the raised beds. Yes, those are lavatory roll holders and have runner and French bean seeds in them!</span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have a pair of socks on the go and another sewing project but I will save them for another day, as the sun is out and I must cut the grass! Oh and I am so excited as I have a place on a workshop at the <a href="https://www.britishmuseum.org/" target="_blank">British Museum</a> with my train fare paid!! Watch this space.</span></span></div>
Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-34879558794297114702019-03-26T14:07:00.000+00:002019-03-26T14:07:49.717+00:00All things 'Feathers'<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With the lovely sunny weather the daffodils and other spring bulbs are out and the hedgerows are greening up, so we are into Spring. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It seems a long time ago that we were set our Christmas Challenge 2018 at Higham Piecemakers and this week has been the 'Grand Reveal'. Check <a href="http://iloveonceuponathimble.blogspot.com/2019/01/" target="_blank">here</a> to see what we had to do and I found this <a href="http://www.aokcorral.com/projects/how2mar2010.htm" target="_blank">pattern</a> online. I love Roosters and I immediately knew I wanted to make these even though there was some minor carpentry needed!!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I did struggle to find the 'Floral Styrofoam disc' but suddenly had a brainwave and cut up a polystyrene ball, of which I have a great number for various projects. My concern was that the glue would not hold but it seems to be alright and he stands magnificent and proud on</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vOcxIcbooWc/XJi18lRXl8I/AAAAAAAAFqQ/Or3zI7IHN3c1njpoaQeiumFxpda8Qf1NgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000967%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vOcxIcbooWc/XJi18lRXl8I/AAAAAAAAFqQ/Or3zI7IHN3c1njpoaQeiumFxpda8Qf1NgCLcBGAs/s320/P1000967%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">his wooden dowel legs, drilled in to a block of wood, by me!! His companion is a little dowdy but the dark fabric for the tummy and wings (used in both) was what I was given.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LTYoCXIQYkQ/XJi18GK-IWI/AAAAAAAAFqU/9vOIvIEE0BkWS6DVOmh2HDR9T4jxWDq1wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000968%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LTYoCXIQYkQ/XJi18GK-IWI/AAAAAAAAFqU/9vOIvIEE0BkWS6DVOmh2HDR9T4jxWDq1wCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000968%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">BUT something was missing for such a beautiful pair, so I swiftly worked a smocked egg to complete the tableau!! </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Apart from dark fabric, the Rooster's body is made of silk fabrics to give him a sheen and the head cover is the last remains of a fabulous shiny fabric I bought years ago. I bought the feathers on the internet for £2 so little money was spent on this project, but a great deal of planning went into it.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I loved making this Challenge.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My monthly Sock Club have set us the challenge of using up sock wool and we must use at least three colours. I am an avid follower of Winwick Mum and found one of her <a href="https://www.winwickmum.co.uk/2018/05/patchwork-socks-free-pattern-and.html" target="_blank">patterns </a>that sounded just up my street and for a novice like me is quite testing. But I will persevere.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In this <a href="http://iloveonceuponathimble.blogspot.com/2019/01/" target="_blank">blog</a> I mentioned the 'awful' wool my son had bought me for Christmas - well here they are finished</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DzgiPNsAMSs/XJi_8LZbIgI/AAAAAAAAFqg/zkgtKYve_h4-D-XaffNZSNCLtbk7GXUkwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1135%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="550" height="279" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DzgiPNsAMSs/XJi_8LZbIgI/AAAAAAAAFqg/zkgtKYve_h4-D-XaffNZSNCLtbk7GXUkwCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1135%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and I love them. I used my signature pink cuff, heel and toes and even managed to match the stripes and have been wearing them. Currently they are on the washing line!!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The third Monday in the month is our 'all day' at Higham Piecemakers and as a change a group of us met at a local Church Hall for a special workshop with <a href="https://www.kathleenlaurelsage.co.uk/" target="_blank">Kathleen Laurel Sage<span style="color: #b01100;">.</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #007600;"></span><span style="color: #b01100;"></span><u></u><u></u>We were going to make a 'Pixie House' and boy, did we work hard. Kathleen told us at the beginning that we were to use all the fancy stitches on our machines, different coloured threads and enjoy yourselves!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x08GTgEtZjs/XJoubp7IdjI/AAAAAAAAFq0/R4emAMa6F3QO2yEIKkHFAN4TdAAe2qNigCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000987%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x08GTgEtZjs/XJoubp7IdjI/AAAAAAAAFq0/R4emAMa6F3QO2yEIKkHFAN4TdAAe2qNigCLcBGAs/s320/P1000987%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Initial briefing</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pixie houses made by KLS. Hope ours are as creative</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Well heads down after the initial briefing and we started embellishing our felt.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GiiMBFHy2pI/XJoucndskyI/AAAAAAAAFrM/ibct3G9y1s0R4qYSUBLfrsIBDawbBy6LQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000990%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GiiMBFHy2pI/XJoucndskyI/AAAAAAAAFrM/ibct3G9y1s0R4qYSUBLfrsIBDawbBy6LQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000990%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Machine in the bricks, windows and the door before using fancy stitching</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One instruction was to highlight the windows and door so we didn't sew anything over them as many have done and which I nearly did but stopped myself just in time. We had to do the same for the roof. By the end of the day mine was coming along</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WxHq3B9DTy8/XJoudFDvXzI/AAAAAAAAFrM/nqhUNW5qrwMRUVsLHGF2eLoAXYeRjOF7ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010010%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="587" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WxHq3B9DTy8/XJoudFDvXzI/AAAAAAAAFrM/nqhUNW5qrwMRUVsLHGF2eLoAXYeRjOF7ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1010010%2BOUT.JPG" width="261" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and so it didn't take long to finish when I got home and was able to add flowers, buttons and beads and finally the smoke from the chimney.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9X5lbNdg0DI/XJouc0xFGLI/AAAAAAAAFrI/mKL1r5QfyREQ8czGYL2WM78-qiVr2wprgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1010015%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="403" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9X5lbNdg0DI/XJouc0xFGLI/AAAAAAAAFrI/mKL1r5QfyREQ8czGYL2WM78-qiVr2wprgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1010015%2BOUT.JPG" width="201" /></a>.</div>
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I loved this workshop and learnt a lot; so much so that I am going to make some more!!</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-4638589705749649732019-03-10T13:09:00.000+00:002019-03-10T13:09:34.708+00:00Socks and other things<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As you will know if you read my infrequent posts, I belong to a sock club and am very much a newbie at this. In December Jacqui, who owns <a href="https://www.purlwise.co.uk/" target="_blank">Purlwise </a>where we meet, wanted us to make a pair of socks for someone else. In other words, a 'Secret Santa' to be completed by our March meeting.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So we met up last weekend and all the socks were on display. Like a fool I had forgotten to photo mine before I packed them up so had to wait until 'Lorna' wasn't looking and then take a picture.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8V3YkA4vGDA/XIT6-56oqSI/AAAAAAAAFpc/SBFAtHDM434bO9UMmiASPpTli1Itt4HJACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000957%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8V3YkA4vGDA/XIT6-56oqSI/AAAAAAAAFpc/SBFAtHDM434bO9UMmiASPpTli1Itt4HJACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000957%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What an assortment of colours and designs. The pair I received are rusty coloured ones on the seat at the front and have a percentage of Yak wool in them!!! Really comfortable and warm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9t1yfTMT8SU/XIT6-u7z7wI/AAAAAAAAFpg/4_xy9wAp4kkyuFdk2GOvaKwWD5z-fGKewCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000956%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9t1yfTMT8SU/XIT6-u7z7wI/AAAAAAAAFpg/4_xy9wAp4kkyuFdk2GOvaKwWD5z-fGKewCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000956%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These are Lorna's; grey with pink heels and toes. She said she has a new coat that is grey with pink and so these would suit her perfectly. I hope that they fit!!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We have three months to make a pair using up at least three odds and ends of sock wool. Interesting.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I haven't been on any <a href="http://www.fiftyplusnorthantsadventureclub.org.uk/" target="_blank">50+ Adventure Club</a> activities since January, but I put that right by doing <a href="https://www.indoorarcheryltd.co.uk/" target="_blank">Indoor Archery</a>. What fun and though I was really awful at the beginning, by the end I had hit three bullseyes! Success.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All set up to start</td></tr>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iAsoqGecx1s/XIUCJZXnX_I/AAAAAAAAFpw/sPNKYHWu3zkAJ4fl9UYsmcmpf2K4GdEGgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000965%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="597" height="257" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iAsoqGecx1s/XIUCJZXnX_I/AAAAAAAAFpw/sPNKYHWu3zkAJ4fl9UYsmcmpf2K4GdEGgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000965%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was so excited to get the first one I had to take a photo!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I haven't been able to volunteer at <a href="https://www.chesterfarm.co.uk/Pages/home.aspx" target="_blank">Chester Farm</a> lately due to the near <a href="https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2018/02/10/nort-f10.html" target="_blank">bankruptcy</a> of our County Council, and everything has gone quiet there. In the meantime I am volunteering at <a href="http://nenescape.org/" target="_blank">Nenescape</a> and went to my first meeting of the <a href="https://finds.org.uk/" target="_blank">Portable Antiquities Scheme</a> (PAS). The items we were looking at have all been found by members of the public through a variety of methods - metal detecting, digging the garden etc. All the items belong to the finder but should be entered onto the national database for future research by others. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On this occasion we were looking at buckles all of which were post medieval up to 1720. I find this quite fascinating as some were definitely shoe buckles and makes me wonder about the person who made the shoe or who wore it and why was it in the ground. Had it fallen off and been lost? Unfortunately PAS meet on a Monday which is already a busy day for me so I can't get to every meeting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yesterday I volunteered for <a href="http://nenescape.org/projects-1/outtowater" target="_blank">Out of Water, into History</a> litter picking and planting trees along the Greenway in Rushden which has been built on an old railway line and which I use frequently either cycling or walking.</span><br />
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</span> T<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">his was a small amount of the rubbish we picked up -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and another skip had been requested. Very well organised with portaloos (thank goodness!), all the tools required, soft drinks provided by Morrisons (who have a distribution centre nearby) and pizza at lunchtime and very welcome it was. In the morning I picked up rubbish but after lunch I helped to plant hedgerow shrubs working with someone to make the holes and I put in the bare-root plant, heeled it in and then checked with a gentle tug that it was secure. Being an old railway line the edges were extremely difficult to dig due to stone and clinker, but we managed to clear our bag of bushes. Meanwhile men had planted large fruit trees with the children planting bulbs and potted shrubs. In total about 50 people turned up to help. Let us hope that the vandals leave it alone as the <a href="https://www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk/news/article/970/residents_invited_to_have_their_designs_displayed_in_rushden" target="_blank">Greenway</a> should look good in the future.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Me, I went home absolutely exhausted and flopped down with a large cup of tea!!!<br />
</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-49234745917059006552019-03-01T17:15:00.000+00:002019-03-01T17:15:01.540+00:00Thank you to the Lottery!!!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">No I haven't won the Lottery but another prize. Let me explain -</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Back last November I received the <a href="https://www.stanwicklakes.org.uk/" target="_blank">Stanwick Lakes</a> (SL) Newsletter in my email and they were running a competition. Apparently the Lottery had asked for something to be given back to those who support it and as Stanwick Lakes must get a grant from them they (SL) wanted anyone buying a Lottery ticket that week to photograph it and send it to them to go in a draw for one of their 'Trading Places' workshops. Well I did as I was told and I won a place on the course to make a basket.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So on Tuesday I arrived and we were told all about the technical terms for the willow:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- rods are the lengths of willow</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- butt is the fat end of the rod</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- whips are the thin end of the rod</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">etc (in other words I have forgotten the other techy names!)</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We started with 6 thick rods and after cutting slits in the middle of three of them we could start</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8esW5ZVDpY/XHldSvng2II/AAAAAAAAFog/oi4nUpPQQTUVkNpwHFHVK_bbdMRg8ZdXgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000944%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1528" data-original-width="1600" height="305" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8esW5ZVDpY/XHldSvng2II/AAAAAAAAFog/oi4nUpPQQTUVkNpwHFHVK_bbdMRg8ZdXgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000944%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and at that moment disaster for me. One of my main rods broke, but luckily Maggie our teacher gave me her sample piece so the picture above was not my work but the rest is!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then we started weaving the base<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SPIVS5L97B4/XHldHgp1SfI/AAAAAAAAFoY/1QOSqnS0Yr0AY1lCaeXAJUNfI0ZagYZpACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000946%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="573" height="268" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SPIVS5L97B4/XHldHgp1SfI/AAAAAAAAFoY/1QOSqnS0Yr0AY1lCaeXAJUNfI0ZagYZpACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000946%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note that not all the rods had been separated at this point </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As you will see from these photos it was very sunny and hot so we had to spend a great deal of time damping down the willow so it didn't dry out, either with a spray or making sure it was covered with very wet matting.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dg78QN6c6DQ/XHldKrCexgI/AAAAAAAAFoc/zoD8eIoyTQsEHwd1pkqzj8aTh5ha3U2_QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000947%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dg78QN6c6DQ/XHldKrCexgI/AAAAAAAAFoc/zoD8eIoyTQsEHwd1pkqzj8aTh5ha3U2_QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000947%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The pile of bits on the right are all the ends from the rods used in the weaving</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The base is complete and it was now lunchtime.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After lunch -</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b3LXPFF9IoI/XHlgW34kEzI/AAAAAAAAFpA/BuK82n20HDAdHARWcAQ4V1uNmJ27sgfxwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000949%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b3LXPFF9IoI/XHlgW34kEzI/AAAAAAAAFpA/BuK82n20HDAdHARWcAQ4V1uNmJ27sgfxwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000949%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We then pushed 24 rods on either side of our base rods and pulled them up and they were tied with string, a circle was placed on the rods, the string was removed and a heavy stone on the base as we were now weaving from the side.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />W</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">e started weaving the sides with 24 individual rods and concentrating hard because each rod went "over 2 and under one" and onto the next rod, working right and whoa betide us if we got it wrong because the pattern would be distorted!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VK2VsFY4DOg/XHlgYFiOWqI/AAAAAAAAFpI/gIa9rIrIpas-Lgbgnq6IoMVhTin02pJMACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000951%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VK2VsFY4DOg/XHlgYFiOWqI/AAAAAAAAFpI/gIa9rIrIpas-Lgbgnq6IoMVhTin02pJMACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000951%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Onto the next pattern "over one under one" and onto the next rod and then the sides started to rise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pYecLKhKBLU/XHlgYqAmYUI/AAAAAAAAFpM/R7Y1OHX9JH4O84hwotnMAD8K9jmpxCT7ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000952%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pYecLKhKBLU/XHlgYqAmYUI/AAAAAAAAFpM/R7Y1OHX9JH4O84hwotnMAD8K9jmpxCT7ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000952%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finally another round of over two and under one and the basket was looking good.</div>
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Now to finish off and the upright rods were woven along the top, the final three being cut and forced down and the basket was finished.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FUqic_caoqs/XHlgZFOkjDI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/PEQnfjFkk-QVyaGuWZRSg8bKaXDkTbxIgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000953%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="611" height="251" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FUqic_caoqs/XHlgZFOkjDI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/PEQnfjFkk-QVyaGuWZRSg8bKaXDkTbxIgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000953%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">10" (26cm) across x 4" (10cm) in depth </td></tr>
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nearly all my own work and it hasn't fallen apart yet!!</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That was just one day in a very busy February which included looking after my son's puppy for half term, preparing for a 'De-stash Sale', working on the Christmas Challenge which has to be finished by 25 March, having a tree cut down in my garden, Nordic walking when time permitted, fitting in another bike ride to make it 4 since 1 January and thus getting a prize (not known at this time), a family get together + all the usual jobs one has to do. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I need a lie down in a darkened room!!!!!!</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
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Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-40897241198732350702019-02-12T13:28:00.000+00:002019-02-12T13:28:05.398+00:00Getting off Auto<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">From the title you may think that this is something to do with cars - well it is not!!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some weeks ago a friend 'shared' a Facebook item with me that was just up my street; a photography course at <a href="http://lamporthall.co.uk/" target="_blank">Lamport Hall</a> for those who needed to know more about their cameras. So I signed up and boy, was it worth it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was pouring with rain and very cold when I arrived but luckily we were using our cameras indoors to start with as we turned them off the 'auto' setting onto 'A' for aperture; so it started. I had heard about the 'f' setting and ISO and that little sign '<span style="margin: 0px;">±<span style="font-family: "calibri";">'</span> in a box but didn't actually know what they did - but I do now and I am feeling rather pleased with myself!!! AND I have it all written down in words of one syllable that I can understand.</span><br />
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</span> By this time the rain was easing off and we went outside and started taking portraits.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MxOX0Mt0bSU/XGLBaZgrBYI/AAAAAAAAFmU/ZFNXQZDVoEgKFECPXbba7ouWaoa7y2thACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000887%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MxOX0Mt0bSU/XGLBaZgrBYI/AAAAAAAAFmU/ZFNXQZDVoEgKFECPXbba7ouWaoa7y2thACLcBGAs/s320/P1000887%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> I am not going to tell you all the 'rules' when taking photos of people but I liked this one and was given permission to use it on my blog. Even the photos of me were quite good -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cDMJKLyUEc/XGLCzAuwsmI/AAAAAAAAFmg/WzWOMwJEw6guTzbmFG02zTcDnhQnmmr_gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0583%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cDMJKLyUEc/XGLCzAuwsmI/AAAAAAAAFmg/WzWOMwJEw6guTzbmFG02zTcDnhQnmmr_gCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0583%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I didn't manage to take any decent pictures of the exercise on shutter speed but the following ones are all 'Exposure Compensation' which is that elusive '<span style="margin: 0px;">±' in a box. Not an inspiring view but you can see three different exposures concentrating on the roof and clouds and what we wanted to accentuate - <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u4OA2zvb-i4/XGLEDru4w9I/AAAAAAAAFms/BogrYZF0Dm46kSGneYgKMPqcU07sMu6KgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000889%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u4OA2zvb-i4/XGLEDru4w9I/AAAAAAAAFms/BogrYZF0Dm46kSGneYgKMPqcU07sMu6KgCLcBGAs/s320/P1000889%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nothing particular enhanced so this was '0'</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J0CPTWxE1K4/XGLEEDmChSI/AAAAAAAAFmw/8WUN3iegPrI9WjC9iO6z3rhrg3RGavqhQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000890%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J0CPTWxE1K4/XGLEEDmChSI/AAAAAAAAFmw/8WUN3iegPrI9WjC9iO6z3rhrg3RGavqhQCLcBGAs/s320/P1000890%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Good clouds so '-1'</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ehq1s5ouASM/XGLEEaBA3lI/AAAAAAAAFm0/f6FLGSg33WQ0RkmpTIcTHBd61DSkjv6JwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000891%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ehq1s5ouASM/XGLEEaBA3lI/AAAAAAAAFm0/f6FLGSg33WQ0RkmpTIcTHBd61DSkjv6JwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000891%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The clouds are over exposed so '+1'</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That was an interesting exercise.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next we were on our own <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xokDybRBbnM/XGLF2F1rA7I/AAAAAAAAFnM/NyqIj8uwY9YK5S27WhKm84opwUQx22urgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000893%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xokDybRBbnM/XGLF2F1rA7I/AAAAAAAAFnM/NyqIj8uwY9YK5S27WhKm84opwUQx22urgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000893%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interesting sky</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WHT-oJbfpo4/XGLF2NlmU3I/AAAAAAAAFnQ/kxQr6KZ1UHwDHXF_Gx7FnDfsUW1zjbodACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000895%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WHT-oJbfpo4/XGLF2NlmU3I/AAAAAAAAFnQ/kxQr6KZ1UHwDHXF_Gx7FnDfsUW1zjbodACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000895%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This should draw your eye in ….</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0LaRM6kuPaQ/XGLF1BuLgPI/AAAAAAAAFnI/58EzX7ycRz42XuhnLQPEbm8LZs1_ojcLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000897%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0LaRM6kuPaQ/XGLF1BuLgPI/AAAAAAAAFnI/58EzX7ycRz42XuhnLQPEbm8LZs1_ojcLgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000897%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and this one ….</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_0BoTtg82K4/XGLF2rFYs2I/AAAAAAAAFnU/DeCCtjuloo0Z0mCA3eK9p85n7A5FJ7XlgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000898%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_0BoTtg82K4/XGLF2rFYs2I/AAAAAAAAFnU/DeCCtjuloo0Z0mCA3eK9p85n7A5FJ7XlgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000898%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DcuuAZIa6zI/XGLF3EkbYMI/AAAAAAAAFnY/xjV1sp8Yc44iXEV-h4SG2TvZRZdX6qQegCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000899%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DcuuAZIa6zI/XGLF3EkbYMI/AAAAAAAAFnY/xjV1sp8Yc44iXEV-h4SG2TvZRZdX6qQegCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000899%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another big sky</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7g3D-6U5XB8/XGLF3bQ_QqI/AAAAAAAAFnc/oq32QgpzrS48JqD4fu87jWFBJp3Okon1gCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000901%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7g3D-6U5XB8/XGLF3bQ_QqI/AAAAAAAAFnc/oq32QgpzrS48JqD4fu87jWFBJp3Okon1gCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000901%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Plants 'walking' across the photo</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eMSnshgzIC4/XGLF4H0N2XI/AAAAAAAAFng/caE28-mCaBQqENCdpWmaOHr1c2un1iP8ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000902%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eMSnshgzIC4/XGLF4H0N2XI/AAAAAAAAFng/caE28-mCaBQqENCdpWmaOHr1c2un1iP8ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000902%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is identical to the one below but ….</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yDZExIzpHt4/XGLF4bcP2yI/AAAAAAAAFnk/Vv1hX3uBrc0rxuGNuKc0K_HdzXErdJ5rQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000903%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yDZExIzpHt4/XGLF4bcP2yI/AAAAAAAAFnk/Vv1hX3uBrc0rxuGNuKc0K_HdzXErdJ5rQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000903%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">this has too much plain grass in the foreground!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">By this time I was so cold my brain and fingers had frozen so back inside for a warm. We then looked at each others photos and the expert commented (in a kindly way) and made suggestions for improvement.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I still have a lot to learn but I have definitely <a href="https://www.goingdigital.co.uk/" target="_blank">'Got off Auto'!</a>!</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-19200095945331904152019-01-29T12:17:00.000+00:002019-01-29T12:17:21.902+00:00A busy start to the year<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Each Christmas we members of <a href="http://highampiecemakers.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Higham Piecemakers</a> are given a Christmas Challenge and so for the start of 2019 my thoughts are on what to make!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">Set by our Chairman this is what we received "<i>As you all know I have been a bit Feather-Brained this year and keeping to that theme the 2019 challenge is<b> Feathers. </b>Use the piece of fabric [a fat quarter] and any other fabrics/materials/wood/tin to make an item that is Feather related to be completed by w.c 25 March</i>"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My first thought was to make a parrot sitting on a perch, but the more I thought about it I wasn't quite sure how to stabilise it and prevent it going head down and holding on by it's feet!! '<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Parrot_sketch" target="_blank">Dead parrot jokes'</a> not included here!! I now have my ideas and have started, but no photos until it is finished.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">Last weekend I went to Cambridge to assist younger son with 'Muntjac proofing' our vegetable patch. We have three raised beds and so with posts and chicken wire we managed to complete one</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--v2zYIkTy3s/XExx7iAGveI/AAAAAAAAFls/gvdXym9AQx8V310UCBx3gZn5tMbZlgPJACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000865%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--v2zYIkTy3s/XExx7iAGveI/AAAAAAAAFls/gvdXym9AQx8V310UCBx3gZn5tMbZlgPJACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000865%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">omplete with gate!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The wire is 1.5 metres high and according to the internet Muntjac can jump 1.2 metres so we should be alright!! However I have complete faith and have removed the covers from my broad beans!! Only 2 more beds to net and now we know what we are doing this should be quick.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">I have completed the socks that I needed to make for the Secret Santa (see last blog) because I couldn't wait to start my new knitting project. A friend showed me her coat that she had knitted and I fell in love with it and had to buy the book '<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Swing-Swagger-Drape-Colors-Australia/dp/193306417X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1548514132&sr=1-1&keywords=swing+swagger+drape" target="_blank">Swing, Swagger, Drape</a>' and at last I have started it. It is a 'drape' version of the picture on the front cover, which is longer and I am loving making it. Quite complicated but such fun.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">I am having a clear out of my work room as I have taken a table at this -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eEYhy8rdnqU/XFA2CRv0v3I/AAAAAAAAFl0/hOujT2DFiR0rR0DUumUhasQj7Ry758mfQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="577" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eEYhy8rdnqU/XFA2CRv0v3I/AAAAAAAAFl0/hOujT2DFiR0rR0DUumUhasQj7Ry758mfQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_3006.JPG" width="248" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">and I am aghast at the amount of 'stuff' that I have accumulated! Not just fabric (I can see that in my boxes) but knitting wool of all types, polystyrene balls and egg shapes, ribbon, zips, embroidery threads and general 'must have that as it maybe useful one day' items!! It has been hard going but I have de-stashed to a certain extent. The next thing to do is my fabric, but that can be used for Linus quilts that we are due to make in February as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">My younger son teases me about my sock making and has already said he doesn't want any homemade ones, so for Christmas he walked into a wool shop and asked for the worst colour sock wool she had. It must have been amusing for the shop keeper but this is what I received -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dOqK17go1rg/XFBAereYVJI/AAAAAAAAFmM/AOD60ThXBD4BTU4pRJ_ChwKUwAHAEaqXQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000869%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="279" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dOqK17go1rg/XFBAereYVJI/AAAAAAAAFmM/AOD60ThXBD4BTU4pRJ_ChwKUwAHAEaqXQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000869%2BOUT.JPG" width="186" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I was delighted because I usually use <a href="https://www.wyspinners.com/" target="_blank">WYS</a> wool anyway and also knew how this colour would knit up and though these are not colours I would normally use it is working well.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EsSfYvI9eVA/XFBAeq8J2sI/AAAAAAAAFmI/-4bKWfouxu0oCpQ5gu6AC7_O_Mgg8EbJwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000868%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EsSfYvI9eVA/XFBAeq8J2sI/AAAAAAAAFmI/-4bKWfouxu0oCpQ5gu6AC7_O_Mgg8EbJwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000868%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I am using a free pattern we got at Sock Club to make Christmas socks designed by <a href="https://www.winwickmum.co.uk/" target="_blank">Winwick Mum</a>. Notice the pink theme on the cuff and how it links to the socks in the last blog. That is also WYS wool I bought at my first Sock Club meeting so it must be used up. I am determined to finish these so No 2 son can see how delighted I am with his 'awful' wool.</span></div>
Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-56029536664849035792019-01-19T13:17:00.000+00:002019-01-19T13:17:43.554+00:00New Year, new resolutions??<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, I am back, though not with a vengeance yet!! Anyway Happy New Year to everyone and I hope the Christmas and New Year celebrations went well for you all and don't they seem a long time ago.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Christmas for me was spent in Cambridge with a well organised Christmas meal cooked by my son and a small input by me, which was enough for me not to do the washing up afterwards - excellent. I went to the Crib Service and Christmas morning service at the University Church of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Church_of_St_Mary_the_Great,_Cambridge" target="_blank">Great St Mary's</a> where my daughter in law goes. I still cannot get used to seeing all the tourists who are around and coming in during the service on Christmas morning!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I went down to Kent for the New Year but travelling by train this time. I was slightly apprehensive about the journey down as it was Sunday and I thought the dreaded 'PLANNED RAIL MAINTENANCE' might be in effect; but everything went so smoothly it was brilliant and the family picked me up from some small railway station in deepest Kent and bang on time!! Well done National Rail.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">As New Year's Day was good weather we went to Camber Sands for our usual walk and it was very busy <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kc8yjZuN3hA/XEMXa_1ITeI/AAAAAAAAFkc/yiN6LvZ0xPkCx-mqXxP8h8qGuz5cWPlGQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000852%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kc8yjZuN3hA/XEMXa_1ITeI/AAAAAAAAFkc/yiN6LvZ0xPkCx-mqXxP8h8qGuz5cWPlGQCLcBGAs/s320/P1000852%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People, dogs and horses exercising on the beach</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lWdOpyEs6w/XEMXbce8ekI/AAAAAAAAFkg/Z0RnbZ4BBbEmd5Xq21s9WwWCYTlXCD9UQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000855%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1lWdOpyEs6w/XEMXbce8ekI/AAAAAAAAFkg/Z0RnbZ4BBbEmd5Xq21s9WwWCYTlXCD9UQCLcBGAs/s320/P1000855%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I went for a walk along the beach and waded through this stream coming across the sand but on the way back the girls and Dad had built a dam so my new walking boots (a Christmas present) didn't get too wet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Last year I seemed to spend most of my time being double booked so this was one of my New Year resolutions, which I promptly broke!! Every year my family give me a family calendar with family photos each month and I really look forward to seeing it. So I am going to 'sync' my calendar with my diary to make sure that everything is up to date.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I think I have mentioned in previous posts I belong to a monthly sock club (first Saturday of the month) and at our December meeting we did a secret Santa and have to make a pair of socks for a fellow member, ready by the March meeting. Well mine are finished - no photos yet though - because I have now started a new <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Swing-Swagger-Drape-Colors-Australia/dp/193306417X" target="_blank">knitting project </a>from my Swing, Swagger, Drape book. So exciting and I am loving it.</span></div>
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B<span style="font-family: Arial;">ut here are some socks I made earlier -</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DH_ggIAaNlQ/XEMZyU2bHuI/AAAAAAAAFkw/tFGh2IhQRygPY7RrEKKarFwWnpuhPJAmgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000848OUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DH_ggIAaNlQ/XEMZyU2bHuI/AAAAAAAAFkw/tFGh2IhQRygPY7RrEKKarFwWnpuhPJAmgCLcBGAs/s320/P1000848OUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">BUT only one of each at present, so a long way to go!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I also crocheted this bobble hat in two evenings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9CTkUepvQio/XEMaMWEU_YI/AAAAAAAAFk4/yEdmMY9ve_Qn3ADrIqTOM9JJXMu4IuKjACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000844%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9CTkUepvQio/XEMaMWEU_YI/AAAAAAAAFk4/yEdmMY9ve_Qn3ADrIqTOM9JJXMu4IuKjACLcBGAs/s320/P1000844%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">and wore it on the beach at New Year. I do not like these hats as they usually make my head itch but this seems OK at the moment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Do you remember back in the summer my younger son (who runs marathons) gave me a bag of his t-shirts and asked me to do something with them!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Rc7ytK6djA/XEMcr38FuPI/AAAAAAAAFlE/kY-fSRb0vuEwxKZWbBU9XjoVaBvcAdUDgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000306%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Rc7ytK6djA/XEMcr38FuPI/AAAAAAAAFlE/kY-fSRb0vuEwxKZWbBU9XjoVaBvcAdUDgCLcBGAs/s320/P1000306%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Well, I washed them all (as they had been in the attic for years so you can imagine the smell!!), stabilised those I wanted to use with iron-on Vilene, cut the logos out and that was as far as it got in August!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--N1XMg3VJmQ/XEMdWCDwvHI/AAAAAAAAFlM/obCmrMRXMLAZFFhxdZJ_71skc3WeKFjTwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000468%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--N1XMg3VJmQ/XEMdWCDwvHI/AAAAAAAAFlM/obCmrMRXMLAZFFhxdZJ_71skc3WeKFjTwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000468%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A huge pile!</td></tr>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Well what do you give a son for Christmas? A finished throw of course, but not without a great deal of blood, sweat, tears AND bad language!! I decided to do 'quilt as you go' and cut all the logos into 12" squares (30.5 cms) (or made the smaller ones sewn together into 12" squares) and sandwiched them together with wadding, quilted them and laid them out to get the best design. Doesn't that sound simple - well it wasn't!! I used my walking foot for the whole project including the binding and got through THREE sewing machine needles because they became blunt. Most of the logos were plastic which caused skipped stitches whilst quilting and it took a long time for me to find the best method to do this. Eventually it was finished <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fPhJErY82es/XEMhYcEc1RI/AAAAAAAAFlc/gNvP2-xZxVsPVljA3DJOZKRR6b2fEH6xwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000850%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="640" height="216" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fPhJErY82es/XEMhYcEc1RI/AAAAAAAAFlc/gNvP2-xZxVsPVljA3DJOZKRR6b2fEH6xwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000850%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vbLWkUlaggE/XEMhTyKUq1I/AAAAAAAAFlY/pY0RcI7tTxoKCff-hx5Ir9-YZp8xYcxOQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000851%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="640" height="204" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vbLWkUlaggE/XEMhTyKUq1I/AAAAAAAAFlY/pY0RcI7tTxoKCff-hx5Ir9-YZp8xYcxOQCLcBGAs/s320/P1000851%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and he likes it!! All the binding was made from the t-shirts so nothing was wasted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">He has informed me that there are more bags of t-shirts in his attic as he approaches his 100th marathon this year!!! No NO.</span></div>
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Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-32812341812038364682018-12-07T15:49:00.001+00:002018-12-08T11:32:48.684+00:00Out and about and something new<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">During October when we had some glorious weather for half term, I travelled to Kent to see my family there. We went for a brisk walk on Saturday afternoon and admired the new houses that were being built close to the town and had a 'Kentish' look about them; but we hoped no more would go up. On Sunday morning it was to be a trip to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camber_Sands" target="_blank">Camber Sands</a>. After a quick stop here </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9NzPa6Q_2s/XAqCJ3TsafI/AAAAAAAAFg0/OtNBjEsg5xYPsFMGmF7VYKuj3Jj5nt6mgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000756%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9NzPa6Q_2s/XAqCJ3TsafI/AAAAAAAAFg0/OtNBjEsg5xYPsFMGmF7VYKuj3Jj5nt6mgCLcBGAs/s320/P1000756%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">for the most delicious bacon butties and coffee we went on our way. It was during that hot weekend that we had, so we walked along the beach, made sand pictures and I took photos of seagulls!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pu21JsCu9jg/XAqCxQPetQI/AAAAAAAAFg8/WiNVYVYe45UpWnQjJx8CLiG-b3vi0Ai5gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0780%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pu21JsCu9jg/XAqCxQPetQI/AAAAAAAAFg8/WiNVYVYe45UpWnQjJx8CLiG-b3vi0Ai5gCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0780%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W4hwS3GwO6A/XAqCx9wPs7I/AAAAAAAAFhI/TPE9ggv9g98zHJMYGf3FVZhApxS6GIubwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0781%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W4hwS3GwO6A/XAqCx9wPs7I/AAAAAAAAFhI/TPE9ggv9g98zHJMYGf3FVZhApxS6GIubwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0781%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vl1H5F4J2KA/XAqCxGfLJsI/AAAAAAAAFhA/asiX4CgQZdYiqpzm0fDd7fvE9wUf-cZuACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000762%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vl1H5F4J2KA/XAqCxGfLJsI/AAAAAAAAFhA/asiX4CgQZdYiqpzm0fDd7fvE9wUf-cZuACLcBGAs/s320/P1000762%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cMGsojy53Qc/XAqCx8LZQZI/AAAAAAAAFhE/dpTMXzkI6hUtpBvxlLERSG5-A0fbGDmjACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000764%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cMGsojy53Qc/XAqCx8LZQZI/AAAAAAAAFhE/dpTMXzkI6hUtpBvxlLERSG5-A0fbGDmjACLcBGAs/s320/P1000764%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pnLuVgKjoOg/XAqCyn0NveI/AAAAAAAAFhM/5ps-ykr3begGU9drSCXOOcFErEo071PngCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000767%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pnLuVgKjoOg/XAqCyn0NveI/AAAAAAAAFhM/5ps-ykr3begGU9drSCXOOcFErEo071PngCLcBGAs/s320/P1000767%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ckS9GSp2Qyw/XAqCzFCx1xI/AAAAAAAAFhU/6U6RatwpnyohFol4qQ3a4lMZJpsxZSE0gCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000774%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ckS9GSp2Qyw/XAqCzFCx1xI/AAAAAAAAFhU/6U6RatwpnyohFol4qQ3a4lMZJpsxZSE0gCLcBGAs/s320/P1000774%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8cJ7bf-uJk/XAqCzHIRvhI/AAAAAAAAFhQ/iuc0lnJ15X0RAuaUbqFLkt7_e89Mx9RcwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000775%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8cJ7bf-uJk/XAqCzHIRvhI/AAAAAAAAFhQ/iuc0lnJ15X0RAuaUbqFLkt7_e89Mx9RcwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000775%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">People in the sea being sporty!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XqsaN1AwzHg/XAqCz551wEI/AAAAAAAAFhY/c7Yqf4EP3IIgg62Ngkr8_1a9UiPjpVUEQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000778%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XqsaN1AwzHg/XAqCz551wEI/AAAAAAAAFhY/c7Yqf4EP3IIgg62Ngkr8_1a9UiPjpVUEQCLcBGAs/s320/P1000778%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Careful your wellies don't fill with water!!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">Following this we went to church, well to visit this delightful <a href="https://theromneymarsh.net/stthomas" target="_blank">church</a> on Romney Marsh. We have driven past it before and I have always wanted to go in. First we collected the key</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nbdu9GAJCeE/XAqC0MVsMrI/AAAAAAAAFiI/5hM2ZeMLD6g7OmV72VfIuue2gj54Z2-PgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000782%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nbdu9GAJCeE/XAqC0MVsMrI/AAAAAAAAFiI/5hM2ZeMLD6g7OmV72VfIuue2gj54Z2-PgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000782%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mRtv1uU-aUY/XAqC1RK-JkI/AAAAAAAAFiU/Wv1iaGA88oYxaLwzu3IijoW-l5O4Vc9eQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000785%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="640" height="226" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mRtv1uU-aUY/XAqC1RK-JkI/AAAAAAAAFiU/Wv1iaGA88oYxaLwzu3IijoW-l5O4Vc9eQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000785%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">and the door was opened</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5UfjHiCUDSY/XAqC1lpyfRI/AAAAAAAAFiM/6-Dv1tzu-u0MOAxuWozGpMo-NznX-XlkQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000787%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5UfjHiCUDSY/XAqC1lpyfRI/AAAAAAAAFiM/6-Dv1tzu-u0MOAxuWozGpMo-NznX-XlkQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000787%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><br />
and we went in to this very unusual church<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nkNphHyx_eI/XAqC2haP9vI/AAAAAAAAFiQ/vkN4MZoF4W4_fzGw7qX_cPefqU9h6-TaQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000789%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nkNphHyx_eI/XAqC2haP9vI/AAAAAAAAFiQ/vkN4MZoF4W4_fzGw7qX_cPefqU9h6-TaQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000789%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Box pews - I have never seen anything like this before</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WbY-KktC2-o/XAqC2lk5Q0I/AAAAAAAAFiY/YYG60xaSFWoKCXkQxbHyMuwYgDlSTFNgQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000790%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WbY-KktC2-o/XAqC2lk5Q0I/AAAAAAAAFiY/YYG60xaSFWoKCXkQxbHyMuwYgDlSTFNgQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000790%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CHD6C-LDujQ/XAqC34RHpjI/AAAAAAAAFiY/_4ZlEU1u9Vsdm8WGlQc28EiUnwv59Y68ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000793%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="487" height="315" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CHD6C-LDujQ/XAqC34RHpjI/AAAAAAAAFiY/_4ZlEU1u9Vsdm8WGlQc28EiUnwv59Y68ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000793%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and a newspaper cutting showing the church surrounded by water</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lOntZf7ppNI/XAqC3lsMUtI/AAAAAAAAFiU/HayG8WQgpuglEvc7psNa-ebiHoNdeT4PQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000791%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lOntZf7ppNI/XAqC3lsMUtI/AAAAAAAAFiU/HayG8WQgpuglEvc7psNa-ebiHoNdeT4PQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000791%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ev9WCUtSsrU/XAqC4J40SrI/AAAAAAAAFic/16uSa_AkMPAG8YuvQMCk1B-IkGDSGs1lgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000801%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ev9WCUtSsrU/XAqC4J40SrI/AAAAAAAAFic/16uSa_AkMPAG8YuvQMCk1B-IkGDSGs1lgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000801%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We went outside and I noticed the mounting block (on the left) for those riding to church.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uP6auhoXyLk/XAqC1Qs3FZI/AAAAAAAAFiY/H5YWnj06uPgXu4xlpcrxin-2DR6dyr8aQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000784%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uP6auhoXyLk/XAqC1Qs3FZI/AAAAAAAAFiY/H5YWnj06uPgXu4xlpcrxin-2DR6dyr8aQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000784%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">No village in sight but I remember this from the last filming of Great Expectations in 2012. Incidentally they also used <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holdenby_House" target="_blank">Holdenby House</a> near where I live, for the exterior shots of Miss Haversham's home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">At Higham Piecemakers in October we made either Alfie the Elf or Evie the Elf. Once started we couldn't stop and I made four</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GjSy5rdWFlQ/XAqMPDppf-I/AAAAAAAAFio/3LSVjYcOWc0tkZBx9L8_GpDFgnd9CJprQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0770%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GjSy5rdWFlQ/XAqMPDppf-I/AAAAAAAAFio/3LSVjYcOWc0tkZBx9L8_GpDFgnd9CJprQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0770%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">with one being given to my granddaughters in Kent, one is in Cambridge, one for Will and one for myself. Mine is a naughty elf and has muscled in at 'Sock' Club</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WEHugRBMOTQ/XAqPh3CvZ0I/AAAAAAAAFjA/uNeoSBLXjjQab0TN_3V9hZXjAdwEMWGzACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0866%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="590" data-original-width="481" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WEHugRBMOTQ/XAqPh3CvZ0I/AAAAAAAAFjA/uNeoSBLXjjQab0TN_3V9hZXjAdwEMWGzACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0866%2BOUT.JPG" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Embroidery Christmas lunch day</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and very upset when there was no cake -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I mentioned 'Sock' Club where I have been going for the last three months at <a href="https://www.purlwise.co.uk/" target="_blank">Purlwise.</a> Such fun and I have completed one pair, but finished some single socks. I tell this against myself, but I decided to make a pair for one of my sons, who has since said he doesn't want any!! Anyway I started and finished one and asked him to try it on for size</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sl8L6xmZsxU/XAqS23cb6DI/AAAAAAAAFjc/hBHqYrPezacPWBzSYQHgvc8CtBRWmQSbgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0732%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sl8L6xmZsxU/XAqS23cb6DI/AAAAAAAAFjc/hBHqYrPezacPWBzSYQHgvc8CtBRWmQSbgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0732%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was enormous and I gave it to my brother in law as he had just had an ankle operation and it covered the plaster and kept his toes warm!! Are well you can't win them all. </span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-74080606686619615012018-10-07T16:18:00.001+01:002018-10-08T07:38:02.247+01:00A trip up the river<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Once again I am very tardy in doing the blog but following a wonderful day out with friends I discovered that my camera hadn't been working properly and they came out as mini videos (definitely pilot error, I know) but it left me feeling very depressed. However two things happened that cheered me up: my friend <a href="http://quiltsewhappy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">SewHappy</a> sent me all her photos - wonderful and I suddenly found how to get one frame from each video and though it has taken time, I have some at last.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I have always wanted to go on the PS (Paddle Steamer) <a href="http://www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk/friends-of-waverley/" target="_blank">Waverley</a>, from back in the days when the children were small and I was living near the Bristol Channel, but we never did, so when the opportunity arose to go up the Thames on her I signed us up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w60E8htZPJ0/W7oGeq0rPgI/AAAAAAAAFdg/bPxej4MO_A4eAiqYQiK3nFDA2PiyqKk3gCEwYBhgL/s1600/Waverley%2BOUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="216" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w60E8htZPJ0/W7oGeq0rPgI/AAAAAAAAFdg/bPxej4MO_A4eAiqYQiK3nFDA2PiyqKk3gCEwYBhgL/s1600/Waverley%2BOUT.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">We went by coach to Southend where we had a hasty lunch of fish and chips, before catching the little train that took us to the end of the 1.25 mile pier. A quick ice-cream (it was a glorious hot day with no wind) and then Waverley arrived.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I had hoped to have my 'Titanic' moment standing in the bow but I couldn't get there because it was full of ropes and a sailor!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Then we were off and what a brilliant trip it was and at times I found it very emotional.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FXv3bUbDxJ8/W7oIRdVIogI/AAAAAAAAFe4/b165CZAhXPE5oIiXdJBtoSfmCan7jnCbwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000655%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="640" height="203" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FXv3bUbDxJ8/W7oIRdVIogI/AAAAAAAAFe4/b165CZAhXPE5oIiXdJBtoSfmCan7jnCbwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000655%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good there is one lifeboat at least</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ozcK14cAQGU/W7oIQ0oPvCI/AAAAAAAAFew/46o17tuW1c8ZRqEcX5asGn4Us5tNtXmKQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000667%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ozcK14cAQGU/W7oIQ0oPvCI/AAAAAAAAFew/46o17tuW1c8ZRqEcX5asGn4Us5tNtXmKQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000667%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The <a href="https://rnli.org/" target="_blank">RNLI </a>were interested in us</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h3OrLki3kbA/W7oIRsP5FOI/AAAAAAAAFfA/34_WYKIM6p00jkYeALsJcJ81wKeV9XRvwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000669%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h3OrLki3kbA/W7oIRsP5FOI/AAAAAAAAFfA/34_WYKIM6p00jkYeALsJcJ81wKeV9XRvwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000669%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A container ship being loaded at Thames Gateway</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CIwpEOgvhnc/W7oIR00nTII/AAAAAAAAFew/zz2dBQOmJoIdNLuaVfwyjiwkqtTdwRwKACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000676%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CIwpEOgvhnc/W7oIR00nTII/AAAAAAAAFew/zz2dBQOmJoIdNLuaVfwyjiwkqtTdwRwKACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000676%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We overtook 'Atlantis'</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">I must mention that during the entire trip up the Thames all sorts of ships and boats were giving us a toot. Occasionally Waverley replied with a wonderful deep bass hoot that seemed to vibrate through the whole boat! We also slowed a one stage for a boat to come alongside to change <a href="http://www.pla.co.uk/Pilotage/About-the-PLAs-Pilotage-Service" target="_blank">River Pilots</a>. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XonoIkd3RAM/W7oISc70U9I/AAAAAAAAFes/G5f2zGzhGrc4PGQ90UxDR_Q3KJcEDqEFQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000689%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="509" height="301" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XonoIkd3RAM/W7oISc70U9I/AAAAAAAAFes/G5f2zGzhGrc4PGQ90UxDR_Q3KJcEDqEFQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000689%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Queen Elizabeth bridge </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> I have crossed this bridge as part of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dartford_Crossing" target="_blank">Dartford Crossing</a> on my way to stay with my son in Kent so I was quite excited to be going under it</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3-XBCtFU7e8/W7oISQWz9gI/AAAAAAAAFes/iz5BVuBvJHYA8KOapKPg5l5JhdvEz2a7ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000690_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3-XBCtFU7e8/W7oISQWz9gI/AAAAAAAAFes/iz5BVuBvJHYA8KOapKPg5l5JhdvEz2a7ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000690_OUT.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This bridge is one way going South on the M25. Coming back you cross through the original tunnels</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7OUtYve0WA/W7oISrkL-hI/AAAAAAAAFe4/lARKHENA22U1xm-d2DaBFRhNcUbz3--1wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000691_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7OUtYve0WA/W7oISrkL-hI/AAAAAAAAFe4/lARKHENA22U1xm-d2DaBFRhNcUbz3--1wCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000691_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">and that upturned mushroom is one of the vents for the tunnel. You can't see that from the road.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oi3HWm4wrnU/W7oIS6h13iI/AAAAAAAAFfA/pV1maaZmIk0GnOttjSVAfAxMkBIAIIpWACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000696_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oi3HWm4wrnU/W7oIS6h13iI/AAAAAAAAFfA/pV1maaZmIk0GnOttjSVAfAxMkBIAIIpWACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000696_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going through the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thames_Barrier" target="_blank">Thames Barrier</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">As you can see the sun is beginning to set but we chugged on up the river passing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AydKacIiM_w/W7oITB0d1ZI/AAAAAAAAFe4/ND2y2CoRWMMeO_HoKlIrXb20ODQeiOAEQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000704_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="544" height="282" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AydKacIiM_w/W7oITB0d1ZI/AAAAAAAAFe4/ND2y2CoRWMMeO_HoKlIrXb20ODQeiOAEQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000704_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.historic-uk.com/HistoryUK/HistoryofEngland/The-Palace-of-Placentia-Greenwich/" target="_blank">Greenwich Palace</a></td></tr>
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</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> What you can't see here is the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prime_meridian_(Greenwich)" target="_blank">Greenwich Meridian</a> that lies behind the buildings on the hill.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VM3ikLhECE0/W7oITYk9bBI/AAAAAAAAFe0/yXAYa7j4wXQAkCOY1jZnV2bqsv8FMTXZQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000706_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VM3ikLhECE0/W7oITYk9bBI/AAAAAAAAFe0/yXAYa7j4wXQAkCOY1jZnV2bqsv8FMTXZQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000706_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutty_Sark" target="_blank">Cutty Sark</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eWhjqwx8xvU/W7oITsfQqAI/AAAAAAAAFe8/mAGcqWof-e80BMKfmHfM7y2KriejHIXmwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000707_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="397" data-original-width="640" height="198" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eWhjqwx8xvU/W7oITsfQqAI/AAAAAAAAFe8/mAGcqWof-e80BMKfmHfM7y2KriejHIXmwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000707_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Canary Wharf</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canary_Wharf" target="_blank">Canary Wharf</a> rose from the old docks of London and I regret I am old enough to remember the old Isle of Dogs and when my husband and I were courting we often went there with friends to eat and go to the pubs for the entertainment!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">Past the O2, now hemmed in by flats<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZ5htMj_YtQ/W7oQ2CrFx5I/AAAAAAAAFfI/3xdfgCQYuoA2EHg8T1cwt6VKNQWWzMu1wCLcBGAs/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZ5htMj_YtQ/W7oQ2CrFx5I/AAAAAAAAFfI/3xdfgCQYuoA2EHg8T1cwt6VKNQWWzMu1wCLcBGAs/s320/8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of SewHappy</td></tr>
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">and then further up river we came round a bend and there ahead was Tower Bridge all lit up against the setting sun. A very moving moment for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NlcpLyO6avk/W7oIT2CM0HI/AAAAAAAAFe4/MLnVCFJ8cTYzzsKvUbXEL3IazfQDsDk4ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000709_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NlcpLyO6avk/W7oIT2CM0HI/AAAAAAAAFe4/MLnVCFJ8cTYzzsKvUbXEL3IazfQDsDk4ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000709_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">The Waverley slowed right down and we waited; at this moment I felt that the ship was straining to go but couldn't and then slowly we edged forward and the Bridge started to open</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZ5IJrDWQ9s/W7oaNU7JnTI/AAAAAAAAFfg/o3ftaoNO7mwYz-Q3-35X4XBfMkw7QSBsgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000712_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZ5IJrDWQ9s/W7oaNU7JnTI/AAAAAAAAFfg/o3ftaoNO7mwYz-Q3-35X4XBfMkw7QSBsgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000712_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jgRsaYWQZGQ/W7oaN5NbBOI/AAAAAAAAFfo/yWY5MkFFo_o0k4htjOXKUFKtUe1O5HoigCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000714_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jgRsaYWQZGQ/W7oaN5NbBOI/AAAAAAAAFfo/yWY5MkFFo_o0k4htjOXKUFKtUe1O5HoigCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000714_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8zwL71HCTJY/W7oaN3qfYHI/AAAAAAAAFf4/PctyEFfHYCAyYi541wDlYKVNFCp82UpZACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000716_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8zwL71HCTJY/W7oaN3qfYHI/AAAAAAAAFf4/PctyEFfHYCAyYi541wDlYKVNFCp82UpZACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000716_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KWjKBgmX89E/W7oaOMgMgBI/AAAAAAAAFfs/t3o8nmZoUgUTXgcrgIyQRIEwG5Yofze6ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000717_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KWjKBgmX89E/W7oaOMgMgBI/AAAAAAAAFfs/t3o8nmZoUgUTXgcrgIyQRIEwG5Yofze6ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000717_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D4AXdg81Of0/W7obghbd2kI/AAAAAAAAFgQ/hTWSN9POuWE89yEvmkOINhDF3GpDjH0pwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000718%2BOUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="640" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D4AXdg81Of0/W7obghbd2kI/AAAAAAAAFgQ/hTWSN9POuWE89yEvmkOINhDF3GpDjH0pwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000718%2BOUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">and then we were through and at that moment the wonderful deep bass hoot was made and I like to think that it was the Waverley thanking the bridge for opening!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">We were in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pool_of_London" target="_blank">Pool of London</a> in front of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tower_of_London" target="_blank">Tower of London</a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c9iAauQLe9s/W7oaOU1ZTNI/AAAAAAAAFgE/3Jr5Fd_r2-gKNksTv7gSu3fhwufCm62JgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000719%2BOUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c9iAauQLe9s/W7oaOU1ZTNI/AAAAAAAAFgE/3Jr5Fd_r2-gKNksTv7gSu3fhwufCm62JgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000719%2BOUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The White Tower</td></tr>
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">and in the background was <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Shard" target="_blank">The Shard</a> with <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Belfast_(C35)" target="_blank">HMS Belfast</a> tied up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IpXwnxF8-Kk/W7oaO7uJS2I/AAAAAAAAFgI/R-gxZYqBYQ8tOrPCezOXdOHR2l5JHgBewCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000721_OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="626" height="245" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IpXwnxF8-Kk/W7oaO7uJS2I/AAAAAAAAFgI/R-gxZYqBYQ8tOrPCezOXdOHR2l5JHgBewCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000721_OUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">This was the end of a memorable day out and another tick for the bucket list!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">On the crafty front I was asked to provide an item for Will's Family Box (remember, I used to look after him but he has just started school) so I decided on this<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UgdrLzPEp-0/W7ogz2JrGkI/AAAAAAAAFgc/YKEP4e6e8KgKIZuK2FF-kNGB3jskvSJ9ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0728%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UgdrLzPEp-0/W7ogz2JrGkI/AAAAAAAAFgc/YKEP4e6e8KgKIZuK2FF-kNGB3jskvSJ9ACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_0728%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An ice cream complete with sprinkles!!</td></tr>
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</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"> and I have re-started knitting socks. The first one was too big</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cdZUBQV3Dqk/W7og0R1mK5I/AAAAAAAAFgk/QjINZpOmAzcfLk-ocYSGhA_JPEWmOx6iACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0732%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cdZUBQV3Dqk/W7og0R1mK5I/AAAAAAAAFgk/QjINZpOmAzcfLk-ocYSGhA_JPEWmOx6iACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_0732%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms";">but it has found a use as my brother in law has just had an operation on his ankle and is in plaster and this over-size sock covers the whole thing beautifully and keeps his toes warm!!!! </span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-92224016067204619862018-09-16T16:03:00.000+01:002018-09-16T16:03:46.940+01:00A week of walking - well almost!<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I haven't posted for a while because I knew that this walking week was coming up, as it has been in my diary since the beginning of the year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">The <a href="http://www.fiftyplusnorthantsadventureclub.org.uk/" target="_blank">50+Adventure Club</a> were going to walk <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hadrian%27s_Wall" target="_blank">Hadrian's Wall</a> - at least for three days!! However before I met up with my companions I had invited myself to stay with friends who live near Alnwick and who I haven't seen for years. They have dogs, who are walked morning and evening, and I requested the beach walks that I remembered. So Sunday evening we went to <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/united-kingdom/galleries/best-uk-beaches/sugar-sands--northumberland/" target="_blank">Sugar Sands</a> </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JXI59oc8knE/W55OzOlbN1I/AAAAAAAAFas/32KNxgcMHLsN9L1CN4X8QihlpcbrICxfACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JXI59oc8knE/W55OzOlbN1I/AAAAAAAAFas/32KNxgcMHLsN9L1CN4X8QihlpcbrICxfACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_0701.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X73rqldBNIs/W55Ozw8muqI/AAAAAAAAFaw/Nr-yTrQztyEHcIJUCWYWJxfyza08IU-WACEwYBhgL/s1600/Sugar%2BSands%2B09.09.18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X73rqldBNIs/W55Ozw8muqI/AAAAAAAAFaw/Nr-yTrQztyEHcIJUCWYWJxfyza08IU-WACEwYBhgL/s320/Sugar%2BSands%2B09.09.18.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A rainbow</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">There was a sudden downpour and for the first time in my life I saw a whole rainbow in front of me but couldn't get it into the photo. Early Monday morning we walked in the sun on <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boulmer" target="_blank">Boulmer Sands</a> </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4yVZsO7lew/W55O1hSLD5I/AAAAAAAAFaw/Abz9SZTgY1o_Uf-MPhQR8t60HBDBAAUBwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Boulmer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4yVZsO7lew/W55O1hSLD5I/AAAAAAAAFaw/Abz9SZTgY1o_Uf-MPhQR8t60HBDBAAUBwCEwYBhgL/s320/Boulmer.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pdtsGwNA2XM/W55O2NyziaI/AAAAAAAAFaw/hGm_oTwWdo0fAAOYjZU2JEfohjm4ACqkACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pdtsGwNA2XM/W55O2NyziaI/AAAAAAAAFaw/hGm_oTwWdo0fAAOYjZU2JEfohjm4ACqkACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_0704.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Then I packed my bags and headed to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hexham" target="_blank">Hexham</a> to meet my 50+ Adventure Club friends after a good catch-up with old friends. But on the way I decided to visit <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vindolanda" target="_blank">Vindolanda</a> (a Roman fort near the Wall) that is somewhere I have always wanted to go.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lhj41j-rFzM/W55SAPMhA6I/AAAAAAAAFbM/h62RsT6upL47s0enMtWc4GVxda8nPJCGgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000588%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lhj41j-rFzM/W55SAPMhA6I/AAAAAAAAFbM/h62RsT6upL47s0enMtWc4GVxda8nPJCGgCLcBGAs/s320/P1000588%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lSMI6meXw6Y/W55R8UUruvI/AAAAAAAAFbA/zXnRa4zx0BMZHKU3HYm8jhdTn1VJLuclACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000536%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lSMI6meXw6Y/W55R8UUruvI/AAAAAAAAFbA/zXnRa4zx0BMZHKU3HYm8jhdTn1VJLuclACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000536%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After paying, the tourist passes through this quiet court, so like a Roman house, before coming out into the fort itself. Immediately I spotted volunteers at work 'finds washing' so I went to meet them. They used similar equipment to us at Chester Farm but I queried why this bone was black, not bone coloured</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0NGf0znoR3U/W55R7vyvuLI/AAAAAAAAFbY/ZRrWLZUIHxI5TkN-JURQ9RDPcbV_l8DvACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000541%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0NGf0znoR3U/W55R7vyvuLI/AAAAAAAAFbY/ZRrWLZUIHxI5TkN-JURQ9RDPcbV_l8DvACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000541%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">The finds are all found in anaerobic conditions (no oxygen and wet) so this preserves them better. I was shown one item that was grey which is the colour after drying<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zy2Y5gSPqj8/W55R67sd8qI/AAAAAAAAFbU/lAjjcbd_tHYplIIG4uYkdHYKm8fuTY7RwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000542%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zy2Y5gSPqj8/W55R67sd8qI/AAAAAAAAFbU/lAjjcbd_tHYplIIG4uYkdHYKm8fuTY7RwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000542%2BOUT.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cattle head</td></tr>
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</span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CJYLHVtg00A/W55R-XH1teI/AAAAAAAAFbg/ZP8ToGd6UlccjxmoFGt6wc-wWnUrr1PTgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000543%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="558" height="275" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CJYLHVtg00A/W55R-XH1teI/AAAAAAAAFbg/ZP8ToGd6UlccjxmoFGt6wc-wWnUrr1PTgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000543%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the bluish tinge due to chemical reactions</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">After this I wandered round the fort noting the layout and the different rooms.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4CIQFQfpuGE/W55R953c-NI/AAAAAAAAFbc/5vwaCIpkQaUlyKq5flstDYQQD1WmcjRkwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000544%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="603" height="254" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4CIQFQfpuGE/W55R953c-NI/AAAAAAAAFbc/5vwaCIpkQaUlyKq5flstDYQQD1WmcjRkwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000544%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pOlKIfWk-BM/W55SBHX2lmI/AAAAAAAAFbo/rHUkAo-ZdjYgV6G4gLg4EKCXN00GC29BwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000548%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pOlKIfWk-BM/W55SBHX2lmI/AAAAAAAAFbo/rHUkAo-ZdjYgV6G4gLg4EKCXN00GC29BwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000548%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Arial;">Following a visit to their museum I went to the <a href="http://www.vindolanda.com/roman-army-museum" target="_blank">Roman Army Museum</a>, well worth a visit: then onto Hexham and my hotel for the rest of the week.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Day 1 of our walking dawned bright but very windy and after catching the AD122 bus (yes that is it's name!) that took us to our first drop off we were planning to walk 6-7 miles of the Wall.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rc9uwF2y_Ic/W55WQq6HLGI/AAAAAAAAFbw/HEKODPNc4XA_uFghT3CZtnsiXr5LXVoSwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000591%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rc9uwF2y_Ic/W55WQq6HLGI/AAAAAAAAFbw/HEKODPNc4XA_uFghT3CZtnsiXr5LXVoSwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000591%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9jmEf113qUo/W55WSlmn8EI/AAAAAAAAFb4/RmUWeUYzu-cBslDyN0NlidYJKitHThW4ACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000596%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9jmEf113qUo/W55WSlmn8EI/AAAAAAAAFb4/RmUWeUYzu-cBslDyN0NlidYJKitHThW4ACLcBGAs/s320/P1000596%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">We passed many small fortlets built every mile and at times the wall disappeared completely, mainly because the stones were robbed to build field walls and farms!! Incredible views. We did pause to watch a shepherd on a quad bike with two dogs, rounding up a flock of sheep, and moving them to a new field and done so fast that I didn't have time to take a decent photo!! Well 7 miles passed and we were not at the end and I was beginning to tire when suddenly we had to scramble down and up two very steep gullies. This was a nightmare to me as I suffer from vertigo when going down steep hills but my companions were brilliant and helped me down - going up is no problem and then after 8.25 miles we reached <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Housesteads_Roman_Fort" target="_blank">Housesteads</a> but were not allowed to stop for refreshments as we had the 4.36 bus to catch back to Hexham.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Next day the walk was only to be about 4 miles, so once again onto the AD122. This service runs between March and September on a circular route from Hexham taking in all the major points on the Northumberland part of the Wall, but can be hailed at any time. Overnight we learned that Prince Charles was in the area for the <a href="http://www.hexham-courant.co.uk/news/Prince-Charles-discovers-good-work-of-The-Sill-on-visit-to-Tynedale-28c293a0-2b13-466b-a693-3c8c25c5e903-ds" target="_blank">official opening of The Sill</a> that was on our bus route and so we swept into the car park full of police and men (and women) in 'suits' while he was inside. Our destination was the Roman Army Museum (where I visited earlier) but no stopping as we set off We had only passed the car park when we saw this<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rGxyukpMvkE/W55e351GDnI/AAAAAAAAFcU/h7rX0Q62qSk_WlVnybRmoPPjnPmgl0kwACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000610%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="640" height="234" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rGxyukpMvkE/W55e351GDnI/AAAAAAAAFcU/h7rX0Q62qSk_WlVnybRmoPPjnPmgl0kwACLcBGAs/s320/P1000610%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A goose with a bow tie round it's neck!</td></tr>
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</span><span style="font-family: Arial;">Were we seeing things - no! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SFOUweAca1s/W55e302SjvI/AAAAAAAAFcQ/I7yDPPeWrn0sZ0a645pUM0q8Wh7aLLtOACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000611%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="640" height="175" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SFOUweAca1s/W55e302SjvI/AAAAAAAAFcQ/I7yDPPeWrn0sZ0a645pUM0q8Wh7aLLtOACLcBGAs/s320/P1000611%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Apparently this goose travels in the front seat (no seat belt) with it's friend the sheepdog and the rabbit on the back seat!! We were told that they have their own website but I cannot find it. Anyway we started walking and once again the views were stunning and we could see why the Romans decided to build a wall here commencing AD122 (now that is why the bus is so called!). High crags to stop invaders</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JCXE9Wje5jc/W55e3Mtit9I/AAAAAAAAFcY/ftqS38cxoLozQG6SteN_nMjzhmRbvZvlwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000617%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JCXE9Wje5jc/W55e3Mtit9I/AAAAAAAAFcY/ftqS38cxoLozQG6SteN_nMjzhmRbvZvlwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000617%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">but once again a lot of scrambling though I chickened out this time and went round the bottom. The walk this time was only 4.75 miles but took us nearly 4 hours with stops to see the views, but our destination was the <a href="http://www.milecastle-inn.co.uk/" target="_blank">Milecastle Inn</a> where we stopped for a drink before catching the bus.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I woke up on Thursday morning deciding not to walk but to do my own thing. I went to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hexham_Abbey" target="_blank">Hexham Abbey</a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-th4Yn_c_ajw/W55jRB8PRkI/AAAAAAAAFc0/5STyjyjA8q43yMTP8UvdHXFAOk9XS-UCwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000632%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-th4Yn_c_ajw/W55jRB8PRkI/AAAAAAAAFc0/5STyjyjA8q43yMTP8UvdHXFAOk9XS-UCwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000632%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">and had a look around, noting the Frith seat for the Bishops of Hexham</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Cu1I7WEAgY/W55jPYEaRdI/AAAAAAAAFdA/bioiAKHoJ8ADmMfK7Iu6CjtQ-TzosiUcQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000627%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Cu1I7WEAgY/W55jPYEaRdI/AAAAAAAAFdA/bioiAKHoJ8ADmMfK7Iu6CjtQ-TzosiUcQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000627%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">and the staircase where the monks would have descended from their quarters - very worn</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hddXKMv3tRU/W55jPn_p2dI/AAAAAAAAFdE/B2glJ4VpS7MtoVbO26tVInM80sL_4-WLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000631%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hddXKMv3tRU/W55jPn_p2dI/AAAAAAAAFdE/B2glJ4VpS7MtoVbO26tVInM80sL_4-WLgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000631%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"> I then caught the bus to <a href="https://www.thesill.org.uk/" target="_blank">the Sill</a> and had a good look round, but not venturing out as it was pouring with rain. However Housesteads Roman Fort beckoned so after another short bus trip (isn't this service wonderful especially as I was able to use my senior's free bus pass) I got there as the rain was sheeting down! I walked up to the fort but only stopped briefly to view the Roman latrine in a very well preserved condition, before my walking companions suddenly came into view and we all caught the bus back to Hexham.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TYLbTY_2yi8/W55jS-jRFyI/AAAAAAAAFdE/cNYPHjt4VA8IU6vhieudrnRcyjEEtun2gCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000636%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TYLbTY_2yi8/W55jS-jRFyI/AAAAAAAAFdE/cNYPHjt4VA8IU6vhieudrnRcyjEEtun2gCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000636%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FqItZzVFnqs/W55jT05MfII/AAAAAAAAFdI/Gj0DmjhVr2MWTgXepEMVp3n4utKB5XMAACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000637%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FqItZzVFnqs/W55jT05MfII/AAAAAAAAFdI/Gj0DmjhVr2MWTgXepEMVp3n4utKB5XMAACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000637%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P6Z2enG1RUI/W55jNXuzxjI/AAAAAAAAFdA/G9JToVWRTVUfykwhXC48pJDPeXKnFQ0EwCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P6Z2enG1RUI/W55jNXuzxjI/AAAAAAAAFdA/G9JToVWRTVUfykwhXC48pJDPeXKnFQ0EwCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_0722.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Raining still</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Getting back to Hexham some of us went to the little cinema to see <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Children_Act_(film)" target="_blank">The Children Act </a>and we all met up for our final meal together before going our separate ways home on Friday morning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">A great week away ticking many of the items on my personal 'bucket list'.</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-82265684321664612442018-08-29T16:22:00.000+01:002018-08-29T16:22:11.459+01:00End of an era<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My regular readers, and friends, will know that for the last eight years my Tuesdays have been taken up with looking after firstly, one of my grand-daughters and secondly my great-nephew Will. Yesterday was the final day with Will as he starts school next week, so for the last day I decided to go to <a href="http://www.woburnsafari.co.uk/" target="_blank">Woburn Safari Park</a>, a place I have known for years. I remembered that we went there for my eldest son's third birthday when there was not much to see. He will be 50 next year so they have had plenty of time to improve!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">If you decide to go buy your tickets online as it saves time and is slightly cheaper. On arrival you see various forms of deer some of whom I can't identify <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_lkp4okZ4lw/W4ao3KhT4LI/AAAAAAAAFY4/HZtQzec2ioMdFKh-6aH1D5_Q0ob554xVgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000476%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="529" height="290" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_lkp4okZ4lw/W4ao3KhT4LI/AAAAAAAAFY4/HZtQzec2ioMdFKh-6aH1D5_Q0ob554xVgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000476%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fallow deer that roam the whole estate</td></tr>
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LEbxv_Cfwys/W4ao29xSS7I/AAAAAAAAFX0/ZcLFoDZDNH0286P7Su0FHpo7hpzpZQZogCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000482%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="362" data-original-width="589" height="196" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LEbxv_Cfwys/W4ao29xSS7I/AAAAAAAAFX0/ZcLFoDZDNH0286P7Su0FHpo7hpzpZQZogCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000482%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Is that a Gnu on the left?</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hJk2OJVGQs4/W4ao4OVeMbI/AAAAAAAAFYA/81y3hVG-D6QSYRui_YpQSPj6CCB3UC7HQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000485%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="584" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hJk2OJVGQs4/W4ao4OVeMbI/AAAAAAAAFYA/81y3hVG-D6QSYRui_YpQSPj6CCB3UC7HQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000485%2BOUT.JPG" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">No idea this one but I loved his colouring!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">We saw White Rhino</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kO6WDIC01bo/W4ao2cN3hXI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/dXvTi9wKSJg4emAgPhMgx4BaqPQDCV_3gCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000481%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="640" height="239" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kO6WDIC01bo/W4ao2cN3hXI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/dXvTi9wKSJg4emAgPhMgx4BaqPQDCV_3gCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000481%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">and then entered the Carnivores enclosure<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3IRdkwSNmZg/W4ao4Po1luI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/9DI7EilwaBUyuS14dRCrg6yP4BUyzSOsACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000488%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3IRdkwSNmZg/W4ao4Po1luI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/9DI7EilwaBUyuS14dRCrg6yP4BUyzSOsACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000488%2BOUT.JPG" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tiger - one of about 4-5 we saw</td></tr>
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">I also loved the gnarled tree next to it. Next area were -<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aSAI7LNrPJ0/W4aqThMnOuI/AAAAAAAAFZY/95XSJK4kUzo1l06xXdm3TdrIlpvCebgtwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000493%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aSAI7LNrPJ0/W4aqThMnOuI/AAAAAAAAFZY/95XSJK4kUzo1l06xXdm3TdrIlpvCebgtwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000493%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Timber Wolves</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-traq7nfKbWw/W4ao4XQkmoI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/LXSCtNj1U78bxEFlH_17oEpb0HUvt4ZKgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000490%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="622" height="246" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-traq7nfKbWw/W4ao4XQkmoI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/LXSCtNj1U78bxEFlH_17oEpb0HUvt4ZKgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000490%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Black Bear....</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GZSoph3EvIg/W4ao5PxoHqI/AAAAAAAAFZM/4lIQ2xyqJkA_Wkyypd9Mvlw7-7so-WucQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000492%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GZSoph3EvIg/W4ao5PxoHqI/AAAAAAAAFZM/4lIQ2xyqJkA_Wkyypd9Mvlw7-7so-WucQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000492%2BOUT.JPG" width="289" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">….. and a cub</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">and then Will got excited by -<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eN_H_Nnud8/W4ao5svdQVI/AAAAAAAAFZE/uJeEEDDFzS455y9kji0QHjokdXYFzYMLwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000494%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eN_H_Nnud8/W4ao5svdQVI/AAAAAAAAFZE/uJeEEDDFzS455y9kji0QHjokdXYFzYMLwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000494%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> ….. the lions</td></tr>
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">There appeared to be four lionesses but the male was in a different enclosure and difficult to photograph.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Suddenly Will shouted out; his favourite stuffed, and rather sorry looking, animal is 'Giraffey' and he was shouting "Giraffey, Giraffey" - </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f3p34_lu_H4/W4ao6CySLWI/AAAAAAAAFZA/t8M0l--_oeY8efXxFHGmeAo6GvCaEIi5QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000497%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f3p34_lu_H4/W4ao6CySLWI/AAAAAAAAFZA/t8M0l--_oeY8efXxFHGmeAo6GvCaEIi5QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000497%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This adult stood in the middle of the road whilst the traffic <br />
piled up behind him!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FTh1CFm71RI/W4ao693mdnI/AAAAAAAAFZI/JWnjf6kv9zYxRX-sE9LEo7vPC58Chkt8QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000498%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="640" height="201" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FTh1CFm71RI/W4ao693mdnI/AAAAAAAAFZI/JWnjf6kv9zYxRX-sE9LEo7vPC58Chkt8QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000498%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will wanted this photo as there were lots of baby giraffes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Then into the monkeys who took no notice of the cars at all. My memory of this enclosure was monkeys swarming over the cars removing anything that could be, usually radio aerials, but they were much better behaved now.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VGc5BZzQQkU/W4ao6tSeRoI/AAAAAAAAFZE/jJLHm-LwhJkjEkCaGvdOalhPp8BL0h5UQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000504%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VGc5BZzQQkU/W4ao6tSeRoI/AAAAAAAAFZE/jJLHm-LwhJkjEkCaGvdOalhPp8BL0h5UQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000504%2BOUT.JPG" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sat beside the car scratching himself and eating fleas!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">BUT there is always one</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-haI6ZfvnEEY/W4ao7ObPl4I/AAAAAAAAFZM/QP_0YZrYuL8qVQZ4bHwS4opdSd5zs2EegCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000509%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="483" height="318" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-haI6ZfvnEEY/W4ao7ObPl4I/AAAAAAAAFZM/QP_0YZrYuL8qVQZ4bHwS4opdSd5zs2EegCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000509%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">We were about to exit the enclosure when this Safari Park vehicle came in front of us with a monkey on the roof who was trying to make a swift exit, but he was spotted and left the roof pretty quickly. Will was in fits of laughter at this!! Not a good photo but I was driving and taking photos!!!</span><br />
<br />
We parked the car and went and watched the Humboldt penguins being fed,<br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RDyvtiP80Gw/W4ao8EsjaII/AAAAAAAAFZQ/rCIq_Tzgu8QEFHgR4_EqT5cDPRmj-GSLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000510%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RDyvtiP80Gw/W4ao8EsjaII/AAAAAAAAFZQ/rCIq_Tzgu8QEFHgR4_EqT5cDPRmj-GSLgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000510%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";">then into the lemur cage where they were also being fed<br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34u9XNhgyxQ/W4ao7gQg-eI/AAAAAAAAFZI/yVlBPUqf07AELElHy0Qc1QPEsPU3tiungCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000511%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34u9XNhgyxQ/W4ao7gQg-eI/AAAAAAAAFZI/yVlBPUqf07AELElHy0Qc1QPEsPU3tiungCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000511%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";">and leapt amongst the visitors.<br />
<br />
This goat was in the last stages of pregnancy and she was huge <br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OT1SGavu2b8/W4ao8tW1YjI/AAAAAAAAFZI/ga6wXN9z1QQUJO0EodLt04LK4dFWFBu0QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000512%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="557" height="275" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OT1SGavu2b8/W4ao8tW1YjI/AAAAAAAAFZI/ga6wXN9z1QQUJO0EodLt04LK4dFWFBu0QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000512%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Finally, we watched the elephants and I could have stayed for ages because this one was being so clever. Look at the bent front foot - he was pushing the earth into piles and then sucking it up in its trunk and either blowing it under its tummy or over its back</span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qNDTuHaMd7I/W4ao9mTRdkI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/I8TCftemcT85A2WVQ2nVp1Cl3pTvFfbZgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000519%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qNDTuHaMd7I/W4ao9mTRdkI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/I8TCftemcT85A2WVQ2nVp1Cl3pTvFfbZgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000519%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bpj08EfufqE/W4ao-ACHgCI/AAAAAAAAFZM/u8LfDxrNW3sZBeSNH6SbWiQoEnQf6VhOACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000521%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bpj08EfufqE/W4ao-ACHgCI/AAAAAAAAFZM/u8LfDxrNW3sZBeSNH6SbWiQoEnQf6VhOACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000521%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Ooh, that feels better"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">I am sure this photo shows him laughing!!!</span><br />
<br />
So after a very long day we went home for tea. My Tuesdays are now my own!!<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";">I have been working on my new Project that I mentioned in July, the Marathon t-shirts of No 2 son. These have been cut up and I have been using iron-on Vilene to stabilise the picture and fabric.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">There are some interesting ones</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Euz26awtJxQ/W4a2Q2mY8SI/AAAAAAAAFZo/Muk2M6CUq8gO0hFavkkEaCCkPW08ATG4QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000468%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Euz26awtJxQ/W4a2Q2mY8SI/AAAAAAAAFZo/Muk2M6CUq8gO0hFavkkEaCCkPW08ATG4QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000468%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eR-jWY5Ptw4/W4a2R2w3oXI/AAAAAAAAFZw/QZvNXZMQb-QnOCCFwWSyAiyy7Q2u8Ro0ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000471%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eR-jWY5Ptw4/W4a2R2w3oXI/AAAAAAAAFZw/QZvNXZMQb-QnOCCFwWSyAiyy7Q2u8Ro0ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000471%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Florence</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WvUyn5NQr58/W4a2SlURuDI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/W0668LyLggk1e5wpVAuxVmKtTdHdT9l9QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000472%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WvUyn5NQr58/W4a2SlURuDI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/W0668LyLggk1e5wpVAuxVmKtTdHdT9l9QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000472%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aFWYwqfDdfQ/W4a2Tm2bp5I/AAAAAAAAFaA/czeWqVEiaHYut7ebFl7JVUuRZfofg1_hwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000474%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aFWYwqfDdfQ/W4a2Tm2bp5I/AAAAAAAAFaA/czeWqVEiaHYut7ebFl7JVUuRZfofg1_hwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000474%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-70Qx2PJ0Czg/W4a2TOsbz0I/AAAAAAAAFZ8/FXsrByjrh_gGc60U2Be9_hp1hIeyuJf3wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000475%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="640" height="231" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-70Qx2PJ0Czg/W4a2TOsbz0I/AAAAAAAAFZ8/FXsrByjrh_gGc60U2Be9_hp1hIeyuJf3wCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000475%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><br />
and some smaller pieces<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0LPHEKvb9Hk/W4a2SDAY1kI/AAAAAAAAFaI/Q6RXCUaqXY41oCn4hHFDsEgW5BB2M4u2QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000473%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0LPHEKvb9Hk/W4a2SDAY1kI/AAAAAAAAFaI/Q6RXCUaqXY41oCn4hHFDsEgW5BB2M4u2QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000473%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Examples from the London and New York marathons</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and I have saved some of the "Go faster" stripes</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OsRKJY_G8R4/W4a2Q_ZnK4I/AAAAAAAAFaQ/8eXT9gmJvUc8TqQxczw9pCYCmLMdTlZSACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000469%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OsRKJY_G8R4/W4a2Q_ZnK4I/AAAAAAAAFaQ/8eXT9gmJvUc8TqQxczw9pCYCmLMdTlZSACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000469%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">though I am not sure how to use them.</span> </div>
<div class="separator" separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ynnTtG3uB24/W4a2RR0Z8iI/AAAAAAAAFaE/CuEfTi1y98kxk1lDx2zEiAStadRXxBAjQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000470%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="465" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ynnTtG3uB24/W4a2RR0Z8iI/AAAAAAAAFaE/CuEfTi1y98kxk1lDx2zEiAStadRXxBAjQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000470%2BOUT.JPG" width="232" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">I am still left with this bag of off-cuts which I may use for the binding. Ideas are still going round and round but I will need to bite the bullet soon!! One thing I do know is that I have enough to make the front <u>and </u>the back.</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-52028056406547632392018-08-12T17:35:00.001+01:002018-08-12T17:51:10.259+01:00Summer Holiday 2018<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have just returned from my summer holiday spent in the Vendee in France. I was invited to spend a week with my younger son and his family at <a href="https://www.camping-la-garangeoire.com/en/" target="_blank">La Garangeiore</a>. We had a 3 bedroom/2 bathroom chalet and I was lucky enough to have my own room. This is a very popular place where my sister and her whole family often go and for the first three days of my visit my niece, her husband and their children were also staying.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o_1vyiR2qqE/W3BFvvWiBTI/AAAAAAAAFVA/FDEd6UiMt5InPk0oX21kevvNFRT_3Oo6ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000424%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="617" height="248" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o_1vyiR2qqE/W3BFvvWiBTI/AAAAAAAAFVA/FDEd6UiMt5InPk0oX21kevvNFRT_3Oo6ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000424%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The owner's house</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3fjg13piXcw/W3BFvtb7EOI/AAAAAAAAFVE/B_YkGskqxEkRPcVooEPAkTDQefBoCoIUQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000426%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3fjg13piXcw/W3BFvtb7EOI/AAAAAAAAFVE/B_YkGskqxEkRPcVooEPAkTDQefBoCoIUQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000426%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our chalet (my room on the very right behind the posts)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">We all met up for dinner in the main restaurant on my first night and we had a very convivial night, with the children going off and playing between courses.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Next day we all went out together to <a href="http://www.oglisspark.fr/" target="_blank">O'Gliss Water Park</a> arriving at about 10.00am. We didn't leave until 6.00pm because there was so much to do. It was brilliant, possibly helped by a temperature of about 33<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><sup>o</sup></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">C.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwxe84ITuSY/W3BKQxk_ZqI/AAAAAAAAFVM/UJTdTPweMWQyum_xxfGU-zULfRldLyfcwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000319%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="330" data-original-width="640" height="165" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iwxe84ITuSY/W3BKQxk_ZqI/AAAAAAAAFVM/UJTdTPweMWQyum_xxfGU-zULfRldLyfcwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000319%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the high slides</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ot34DmeOIJI/W3BKQ7fsmXI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/sWx24NMN5uMA793j-Gi3lDt0Fopf7HuygCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000321%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ot34DmeOIJI/W3BKQ7fsmXI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/sWx24NMN5uMA793j-Gi3lDt0Fopf7HuygCLcBGAs/s320/P1000321%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very steep slides!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you look at this picture you will see a white cone top left. People stood there and the floor dropped away and they went straight down the pipe that you can see going out at the right side. My niece and two of her children did this slide - completely mad!!</span></span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YyB0qe31gYM/W3BKQ0UpswI/AAAAAAAAFVU/72-IRidmTi0UIIl-GUDnwqrlKotSu6MHwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000349%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="634" height="242" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YyB0qe31gYM/W3BKQ0UpswI/AAAAAAAAFVU/72-IRidmTi0UIIl-GUDnwqrlKotSu6MHwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000349%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More my style</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The children went off and did their own thing, after we had found a central spot for them to return to for lunch, drinks, snacks etc. I did go down one of the slides on a giant triple ring with my son and grand-daughter but I really enjoyed this swimming pool which was quite deep near that giant ball, that I discovered was the source of the wave machine. I have no idea how it worked but sometimes the waves were small and sometimes big and gave me such enjoyable swimming.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">The next day was <a href="https://www.france-voyage.com/activities/leisure-saint-julien-des-landes-98758.htm" target="_blank">Le Grand Defi</a> where great fun was had at the Laser Maze -<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hUkTsBOka2A/W3BNdZVeqlI/AAAAAAAAFVo/7pZviCyamuYu-xwNgNDQ_XY1-YDDWojEwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000352%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hUkTsBOka2A/W3BNdZVeqlI/AAAAAAAAFVo/7pZviCyamuYu-xwNgNDQ_XY1-YDDWojEwCLcBGAs/s320/P1000352%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son 'skulking' in a hideout trying not to get hit!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uQ5oARSv8FE/W3BNda8WJlI/AAAAAAAAFVs/7-jHgsrYyWMCZC0TWfuTBhXolZSQ2KcGQCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000355%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uQ5oARSv8FE/W3BNda8WJlI/AAAAAAAAFVs/7-jHgsrYyWMCZC0TWfuTBhXolZSQ2KcGQCLcBGAs/s320/P1000355%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Two of the children</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">I have taken part in a Laser Maze before, which is not so painful as paintballing, but I didn't have a go this time. There are also tree top adventures here, but we didn't do these this time, but my family went back for that after I had left. As my niece was returning home the next day ,we entertained everyone with a family BBQ at our chalet that was so much fun.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">On Sunday it was decided to go to a market at Bretignoles-sur-Mer, only 15 minutes away, and after looking at all the stalls I found Les Halles, where all the food stalls were.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R9eJafBVdLM/W3BQqFCeu7I/AAAAAAAAFWg/AzkJmBBiHQkRbHtSlXHb6Z6f7nvMnWETwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000387%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="426" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R9eJafBVdLM/W3BQqFCeu7I/AAAAAAAAFWg/AzkJmBBiHQkRbHtSlXHb6Z6f7nvMnWETwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000387%2BOUT.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above and below were all the same stall of fish!!!!</td></tr>
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial";">Look at the size of the prawns!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mS-kT7DZCHg/W3BQqVAdnHI/AAAAAAAAFWc/FzgYIxz32RMFETNZWaM3KyXp-ODAKIjBACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000388%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="476" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mS-kT7DZCHg/W3BQqVAdnHI/AAAAAAAAFWc/FzgYIxz32RMFETNZWaM3KyXp-ODAKIjBACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000388%2BOUT.JPG" width="238" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sTnnbxzlZ6s/W3BQqHV2ltI/AAAAAAAAFWg/TWxGR5ofyk8JfBwdGkgNHnOKTFaWb0ItACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000389%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sTnnbxzlZ6s/W3BQqHV2ltI/AAAAAAAAFWg/TWxGR5ofyk8JfBwdGkgNHnOKTFaWb0ItACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000389%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready meals</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZmC_J7itIk/W3BQqhILkHI/AAAAAAAAFWk/S9pytSRkL8kdcNhOBik-r0X9n-4RP1qqwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000390%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZmC_J7itIk/W3BQqhILkHI/AAAAAAAAFWk/S9pytSRkL8kdcNhOBik-r0X9n-4RP1qqwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000390%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brochettes for the BBQ - all different meats</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHgboTpyuKE/W3BQq_O1ANI/AAAAAAAAFWs/cU7ehutfj-4aywwu8SQmBoZGGpxoCow5QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000391%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="386" data-original-width="640" height="193" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHgboTpyuKE/W3BQq_O1ANI/AAAAAAAAFWs/cU7ehutfj-4aywwu8SQmBoZGGpxoCow5QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000391%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I didn't buy any of these but just drooled over them!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1u76iAFQtSA/W3BQrGhM8dI/AAAAAAAAFWo/UQ1x6WoQTO4nFqnMogRIiPl0CqqSoGGQwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000394%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="509" height="301" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1u76iAFQtSA/W3BQrGhM8dI/AAAAAAAAFWo/UQ1x6WoQTO4nFqnMogRIiPl0CqqSoGGQwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000394%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Huge loose tomatoes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next stop was the beach itself and lucky for us the tide was going out so </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wn5LO54RcmE/W3BQrXv3O6I/AAAAAAAAFWs/_h-m3bOOfwMXpeQ1TuNHVxdY2fOuVuvBQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000398%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wn5LO54RcmE/W3BQrXv3O6I/AAAAAAAAFWs/_h-m3bOOfwMXpeQ1TuNHVxdY2fOuVuvBQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000398%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">we managed a paddle and a look in the rock pools and I saw this cockle moving very fast through the water.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnaFSXXGG-o/W3BQrh_T-yI/AAAAAAAAFWs/sYdmQVYWVcsn85VXH3q5xCkkzlgAHwoSQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000406%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="534" height="287" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnaFSXXGG-o/W3BQrh_T-yI/AAAAAAAAFWs/sYdmQVYWVcsn85VXH3q5xCkkzlgAHwoSQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000406%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I didn't know they had horns like a snail!</td></tr>
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Next day was the <a href="http://www.achards-tourisme.com/decouvrir/le-lac-du-jaunay/" target="_blank">Le Lac de Jaunay</a> where we hired a 6 person pedallo, so that we meant we all got a turn to have a go. First time I was with my grand-daughter but that was hard work, but much easier when my son and I sat together.<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMP_-i8TZ40/W3BWvSe9TEI/AAAAAAAAFXE/YVAidacCtRkU4gEhp8xAZ5SJcucgPlYBgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Pedalo%2B2%2BOUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMP_-i8TZ40/W3BWvSe9TEI/AAAAAAAAFXE/YVAidacCtRkU4gEhp8xAZ5SJcucgPlYBgCEwYBhgL/s320/Pedalo%2B2%2BOUT.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of my daughter in law</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";">After lunch we went for a walk and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mad_Dogs_and_Englishmen_(song)" target="_blank">'Mad dogs and Englishmen'</a> sprang to mind as it was soooo hot -</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l12elJt0Ofo/W3BWem3x5jI/AAAAAAAAFW8/9NPf7gbleFwGW5vZenBc7q2KP0eoKhYdQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000416%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l12elJt0Ofo/W3BWem3x5jI/AAAAAAAAFW8/9NPf7gbleFwGW5vZenBc7q2KP0eoKhYdQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000416%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">but our reward at the end were <span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cr%C3%AApe" target="_blank">crêpes</a> so that was OK. Back to base and we went off to the camp's swimming pool, that was not as busy as I was expecting.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The rain came overnight and the temperature dropped but for my final full day I wanted to go back to the beach. We arrived just as the tide was going out and after shouting 'Last one in is a cissy' I was the first in the water and enjoyed myself so much.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">All too soon I had to fly home from Nantes, but not before we had a stop on the way so I could take a picture of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C3%A2teau_d%27Apremont" target="_blank">Chateau d'Apremont</a> and its church</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IINENExBWd0/W3BbZNuUWNI/AAAAAAAAFXM/iIlZgbFkIoUag6EXNe-2yg_aQsTP5GexACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000429%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IINENExBWd0/W3BbZNuUWNI/AAAAAAAAFXM/iIlZgbFkIoUag6EXNe-2yg_aQsTP5GexACLcBGAs/s320/P1000429%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-79LroDrKBK4/W3BbZBl4ChI/AAAAAAAAFXQ/S7euT2MJZBgiIJ7u8WX9v9FM5e5FFcgpACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000430%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-79LroDrKBK4/W3BbZBl4ChI/AAAAAAAAFXQ/S7euT2MJZBgiIJ7u8WX9v9FM5e5FFcgpACLcBGAs/s320/P1000430%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span> <span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">In Nantes we visited the <a href="http://www.chateaunantes.fr/en/history" target="_blank">Chateau des ducs de Bretagne</a> where the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edict_of_Nantes" target="_blank">Edict of Nantes</a> was signed in 1598, allowing protestant worship in France.</span></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cfPiGdrAGhc/W3BcXOjdXpI/AAAAAAAAFXg/jhFN8ppK1B0DhAcv3WcCVk_CFBVtqirXwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000436%2BOUT%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="588" height="261" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cfPiGdrAGhc/W3BcXOjdXpI/AAAAAAAAFXg/jhFN8ppK1B0DhAcv3WcCVk_CFBVtqirXwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000436%2BOUT%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"> We followed an audio trail going right top of the building - all 98 steps.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VBZTciiPev0/W3BcXFpLL5I/AAAAAAAAFXo/hdX19mt7teQLvt1DIs7lGK9dcOWKJplSgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000439%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VBZTciiPev0/W3BcXFpLL5I/AAAAAAAAFXo/hdX19mt7teQLvt1DIs7lGK9dcOWKJplSgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000439%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand-daughter listening to the audio by the well</td></tr>
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</span><br />
After lunch we visited a exhibition about the Vikings that was fascinating and so we left the Chateau but not before son and grandson had come down the castle walls very quickly -<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KL3-A9vXoWQ/W3BcPcBAwTI/AAAAAAAAFXo/YeTliMFSKjglfdP7kafcJ8nB-qoZ2PXDgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000448%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="459" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KL3-A9vXoWQ/W3BcPcBAwTI/AAAAAAAAFXo/YeTliMFSKjglfdP7kafcJ8nB-qoZ2PXDgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000448%2BOUT.JPG" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandson's exit</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and had I known what they were doing I would have had a go, but never mind another time perhaps.</span></span><br />
<br />
After a very speedy drive they dropped me off at the airport for my flight home, (only 50 minutes) and the Heathrow Express to Paddington (only 15 minutes), I was back home in record time with many happy memories of a great holiday and a fantastic tan!!!</span><br />Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-55734569677186629582018-07-29T11:42:00.000+01:002018-07-29T11:42:15.546+01:00New projects?<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The hot, hot weather has broken and it is raining at the moment so that has prevented me from going out on my bike for a good long ride and that has been the problem with the lovely weather. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I love the sun and cannot bear to be indoors when we have it, so a great deal of 'sitting about on the patio reading' took place as it really was too hot to garden. However some plants enjoyed the heat<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDsIznB4Vho/W12PiS-B81I/AAAAAAAAFTg/o0IakxNCiMUexl2II8AZ9eoluaOG5aRiwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000156%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="611" height="251" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDsIznB4Vho/W12PiS-B81I/AAAAAAAAFTg/o0IakxNCiMUexl2II8AZ9eoluaOG5aRiwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000156%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Callistemon (Bottle Brush bush)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AklLEoWO8bQ/W12PiZ-hf1I/AAAAAAAAFTc/yJcHKMMek7E6DiH_a1p0L8FK2_ZrLjumQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000158%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AklLEoWO8bQ/W12PiZ-hf1I/AAAAAAAAFTc/yJcHKMMek7E6DiH_a1p0L8FK2_ZrLjumQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000158%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This bee loved it</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">The bees were all over it!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Walking along a pavement in the middle of Bedford I looked down and saw this -</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--JVp30ny-4c/W12QUDNUB-I/AAAAAAAAFTw/iuCsfI8LVxAp0beVis2FPe-9YGwv333-wCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000308%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="630" height="243" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--JVp30ny-4c/W12QUDNUB-I/AAAAAAAAFTw/iuCsfI8LVxAp0beVis2FPe-9YGwv333-wCLcBGAs/s320/P1000308%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I had no idea what it was and eventually I was told it was a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sycamore_(moth)" target="_blank">Sycamore Moth</a> caterpillar, but I didn't pick it up because of the hairs. Poor thing I don't think it would have survived as it was heading for the road!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I have started a new project, though I have been mulling it over for a week or two. Let me explain! My younger son runs marathons and sometime ago he has asked me to make a throw out of all his T-shirts that he accumulated over the years. He completed marathon 85 last weekend and has planned to do marathon 100 this time next year when he will join the 100 Club!! Anyway here they are<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Gwu31JtRKs/W12SC_Uf5nI/AAAAAAAAFUI/0WQonPR6y5kR3qsxc3EC5ZqUgbuU-pmGgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000306%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Gwu31JtRKs/W12SC_Uf5nI/AAAAAAAAFUI/0WQonPR6y5kR3qsxc3EC5ZqUgbuU-pmGgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000306%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a small selection</td></tr>
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</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bFpObh7vgeo/W12SDKd9zoI/AAAAAAAAFUQ/Qe3yVs648t8NQR_Yu7AooS2WAOOT6zm_wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000305%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bFpObh7vgeo/W12SDKd9zoI/AAAAAAAAFUQ/Qe3yVs648t8NQR_Yu7AooS2WAOOT6zm_wCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000305%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have cut out the logos etc out so the pile has reduced</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEI7BmAACa0/W12SC-eO3II/AAAAAAAAFUM/rz5-42wDb08CBtVKhlnGRgSEkO9N8XxTACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000313%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEI7BmAACa0/W12SC-eO3II/AAAAAAAAFUM/rz5-42wDb08CBtVKhlnGRgSEkO9N8XxTACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000313%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">and kept all the offcuts to use as sashing. Some of the T-shirts are dreadful colours; fluorescent greens and orange, but some have interesting pictures, whilst the fabrics are awful for patchwork use so will need stabilising before I even start. A lot of work needed here but some ideas are forming.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I have crocheted pink flowers for <a href="http://crazyhatsbreastcancerappeal.co.uk/" target="_blank">Crazy Hats Beast Cancer Appeal</a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-grs2drbH3pU/W12UuEEVBmI/AAAAAAAAFUY/G89aLUFp-B4NSi0d3pysNYo7y-wCgI9VgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000316%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="564" height="272" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-grs2drbH3pU/W12UuEEVBmI/AAAAAAAAFUY/G89aLUFp-B4NSi0d3pysNYo7y-wCgI9VgCLcBGAs/s320/P1000316%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">and am making crocheted 'Apples' for another project but they are a WIP (Work In Progress).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I am also smocking a new project and I showed practice pieces in an earlier post, but I have now started the real thing!!</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Yn4WG4E_2I/W12VcT33fjI/AAAAAAAAFUg/TdXGiluIRyM9RBhc5yiQKUJZ49HFKDPZACLcBGAs/s1600/P1000314%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="472" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Yn4WG4E_2I/W12VcT33fjI/AAAAAAAAFUg/TdXGiluIRyM9RBhc5yiQKUJZ49HFKDPZACLcBGAs/s320/P1000314%2BOUT.JPG" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Picture smocking</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jHobZdudFEE/W12VcTrv23I/AAAAAAAAFUk/YVi6O5HlRbgzJfst1bycJK9qRfQEiHEFgCLcBGAs/s1600/P1000315%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jHobZdudFEE/W12VcTrv23I/AAAAAAAAFUk/YVi6O5HlRbgzJfst1bycJK9qRfQEiHEFgCLcBGAs/s320/P1000315%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have a new lever arch file for all my smocking projects and so this will be a book cover for it. I think (and this maybe famous last words) I may have got the hang of this at last, after a great deal of practice!</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2120047572230108509.post-29508976477952174642018-07-21T13:04:00.000+01:002018-07-21T13:04:41.892+01:00A Kent weekend<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have spent another lovely Kent weekend with my eldest son and family and travelling down on Thursday afternoon meant that I could go out for the day on Friday. The county of Kent has so much history and this time I chose <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hever_Castle" target="_blank">Hever Castle</a>, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII. My apologies for the angle of some of the photos but pictures had lighting above and so I had to take them at the side.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HC_B6vh_W-k/W1MKwjVughI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/xDNXJ3BWnIY1_drCDybADSsq24CNEJW1QCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000254%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HC_B6vh_W-k/W1MKwjVughI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/xDNXJ3BWnIY1_drCDybADSsq24CNEJW1QCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000254%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anne Boleyn</td></tr>
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">The castle itself is quite small<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vRxxf8OCxVk/W1MKyEHkKXI/AAAAAAAAFSU/VvBBH3vbmowtErXJgiUS9A0BsZywL5nowCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000288%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vRxxf8OCxVk/W1MKyEHkKXI/AAAAAAAAFSU/VvBBH3vbmowtErXJgiUS9A0BsZywL5nowCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000288%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Castle on the left</td></tr>
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</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJF661LpyCs/W1MKtqe21OI/AAAAAAAAFSA/DjHi6UWTUnU-0WDhsbDXp9l8MtfrtoJ8wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000223%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="640" height="187" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jJF661LpyCs/W1MKtqe21OI/AAAAAAAAFSA/DjHi6UWTUnU-0WDhsbDXp9l8MtfrtoJ8wCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000223%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rt0Rf782x20/W1MKt8o894I/AAAAAAAAFSU/HhLzLtxHcio85bpLZeYT8XuZqtSyo79BQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000229%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="640" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rt0Rf782x20/W1MKt8o894I/AAAAAAAAFSU/HhLzLtxHcio85bpLZeYT8XuZqtSyo79BQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000229%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Castle complete with drawbridge and moat!!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">and was built in 1270, but in the 15th and 16th centuries was the home of the Bullens. Anne gentrified the name to Boleyn, to sound more French!! Later the castle passed into the ownership of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anne_of_Cleves" target="_blank">Anne of Cleves</a> (Henry's fourth wife) whom he divorced and is nicknamed the Flanders Mare because she was supposed to be so ugly! It gradually fell into decline until 1903, when it was bought by William Waldorf Astor, who restored the castle and built the 'Tudor' village behind for friends to stay. He was very much an Anglophile.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">I passed over the moat and into the courtyard<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dKIAPa_LJUo/W1MKuQSjvBI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/KJcalybrnAkUPKKNYo1g2Y26cTRe-_d4wCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000231%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dKIAPa_LJUo/W1MKuQSjvBI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/KJcalybrnAkUPKKNYo1g2Y26cTRe-_d4wCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000231%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quite small</td></tr>
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">and into the house where photography was permitted, without flash.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgrlTg8_dCg/W1MKukL2oUI/AAAAAAAAFSA/4uN2Krb4GVojvY5Yhytj2EsPPN7SD288ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000240%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgrlTg8_dCg/W1MKukL2oUI/AAAAAAAAFSA/4uN2Krb4GVojvY5Yhytj2EsPPN7SD288ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000240%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Postilions boots about 1690</span></td></tr>
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These boots fascinated me as they were very wide but so sensible. The postilion rode one horse of a pair pulling a coach and wore one of these to prevent his leg getting crushed between the two horses. He would be wearing his own boots inside. Sensible idea.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">There were samples of 17thC 'stumpwork' needlework -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kejYT2vza9Q/W1MKvuwM4hI/AAAAAAAAFSU/y4--Vsf8600y7DbmK5rCsmzwWsyLE1ggQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000247%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kejYT2vza9Q/W1MKvuwM4hI/AAAAAAAAFSU/y4--Vsf8600y7DbmK5rCsmzwWsyLE1ggQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000247%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XvrghOVdkOg/W1MKv5pBOBI/AAAAAAAAFSM/IWMjS7QDVSYMtwr8WpLIdQxe1SJhtOuNwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000249%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="311" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XvrghOVdkOg/W1MKv5pBOBI/AAAAAAAAFSM/IWMjS7QDVSYMtwr8WpLIdQxe1SJhtOuNwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000249%2BOUT.JPG" width="155" /></a></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_HgEpCmmuKY/W1MKxoj-OqI/AAAAAAAAFSI/OaCBRqO8aeQkRiCsFDp526zqNpJ3ffcdwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000265%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="454" data-original-width="640" height="227" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_HgEpCmmuKY/W1MKxoj-OqI/AAAAAAAAFSI/OaCBRqO8aeQkRiCsFDp526zqNpJ3ffcdwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000265%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The tester finely carved oak bed of Henry VIII made c1540</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fX9gzrc1_UI/W1MSK3HKyRI/AAAAAAAAFSg/dXh5syBw7DIN7JXCJVwta16ApeSFjiSlACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000266%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fX9gzrc1_UI/W1MSK3HKyRI/AAAAAAAAFSg/dXh5syBw7DIN7JXCJVwta16ApeSFjiSlACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000266%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This carving of Henry is over the fireplace</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-26QF_xMOv2I/W1MKwE0c5HI/AAAAAAAAFSM/9NPwZsNGdzI6ELMmGs2UTM1TWk_-0805gCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000251%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-26QF_xMOv2I/W1MKwE0c5HI/AAAAAAAAFSM/9NPwZsNGdzI6ELMmGs2UTM1TWk_-0805gCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000251%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial";">Anne's bedhead</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e84A_EkmJ74/W1MKxBiAFZI/AAAAAAAAFSM/nuhhKvzEsLscDL9lDr9CyH7BDiYELE3BACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000257%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e84A_EkmJ74/W1MKxBiAFZI/AAAAAAAAFSM/nuhhKvzEsLscDL9lDr9CyH7BDiYELE3BACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000257%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Anne's Book of Hours</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">I loved this <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tunbridge_ware" target="_blank">Tunbridge ware</a> writing slope c1860</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IaajJDXEiIQ/W1MKvNlfX5I/AAAAAAAAFSU/jZp7y-o81lIj2VwUeUBSlJRbTb-p7D1ogCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000243%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="640" height="187" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IaajJDXEiIQ/W1MKvNlfX5I/AAAAAAAAFSU/jZp7y-o81lIj2VwUeUBSlJRbTb-p7D1ogCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000243%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">made of tiny slivers of wood<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clqQ6bHvsos/W1MKvTNdDYI/AAAAAAAAFSE/6REpV5hMjwM-verJcRajHPSWbPd8vSDhwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000245%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clqQ6bHvsos/W1MKvTNdDYI/AAAAAAAAFSE/6REpV5hMjwM-verJcRajHPSWbPd8vSDhwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000245%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">- detail of above</td></tr>
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The next two photos are modern translations of letters between Anne and the King</span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(click to get a close up)</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3xi1OSQy398/W1MKxO6qzyI/AAAAAAAAFSU/Bx70yticqcQly12t3YZKzegp_Fmo_djPwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000258%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="419" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3xi1OSQy398/W1MKxO6qzyI/AAAAAAAAFSU/Bx70yticqcQly12t3YZKzegp_Fmo_djPwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000258%2BOUT.JPG" width="209" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9xUMbQMnorI/W1MKxZGNosI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/fev0rFStQaIYMHOkHSQEV_isLnpTfuerQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000260%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="463" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9xUMbQMnorI/W1MKxZGNosI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/fev0rFStQaIYMHOkHSQEV_isLnpTfuerQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000260%2BOUT.JPG" width="231" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">There was so much to see and do here and in the gardens, which were looking so burnt after all the dry weather. However coming round a corner and sitting in the shade were these two</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJQWwhpldQg/W1MKxmqf1HI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/RAUzY9PSc9souzVx5e48srrJ4Cv3Wo9cQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000280%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="463" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJQWwhpldQg/W1MKxmqf1HI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/RAUzY9PSc9souzVx5e48srrJ4Cv3Wo9cQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000280%2BOUT.JPG" width="231" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w3xV03SxWFQ/W1MKx-S3_rI/AAAAAAAAFSU/Pv3ucR60mHYT5X6UtQ0OFTI6zgJjD8RwQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000282%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="492" height="312" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w3xV03SxWFQ/W1MKx-S3_rI/AAAAAAAAFSU/Pv3ucR60mHYT5X6UtQ0OFTI6zgJjD8RwQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000282%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">that were being looked after by a Parrot Rescue Centre and were having a day out! I loved them as I have always wanted a parrot since I was quite young but my late husband wouldn't' let me (too expensive to buy) so I kept cockatiels instead!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Next day we all went to 15th century <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Godinton_House" target="_blank">Godinton House</a>, near Ashford, much quieter than Hever Castle, but still very scorched by the sun. The house was in the Toke family for 400 years but when the final owner, Alan Wyndham Green died in 1996 ownership passed to a Trust that he had set up.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DHrFt8Tv25s/W1MYtZ81ymI/AAAAAAAAFTU/zLPTUeYul8EK-AwYViRfjCXLmEskBhFlwCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000292%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="640" height="184" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DHrFt8Tv25s/W1MYtZ81ymI/AAAAAAAAFTU/zLPTUeYul8EK-AwYViRfjCXLmEskBhFlwCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000292%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">No photography inside this house but we had very knowledgeable guides to take us round, however first we looked round outside<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5JpjGENMJjo/W1MYj6GlimI/AAAAAAAAFTE/seO9CiDu544aAX6bI63U4N4gD358gTKBQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000293%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5JpjGENMJjo/W1MYj6GlimI/AAAAAAAAFTE/seO9CiDu544aAX6bI63U4N4gD358gTKBQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000293%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The North Front</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--0QUOvw_ldk/W1MYj70ukqI/AAAAAAAAFTA/p0agAvmlfiEsn6YJSp1bE_L7dhGcNxJzACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000295%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--0QUOvw_ldk/W1MYj70ukqI/AAAAAAAAFTA/p0agAvmlfiEsn6YJSp1bE_L7dhGcNxJzACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000295%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">East side</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ky9hzYrpKMw/W1MYkRuNczI/AAAAAAAAFTM/eKu-6SamV_oebZNckX_aRa08lU6vq4o9ACEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000299%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="640" height="205" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ky9hzYrpKMw/W1MYkRuNczI/AAAAAAAAFTM/eKu-6SamV_oebZNckX_aRa08lU6vq4o9ACEwYBhgL/s320/P1000299%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">South side</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tnsw8BHOCAE/W1MYkGBp39I/AAAAAAAAFTI/YehZCy70kscZ6ISywjuuuijj7D3fNRCzQCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000297%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tnsw8BHOCAE/W1MYkGBp39I/AAAAAAAAFTI/YehZCy70kscZ6ISywjuuuijj7D3fNRCzQCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000297%2BOUT.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This pond was originally a swimming pool</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r73oW_bGpVE/W1MYkk_e9fI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/Hoj65wv_L3kBFEY95AtJNHJnoOTrueilgCEwYBhgL/s1600/P1000303%2BOUT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r73oW_bGpVE/W1MYkk_e9fI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/Hoj65wv_L3kBFEY95AtJNHJnoOTrueilgCEwYBhgL/s320/P1000303%2BOUT.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Italian garden and summerhouse</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We also walked round the walled kitchen garden and greenhouses, the latter with very productive peach trees. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Two very different houses but both full of history.</span>Onceuponathimblehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04658869191015237590noreply@blogger.com1