It was off to nearby Northampton to see another in the series of Concerts by Candlelight that are all the rage at the moment. Last time for us was in September, 2023 at Peterborough Cathedral to hear the music of The Eagles. This time it was ‘two for the price of one’ with the sound of Coldplay and Ed Sheeran for one night only at (of all places) Northampton Museum & Art Gallery (famous, of course, for its shoe collection).

I was designated driver, and we picked up Jo and Janet just before 6.30 on a strangely warm evening (for September) – a whopping 19°C! A trouble-free journey meant we were soon in the cultural quarter. We haven’t been to this part of Northampton (just up the road from the Derngate) for a good few years, and we anticipated parking being a challenge. We left in good time assuming we’d need to ‘circle the wagons’ a few times.

What a pleasant surprise! . Actually, for once, parking was easy, and after just a single lap of the area, we managed to grab a spot that was less than two minutes’ walk from the venue.

We were soon sipping drinks and testing our strength, undoing the caps on their bottled water in the Museum’s Café, but still leaving us plenty of time to spare and admire the interior! .

Back to the music! As things would turn out, the Concert was to be nothing like the candle-lit Concerts we’d previously experienced – in a good way!

Brought to us by ‘Fever‘ (nope, me neither!) the whole marketing effort relating to this event had been somewhat lacking in detail. The result? I’d assumed that it was going to be a similar format to The Eagles by Candlelight event we’d been to, around two years ago – band/vocalists/big event and, of course, candles!

Well, I got the last bit right!

Oh yes, there were plenty of candles! It looked like a power cut from the 70s. Janet and I did a rough count and made it over 600 – mostly at the front, but to the sides, at the back and under the seats too! And, just before we checked that we had the number of the local fire service, we realised they were all LED versions! . I wonder who got the job of switching all those on!!??

So far, so normal then! The performance space was fairly dark – and that’s how it stayed – just dark enough to show off the lighting, but light enough so it was fairly easy to locate our seats, although we were shown to our seats (just three rows from the front) by a very polite, well-dressed young man (there, that’s it, I’ turned into my Grandfather!). Whereas The Eagles event was a large performance space (Peterborough Cathedral), this was almost an intimate arrangement, seating only around 150 people. It was a full house, but ‘intimate’ did feel like the correct description, especially with the subdued lighting

As we settled down, we immediately spotted that there were only four chairs for the musicians and no signs of ANY electricification. To our right was a space for MORE candles with a curious ‘u-shape’ cut out of the middle. Maybe a space for the drummer???

Nothing quite so musical, as it turned out – more about maximising their profit from the evening! The space was for photographs taken by the support staff of anyone who wanted a memento of the event.

At just after 8pm, the performance began, but not before we were reminded that no photography was allowed until the final tune. It was, therefore, especially irritating to see that one individual to our left, in front of us in the second row, (and thankfully for him, he was too far away for a poke), who felt it was OK to film the event at regular intervals on his phone. Come the revolution, brothers and sisters, he’s in the first group against the wall! .

As the stage seating dictated, there were just FOUR performers. Sporting two violins, a viola and a cello as their instruments of choice, this was to be a ‘stripped back’ musical evening. But would it work as I’m not sure the music of Coldplay lends itself to string instruments, but maybe Ed Sheeran, more so?

Wow! We needn’t have worried. The sound they produced was sublime. The smallish room probably helped the acoustics, but with no amplification, it was just the pure sound of traditional instruments played by an extremely talented group. They covered about a dozen numbers, equally split between Coldplay and Ed Sheeran. All the hits and a single encore piece. They played with confidence and enthusiasm and punctuated each batch of 2/3 songs with a short commentary in turn from each of the group to explain what they were about to play, including a little history of the songs themselves.

All in all, a very polished performance where they didn’t just regurgitate the tunes, they had all been re-orchestrated to bring out the best in the instruments and the players’ musical talents! ‘Candlelight’ titled concerts are a bit over-used (and popular) at the moment when looking online, and I think we’d all assumed they were all ‘the same’. Thankfully, this one was a very different style. Together with the lighting, the performance space, the small(ish) numbers and the choice of music, it all came together perfectly to create a very chilled-out experience

Any downsides? Well, apart from our film-making friend from the row in front needing a good kicking, the marketing of this was somewhat lacking. I think it would have been helpful if somewhere in all the communication, they’d mentioned it being a string quartet rather than a ‘Band’. OK, it was a pleasant surprise, but it wasn’t what we thought it was going to be. Ultimately though, we were impressed with tonight and quite taken with the talent on display! However, looking online afterwards, there wasn’t much at all about ‘Ensemble M’ apart from their YouTube Channel HERE – and I’m not sure that was even the same group! Based on tonight, they deserve to be better known!

Collectively and individually, they’re sure to do well if this is their chosen career – a fantastically talented bunch of young players who played like they’d been doing it for years, giving us a ‘big sound’ that betrayed their group size!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Candlelight Concert: Coldplay and Ed Sheeran appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Here we are with David & Valerie having taken the thirty-mile drive to the iconic Peterborough Cathedral.

No, not for a spot of spiritual guidance, nor a choral recital – instead, it was (almost) The Eagles in Concert – but with a twist! Tonight was a performance of their music by West End singers and a live band – and all by candlelight.

The Backstory

The event was all part of the – yes, you’ve probably guessed it by now – the imaginatively titled…

Concerts by Candlelight

…where on this occasion, we’re promised around 20 of the Band’s greatest hits.

I’d not heard of Concerts by Candlelight before writing this, but judging by the amount of information online, they’ve been busy… and very well received too! Other similar performances elsewhere this year, included recreating the musical talents of: Adele, Bowie, Bublé, Elton John, Elvis, Fleetwood Mac, George Michael, Queen, Rod Stewart, Abba and the Rolling Stones. And if you have an aversion to candles, they’ve extended some of the series to Afternoon Teas in Manchester! I initially thought that it must all be a franchise, but I was wrong! It seems this group perform all of the aforementioned shows!

Based on their backstory, we learned that they began in Manchester and they’ve been on an upward trajectory ever since, travelling to Sydney, Dubai and playing Carnegie Hall too! At this rate, I guess it won’t be long before it’s Beatles at breakfast! . In the meantime, they have some UK Christmas Specials lined up too.

Food…

It was a relatively early performance (there is a second, and final gig, tomorrow) and we headed over to the city in plenty of time to grab a bite at nearby Côte before the show began.

Yum Yum! That was all very nice indeed! , but we felt a tad hurried as the service was slow (mainly down to how busy the place was – full of like-minded Eagles fans!). It was then just a (really) short walk to the venue that took us all of 5 minutes!

By the time we arrived, it was almost full so it was lucky we had numbered seats. I assumed no photography during the performance! (although that didn’t stop some people!) ruining the view for those behind them! The performers totalled eight, with three vocalists, sometimes singing together and sometimes solo. They all had great voices supported by their five bandmates who played a range of instruments including Bass, two Rhythm and an acoustic guitar, Drums, Keyboard, Steel Guitar and Vocoder.

The Cathedral seating was pretty much ‘at capacity’ with extra TV screens dotted around the side for those who didn’t have a direct view of the Stage. We calculated (roughly) there must have been close to 1000 people there and at an average price of around £30 a ticket, it felt like a good night already before the first note was sung!

At just before 7.35, the concert began!

OK, here we go..!

Playlist…

Set 1

• Life In The Fast Lane
• How Long?
• Lyin’ Eyes
• Peaceful Easy Feeling
• Tequila Sunrise
• Witchy Woman
• The Last Resort
• In The City
• Take It To The Limit

A short interval of around 20 minutes followed.

Set 2

• Take It Easy
• Rocky Mountain High
• Life’s Been Good to Me
• New Kid In Town
• Love Will Keep Us Alive
• Desperado
• One Of Those Nights
• Already Gone
• The Boys of Summer
• Heartache Tonight

…and just when we thought they might not perform the Eagles’ most iconic track, with us all screaming ‘more’… they did!

• Hotel California

Verdict…

Wow! What a great evening! The Group easily won the audience over, with enthusiastic applause and dancing in the aisles (literally!) towards the end. They didn’t dress or look like the Eagles, but they knew their songs well. We’d experienced a really talented bunch who worked well together and looked like they were having as much fun as we were! I’m pretty sure the Cathedral hasn’t seen that much visible energy for a while, and, based on tonight’s performance, we’d wholeheartedly recommend grabbing tickets. We almost certainly plan to see them again, performing one of their other sets.

9.50pm: We checked-out, but we didn’t want to leave!

Go see!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Concert: The Eagles by Candlelight appeared first on Steve's Blog.

To complete our musical-themed weekend that began last night in Warwick, we’re off to Kilworth House this lunchtime, to enjoy a meal and listen to the winners of the National Tribute Music Awards 2016:- ‘Walk Like a Man‘ (aka ‘Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons‘). More information about them HERE.

Kilworth’s Christmas decorations were their usual exceptional high standard, starting with their traditional tree outside the House. The standard continued as we ventured inside.

Last time we were here, was back in November 2018 enjoying another tribute act, Bookends, who (very successfully) recreated the sound of Simon & Garfunkel.

Janet acting as chauffeur got us five there in good time, with Carol arriving separately, not long after. Plenty of time then, to order a couple of bottles of Merlot (at £26 per bottle, but ‘hey!’, it’s Christmas!) and help ourselves to a free glass of mulled wine (or some sort of orangey/mango ‘thing’ for an alcohol-free experience!).

A quick look at the table plan indicated that we were on ‘Table 4’. I answer to many names but from now on you can just call me ‘Soup-Turkey-Tart‘! In addition to us six, we met Jim and Jan to make up our table of 8. It was Jim’s 65th birthday today, but I think he was trying to play it down!

It’s a well-oiled machine here in The Orangery at Kilworth House and tonight was no exception. The catering staff know exactly what they’re doing, offering first-class table-service, smartly dressed and all with a smile. Best of all, what they served was yummy!

Unlike previous years, where they held the dessert and coffee until the entertainment was finished, tonight was different. They served everything before the entertainment began. That meant the ‘meal part’ lasted some two-and-a-quarter hours.

At 3.45, 2019’s entertainment began. From the off, Walk Like A Man had us clapping and waving our arms (or was that the alcohol??). The ‘ladies’ on the table next door were clearly enjoying themselves slightly more than the rest of us. They had accidentally consumed too much grape-juice, and as a result, were the first to create a dance-space; first to attempt some singing; and worst-of -all best-of-all, first to do a brilliant impression of the witches from Macbeth! Talk about The Jersey Boys!, these were The Cackle Cousins!!

Good video here…

https://www.facebook.com/walklikeaman1963/videos/1438291856281848/

On a more melodic note, the Concert itself was excellent! The boys belted out classics such as ‘Big Girls Don’t Cry’, ‘Sherry’, ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’, ‘Grease is the Word‘ and pretty much every Frankie Valli/Four Seasons song you can think of! Impressive!! and it was all done powerfully and effortlessly! ‘Frankie’ had a voice that could shatter glass (tight trousers permitting!) and they even managed some limited audience participation – so I’m glad our Table was at the back!

They worked us, the audience, really well. Even though our Table seemed safe, they even got our Carol to dance with one of the group whilst (shock horror) I grooved a bit too! And by the final number, most of us were on our feet – whilst the Cackle Cousins next door were almost on their back! I think the group only planned to do an hour of songs, but the audience were so appreciative, they did five more numbers.

Wow! A fantastic group of singers, who, individually and collectively, had a memorable and authentic sound.

Nice one Kilworth — you impressed us all! Just tidy-up the process for paying for wine at the end, and you’ve got yourself a perfectly organised evening!
Merry Christmas!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Four Seasons in a Day appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Just imagine being part of
Jeff Wayne’s 1978 Album “Musical Version of The War of the Worlds”…

…Well, imagine no longer!

1.30pm: We’re off…

Jo and I left Kettering in plenty of time heading for this unique experience in London. Our expectations were high, as we’d both read (and heard) some excellent reviews. Our destination was to be just another ordinary looking building in London (actually The Old Metal Exchange) located in Leadenhall Street, where Jeff Wayne, in conjunction with immersive theatre company dotdotdot, and Director, Carl Guyenmette, had collaborated to create a truly ground-breaking form of entertainment.

It includes live performance, multi-sensory elements, immersive technologies (VR and AR), Holograms and Full-Dome Planetariums (naturally!) to recreate an authentic Victorian England at the time of HG Wells’ 1898 novel.

Phew! I’m exhausted already!

Jeff Wayne’s two-disc debut album was released on 9 June, 1978. A concept album, rock-opera in style, featured the voice of Richard Burton (in the UK version and Anthony Quinn, Teófilo Martínez, and Curd Jürgens across the water) together with the singing talents of Justin Hayward (of The Moody Blues), Chris Thompson (of Manfred Mann’s Earth Band), Phil Lynott (of Thin Lizzy), Julie Covington (of Evita and Rock Follies), and David Essex (Evita, The China Plates). The Album went on to become the 32nd best-seller of all-time in the UK and spawned a number of remix Albums and a ‘New Generation’ studio-production in 2011. And not just Albums, Jeff Wayne went on to produce a Live Tour, contribute to a Video Game and created a Music-DVD based on the source material.

5:15pm: Let the games begin…

We arrived in good time, and once inside exterior and interior contrast became obvious – cue: one martial Fighting Machine, front and centre! After checking-in and depositing our valuables in the provided lockers, we settled down in the themed Bar waiting for our pre-booked the 5.20 ‘performance’.

On the dot of 5.20, blue smoke was pumped from the ceiling indicating that ‘Group Blue’ (us!) should assemble. From that point, we’d been reminded that photography wasn’t allowed, so we snapped our last selfie and with our nine new BFFs, we nervously took up our positions…

Although the reviews online had all been very positive, there was very little detail about what we were actually about to experience – so I guess that added to the heightened thrill and anticipation of it all. I’m going to maintain that tradition – NO Spoiler Alert – and keep it all ‘very general’ about what followed…

7.15pm: The Verdict

For the next two hours, we were frightened, excited, confused and gob-smacked – and we’ve both worked in food retail! If jaw-dropping was an Olympic sport, we’d have been in top spot on the podium! Our motley crew had held hands, slid down slides, climbed through holes in walls, confessed our sins, watched a whole Army Battalion wiped out by a Martian heat-ray, taken a boat -trip along the Thames, flown in a hot-air balloon, and sung a song to raise our spirits.

For some, it was maybe just another Friday-night in London… but for us, it had been something much more than the sum of its parts… Fantastic, just fantastic!

Every one of our senses had been engaged from the very start – a truly immersive experience! Wow!

7.25: Oooooo Laaa!

From the incredible level of imagination and attention-to-detail that had gone into the story-boarding, the set design and the costumes, it had been a once-in-a-lifetime experience – and I don’t say that too often!! We both agreed it had been a thoroughly entertaining evening, with the thrill-level completely off the scale! We think we’re unlikely to experience anything quite so engaging any time soon, and couldn’t stop talking about it on the way home. We found it impossible to identify a ‘best bit’ – as it ALL was! Congratulations to all those who made this happen!

Go see before all the tickets are sold and ends its limited run!

If you fancy some of the same, book your tickets HERE

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Da Da Daaaa..! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

You might remember Paul – he joined forces with David and me for our ‘£1-a-Day’ fund-raising event in 2017 and 2018.

Well, he’s mad enough – in a good way – to continue his generous nature and has volunteered to do a 94km sponsored walk. Yes, you read that correctly – 94km!!!

And this is no ordinary walk! How about five days across Cambodia in November!

It’s all for a great cause: to raise money for the Salvation Army – specifically Gloucester House Rehabilitation Centre in Swindon. Apparently the walk also involves camping overnight in tents, but this is no Glamping event as Paul is going ‘old-school’ with ‘good ol’ fashioned’ blankets and mattresses (and did I mention the creepy-crawlies!). Add to that, the humidity and heat, and it sounds horrendous!! Massive respect Paul!

By comparison, it makes our £1-a-Day event sound very tame!

Previously, we’d also been part of a (much safer and more comfortable) Quiz Night earlier in the year supporting the same cause. Rather him than me in Cambodia! Quizzes I can do, but long walks are not my thing – and 94km is a serious amount of shoe-leather.

Tonight’s fund-raiser re-lived the era of Swing from the 40s in the company of the SA BigBand – and it didn’t disappoint! Nick (Band-Leader and Piano) led the 19-strong Band through a series of Swing-staples indispersed with a few more religious arrangements. The sound they produced was (much) greater than the sum of their parts – powerful stuff indeed!

We also heard the vocal talents of Rob Moye who accompanied many of the numbers.

We really enjoyed the music, and all credit to Paul and Helen for organising the evening – a great event for a great cause!

Good luck on the walk Paul!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Big Band for a Big Event appeared first on Steve's Blog.

After picking up Jo, Janet & Carol, we headed off to Kilworth House this evening for a spot of nosebag and evening with the Simon & Garfunkel tribute act – Dan Haynes & Pete Richards aka ‘Bookends’.

We haven’t been to Kilworth for over a year – last time was in September 2017, to see Top Hat and of course before that, in December 2011, at the Hotel itself for our pre-Oz Honeymoon.

Well, Kilworth’s legendary Christmas ‘decs’ looked fantastic and the event was certainly well supported with around 150 all sitting down to enjoy the pre-event Dinner in the Orangery. Our Table of eight was shared with Paul and his wife Lynda plus their friend (who was seated a bit too far away for me to chat with her much).

Food was well-presented and tasty – and to make the evening’s logistics work, they served Starters and Mains before the event with Desserts and Beverages after the Boys had finished their performance.

Back to the main event…

After an easy-to-miss low-key stage entrance at just before 9pm, Bookends were straight into their repertoire – and wow!, from the off, they certainly sounded just like Simon & Garfunkel! –  fantastic!! But you didn’t need to have 20/20 vision to spot that they didn’t look like them at all – and they made light of that in their intro (pointing-out their collective lack of hair!) explaining that their focus was on S & G’s music itself.

Luckily our Table was closest to the the Boys and we got to enjoy their great sound (with a great view!). I can’t emphasise enough how good the harmonies were and although they’d only been going around seven years, it was a very polished act.

Initially, some of the tunes were unfamiliar, but we were soon into well-known staples such as ‘The Boxer’,’ ‘The Sound of Silence’, ‘Mrs Robinson’ and of course, the piece that everyone was waiting for: ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’.

We learned later that they also tour with a Strings section too – and I found this on YouTube…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtZY4wprD3U&w=450&h=253]
After Bookends departure, a lot of people left immediately, but we hung around. In fact, we didn’t leave until just after 11pm. It had been a GREAT show and in spite of the misty/foggy driving conditions, we we were home just before midnight.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post The Sound of… Bookends appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We haven’t been to the Derngate since last November when we saw Rob Brydon.

And just like last time we dropped into Pamukkale, the Turkish restaurant, just down the road, before the Show.

 
It didn’t disappoint, in lots of ways and also seems to have expanded since we were last there – taking over the space next door. Joining us, were fellow prog-rockers: Chris and Gill and the timings worked perfectly – table for 6.15… leisurely meal.. slow walk back to Theatre… in our seats with 15 minutes to spare.

If you like Turkish and you like generous portions, this is THE place for a pre-theatre feast! Lovely staff too!

On arrival at the Theatre, and after taking our seats in the Upper Circle, we were surprised that it wasn’t fuller! I don’t think I’ve been to one of Rick’s concerts where it wasn’t a sell-out!

On the stroke of 8, Rick entered Stage Right (looking as scruffy as he always does, but with his signature naughty smile). After playing an initial track (can’t recall the title), he was into his legendary comedic interlude – and within 10 minutes, we were all in stitches!

Since I saw him last (back in 2014), he’s lost none of his keyboard skills. I think every note on that Steinway was used during the just-over-two-hour note-fest, and his playing speed is still as jaw-dropping as ever with no sign of a bum note anywhere! No-one could fail to be impressed by his sheer skills on the piano and he deserves IMHO to be much more in the public eye than he is. He’s a passionate player and his classical training is strongly in evidence –  but he’s a very versatile player effortlessly switching playing styles in a heartbeat.

If he ever loses his passion for playing, he can always fall back on his skills as a stand-up comedian. The acoustics weren’t brilliant, but it didn’t stop this audience from almost wetting themselves with laughter at every ‘talky-bit’. Funniest moment? His joke about Black Testicles – worth going, just for that!

The show finished around 10.30 and as we said our goodbyes and headed home, we reflected on the performance – as good as ever in our view!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Rick Wakeman at the Derngate appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Another family & friends get-together today as we headed for Kilworth Theatre and their final performance of Irving Berlin‘s Top Hat. It was obviously a popular choice, having run for a whole month – 16th August until 17th September.

Roger, Jane and Oliver are with us for the weekend and joined us for the event, whilst Jo, Janet, Carol, Chris and Pete met us there.

But first, there’s lunch… and it’s always a good spread here (as my growing waistline will prove!).

Lasagne and Salad

…followed by Ann’s newest dessert…

Pimm’s Jellies

Suitably stuffed, we headed off in the direction of Kilworth for the 2.30 matinee performance. Unusually, the Hotel was closed for a private function and as a result, the normal route to the Theatre’s parking was out-of-bounds. The result was a slightly chaotic journey to our eventual parking spot!

The Set

Weve been going here for years and have never been disappointed with any of the past productions; it’s always ‘West-End-standard plus’ in our experience and this year would turn out to be no exception.

And this sell-out show really didn’t disappoint – Wow! … and some!! – and to prove I’m really becoming a Pensioner (I’ve already got my train-pass!) I think I knew all (but two) of the tunes… and most of the words too! Eeek!

In the role of Dan Travers – made famous in the 1935 RKO Pictures movie by Fred Astaire – step forward Dan Burton, who had a voice so silky smooth, you could have polished your shoes with it! Wow!

Dale Tremont (Ginger Rogers in the original) was played by Lauren Stroud – and she had a great voice too! If the singing and dance routines punched well above their weight, so did the comedy – especially the role of Horace, played in this production by Charles Brunton. He played it as a cross between Basil Fawlty and Rik Mayall –  we were in stiches!!

I think we all knew we were going to like it, but the show exceeded all our expectations and just blew us away! The singing, dancing, choreography, lighting, music and the Set – everything – was just top-notch, further proved my the number of people tapping their feet and singing to themselves through the Show. On a feel-good factor of 10, this was up there at 15, at least. The standing ovation at the end was well-deserved and we were all humming the tunes on the way home. Brilliant! Brilliant!

Well done to everyone concerned – you were simply spectacular, and I think this will go down as one of my fave theatre visits ever! Note to self: must get the original DVD!

Although the weather had been kind during the production, on leaving, the heavens opened as we headed back to ours for sandwiches and scones… and Eccles cakes… and macaroons and another first from Ann: a Date and Marmalade cake. All super-yummy and I’m so glad that I recently did £1-a-Day (as I then didn’t feel so guilty trying everything!)

I kept everyone watered with drinks – mostly Gin – and before we knew it, it was 9.30pm and in was off to bed as we were all drained from all our singing and eating (it’s tough here!). 930pm? Part Animals? Maybe?

Tomorrow, we do it all over again (minus the singing) as Denis and Bev are joining us for lunch, making it another Gambles Gathering!

Sunday

Roger, Jane and Oliver stayed over, which was a perfect excuse for a lazy breakfast! and a lazy morning. Sunday papers at the ready whilst Ann slaved (happily) in the kitchen.

All set for Brekky!

..and an extra two for Lunch – here we go again!

Beef ready for roasting!

”Table for seven by the window please…”

Denis and Bev arrived just before 12 weighed-down with my birthday pressies and food goodies. Denis caught up with Roger, Jane and me, whilst Bev helped Ann and Oliver in the kitchen. It was a full three-courser (although we were so interested in the food, we forget to grab photos to do it all justice!)

 

Soup or Apricot, Asparagus & Manchego Cheese Tartlets (thanks Oliver!), followed by a full roast – and I do mean ‘full’ as we needed BOTH heat-trays on the go!

Dessert was a rather scrummy ‘Bread & Butter Brioche’ Pudding’ (once again with Oliver’s help!)

As always, it was all super-scrummy, and there was only one place left to go after a meal like that – the Lounge, for an obligatory period of doing-absolutely-nothing!

An opportunity for a short, final catch-up, and then it was time for everyone to make tracks for home. After all the goodbyes and with our holiday beginning mid-week, there was a renewed energy to return the house fit for (just) two. Dealing with the washing-up was easy as everyone lent a hand before they left, but there was still the matter of the washing and the ironing! Still, nine napkins, six pillowcases, two duvet covers, two valances, three shirts and one pair of trousers were all polished-off by yours truly in a couple of hours!

What a weekend! A bit of theatre, a get-together with the family, great food and a chance to give our new iron a good workout!
– it doesn’t get much better than that!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Top Haturday & Sunday appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We popped over to the Holy Trinity Church in Rothwell tonight to see the Kettering Citadel Band (supported by the Kettering Citadel Songsters) in concert. It was in aid of the Rothwell Corps and Community Project and there were over 100 people there.

Typically for Rothwell, parking was a ‘challenge’ with the main car-park in Bridge Street bursting at the seams (with other motorists circling). We headed back into Bridge Street and eventually found a space round the back streets.

We haven’t been to this Church for years – we reckon nearly 20 – and I’d forgotten how large it felt inside. It’s pretty old too, with the current building dating back to 1130.  Just like the car-park, it was packed inside, but helpfully, Keith who helps out at the SA in Rothwell pointed out the two types of seats – ‘church-like’ and those with a cushioned seat – I think we got the last two! A couple of Southern Softies us!!!!

It was good to see Richard and Pauline at the helm doing what they do best – and Jack was in top form compering the evening including some humorous and reflective messages – for obvious reasons, I won’t say his performance was EPIC though! (you had to be there!!!)

It was a varied evening of music, from the traditional to the modern, with the acoustics of the Church helping the Band and the Choir to sound even bigger and better – and grander – than normal.

All-in-all a great evening – all for a worthy cause too!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Kettering Citadel Band – In Concert appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Holiday: Cruise to America – Day 1, 2 and 3: All at Sea appeared first on Steve's Blog.

After the significant events of this week, it was good to chill-out this weekend. Ralph and Karen came to stay, and arrived around tea-time on Friday. After a quick catch-up, it was off to the Shuckburgh Arms in Stoke Doyle for a meal – the photos below say it all! – a fantastic meal all round!!

The it was back to our for a night-cap in preparation for tomorrow’s trip to London.

SATURDAY
We had booked tickets to see We Will Rock You at the Dominion Theatre, so after a lazy breakfast, we headed for Kettering station and our timed train. After some confusion (all mine!!!) about the best Tube station to get off at, we arrived outside ahead of schedule and so took refuge in the Cafe Rouge next door. It looked like everyone else had the same idea as the place was heaving! Still, we were seated pretty quickly and the ‘cake-and-coffee’ offer solved the hunger pains (all mine!)

With just 15 minutes to go before curtain-up, we headed inside. For a show that was in its 12th year, it was still a very popular production – and that was confirmed when we got inside – the place was packed!

Curtain up on-time at 2.30, and we were soon into ‘Radio Ga-Ga’ with some tweaked lyrics to link with the storyline of a future-Earth dominated by ‘online-ness’.

..and the Queen tunes just kept on coming! Fantastic stuff!!! The cast did a superb job of all the numbers, and to say they ‘powerful voices’ would be a massive understatement –  they could certainly knew how to belt-out the numbers – good job there wasn’t any windows nearby!!!

The audience went wild when the curtain finally came down and I guess it was inevitable that Bohemian Rhapsody would be THE tune for the encore.

We left with slightly damaged ear-drums, but it was all worth it – A British Musical at its best!!!

We took the bus back to St Pancras, because there was a stop almost outside – a bad move as it slumbered its way along the Euston because of all the other buses and general congestion. We caught our timed-train with a bit to spare, although we were unlucky enough to get the ‘family-from-hell’ in the same carriage complete with shouty mother, shouty kids, whose volume, like the music at the Theatre was turned up to 11!!!… but in a BAD way. Yeesh! 55 minutes of family anarchy followed. Even more unlucky for us was that they didn’t get off until Wellingborough – one stop before ours!

On arriving at Kettering, We went straight on to The Vines for our evening meal. We all stuffed ourselves appropriately before returning home and collapsing in a comfy chair for a bit and catching-up with a bit of TV.

Phew! What a day – the highlight was definitely the Show.

SUNDAY
A lazy lie-in followed by a lazy breakfast and then Ralph and Karen said their farewells. It’s been a great weekend, but now I must turn my attention to another priority – the ironing!
 

Rick Wakeman 40th Anniversary Tour at The Albert Hall tomorrow with Ian – Rock on!!!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post The Weekend Starts Here appeared first on Steve's Blog.

And it was!!!
Lee joined us, and we drove to Leicester arriving just after 9. Most of the city was still asleep when we arrived, and that was a good thing as it helped us to cover more shops more quickly!!! I dropped-off my wedding ring at Tarratt  (somehow it’s changed for being circular to oval) and then it was a short walk over the Fenwick’s where the serious spending began. The seriousness began with a replacement cutlery set – it looked amazing and weighed at least two ton (I know, I have the slightly longer arms now to prove it!). Then it was off to House of Fraser to see if there was anything there for me to spend my voucher on that Nicki bought me last year. Success! as I spotted a furry hat that’ll keep my head warm and cover all the extremities when we’re out walking – and as it was in a sale I spent less than I thought (Cripes! I’m talking like a retired person already – ‘keeping warm’ and ‘saving money’).
Then it was off to John Lewis and their kitchen department to seek advice about replacement hobs, ovens, worktops and microwaves. Another success, and we now have a short list.
By this point, it was approaching lunchtime and Leicester was packed – and individually and collectively, we were knackered. The next challenge was trying to find somewhere to eat  plenty of choice, just not enough tables. Everywhere we went, there was a 20-30 minute wait – and this was at 2pm – isn’t that past lunchtime?

Eventually, we stumbled upon The Almanack – a sort of gastro-pub with a massive great big pig on the Bar! Service was swift and polite (from humans, not the pig) and he food was good (from pig, not humans) and we were soon ready to err… sleep.

So, it was back to the car and the journey home. After unpacking our wares, there was just time for a short put-you-feet-up before we were getting ready to go down to town and the Salvation Army Citadel for their free New Year Concert. But not before I had a chance to take a look at David’s new car – a rather superb looking Jaguar – yummy!
What a concert! The Kettering Citadel Brass Band were there, together with Thomas Fountain (he played at our Wedding). And it that wasn’t enough talent, so was his dad, Gary,  and his brother James, all ready to puff-away on their respective instruments. Listening to them individually was a real treat, but the best bit was when they all played together (a public first I think!) – such talent, all under one roof and all giving their services for free. It brought a tear to the eye and a lot of tenners on the collection plate! I’m not a deeply religious person, but this sort of thing does restore your faith in human nature – and, their musical talent makes X Factor contestants (and their like) look crappy by comparison.

The Concert finished around 9.45 and we were soon home. It’s been a packed day – but a good one. We’re off to Ann’s sister Bev’s, tomorrow!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Leicester – A Ring, A Pig and a Cutlery Set! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Ralph, Karen, Lee, Ann and I took the 9.30 out of Kettering today and headed for London.

For Karen, Lee and Ann, the mission was to seek out some suitable material for THE wedding dress. For Ralph and I, we concentrated on much more important things like Vauxhall’s soon-to-be-launched Ampera – their first extended range vehicle.

After arriving at St Pancras International, we went our separate ways and after half an hour or so in the taxi, Ralph and I arrived at the iconic Battersea Power Station where the EcoVelocity Motor Show was taking place.

As luck would have it, as we went through the gates, the weather brightened up turning it into gorgeous day. Five minutes later, we were signed-up for test-drive and arranging to speak to Simon, the Ampera Product Manager.

The test-drive of the car was a great experience – comfortable, stacked out with tech and above all, quiet. The acceleration was surprisingly brisk and the car was easily the best looking vehicle at the show. After a couple of laps we parked up an had an long conversation with Simon, Vauxhall’s product manager, who was able to answer all our questions and give us his vision for the future of the car. Brilliant!

After a quick burger, we headed back in the taxi to St Pancras to wait for the girls. We grabbed a coffee at the station and at around 2.15, the girls arrived having had a productive time, agreeing the wedding dress – not that they were giving much away!!!!

We caught the 2.30 back to Kettering, which just gave us enough time to have a quick read of the papers and something more to eat and then we were off out to the local Odeon.

The girls went for the new production of Jane Eyre, whilst Ralph and I checked-out Colombiana starring Zoe Saldana, who I’d not heard of. In fact, we didn’t know much abut the film at all, but guessed (correctly) that it was set in Colombia – doh! Without giving too much away, I thought it was a GREAT film, and for me, one of the best so far this year!

Jane Eyre finished just 15 minutes before ours, so that was almost perfect timing. We headed home, had another attempt at the papers and then caught the final part of Last Night of the Proms on TV. I wouldn’t say it’s totally my cup-of-tea (I’ve never really understood why people get quite so excited about the event), but it was great music, spoilt only by them dressing-up up the soprano at the end in such a stoooopid Britannia costume!

10.30pm Absolutely shattered – time for bed!!!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Vauxhall Ampera/Jane Eyre/Colombiana/Last Night of the Proms appeared first on Steve's Blog.

I’m not so sure about the video, but the vocal is one that made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up the first time I heard it – ‘Is it Love?’ sung by Nadia Ali, who used to be part of the US Band, ‘iiO’.

(I think it’s from the Album, ‘Poetica’).

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Music: A haunting vocal by Nadia Ali appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Found this on You-Tube. As a spritely 28 year-old who was into MIke Oldfield, Rick Wakeman and the like, ‘Camel’ was also one of my fave bands at the time. This was filmed at the then, Hammersmith Odeon on 11th May, 1984, as part of their live stationary traveller tour – I (think) I was there! It was subsequently released later on VHS and then DVD.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Where were you in 1984? appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We drove over to Leicester to see David singing in the Cecilian Singers Choir. Val couldn’t join us this year as she’s in America visiting her sister.

We’ve been going annually for a few years now, but the format this year, was slightly different as they’d changed the venue to St Philip’s Church in Evington Road. Parking was typically Leicester, all double-yellows with the occasional free space. Finding a space wasn’t helped by the thick fog that had lingered all day. We were lucky in finding one solitary space on the street, about 5 minutes away.

For 2009, the programme was different. Instead of one event punctuated by the sit-down supper, we had the first half in the Church, then supper, then the second half in the Church Hall, in the next room.
The Programme was excellent in our view. Part one was a more traditional carol concert whilst Part two featured more modern stuff. This year, for the first time, members of the choir did some small group and individual pieces – solo singing, recorders and a lute were all featured.

As always, each half contained the obligatory ‘sing-for-your-supper’ piece. Part one featured Hark, the Herald Angels Sing, whilst Part 2 allowed the audience to murder, O Come all Ye Faithful

The food was its normal high standard and all-in-all, this year for me, the whole event was the best they’d done so far.

For us, Christmas has now officially started!

We left around 10.45 and in spite of the thick fog, were home by 11.45.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post The Cecilian Singers’ Carol Concert 2009 appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We set off just after noon. and arrived at Rockside around 2.15. It wasn’t a bad journey, but we did run into some road-works on the M1 an hour or so into the journey and Matlock high street was totally congested! Weather-wise, it was slightly overcast and a bit misty

The sat-nav in the car got slightly confused during the final part of the journey insisting that we turned right at the end of the high-street when it clearly displayed ‘no right turn’. This was due to Mr Sainsbury recently reorganising the traffic-flow after building their much needed supermarket nearby.

We started off with a tea and then progressed onto alcohol (not Ann who was still sticking to her promises for Lent nor Karen who stuck with tea), crisps, olives and peanuts.

We spent the afternoon chilling-out and re-watching the excellent 1999 DVD Shooting the Past by Stephen Poliakoff – what a great DVD!!! No car chases…no loud music…no CGI – just a bloody good story, great acting that kept us on the edge of our seat. We watched parts 1 and 2 before settling down to terrific evening meal: Thai soup followed by one of Ralph’s excellent prawn stir-frys and finished off with fresh-fruit and ice-cream (not me…Lent…just 1 day to go!)/yoghurt.

We also watched a pretty rare DVD shot in 2005 that featured Earth, Wind and Fire AND Chicago TOGETHER live at The Greek Theatre in LA.

We finished eating around 9pm and finished off watching the E, W and F/Chicago and Shooting the Past although I fell asleep towards the end.

We finally crashed out at 10.30!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Easter with Ralph and Karen – Friday appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We joined Julie, Tom, Karen, Paul, Chris, Debbie, Stefan, Trish and John to see Julie and Tom’s son, Nick play bass in the Band – Felt Tip Thieves at Soprano’s Bar in Kettering.

We got back about 11.30 – knackered and deaf, but it was a great evening

Check out their page on MySpace!

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Felt Tip Thieves appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Nick, our neighbour’s son, is playing bass for The Felt Tip Thieves. Check out their page on MySpace!

Some great tunes especially ‘Lovelife’.

Steve Palmer

I got into blogging quite late in life, not publishing my first post until 2004 – well into my 40s! My lifelong love of technology and communication (in all its forms), together with a fondness for the art of writing seemed to be the perfect combination to contribute a few words to the online community. But I’m no Samuel Pepys! If you’re looking for deep and meaningful comments on a variety of subjects, then you’ve arrived at the wrong site! I only pen for pleasure! On average, my posts appear about twice per month, covering family & friends, cinema visits, eating out, holiday experiences and techy stuff. Oh, and as this is my hobby, there are no sponsored links nor adverts here – it’s all done with love!

I hope you find it enjoyable, interesting and occasionally, even helpful!

StevePalmerTheBlogger.com

The post Felt Tip Thieves appeared first on Steve's Blog.