We drove over to Stratford-upon-Avon today – to The Bear Pit – to see Second Thoughts‘ penultimate performance of 2020’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It was a perfect excuse to leave a bit earlier to give us time to get some retail therapy in the town!

We chose the matinée performance at 2.30pm, and it was about 90% full. We ran into Ian and Ann who’d just returned from Australia and India. I’d studied the Play at school, and in spite of the excellent performance this afternoon, the story today was as impenetrable as it was when I was as a fresh-faced teenager! OK, I got the main plot, but is it me – why is one of Shakespeare’s most popular Plays so tricky to follow?

On a more positive note, being performed ‘in the round’ in contemporary costume with a very simplistic set made it a much more immersive experience

Overall then, not one of my fave Shakespeare Plays, but the contemporary twist on the Bard’s original, with its tweaks to the scenes and dialogue, supported by a really enthusiastic cast, made it a memorable performance.

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 Play: Midsummer Night’s Dream appeared first on Steve's Blog.

It was a welcome return to one of our favourite towns today – Uppingham. Being a Friday, it’s Market Day too, so there was even more to enjoy! Last time were here was back in February 2018 – and that was Market Day too!

…and me being me, it wouldn’t be a normal day without squeezing a bit of tech into the experience! So, we took Robert for a spin, with a plan to try out Uppingham’s one-and-only EV Charging Point, with its two ‘Type 2, 7kW’ charging bays – all courtesy of the mighty Polar Network. Somewhat weird then, that a town so small would have any charging points at all, especially as the device is located in the town’s equally small public car-park.

Recent chatter on Zap-Map suggested that the chances of finding the point available were very slim – all down to a combination of it being the only one, as well as a bit of hogging on multiple occasions by a PHEV owner, who parked his in the EV space and didn’t bother to charge it for three hours!

However, we were in luck today, no sign of any VW ‘ICEing’ (explanation HERE) as both charging bays were empty. We were soon plugged-in – and getting juiced! This one’s not free though, and we spent a whole £2.81 topping-up! (Actually, at 35.4p/kWh, it’s on the dear side, compared with other charging points we’ve experienced).

Pit-stop for us humans was for breakfast, courtesy of Don Paddy’s Brasserie. Although the whole experience was a bit lack-lustre, it went down very well, simply because this was our very first meal of the day – and it was already past 10am!

Next, we picked up some flowers and veg in the Market and went on the search for a suitable ornament for the Bathroom window-sill. On the plus-side, we saw some pieces that confirmed that we knew what we wanted, but on the down-side, nothing really jumped out at us! Oh well, onwards and upwards, and I’m sure we’re find something before too long!

Back to Robert, who by now had received just over an hour’s charge gaining around 30 miles range. We headed home by way of a short diversion to nearby Weekley…

…and our diversion was well-worth it. In spite of this Church being on our doorstep for over 20 years, we’ve never looked round it! The nearest we ever got, was looking in the Almshouse next door, a few years back.

Well worth it – especially the tombs! A day of charging and churching – with breakfast too! For me, a great day out!!

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 Charging towards Uppingham! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

…and it was free too! Brilliant!

10.35am: With great views along the short route of the re-developed Docklands!

Ten-minutes later, after enjoying a pitted history of the Dock area from our Driver err Pilot err Captain, we took the short walk to the Museum itself.

Think of everything that comes to mind about what a Museum looks like…

…and then immediately forget it!

Design-wise, the layout of the Museum was very unusual – with lots of and housed in acres of space! A great first impression!

..and did I mention it’s completely free to get in!

Five floors of virtually everything you could imagine about weapons and armoury – from the first bullet designs to modern warfare. And if that wasn’t enough (and it would have been!) there were various live demonstrations….

11.45am: Our first… (Floor 2)

This was how sword-fights were done back in medieval times. Very convincing choreography and a first-class explanation of the ‘whats’, ‘whys’ and ‘hows’!

With the first Demonstration over, we wandered about the various Galleries. Currently, there’s a special Gallery all about the Victoria Cross (Floor 3). Great stories of courage!

Next, it was another live Demonstration. This time, Normans v Saxons, with our ‘Saxon’ (David) firing-up the crowd beforehand (I’ve never seen kids so excited! – including us) Armed with swords, shields and spears they showed us in great detail how these battles were fought.

Time for a trip the Oriental Exhibits. Nicely presented (again!) with plenty to see.

1.45pm: A spot of Lunch is called for. So we headed to the nearby ‘Dock 29‘.

…and what it lacked in customers, atmosphere, product knowledge and cutlery (that’s all!), it made up for with an incomprehensible selection of continuous music. With the tunes clearly aimed at the ‘yoof’, it was a pity then, there were none there.

Still, it didn’t matter, we were hungry, and it all went down a treat. Suitably stuffed, we headed back to the Museum. It was clear now that we wouldn’t have time to do anything else today – but that suited us perfectly as the Museum had so much to offer!

2.45pm: Our penultimate experience at the Museum was the rather excellent ‘Crossbow Range’. Yes, really! On the very top floor, for a paltry 3 groats each, supplied with 8 bolts per person, we were let loose attempting to hit the target. Surely, with our recent experience of archery and rifle shooting at our Warner Weekend would help us?

Err, no! Let’s say, it was fortunate that we didn’t get to keep our targets. I blame the uncalibrated crossbows!

Last experience was another live demonstration. This time, that everyday task: ‘How to prepare for a jousting event’. Again, a first class presentation, expertly delivered!

4.10pm: Wow! It had been a full-on day, in a good way, and the time had passed in a flash. It was great to see Dennis and Sandra again and I reckon this had been one of our best Museum visits ever!

…this had been one of our best Museum visits ever!

4.25pm: As time was tight for 4.45pm, we all walked back to the Station rather than queue for the Water Taxi. Ironically, when we got there, there was a delay in announcing the Platform. After a delayed departure, we were on our way, reflecting on what had been an EXCELLENT day-out. Thanks to our friends Dennis and Sandra for getting it all organised.

6.15pm: We arrived back at Peterborough Station on time and were soon back on the road heading for home.

7.05pm: Shattered! (in a good way!). Time for a cuppa!

For your viewing pleasure, all the photos from today are 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 Leeds, Feeds and Boats appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Off to Cambridge today to meet up with Sally B. We’re on a mission to seek out a replacement Laptop to replace ‘Isla‘ (who has enjoyed a great innings since February 2015, but it’s time to retire her!)

First stop was to be John Lewis who had some cracking good deals and where we’d narrowed it down to just three models. But first we had to get to Cambridge.

These days, wisdom suggests that it’s foolish to try and drive into the city-centre (was it ever????!!!!), and so we both headed for Trumpington Park and Ride. A lot has changed there since I last visited; for a start, parking is now completely free (for 18 hours), but on the downside, they were ‘improving’ the layout, so there were far fewer spaces than usual, whilst a family of diggers and dump-trucks did what they do best! Cue a few laps circling the site before bagging a space.

Sal arrived just after 11 and we were soon on our £3 journey into the City.

One of the benefits of going ‘old school’ – actually visiting a shop! – meant Sal could try out the feel of the keyboards, and that helped narrow down the options even further!

By 11.30 we’d reviewed our shortlist – and rejected them all! Instead a trusty Dell tempting us with £100 off the price, became the ultimate prize!

A real beauty! … and all for less than £500!

With our bargain bagged, it was off to Brown’s of Cambridge for a celebratory Lunch.

Two Courses, 90 minutes and a hell of a lot of catching-up later, we walked back the bus-stop and were soon back to our cars.

We both headed for the M11, where one of us headed south, the other northwards – and straight into the (now-daily) congestion due to the massive expansion of the A14). I’m sure it’ll be impressive when it’s completed, but at the moment, it’s a real pain every time I need to use the M11/A14.

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 Easy PC! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

It was a great drive over to see our friends Nick and Celina today – and to see what progress they’d made with their recently acquire property – and to see their new additions to the family: ‘Salt’ and ‘Pepper’ – two six-week-old black and white kittens.

Wow! what a transformation to the house since we were last there almost a year ago – and even though there’s still plenty to do, what they have done was very tasteful.

Then it was off to a local Garden Centre – Gates for a quick look round (fantastic!) before dropping into The Wheatsheaf in nearby Langham for lunch

Delicious food awaited in the shape of an ‘Indian Risotto’ and a ‘Mega Waffle to Share’

Then it was back to theirs for a quick cuppa before making our way home. Another fine day with friends!

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 A Day in Teigh 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 Canada and Alaska – Part 3, Day 3: Return to Vancouver appeared first on Steve's Blog.

A relatively early start for us today as we were bound for Leeds. That meant we were in the car and heading for Peterborough Station just after 7.30 this morning aiming for an 8.50 Virgin East Coast train direct to Leeds.

Even though the weather looked challenging (overnight frost accompanied by a wafer-thin layer of snow on the cars but fortunately NOT the road!) we enjoyed a hassle-free journey there.

The train was toasty-warm with the thermostat turned up to the max. Initially, this was very welcome, but by the time we got to our destination, we’d become Mr and Mrs Roast from Barbequeville!

As the train pulled in, it was a short walk to the exit where we met up with Ann’s work-friend, Sandra, with her husband, Dennis. It was the first time we’d all met as a group and we seemed to get on really well.

Those that know me, know that I like my shopping – and the bigger (and grander) the shopping area, the better. Well, shopping in Leeds was a first time for me (Ann and Sandra had done all this before) and it didn’t disappoint! Big names mingled with smaller names and there was a great mix of old and new architecture. The store that did it for me was the newish John Lewis – 42000 square metres of retail gorgeousness including a massive area devoted to the Smart Home concept as well as a cosy place for coffee!

Ann and I had a productive time and managed to bag some ornaments and lampshades for the forthcoming Lounge-makeover, whilst Sandra and Dennis browsed, but saved their pennies!

Lunch was at the city’s Brown’s restaurant – and they didn’t disappoint. We all squeezed in a Starter and a Main, but Dessert was out of the question, as were all stuffed!! It was a beautiful restaurant – the old Leeds Building Society building – tastefully restored in 2001, retaining the majority of the original features. It’s worth a visit, just to see the architecture!

And that was it! It was now just before 2.30 and our Train was booked for 3.15. We said our goodbyes and headed towards the Station, ducking the winter showers along the way.

The Train again had the thermostat turned up to 11 – but we coped – and we were soon back at Peterborough Station. We headed for home dropping in at Lee’s to pick her up for tomorrow’s lunch with David and Rosi.

What a great day! It was good to meet Sandra and Dennis at last, and we’re pleased we were able to pick up some more bits and pieces for the Lounge. Virgin Trains did a fab job in ferrying us to and from our destination – super-comfy seats, happy friendly staff, and genuinely useful OTA announcements – top marks!

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 Retail Therapy in Leeds appeared first on Steve's Blog.

(Oliver turned 13 today!!!)

We set off for Stamford early to do some shopping for the various ornaments and other bits & pieces in readiness for the Lounge makeover in March. Someone was smiling on us, as we had a very productive time and picked up something in virtually every shop we visited!

Then it was off to The Crown for lunch with Nick and Celina.


The Crown Restaurant (Quiet at 12.15, heaving when we left!)

Yummy and Yummy!!

Fab food and company all round! So-much-so that it was 3 o’clock before we left!

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 It’s Saturday, it’s Stamford! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

David and Valerie picked us up and it was off to Bicester Shopping Village for a look round. We arrived just after 10 and as expected, it was really busy – although luckily, we got a parking space straightaway.

We went our separate ways and agreed to meet up for about 12.30. There were plenty of new shops and consequently, some were no longer there compared to eighteen months ago. Having said that, as it turned out, although David and Valerie did well in terms of bargains, and Ann picked up a few things – I came back with nothing at all. I guess that’s the way it goes sometimes!

We had also booked The Nut Tree for a return visit – we haven’t been there since November 2014 when we enjoyed a really fantastic meal! And today was no different. It was easy to see why this place has retained its Michelin star – first class food and first class service!

My first Guinness since Lent

Pork Belly

Looks like an Egg but this interim dessert contained chocolate!

More Chocolate

Yummy! What a meal – we were stuffed! A perfect end to the day!

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 Return to The Nut Tree 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 Essex Girl (and Boy!) appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Having retail in our DNA meant that a visit to the new John Lewis in Birmingham was too hard to resist. It took us a while to get round to it, but todayo was the day!

A short drive to Rugby Station and then onwards to Birmingham New Street courtesy of Virgin Trains – and we were there! The added convenience of falling out of the station and going up just a floor made it one of the easiest shopping expeditions ever!

…and there it was! Spread over four floors and apparently housing over £12m of stock, this place was worth an even closer look! An hour later we’d helped reduced their stock levels significantly, having found some suitable towels for our refreshed bathroom and a few other items.

We then met Ann’s work chum, Trudi for lunch. Boy, it was busy round the vast array of eateries – more like a weekend – and after a quick circuit of the nearest options, we settled for Tapas Revolution. It was also busy, but the service was quick and the food turned out to be delicious.

After saying goodbye to Trudi,  we had a final look round the shops before grabbing the next train back to Rugby.

By now the weather had deteriorated and it was chucking it down. We’d spotted a newish retail park on our journey in, so we stopped off to see what they had to offer. it looked as if the rest of the UK was there too, and it took a while to get a parking space. TK Maxx and M and S got our attention and we helped their takings a little before heading home.

All-in-all then, a very enjoyable ‘retail’ day. I have a feeling we’ll be re-visiting Grand Central again before too long!

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 John Lewis – Birmingham appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Saturday

Celebrations began with a lie-in until the ridiculously late hour of 7.45!
 
Then, we headed out for a bit of retail therapy, descending on the rejuvenated Corby assisted by a greasy-spoon breakfast.

After a short walk around the shops, we headed home. Tom and Julie had left a pressy for me, and not long after, Karen popped round to drop off theirs, as did Rosi. Thanks all, they’re all spot-on and it’s very thoughtful of you all!

On Saturday night, we took a trip out to our fave Chinese restaurant – Han in Market Harborough.

Even at 7pm, the place was heaving (and I can’t think it was because Strictly, was on TV tonight!). Unusually for us, we didn’t go for one of their famous Banquets – delicious as they are, there’s just too much of a good thing! So we settled for just a starter and a main – and that was plenty! It was all very tasty, and we felt comfortably full rather than our usual completely stuffed!

We headed home, faffed about a bit and then had a  relatively early night, as Ann had now done all the hard work and finished packing for our long weekend starting tomorrow.

Sunday
After last year’s surprise trip to Monmouth and beyond, this year was a bit more predictable. We headed for Harrogate (and The Old Swan Hotel) with David and Valerie for an extended weekend (returning Tuesday). Hopefully, this year will less eventful, car-wise! Last year, we had road debris damage the front of the XKR followed by a squadron of seagulls mistaking the car roof for a toilet when it was parked in the hotel car-park – and I do mean a squadron! Yuk!!

We left just after 9 and David did the driving – it was nice to be chauffeured around for a change! Our first stop-off was a return to the very picturesque Bolton Abbey. David and Valerie hadn’t been here for about five years, and we’d been here in 2012 (over the Jubilee Weekend) and again in 2010, when we were staying in Haworth.

A quick pit-stop was in order first though, dropping into the adjacent Tea Cottage, for a quick bite…

…before reminding ourselves of the stunning vistas that Bolton Abbey has to offer!

I was also reminded of the invigorating knackering walk around the perimeter of the River Wharfe that dominates the landscape. Actually, it was less than three miles, but with the ups-and-downs combined with the boggy nature of some of the pathways, it felt a lot longer!

An hour or so later, suitably ‘refreshed’ (and I use the word in its widest context), we headed back to the car and our home for the rest of our stay – The Old Swan Hotel, close to the town centre of Harrogate. A couple of laps around the outside of the hotel, led us eventually to the permit-only area for cars where we parked with ease. It was then just a short walk to the front door of the Hotel. The Hotel is probably most famous for where Agatha Christie disappeared to in the 20s, causing a national (wo)man-hunt. We’d upgraded our room and it was very spacious, and the free bottle of Prosecco and chocs made us feel even more welcome! I guess it was predictable that there would be a swan on the end of the bed!

We couldn’t be bothered to visit nearby Harrogate town centre for an eatery tonight, so we ate in (anyway, it’s free, as part of the hotel deal!)

We all met up in the Bar, where disappointingly, they’d run out of Guinness. Not a great start, but a pint of Theakston’s served as a suitable alternative for me.

Then it was off to the Restaurant for our free meal. The service was very friendly, but it wasn’t the most inspiring of menus (not really surprising!) – it was all edible though! Service got a lot slower as the evening progressed, especially as we got to Dessert. In fact, I think they forgot about us! Ann soon put things right though!

Starter – A Fish Thing

Mains – A Gammon Thing

Dessert – A Creamy Swan/Pastry Thing

So, all in all, it was just an ‘OK’ meal – but as it was free, we were all fine about it. I think the day caught up with me, and by now I was really tired. We headed back to our rooms to finish unpacking and to get ready for York tomorrow!

Monday

We slept well, and by 8.30 we were ready to try out the breakfast offering. In a word, ‘fab’.  The Breakfast Room was ‘old school’ – an ornate ceiling and wooden panels everywhere. Very nice… and very busy!

Most of us went for the Yorkshire Breakfast – in reality, a full-English. It was all piping hot and the service, unlike last night, was very efficient. By 9.30, we were ready to take on the world, but we settled for a quick walk around Harrogate instead – we noticed that surprisingly, there WASN’T a queue for Betty’s! (that’s a first!!).

After a few minor purchases in town, we decided to board the local train to York – it was quicker and cheaper than driving. Less than 40 minutes later, we were all walking out of the station.

York, as always was fantastic! We decided to ‘do our own thing’ with David and Valerie heading off in the direction of the Bus Tour, whilst we got our fix by visiting York Minster. We were last here in 2012 and before then, in 2010.

After an hour-or-so, we were both ‘minstered-out’, and so we looked for somewhere to eat. Lucky for us, we stumbled into Cote Brasserie – and what a stumble! The food was great, and the service, brilliant!
 
Then it was another quick look round the city’s shops ending with us putting our feet up in the Park outside the Yorkshire Museum, before heading back to the station to catch the 15.11.

What a great day it’s been – and the weather was better than expected too! By no means a heatwave, but comfortable for sight-seeing. So, just time to chill-out for an hour-or-so before we’re off to a local restaurant for dinner – Quantro, just a 10 minute walk from the Hotel. Luckily David had found the restaurant when out looking for his morning paper, and combined with an online voucher, the four of us managed a full three-courser, with two rounds of drinks each, for less than £100. Result!

My Dessert – Chocolate and Coconut Cheesecake

Phew! We’re stuffed, so just time for the quick walk back to the Hotel and for Ann and me to watch Downton Abbey on catch-up!

The RHS’s Harlow Carr Gardens tomorrow, and then home.

Tuesday
Our final day ‘up north’, and we’re off to the RHS’s Harlow Carr Gardens. We came here back in 2010, but because it was March, it was all a bit lack-lustre, with nothing much to see. On arrival, it looked as bleak as ever! I guessed I should have loved it, especially as there were now more plants and flowers to see (compared to our previous visit), but it just lacked ‘warmth’, and the place just looked, well… desolate! zzzzzzzzzzzzzz!

…and in less than an hour, Ann and I were bored with it all and we sought refuge in Betty’s next door!Cripes! I think the whole of Yorkshire had descended on the place – and it was packed! We even had to queue… on a Tuesday, at 11am! Still, we blended in with the locals and had a coffee and shared an Eccles Cake (after arranging a bank loan!)

We finished with a look round the gift shop (which was actually quite impressive) before one last look for Valerie and David around Harrogate before heading south. And so, it’s goodbye to Yorkshire, and The Swan Hotel

It’s been a great break; the weather has been kind, the food has been (mostly) great and it’s always good fun spending time with David and Valerie. Memorable moments for me were (in no particular order)

• Seeing York Minster again
• The outstanding meal at Quantro
• Trying to beat David’s record for how long to make a Werther’s Original last in your mouth (I failed! – personal best 32 minutes though!)

Previous Birthdays…
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004

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 Birthday Weekend 2015 – Corby/Harrogate/York 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 Downtown with Newton appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Ahhh, a rather late start of us two – 7.30am – and it was off to Eastbourne (to check out a Hotel) then Worthing (for a birthday party) and then finally to our overnight stay in Arundel (a return to the aptly named Comfort Inn).

This was possibly our longest trip so far in the XKR – about a 325 mile round trip. As we set off from Kettering, it was a beautiful day, but by the time we got closer to Eastbourne, it was hammering it down. On a more positive note, the car returned 28.4mpg before dropping back to a more characteristic 24mpg once we started poodling around the towns.

First stop was the Hydro Hotel in Eastbourne. It’s the venue for OCA Members’ informal get together in August, and as we were in the general area, it was worth checking out. What a lovely surprise – a quaint olde-worlde type establishment that I feel is going to be just right as the meeting venue. After grabbing a table that overlooked the lawn and the coast (although we couldn’t see the latter because of the weather) a coffee, toast and slice of cake before we were back on the road heading for Worthing.

Ooo, what a grey day!

By now, the weather was brightening up, and by the time we got to the outskirts of Worthing, it had turned into a very pleasant, warm day. We mooched around in Worthing for a bit, with Ann bagging a few bargains.

What is with seagulls and my car?!?! There are thousands of cars to choose from in Worthing, and these flying feathered fiends choose mine by deciding to relieve the total contents of their bottom all over the back window and boot. Having got caught out with just a few wet-wipes last time this happened, on this occasion I was well prepared with spray cleaner and a ginormous cloth. And whilst Ann grappled with Worthing’s latest car-parking ticketing technology, I ‘pooper-scooped’ in no time!

Then it was off to Philomena’s surprise party. And what an event it was. You can always rely on Sharon and Ian to organise a great event – and this afternoon was no exception! Professional ballroom dancers were followed by a Flamenco demonstration – Mum, son and daughter – who simply danced their hearts out, accompanied by the noisiest shoes and the loudest castanets, I think I’ve ever seen (heard?). Add to that, great food and a chance to catch up with old acquaintances – Pete, Diana, Julia and Paul S – and I’d say that was pretty fine event!!!

Philomena (left) enjoying every moment of her surprise Party

Then, it was back in the car, that by now, was down to a quarter tank. Luckily, we found a petro station on our way to Arundel, and after relieving myself of £53, we were ‘running on full’ (for a while anyway1).

Fifteen minutes later, we were parking outside the Comfort Inn, Arundel. We stayed here for the first time last May, and its sensibly priced rooms, hearty breakfast, free wi-fi and convenient location, meant it was the obvious choice this time around. Parking was challenging, but we managed to squeeze it into a space not far from the entrance.

The evening finished with feet-up in front of the TV (the ill-fated series, Atlantis), before calling it a night.

We’re heading home tomorrow after breakfast.

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 Sun, Seagulls and Castanets appeared first on Steve's Blog.

‘The Weekend…’ as they say, ‘starts here!’

This weekend was one of the busiest ‘socials’ for, us for a long while (ohh, the stress!). So, not a great time, to be trying to stick to my Lent regime – but I managed it!

Friday
The weekend started early on Friday night, where we met up with Paul & Sue together with Geoff & Rhonda. The last time Paul, Geoff and I were in the same room, at the same time, would have been when we were all Training Managers ‘back in the day’ – in the 80s. Quite a reunion of training talent!

Our venue of choice tonight was The Hare at Loddington, where we’ve been a few times before, and where (luckily, for hearty eaters like us) ‘portion control’ is not a priority!

Fab Food at The Hare, Loddington

It was great catching-up with everyone’s news. It had been such a long time since us three ex-Training Managers had seen each other together as a group, we had a lot of catching-up to do, and we’re already looking at repeating the exercise later in the Summer. The Hare did us proud, and in spite of how busy they were when we arrived, the service was spot-on, and the food, as good as we remember it! Yummy!

Saturday
Nicki and her beau, Richard, joined us just before 9am, and we drove over to Leicester. First stop was Fenwick’s to pick up the elusive teaspoons for our cutlery set and then onto Tarratt, the Jewellers, to ‘sign-on-the-line for the design of my bespoke ‘30 year anniversary’ ring to complement Ann’s

Tarratt, the Jewellers, in Leicester

Then it was on to HighCross for the rest of the morning for a good ol’ fashioned shop-til-you-drop experience. And it seems, the rest of Leicestershire had the same idea, if the queue for the car-park was anything to go by! Ann, with Nicki’s help, managed to bag a couple of dresses, whilst Richard and I kept well away and did our own thing!

After a few hours, it was time for a nibble, and although most of our favourite haunts were busy with wait-times for tables, we did manage to get in at Cafe Rouge, without any problem. Another opportunity to be a little smug, as I successfully navigated my way round the menu without compromising my Lent List! Then, it was back home for a chill-out before Nicki and Richard headed home.

Sunday
A slightly later start today, as we headed for Nick and Celina’s for lunch – and our first opportunity to see their new place in Market Overton. Weather-wise, it was a gorgeous day when we left around 11 – a bright blue sky and dry (that makes a change!!!). A perfect opportunity then, to blow the dust of the XKR, and take it for a spin.

The A6003 – vroom vroom!

The Cat – Our XKR

…and what a spin it was. We took the most direct route to Nick and Celina’s – the A6003 – and it was a brilliant road to put the car through its paces. A gentle mix of curves and straights, with some stunning scenery – and even the potential for slipping into ‘hooligan mode’ (I didn’t!) on a long straight stretch, where you could see for miles ahead, incorporating a steep decline and then an equally steep incline – oooo, the temptation, to let rip!

Another Cat – Mr Jinks approves!

Fifty minutes later, we were deep in Rutland, and approaching Nick and Celina’s new home. For privacy reasons, I won’t reveal the details here, but it was nothing sort of stunning! A lovely property with views across the countryside, in all directions, as far as the eye can see! Gorgeous!! Their cat – Mr Jinks – was already settled in! The only downside (for me!) was an internet speed of just 0.2 Mb/sec – welcome to ‘rural’ Rutland!!

In preparation for my Lent restrictions, Celina and Nick had met the challenge head-on, and crafted a three-courser that steered me clear of all my ‘naughty stuff’ – brilliant! Thanks guys!! And as we rested our dessert spoons, I was feeling stuffed and chuffed in equal measure!

We left about 4.30, where by now, the weather had deteriorated to more familiar scenes – rain, rain, cold, rain, cold and rain! Time to take it a little easy in the car with rear-wheel drive and lots of horses.

Phew! It’s been a busy weekend (in a good way), great to catch-up with friends, and to enjoy the all-too-brief good weather. I’m dreading the daily weigh-in on Monday morning – I feel a few pounds has permanently found a new home!!

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 Mega-Social appeared first on Steve's Blog.

The Kitchen Makeover – Almost Finished

We always knew today was going to be busy! It was the day we set aside for restocking the kitchen cupboards after emptying them last week in preparation for the kitchen makeover.

In spite of the hard work by Anglia Interiors’s Grant, their kitchen installer, the job wasn’t quite completed by Friday, so that made the re-stocking slightly more time-consuming as there were certain cupboards we couldn’t touch. It would have helped, If I’d labelled the black sacks I’d originally stocked the kitchen goods in, but it did add a certain ‘kids-at-Christmas-opening-pressies’ feel to the exercise!

We started at 7.30 am, trawling through the Dining Room that was temporarily acting as the warehouse for most of the stock -and then  there was the garage for all the stuff that wouldn’t fit in the Dining Room!

We managed to squeeze in a trip to the local dump – sorry, Civic Amenity Site – to get rid of come of the bits and pieces we ermm, ‘re-discovered’, as well as a tour round the local ASDA for something simple for tonight’s meal, but mainly to replace the out-of-code foodstuffs we found during the ‘sack-race’! It was amazing to find so much stuff that was past its prime – whatever did we do before we had ‘best-before’ dates?!?! I think there was a jar of spices that had no date on it at all!!!

By 6.30pm we were shattered. The job was 98% completed and so we called it a day, and sat down to sample ASDA’s Chinese takeaway menu – and Russell Crowe in his latest blockbuster: Noah. The two went together very well – the food was very disappointing, and so was the film (possible RC’s worst film to date… maybe EVER!!!)

At least the Pimm’s went down a treat!

Ironically, just as the film finished, the heavens opened, and it started to rain! Spooky or what!!

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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 Kitchens, Arks and Takeaways! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Fabric Display at John Lewis MK – is it me, or do they look slightly creepy?

It was a rather disappointing day today. We set off for MK in search of ideas for a replacement dining-room table and also to pick-up some ideas for colours for the planned refresh of the dining-room.

First stop was the mighty IKEA. So large and so full of people that it could apply to join NATO! It wouldn’t however have got any prizes for its ‘95p bacon sandwich’ though. In my world, the bacon is always supposed to, at least, cover the surface area of the bread – and we had to pay extra for ketchup. C’mon IKEA – sort out your sarnies! And for that matter, sort out your dining-room tables too! We left after a quick look round, after only seeing about four that came close. Bah!
 

Then it was off to the next largest land mass in Milton Keynes – ASDA. Cripes! When did food retailing get this large! Huge doesn’t even begin to describe it! No tables or fabrics, but we did relive them of a serious amount of food-stock!!

Final stop: John Lewis – surely they’d have some good ideas for fabrics – they always do! Our needs were simple, as we just wanted a pattern featuring a bright red that would serve as a base colour for the kitchen blinds and the dining-room curtains. By the time we headed home, we had fewer examples than IKEA had bacon rashers! Back to the drawing-board!!!

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 Table Where? appeared first on Steve's Blog.

A lazy (ish) day today! – which is very unusual for us, even though it is a Saturday!

I took Ann’s car to Richards in for its ‘A’ Service – it only took just over the hour, but they did spot a balding back tyre and front brakes that will need replacing in a few thousand miles.

Yummy Lunch at Beckworth’s

Then it was off to Beckworth’s Emporium for lunch and a  small shop (if you like your food, then this place is a must – a real treat for the taste-buds!!), before the more mundane visit to Tesco’s for the ‘big’ shop. Strangely, for a Saturday afternoon, the place was deserted – weird!!

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 Lazy Day appeared first on Steve's Blog.

You would have thought that having lived in these parts for so long, we would know every good place to shop and eat – not so!

Friends had mentioned Beckworth Emporium in the past, and although we’d mentally added it to our ‘places-to-go-when-there’s-not-much-else-to-do’, we had never actually been there – and it’s only a short drive away near Sywell Airport.

The Garden Centre

We had heard good reports, and on arrival, the unassuming entrance and the smallish car-park didn’t really give us much of a clue as to what to expect inside. All I can say is: ‘Wow!’. Home to Hambleton Farm’s produce, not only did it have fresh fruit and veg, a deli and fresh meat counter, frozen foods and lots of unusual ready-meals (all at prices that were surprisingly low for an ‘independent’), there was a restaurant (bursting at the seams) and very nice garden centre too!

The Restaurant

We queued for lunch and after a short wait, were given a table in the covered terrace (a sort of massive greenhouse). The place was really buzzing and there really wasn’t a spare seat to be had (a good sign!). The service was excellent and we were served pretty quickly given how busy they were. Our main courses were nicely presented and packed with flavour – yummy! We squeezed in a dessert, one-between-two before a final look round.

Our final wander round the garden centre and the shop after lunch confirmed to us that this is one of the area’s best-kept secrets! We’ll definitely be returning sometime soon, and no doubt, if you’re staying with us, we’ll put it on the itinerary!!

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 Beckworth Emporium appeared first on Steve's Blog.

The Vines, Barton Hall, Kettering

Even though we’re smug enough to say that all the Christmas shopping is finished, today was one of those ‘not-a-moment-to-breathe’ days – there just seemed to be hundreds of little jobs that needed sorting. In spite of an early start, we didn’t get back from town until almost lunch-time – Kettering, not surprisingly, was heaving with Christmas shoppers.

The best part of today, was going to The Vines (Kettering’s latest eatery) in the evening, for David and Valerie’s celebratory meal. We had a great time – and the food was FAB!

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 Full-on Saturday appeared first on Steve's Blog.