Here we are in Cyprus! We’re here for a week, where the main event is the marriage of Sean and Kellie this coming Thursday! What follows is a much briefer account than my usual Posts (‘hooray!’ say some!) as I took the decision to travel light and leave the laptop behind and attempted to record the whole experience using my phone!

Saturday

10.40am: We shared a taxi to Luton Airport with Clive and Carole. Russell was our driver and being an experienced ex-HGV driver, we made steady and safe progress towards Luton Airport.

2.00pm: That’s our plane! In less than 5 hours we’ll be in Paphos!

9.15pm: We’re now two hours ahead of home. Our coach awaits!

All aboard!

10.30pm: Scorchio (still) !

10.10pm: Hello Mayfair Hotel. A warm welcome awaited us, together with a bag of sandwiches, cake and fruit!

Nice room! ‘354’ was to be our home for the next week.

Nicer Internet!!

11.45am: Nighty night!

Sunday

Morning folks!

7.02am: The view from 354 – some towels already on the loungers! No Germans in sight though!

9.02am: Off to Breakfast

A massive dining area where it could seat most of Cyprus!! . After breakfast, a relaxed day ahead!

First, a wander around the Hotel complex.

Another day in Paradise? You decide!

Then, off to the Harbour, on foot.

11.30am: A very pleasant wander in the sunshine!

The walk brought back some lovely memories of the last time we were here. Older memories were quickly replaced by new ones – and the sight of an ice-cream van! But before the obligatory ’99’, a sit down and a drink nearby.

12.45pm: Last time we sat here was back in November, 2022 with Paul & Sue.

1.14pm: Next, a visit to the famous Archaeological Site…

Good to see these amazing mosaics again… Free admission today too! (First Sunday in the month across the EU?)

2.55pm: Well, that was worth a look! Next? The promised ‘Mr Whippy’ ice-cream all around before deciding that we wouldn’t walk back – we’d take the Bus instead. Word to the wise! The Buses only accept cash out here (€2 each!) – no plastic! Twenty minutes later, the ‘610’ dropped us nearby, and we were back in our room, ready for a siesta.

Mrs P, Carole, John and Clive

6.05pm: A few hours of shut-eye and we’re ready to take on the world! (Well, not quite, but almost!). Next stop: The Bar and then the Restaurant. Did I mention it’s all inclusive here?

7.05pm: A quick visit to the Bar before joining the rest of the group for a catch-up. Then it was into the (very busy!) Restaurant for our evening meal. It was impressive! An amazing selection of food and service levels that ‘punched well above their weight’!

After the meal, we headed for a quieter part of the Hotel with Clive and Carole and caught up with our reading.

Trish joined us later for a natter.

10.05pm: Other ‘Party Animals’ were still partying, but for us, that’s it for another night!

Monday

Morning!!

A super-lazy one today, as our next ‘official’ event isn’t until lunchtime! Time to find the pool!

“Hooray, it’s the Daily Aquarobics Class” shouted absolutely no-one!

9.45am: We sat around the pool catching up with our reading and wondering how the three employees felt with absolutely ZERO interest from the inmates!?!? (We learned they do this routine every day at 10!)

12.30pm: Sadly missing the aerobic opportunity, later Geoff & Rhonda picked us up, and it was back to theirs for Lunch!

Nice view from their Apartment!

3.00pm: Northants Nutters – Cypriot Division!

4.15pm: After a gorgeous Lunch outside, We headed off to ‘Sense‘ a well-known Bar/Restaurant in nearby Kissonergas for a quick drink with a sea view! Fantastic!!

We couldn’t have been much closer to the sea!

5.25pm: Wow! That was good! Geoff & Rhonda then dropped us back at our Hotel.

9.45pm: Knackered!!

Tuesday

6.05am: Welcome to Tuesday! I call this one ‘Moon over Beach Towels’…

9.05am: The day would turn out to be a surprising and unplanned one. No details here, but it reshaped the rest of our week (again, not documented here)

12.35pm: We grabbed a quick bite to eat back at the Hotel, and then it was time for a quick walk.

1.25pm: A short wander around the local area to make the best of the weather (rain is coming!).

2.20pm:

4.35pm: Ahh, we both needed that – time to get ready for tonight. Another themed night awaits!

8.01pm: Our evening meal in the Hotel – strangely quiet tonight, even though it was Cypriot Night and the food selection was fantastic!!

9.05pm: A chill-out with Ann and Carole, just off Reception, whilst the ‘youngsters’ went out on the town for an extra ‘Hen Night’! I had a feeling it’ll be the boys’ turn tomorrow night! .

We steered clear of the main Bar area simply because (warning: old bloke alert) of the volume of the performers/music. Ever since we got here, the evening performances have always been on the super-loud side – and too much for these vintage ears. Last night’s ‘Freddie Mercury Tribute Act’ was SO loud, we could pick out the tunes – and we were three floors away, tucked up in bed!

9.35pm: again – it’s my age!

Wednesday

Happy Wednesday, everyone!

11.05am: Today, we met up with Geoff & Rhonda again, although the weather looked like it might limit our outdoor activities!

11.23am: First stop was Coral Bay and a lovely Bar/Eatery close to the water, helpfully called ‘Corralia Beach Restaurant’.

Nice bollards, nice flower-pot and nice wheelie-bin, but best of all – a great beach!

12.25pm: Fab! We then headed for Latchi.

1.25pm: We parked up and wandered around the Harbour area. Today, it was almost deserted (we think mainly down to the damp weather!).

1.45pm: ‘Faros‘ for Lunch!

I chose ‘traditional’ and picked ‘Stefado’ – one of the beefiest beef dishes I’d eaten in a long while!

3.15pm: As we headed back to the car, we all agreed that it had been a great lunch.

4.32pm: Back at the Hotel, we said our goodbyes to G & R. It had been a great day where we’d also managed to dodge the occasional shower too!

Just time for a short ‘feet up’ before heading downstairs and the Asian themed night in the Restaurant.

8.15pm: Yummy food again tonight!

9.45pm: A big day tomorrow! Beauty sleep needed!

Thursday

Morning all! No pre-placed beach towels! What’s going on!

Here we go..! . Today’s THE day! Sean & Kellie’s Wedding at 3.30pm.

Thankfully, the weather held!

Nicely ‘scrubbed up!’

3.35pm: After a slightly scary open-top bus journey through the town to the venue, we arrived at L’Chateau (not a typo!)

It was a beautiful location, a lovely event, and although the photography was challenging, everyone had a great time and lifelong memories were made!

The Service was pretty standard except, perhaps, for the distribution of bottled beer by semi-dancing Groomsmen to the congregation before the Bride’s arrival. An unusual riff on the ‘usual’ practice! Still, it saved queueing at the Bar and we were missing ‘Strictly’!

A unique Service followed, with very strict controls by the (equally strict) Wedding Planner. She continued her unique management style throughout the unfolding event with bags of enthusiasm and determination! Ad-hoc photographs were discouraged, and even when we ‘snuck one in’ the lighting (too bright, with the Sun in the ‘wrong place’ plus a lot of artificial bulb lighting in the darker areas) made it almost too challenging for a mere camera phone!

A rare shot! But wait! Is that the Photo Police at the door!?!?

Best of all, as the Cypriot Sun set, during the excellent sit-down meal that followed all the subsequent speeches were very heartfelt. As the evening wore on, even more memories were forged – especially on the dance floor. A few were almost traumatic!

Fashions varied: from the more traditional to the more practical (given the heat). Above, one of us is clearly illustrating taking full advantage of the Hotel’s ‘all inclusive’ meal deals (clue: it’s NOT Mrs P!)

Most memorable event? In the closing hour of the celebration, we were all ‘treated’ to a short and impromptu re-enactment from the final scenes of the film: The Full Monty – a pseudo strip by a few of the wedding guests (that also just fell short of an excellent charade of the film ‘Free Willy’! ).

The karaoke hour also made stars of a few who we didn’t expect to go anywhere near the microphone! Thankfully, the Cyprus nation was spared from The Palmer’s legendary ‘prog rock/disco/heavy metal’ interpretation of ‘Climb every Mountain’! due simply to lack of time and a queue for the mike (yeah right!). The impromptu ‘singing’ of those that did, was all part of the fun as other family and friends jostled for the best camera angle to capture this one-off event!

00.05am: And in a flash (see what I did there!), we were soon boarding the coach for another truly terrifying trip along the roads of Paphos. A combination of the driver being a reincarnation of Stirling Moss and the mostly deserted Cypriot roads ensured that our next conversation was either going to be to God (for forgiveness) or the Guinness Book of Records (for a land-speed attempt). Yikes! I can honestly say, it was one of those rare occasions where it was probably better to be drunk! . Some were better prepared than others!

00.35am: Wow! What a night! Congrats you two! Whilst a few hardy souls headed for the Hotel Bar for a top up, we opted for bed! Nighty-night!

Friday

6.45am: Morning all! Our last full day here! . Neither of us suffered any after-effects from last night’s ‘super late’ one (well, it was late for US!)

They’re on the Loungers early this morning!

Weather-wise? More of the same! But once outside, it felt hotter, much hotter!

After breakfast, we headed for the Tombs of the Kings partly by Bus (No. 603), but we walked the last mile, it was now much more humid than any other day since we arrived.

11.15am: A very misleading sign!

Well, that was all a bit underwhelming! Tombs of the Kings? Actually, by their own admission on the first information board, there’s no evidence that any Kings are buried here! . In short, a bunch of caves, mostly resembling a mausoleum. On a positive front, it was just €2.50 each to get in, and the views out to sea were impressive! Still VERY hot though!!

11.55am: We headed back to Paphos Harbour by way of the 615 to the Bus Station and then the 611.

12.25pm: On arrival, the obligatory stop for some ice-cream beckoned. We complied!

Now suitably cooler, we headed for the Harbour and took the short walk in the direction of the Castle.

Successfully dodging the numerous restaurateurs eager to temp us in, we got to ‘the end’ to find they’ve ‘added a bit’ to the Harbour since were last here, stretching further around the coast – all courtesy of an EU Grant!

12.55pm: Well, that ‘extra piece’ was a pleasant surprise, as we picked a seat and soaked up the Sun… and the view!

Heading back, we took the 610 that stopped close to the Hotel.

1.15pm: Just time for a quick one

1.45pm: A short siesta!

6.30pm: We met up with Tom & Julie in the Bar.

8.02pm: An evening meal with Carole. Oo-la-la, it was French Night!!!

9.45pm: Shattered!!

Saturday – Heading home!

Bye-bye Paphos and the Mayfair Hotel! It’s been fun! Paphos Airport? Not so much! Totally rammed from the moment we arrived until the moment we (eventually) boarded.

2.53am: Sunday – Back to reality! We’re home to a cold and foggy UK!

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 Passion in Paphos appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Whoosh! That came around quickly! It’s 2021 and our 10th Anniversary (also our 37th since our first date).

In keeping with previous years, as part of our celebration, we spent a few days away – this year, it was at Chatham Dockyard and the Ship and Trades Hotel. This was preceded by a slap-up lunch at The George in Stamford on the actual day of our Anniversary.

We also caught up with my brother and family for the annual Christmas pressy-swap!

Tuesday, the 14th (Our Anniversary)

11.05am Our first stop today was a trip to Heckington to pay our respects at Denis and Mae‘s graves – a bittersweet experience.

Having laid some flowers at the graves, we headed south and to The George Hotel to celebrate our Anniversary.

12.05pm: We were just a few minutes late for our Noon booking mainly due to the amount of traffic on the roads. The George was doing good business for a Tuesday, and we were soon shown to our table.

2.05pm: Although there was no sign of any of the familiar faces we’d got used to from our many previous visits here, we had a great celebratory meal even though the service wasn’t quite as sharp as we remember it.

In a first for me, I didn’t have room for Dessert or Coffee and so we paid the bill and headed home. All things considered, we had a great time – you can’t really go wrong here where the whole place had a wonderful Christmassy feel to it.

2.45pm: We had a good journey home and after a quick cuppa, we spent some a long time opening the many Anniversary gifts and cards that were given to us at our 10th Anniversary Party last Saturday. Our friends have been so generous and there were some really innovative gifts. I don’t think we’ll need any Champagne for a while either! Happy days!

6.15pm: And to finish off the day, we met up with Jo for an evening walk! It was surprisingly mild outside – some 11℃. Phew! Almost a scorcher for this time of year!!

Wednesday, the 15th

7.00am: Up with the lark (which is very unusual for me these days!)

9.26am: Mr Google said it was between two, and two-and-a-half hour journey to my Brother’s, and who were we to argue?

11.45am: The journey meant a trip south and across the Dartford Bridge (which we haven’t done since July). In the past, the whole area approaching the crossing had always been VERY congested, but today was jam-free and we arrived on time without any hint of a hold-up.

1.03pm: After a quick chat on the doorstep (shorter than we would have liked because the whole family was unwell) we headed for our final destination (almost!) dropping into McDonald’s at Medway City Estate – not just for a quick bite, but also to take advantage of the Instavolt fast-chargers there to give EVie a boost to 80%.

It seems we arrived just as their drive-through was ‘enjoying’ its lunchtime trade – and the whole place was packed. Even both electric chargers were in use! We decided to position ourselves inside McD’s (yes, a tough life ehh?) so we just see the blue light on the top of the charger from our table – and a change in colour (to green) would let us know when it was free.

Just 15 minutes later, the grey iPace finished its charge and I quickly walked back to the car and after some nifty reversing, I manoeuvred our EV into position. Success!

2.01pm: Mission accomplished! And so, after a basic McD’s lunch and EVie now at 80%, we were all set, and headed for our Hotel (that was only a five-minute drive away).

The last time we were in this area was when we visited the Historic Dockyard back in July, 2012 with Lee. The Dockyard is currently closed for the Winter, so we didn’t have an opportunity to see if it had changed very much.

We’d booked the Ship and Trades Hotel in Chatham owned by the Shepherd Neame Brewery group. First impressions were favourable, and we were soon checked-in and heading for Room 14 – our home for the next two nights.

Our room was very well appointed, very clean with modern decor and also spacious…

…and had a great view across the water.

It looked like we bagged ourselves a really nice room – plenty of all the right things we needed for our short stay!

2.44pm: We were soon unpacked and ready to take our first wander around the immediate area. Neither of us knew the area particularly well, so we weren’t sure what to expect.

There has clearly been some significant re-development in the immediate area here in recent years, and it felt a bit like a smaller version of Docklands in London. However, it was eerily quiet, giving the area a slightly ‘forgotten’ feel – even though there were plenty of cars in the car-park. We didn’t see any tumbleweed, but it really felt like there should have been!

We wandered around the shops – The Dockside Outlet Shopping Centre – but unfortunately, they all looked and felt a bit half-hearted too! Strangely though, the car-park was packed!

Yes, it all felt a bit sad and a bit unloved. Hopefully, it’s down the time of year/day of the week/Covid! On a positive note, we did spend some money – a leather belt and some thank-you cards.

4.19pm: There WERE plenty of Eateries, but most were completely empty or closed (it was only 4ish, so maybe not too surprising), and so we decided to ‘eat-in’. We dropped into the Co-Op (next door to the hotel) and picked up some sandwiches, some jam & cream doughnuts plus a bottle of wine…

5.06pm: …just in time to watch Boris’s hurriedly announced Press Conference with more words of doom and gloom about Covid and the latest threat, the Omicron Variant Oh joy!

I suppose it had been a good day, but not having the opportunity to spend more time with Neil and his family, the disappointing retail scene at Chatham, plus the depressing news about Covid made it all feel a bit flat.

Hopefully, a better day tomorrow, where, depending on the weather, we’re heading for Rochester Castle and maybe catch the latest Spider-man film that’s showing at the Odeon within walking distance of our Hotel.

Thursday, the 16th

6.45am: We both woke quite early. ‘The headline in the Telegraph suggesting: ‘Scale back Christmas plans’ made us thankful we’d had our Anniversary party LAST week!

It’s our final full day here and weather permitting, we aim to make the most of it.

9.33am: But before all that potential activity, first stop was breakfast at the Hotel…

10.05am: With breakfast setting us up for the day, we headed for the nearest bus-stop that would take us to Rochester – a two-minute walk from the Hotel.

Rochester

10.39am: Here we are in Rochester after some excellent bus connections (No2 and then change to the No171 from the Bus Station). Total cost of the fare: £10.50.

Dating back to 1087 and built to defend the River Medway and the London-Dover road, it has a beautiful exterior complemented by a solid interior, albeit without a roof. It’s known to be one of the best-preserved Castles in England.

Plenty of steps here that lead all the way to the top. Watch your step as it’s a bit dark in places! Next stop? The Cathedral opposite…

Rochester Cathedral

A place of worship since 604AD, it has a beautiful interior with a massive organ on display (ooo err missus!). It’s very photogenic both inside and out.

It was still pretty mild outside so we took a walk along the shop-fronts near the Cathedral.

11.35pm: It was good to see so many independent shops in this particular part of the town – and even more good news that it had a fair few people browsing inside and out!

Architecturally too, there was plenty to see around the town and we finished our short visit by visiting The Guildhall Museum – complete with a Victorian Postbox outside (that was still in use!)

12.15pm: We loved Rochester! The shops had a quaint feel about them and it was good to see quite a few people supporting the local businesses.

12.55pm: We took the short walk to the Station and picked up a bus outside after just a short wait. We changed at the Bus Station and were soon back in our Hotel room for a short ‘feet-up’,

2.25pm: It was time for another sit down – at a movie! Released yesterday in the UK, we took advantage of the Odeon that was literally on our doorstep. We booked a couple of tickets for the 2.30pm showing of Spider-man: No Way Home. Any good? Read my Post HERE.

5.25pm: By the time we left the cinema, it was already dark and had turned a lot colder. Luckily, the short walk to the Co-Op for tonight’s munchies meant that we were soon back in our room and enjoying our final meal (for now) here in Chatham.

It’s been a great anniversary break (as they always are! ). We’ve enjoyed weather that was warmer than it should be at this time of year, and it’s stayed dry too – so that was a bonus. We also got a few walks in too! Getting to know the local area has been fun – and using the local bus routes has been easy-peasy.

We say goodbye to the Ship & Trades Hotel tomorrow after breakfast.

All the photos
(and none of my chat)
are
HERE

Previous Anniversaries

2020 – The Brisley Bell in Dereham
2019 – Trish and John’s
2018 – Durham and finishing at The George Hotel of Stamford
2017 – Spain
2016 – Amsterdam
2015 – The Crown, Stamford
2014 – Malta
2013 – The George in Stamford
2012 – Thailand
2011 – Married (Australia)
2010 – Engaged!
2009 – The Wheatsheaf in Titchmarsh
2008 – Manchester
2007 – Home
2006 – Home
2005 – Indian Takeaway
2004 – Chinese Meal

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 Our Anniversary Break 2021 (10/37) appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Well, I haven’t been here since the 14th of December 2011! – for my wedding! !

Click on the button below for a trip down memory lane…

Welcome back to 2020! The reason for today’s visit was an invitation to a private tour around Kelmarsh’s well-known Gardens (where Mrs P is a volunteer-gardener).

9.55am: On arrival, we followed the arrows to the rear of the Hall, where a member of the Kelmarsh team pointed us in the right direction. Given the tropical weather of the past few days, this morning looked like it was going to be a bit of a disappointment! There was a trace of blue in the sky – just a trace – but that was to change later to grey, accompanied by a well-needed downpour of rain of biblical proportions! Luckily, we were to miss the moisture by a whisker!

10.10am: Given the really hot weather of late – and the lack of rain, first impressions of the Gardens were excellent, with hardly a weed in sight, with a blaze of colour for us to enjoy!

…even if I didn’t know the names of some most of what I saw!

Mrs P did though!

10.25am: Looking at the sky, where its light blue hues had changed to a depressing mid-grey – so we quickened our pace..!

…but in spite of the deteriorating weather…

…the flora still looked in rude health!

10.30am: We could hear thunder in the distance, so we called it a day and headed back to the car.

10.40am: It had been a very memorable (but slightly curtailed) visit, but the Gardens looked fantastic and it was great to see Kelmarsh Hall again after all these years. We hadn’t been in the car long before it belted it down with rain, so it looked as if our timing had been well-judged.

As usual, click on the button below to see the photo gallery with some additional photographs (and none of my chat!)

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 Kelmarsh appeared first on Steve's Blog.

It was off to Janine’s Wedding today. Her husband-to-be, Chris is from Ohio, USA, so it’s going to be a true Anglo-American event. The event is at Hedingham Castle (so that’ll please our friends from across the Pond!) and we’re making a few days of it, as the big day isn’t until tomorrow – Friday.

The Wedding celebrations are actually spread over three days and it’s going to be very American by design. We’re promised plenty of ‘theatre’ and some deviation from the Brit equivalent! First, it’s a Fish and Chip Supper tonight followed by the event itself tomorrow, and finally, a post-Wedding Brunch on Saturday.

We’re staying at The Swan, Long Melford (a Michelin-listed boutique, two-rosette restaurant with rooms) just down the road for a couple of nights.

“Dilly Dilly!”

Hedingham Castle

Thursday

But before our first Wedding of the year, we planned to take in some nearby National Trust properties. First stop today was Ickworth House & Gardens.

In spite of the major roadworks on our outward journey (whilst they re-shape the A14 locally) our drive was pretty smooth, with just a couple of stop-start moments. Consequently, we were there in just under an hour-and-a-half.


I’m not sure how we’ve NEVER managed to have visited here before – and it turned out to be a real treat! The House opened at midday, and when we arrived around 11.45, it looked like most of Suffolk already knew about this gem, and was already there – clearly a very popular place!

Architecturally speaking, it was very unusual – the original House was on the left and right with a central circular part (the Rotunda) in the middle. Actually, the left hand side is now a Hotel owned by the Trust, whilst the right hand side (the West Wing) was for Visitors.

First, a bit of history to put it all into context: The estate was originally owned by the Abbots of St. Edmundsbury. The land was acquired 1432, when Thomas Hervey married. The then ‘House’ took 47 years to build and the locals held their breath as the unusual design began to take shape. The area (and England, as a whole) had never seen a design like it, and it was to become the family home for the next 500 years!

But not without some tweaks along the way…

In 1701, the 1st Earl demolished the mansion and developed plans for an even grander abode, as this modest medieval House eventually became a turreted Tudor mansion. As part of the re-building, he moved out all the locals in the immediate area to make way for the grander version of this property – understandably, he didn’t hit it off with the ‘ordinary folk’!
 
In more recent times, power and money appeared to take its toll. The previous Marquis (No. 7) had been a bit of a naughty boy, and managed to spend his way through £7m of drugs in less than 10 years – and to add insult to injury, he lost the £30m family fortune too!

Being taken on by the National Trust probably saved this property from certain oblivion. The NT acquired it in 1957, in lieu of Death Duties, and converted part of it into a hotel as recent as 2002.

Fast forward to 2018 where the current Marquis (no. 8) have moved out and live in a nearby modest dwelling.

There was plenty to see, and it had been restored by the NT to an extremely high standard. What made it extra special were the little touches – hats and coats from the period, letters dated from the 50s on show in the writing bureau and plenty of quotes from the downstairs-staff reproduced on some of the walls.








Superb in every sense and it’s going to take some beating!

Our second and final stop supporting The National Trust was Melford Hall, after a thirty-minute twisty-turney drive through the lanes of Suffolk.

As we all know, during his time on the throne, Henry VIII, after a strop with the RC Church, took possession of many houses of religion, and this affected Melford. It became a royal property in 1539 and was then leased to Sir William Cordell, a member of the rising middle classes. Sir William Cordell was eventually granted the estate of Melford in 1554 by Queen Mary I, having helped her accede to the throne.

1651: Almost a hundred years later, Sir Robert Cordell became the owner of Melford, after the previous owners experienced some financial difficulties. The Hall was in a bad condition due to it having been vandalised during the Civil War. Robert was the MP for Sudbury and Sheriff of the county and he undertook a programme of refurbishment and reparation.

1786: Another century, another major development! Near the end of the eighteenth century the house was put on the market for the first and only time in its long history. It was sold to Harry Parker by the third husband of the deceased Firebrace’s wife, William Campbell.

  
But for many, the significant bit of its history was that Beatrix Potter once stayed here and there’s a very interesting book on display that shows her skills as a painter.

Superb stained-glass…

…some very interesting letters from the 50s including some around the time of the NT’s acquisition.









  
The Hyde Parkers who have modified the house through the ensuing period, still live in Melford Hall to this day and it’s a superb Tudor Pile!

But that was enough culture for one day, and we headed for our bed for the next couple of nights – The Swan at Long Melford.

Our original room (Room 3) was thoughtfully swapped for Room 4 due to the excessive heat in the former. Our new home was still warm but well-equipped with all that we needed – and more – including a posh coffee-maker and helpfully, an industrial-scale electric fan.

Just time for a short ‘feet-up’ session before heading off to the first part of the Wedding Celebrations. This was the Fish & Chip evening at The Old Vicarage, Castle Hedingham – a massive house (for a Vicar!) featuring NINE bedrooms, numerous rooms and a very large cellar that included a Pool Table and Gym.

We were introduced to many of the American guests and they made for very easy company. It turned into a superb evening, and a great way to ‘break the ice’ for tomorrow. The evening finished with the (apparently) American Tradition of the Bride presenting a cake to the Groom…

All-in-all, we all got on really well and it was a real party atmosphere. We called it a night around 9.45 and wandered down the pitch black road to retrieve the car. So far so good, but what seems to be turning into a pattern for us when we’re returning from events, we got caught up in a massive road diversion preventing us taking the direct route to Long Melford. The diversion signage wasn’t brilliant either, but after an extra 30 minutes on our journey, we arrived back in our room.

Friday

The Bed was super-comfy and we woke, bright-eyed and with tails bushed – ready for the celebrations ahead! First stop though was breakfast – and it didn’t disappoint. The Full English went down a treat, as did the fresh fruit, coffee, tea and fresh fruit-juice.

Fuelled-up, we then decided to take a walk down the High Street, mainly for a spot of exercise, but also because it’s very, very (very) long (I guess that’s how Long Melford got the name!). However, it all seemed a bit ‘Sleepy Hollow’ as most of the shops were closed, even though it was almost 10am!

Luckily, in contrast, we noticed a couple of Antique Shops with their doors open, so we took a wander round those before crossing the road, to check out the rest of the shops. Things were starting to get busier (but not by much) and we did eventually see the town almost buzzing. With our retail therapy complete, in the shape of four wooden spoons and a casual top for Ann, we were soon back in our room getting suited-and-booted for the main event.

And at just after 1.30, we set off for Hedingham Castle. We soon arrived and the weather forecast so far, was pretty accurate – thankfully dry!

A short walk over the bridge and up the narrow staircase and we’d arrived! Strangely, the Routemaster Bus with the majority of guests on-board had NOT! We chatted with Roy’s brother Ray and his other-half Jane for a bit and when the Bus finally arrived, there was just time for everyone to get a drink before we headed down the narrow spiral staircase to where the Service would take place. This was a tricky journey for all the Guests in heels – and the Groomsmen, who, on arrival, had taken advantage of the wheelbarrow full of Beer, to aid challenge their navigation skills!

There was an extended pause before the Service started – kicked-off by the spreading of petals along the bridal-path by one of the very young members of the wedding party – little Eleanor.

As this was an American-style wedding, there was plenty of ‘theatre’. We had the parade of Groomsmen and their respective partners (finishing with an individual man-hug from the Groom) before Roy and Janine made their entrance. Janine looked stunning (as did Roy!). Roy had to formally confirm he was giving Janine away, and as part of the theatre the Bride and Groom read out their commitment to each other. Roy kicked-off proceedings and Chris’s Dad officiated, and it all sounded, looked and felt fantastic.

With the Service over, everyone followed the married couple over to the House where there was a wide range of drinks on offer. Then it was out into the Gardens (in superb condition given the dry weather) for the official – and less official – photographs.

Front Row: Tim, Kathy, Me, Ann, Pat & Greg
Back Row: Gerry, Mariann, Ron, Becky & Brian (Groom’s Parents) & John

A gazillion of photos followed and after a quick check of the official Table Plan, we headed for our allocated Table – Table 5 – that we were to share with a number of new-found American friends.

Wow! What a friendly group. We were soon chatting away like old friends about this-and-that with plenty of laughter along the way.

The Speeches then followed. Unlike a typical Brit Wedding, there were some extra contributors: In addition to the normal Father-of-the Bride’s (nice one Roy, it was perfect!), Best Man’s and Groom’s, we had the luxury of the Chief Bridesmaid’s (Lauren), the Maid of Honor (Scarlett) – all really good – especially Lauren’s.

Music was courtesy of a live Band (superb!) and a DJ (not so much). It was a real party atmosphere and Ann and I spent a lot of time on the dance-floor (I even got to dance with Roy!). But no-one could up-stage the happy couple – there’s was a lot of love in that room tonight!


Wow! The evening passed really quickly. The weather was briefly disobedient, failing to follow the forecast at one point, with lightning, thunder and a torrential downpour. After some more ‘dance-floor action’, we called it a night and at just after 11, we began to say our goodbyes (even though we’re probably seeing most people tomorrow!) and took the perilous walk in the dark, back the car.

Last night’s detour was still in force, but we navigated it with ease, and were soon back at The Swan for our final night.

Five-to-midnight – and we’re all partied out! What great day!

Saturday

A super-lazy start to the day, after yesterday’s very happy event. Next stop The Mill Hotel, Sudbury for the 11am ‘post-Wedding Brunch’ event.

It was only about 15 minutes away and although the parking was a serious challenge nearby, they did have an official car-park just up the road.

We were one to the first to arrive, but within minutes we were re-acquainting ourselves with most of ‘Table 5’ from last night – a perfect reunion!

We stayed for just a butty and a cuppa (there was plenty of traditional ‘Full-English’ food on offer!) but had plenty of time for a longer natter with our new acquaintances from ‘across the pond’.

We said goodbye to everyone around 12.30 and after a trouble-free journey home were indoors by 2.15. Wow! what a fantastic few days away. The Wedding was he highlight of the year for us, and it was good to see Suffolk again!

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 Wedding Belle appeared first on Steve's Blog.

The 14th

Well, here we are in Amsterdam for our 5th Anniversary (or ‘32nd’ in old money).

After driving over to Birmingham Airport, we caught the 10.10 courtesy of Flybe to Schiphol and then jumped on the train for a short journey to Amsterdam Central. There we grabbed a 48 hour tourist ticket and boarded the No. 2 Tram. Ten minutes later, we arrived at our destination for the next few nights – the rather quaint Dikker & Thijs Fenice Hotel’s. We’re in Room 401, so just as well they’ve got a lift – these Dutch buildings are tall!

 

Then, after a quick unpack, we headed out into the city and a boat-ride round the Canals.

The hour-long trip gave a real good feel for the size and shape of Amsterdam, and the combination of the ship’s captain and the pre-recorded commentary filled in a lot of holes in our knowledge of this fine city.

By 4pm, it was all over and we took the short walk back to our Hotel. By now, it was getting dark and the Christmas lights were starting to come on…

After putting our feet up for a couple of hours, we then headed for our Anniversary meal. Ann had booked it a while ago based on its TripAdvisor reviews – The Blue Spoon Restaurant just about a ten-minute walk away.

Wow! What an interior! It looked like no expense had been spared on the décor, including a very unusual piece of ceiling art (below)…

Unusually, the Restaurant had an open kitchen so you could see your food being prepared – and the food didn’t disappoint! You know you’re onto a winner when they bring the bowl they created the chocolate mousse in, to the table!!

Slightly sozzled, we walked back to the Hotel thinking about what we might do tomorrow – our second, and final day here. The weather isn’t too promising – a coldish day (but at least it’s going to be dry!)

Looks like it’ll be a day of keeping warm and exploring around the local area.

The 15th

Yes, as forecast, a cold and foggy one this morning! So, wandering around the local area seems like a great way to blow away the cobwebs. After my blasé comment yesterday about the Lift, we learned today, that it’s out of action! That’ll teach me to open my mouth!

After a swift breakfast in the hotel, we headed into the grey…

…and the red of Amsterdam.

First cultural stop of the day was the famous Rijks Museum. We haven’t been here since dinosaurs walked the earth – and in that period, it’s had a major makeover (the Museum, not the dinosaur).

…and what a change! They’ve built a massive atrium that covers the entrance area, and everything looks like it’s now got even more space.

This provided the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the Museum’s wide range of exhibits.

…and after all that education, we took a quick pit-stop in the Museum’s Cafe…

…and that’s when we noticed the holographic Christmas Tree! Very impressive – and (virtually) no needles to pick up after Christmas!!!

Then it was back out into the cold and foggy weather for more wandering about! After a quick pit-stop at the standardised McDonald’s lunch (food – reliable, wi-fi – terrible!!).

After nosebag, we found ourselves wandering into the back-streets of Amsterdam – and it was a toss-up (sorry!) between watching a man struggle to get a 10ft skip into his cramped 6ft bedroom window or watch the local girls offer their ample wares from a cramped window.

Damn!!!

(Actually, we did both, but the skip scene seemed to have more of an audience!!)

More mooching around where we learned a new word for ‘sex shop’ – a ‘condomerie’

By now it was getting even colder, so we dived into a large department store to warm up… It’s the first one we’ve ever visited that had a John Lewis concession in it.

…before taking a few final shots of typical Amsterdam…

By now, our extremities were really feeling it (‘it’ being the weather NOT the red light district) and so we headed back to base where I read later, that the whole red-light area is actually in ’Zeedijk’ (geddit!?). As we left ‘the girls’, I also spotted an advert in a local shop: ‘Asian Liquor on Sale’ which made me giggle (in a Sid James sort-of-way). Ooo-err missus!

Back to reality, and something altogether more wholesome: tonight, we’re eating in (as part of the hotel deal) as it’s a three-courser by a visiting Michelin-star Chef.

It’s been a great break (but it could have been warmer!) Home tomorrow!

Previous Anniversaries

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011 – Married

2010 – Engaged!

2009

2008

2007

2006

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 Our Anniversary 2016 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 Salvation Army Carol Concert – 2015 appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We’re really pleased with the way the garden is coming on this year. I can’t claim much of the credit myself – Ann has the green fingers, whilst I do the heavy lifting!

In the evening, it was off to nearby Geddington for a Reception following the wedding of Jonathan and Bec. A great evening – tasty food, time for a good chat and an enthusiastic group of dancers on the dance-floor!

We even witnessed the emergence of a new party game involving the construction (and deconstruction) of the DJ’s inflatable DISCO signage, being re-arranged to form new words – and used as a background to selfies!

Congrats you two – enjoy your honeymoon and see you again soon!

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 Green Fingers and Geddington Wedding appeared first on Steve's Blog.

So, here we are – our second wedding anniversary (or 29 years together in ‘old money’!)

..and we’re still talking!

…and sometimes to each other!

But seriously, some things just work well together, and I’d put us up there with other ‘perfect combos’ such as  Morecambe & Wise, grated cheese & baked beans and Cameron and Clegg (I lied about the last one!)

The wedding-day in 2011 is still very clear in our memories, prompted by us finally getting around to hanging the drawing of Kelmarsh Hall and signed by all those who were there.

Thanks to all those who came – and for those we couldn’t squeeze in, we’re sorry but hope you enjoyed the cake we sent!

Happy days!!!!

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 Anniversary 2/29 appeared first on Steve's Blog.

FRIDAY
We headed off to Worthing, as tomorrow is our good friends’ Ian and Sharon’s 10th wedding anniversary. The event has come round really quickly – it seems like only yesterday, we last roasted in sun-drenched Worthing. Because of the National Bowls Tournament, accommodation had been difficult to book, but we eventually located a small B&B near Arundel – ‘Hanger Down House’ – and that suited our needs perfectly!

We planned to arrive in Worthing about 3pm, drop into I and S’s for a quick hello before having a mooch round Worthing. Unfortunately, leaving home slightly later than planned AND on a Friday was about about the worst combination possible for a trouble-free journey. It all went pretty well until we got close to the Dartford Bridge where everything came to a grinding halt and we idled along at 5mph. Once clear of the Bridge though, the situation improved, and we did well for about another 20 minutes or so, before hitting more roadworks on the M25… and then more roadworks on the M23. We eventually arrived at theirs close on 4pm, after three-and-three-quarter hours behind the wheel! I was shattered!!!

We enjoyed a quick cuppa and a chat before we jumped back in the car and headed for the B&B, (after a quick look round the new mega-Morrison’s in Littlehampton).

 
We arrived at the B&B just after 6  – and ‘superb’ is the only word to describe it! Starting with a very warm welcome from Alison and Andy the owners, before being shown to our room. WOW! it was fantastic!  It had all the essential ‘f’s – Well furnished, a fridge, a flipping comfy bed and free wifi! Perfect! Heck, there was even a jug of milk in the fridge ready for us – nice touch folks!

The view from our room

And that’s where we spent the rest of the day (the room, not the fridge!) – chilling out and enjoying a gourmet packet of do’nuts and rose wine! (part of our ‘five-a-day? Well, the wine label said it had a hint of strawberry whilst the do’nuts had raspberry jam in them!)

SATURDAY
We woke early (habit I guess) and after a late breakfast (for us) at 9am, we headed off in the direction of Chichester and some serious retail therapy. First stop, the new(ish) John Lewis Home outlet just outside the town! Shed loads of quality gear in a relaxed environment. Then, it was off to Chichester town centre.

Scenes of Chichester Town

Chichester was packed – and so we failed miserably to get into the short-stay car-park. The warm weather had certainly brought Sussex out to shop! The long-stay beckoned and after a short walk though the underpass (complete with classical flautist), we were in the town centre ready to browse. And browse we did! Ann surpassed her personal best and set a new record for a  first buy – 34 seconds from perusing to purchasing!

I was tempted by a pair of 300 quid maroon leather shoes, but luckily, I came to my senses just in time!

An hour later, we were all ‘browsed-out’ and headed back to the B&B to get ready for Ian and Sharon’s do. After a quick change, we headed for the venue in Patching. It didn’t take us long to find the Village Hall and we were soon parked-up and ready for celebration. Luckily the weather was warm and we were able to sit outside where the afternoon weather got warmer and warmer – gorgeous!

Snakes on a Plane? No! Belly Dancers at an Anniversary Party!

With Ian and Sharon’s ‘events’ you know you’re going to be fed like Kings and they’ll always be plenty to keep you occupied – and this afternoon was no exception! Truck loads of food including sandwiches, an Indian Buffet, Burgers, dozens of cakes accompanied a Tarot Card Reader, Funny Photo Booth, Belly Dancers, Karaoke (oh no!), Bouncy castle, Surf-board trainer and Cricket!

Lucky it wasn’t fancy dress!

We got a chance to catch-up with Paul, Ian, Ann and Alice and the time really flew! It was a brilliant day, in every sense and we left around 5.15 and back in the B&B by 5.30. Time for feet-up, the TV and that small bottle of rose wine in the fridge!

SUNDAY
We were up at 7am in an attempt to leave not-too late and try and beat the traffic heading home. After a quick breakfast (and after yesterday’s gorge-fest, we didn’t have much room anyway!), we headed home. What a relief – the roads were completely clear of any jams and we managed to get home in exactly three hours including washing and refuelling the car! Excellent!

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 Celebration in Worthing 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.

I can’t believe it’s almost a year since our big day!

I thought I’d bored everyone silly with the wedding photos by now, but ironically, the two people who played such a big part in the event – Jill, from Kelmarsh Hall and Emma form Portfolio Catering had somehow escaped!

So, it was great to be able to finally catch up with them both at Portfolio’s HQ in Lamport today and relive the event!

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 Almost a Year appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Denis and Bev came for lunch today. Ann had prepared a full lamb roast and Bev did us proud by baking a variation on a Bakewell Tart with lemon curd instead of jam – the yummiest dessert I’ve had a in a long while. Cheers Bev!!

After stuffing ourselves, Lee and I rescued the kitchen, whilst Ann and Denis caught up with each other’s news and Ann showed off our wedding photographs – hard to believe that it’s taken us almost seven months to do this!. 

Meanwhile, Bev and I then tried to convert the video she shot of Denis in a Lancaster (his birthday treat, earlier in the week) to DVD format. We failed miserably – and I’m not sure why! In theory we had all the kit to do the job with ease, but I have a feeling it might be that the recordable DVDs were ‘+r’ format, and I think it’s only the ‘-r’ type that play in domestic DVD players.

We finished the afternoon chatting about our forthcoming train-holiday to Germany – and somehow ended up discussing hats and underpants! Weird!!

Time soon whizzed-by, and before we knew it, it was 5pm, and time to say our good-byes. It’s been a great family day, and we’re all looking forward to the holiday.

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 What a Tart! appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We drove the short distance to Rothwell this afternoon, arriving around 5pm to join the celebrations for Paul and Sue’s 25th Anniversary Party. It was an outside event and mercifully, the rain had stopped – and that got the whole thing off to a great start. I guess there must have been around 100 people there and it had a really good party atmosphere.

Although we didn’t know many people there, we did catch-up with Chris and Cathy and also Julian and Barbara (I haven’t seen Julian for many, many years), and we were soon catching up on each others’ news. In between the gossip, there was (just!) enough time to sample the shed loads of buffet food – and ice cream and cake followed – which was just perfect!

There was a local five-piece band playing, where Paul was their recently recruited drummer – and a fine job he did, with familiar tunes wafting across the Rothwell plains.

Paul and Sue’s individual speeches were very touching and well appreciated by the crowd.

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 Paul and Sue’s 25th appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Nicki joined Lee, Ann and I today and we took the 10.30 train to Derby. Weather started off pretty bad – rain, rain and more rain – but then cleared-up to leave a bright sunny day.

We arrived into Derby station (after a quick change at Leicester) around an hour later. The shopping area was very busy and especially the newish Westgate Centre. That’s where we spent most of our time doing all the big stores to death.

We weren’t sure what to do for lunch, but fortunately, the Centre has a communal trough (sorry ‘central eating area’) on the next floor. Fish and chips, Indian, Chinese, Subway, Burger King were all represented and doing good business. We opted for one of the least harmful – fish and chips – and settled down amongst the trillions of others there.

After lunch, we ventured outside the Centre, but we were all feeling quite knackered by now. So it was a quick wander round and then we grabbed a taxi back to the Station. We didn’t have to wait long for our timed-train (that was creaking at the seams with passengers!) and we were back in Kettering by 5pm. As soon as were back, we  fixed ourselves up with a cuppa and a slice of cake and then showed-off the wedding photos to Nicki.

A  good day’s shopping, but we were all surprised how tired we all were! Only one thing left – feet-up with the papers and the TV for the rest of the evening! Nicki left around 7pm, hoping to listen to the tennis featuring everyone’s fave Scot at the moment – Andy (c’mon give us a smile) Murray.

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 Derby Day appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We dropped into Nigel’s this afternoon to pick up the Wedding photographs. It’s been a long wait, but definitely worth it – thanks Nigel, they’ve brought back some very happy memories of our special day.

Friends and Family: Take cover, you know what’ll be the topic of conversation next time we see you!

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 Wedding Photographs appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We drove up to The Queen’s Head in Belton today for lunch with Karen and Ralph. We haven’t been back there since 2010, and it’s a good ‘halfway-house for us all.  It was good to catch-up, as we haven’t seen them since the Wedding! The weather was atrocious, going there and coming back (will it EVER stop raining?) Still, the food and company was excellent – which more than made-up for the crappy driving conditions! The service was good too!

We left around 3pm after exchanging a hefty collection of magazines we’d been saving for them both.

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 Lunch with Karen and Ralph appeared first on Steve's Blog.

I drove over to Northampton today to pick-up our Wedding sketch of Kelmarsh Hall – it’s now been titled and framed by Joy, and looks really good! – Cheers Joy!!!!

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 Joy of Framing appeared first on Steve's Blog.

This is the day we got married!

More details at https://wedding.stevepalmer.com

Next stop? Australia!!

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 Our Wedding Day appeared first on Steve's Blog.

We were up fairly sharpish this morning as it’s check-out day, and we need to be away by 9.30.

As we’re down this way, we dropped into Jonathan and Mel’s who live in Devizes for a cuppa before we see them at the Wedding.

The it was ‘hammer-down’ heading home as Ann’s got a wedding dress fitting and I need to catch-up with work matters.

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 Long Weekend in Long’s Park Castle – Monday appeared first on Steve's Blog.

Tom and I visited the Raj in Kettering tonight. I haven’t been there for over 10 years and as we’re using it for my Stag Night, it was the perfect excuse to try it out – you can never say ‘no’ to a good curry!

Tom introduced me to Gazza the owner, who has clearly thrown a lot of time and money at the place since were last there. In fact, the restaurant was unrecognisable. The up-market decor looked really impressive and they now got an upstairs piano bar too.

We sampled some alcohol and a curry – and it was all fantastic! So was the service. it’s obviously a popular place as it filled up really quickly – by the time we left around 7.30, it was heaving!

So, it looks like a perfect venue for my ‘do’.

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 Raj appeared first on Steve's Blog.