100 Years Ago Today....

It's probably fairly safe to say that December 22, 1909, was a bitterly cold, snowy day, probably with a bright prairie sun shining down upon Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, when their first-born child, Phyllis Hilda (Phyl), was born to Harold and Maud Hier-Davies. This intrepid couple had left England in 1906, to respond to the call to settle the west, and had already spent a couple of years in the Saskatoon, Saskatchewan area, before heading west to Edmonton, Alberta. A small house had been erected, and it seems the plan was to stay there for a while before continuing further west to British Columbia and the west coast. However, this was not to be. Poliomyelitis in the early 1900's was still a killer, and that was what took the life of Phyl's father, when she was just 10 months old. Raising a child on her own was not an option for Phyl's mother. so a return to England a year later was the only solution.....

Fast forward one hundred years to Chipping Sodbury, England, where again the sun is shining brightly, 'snow has fallen, snow on snow', and the temperature is chilly (though not Edmonton- frigid). In an hour or so the time of celebration begins for Phyl, the mother of Jim and Di (Diana) on the occasion of her 100th birthday. The staff of 'The Heathers' have been busy preparing - the room is decorated and the buffet is being prepared, the 'birthday girl' has had her hair done, and is taking a 'beauty rest' in anticipation of the afternoon's excitement.....and it's time for the daughter of the 'birthday girl' to head off up the hill to 'The Heathers'!

Hello From SNOWY England!

Sorry for the delay in getting something posted here.... Put it down to the snow and the unexpectedly chilly weather! It seemed that my arrival was timed just right, as it preceded the snow, yet I was greeted by bright sunshine. The flight even arrived a few minutes early at Heathrow, and travelling from the airport to central London was very straighforward by tube, though I was surprised at how many others were making the same journey - we were packed in like sardines!

A red double-decker bus from Kings' Cross then tookalong City Road to Wesley's Chapel, where I was to meet Ruth, a friend from days at The Abbey, whose volunteer shift in the museum was drawing to a close. To ward off the chill of the winter evening, we decided that a steaming bowl of soup would be in order, so we arranged to meet Ruth's daughter, Bryony, in a French bistro in St. Pancras' Station - now transformed into a cosmopolitan shopping destination, since becoming the Eurostar London terminal. Experiencing the aromas and tastes of French cuisine, we could almost imagine ourselves part of the Parisian scene!

Upon arriving in Ely, Cambridgeshire, the place of retirement of Ruth and husband Bern, we were quite surprised to discover everything covered with a dusting of snow - a dusting of snow which, by the morning, had turned into several inches of snow, transforming the green in front of 'Rehoboth' (R& B's house) into a winter wonderland! Plans to drive to Cambridge for some sightseeing went by the board, but the bright winter sunshine drew us oudoors, both for a walk around the neighbourhood to watch the local schoolkids enjoying the rare pleasure of playing in the snow, and to walk into the centre of Ely, to mail the last of Ruth's Christmas cards and to admire the illuminations along the High Street. Even though refreshed by a visit to Starbucks, we were still very happy to have Bern drive by to pick us up... A couple of 'cut-throat' games of nine-tile Scrabble after supper rounded out a very pleasant and relaxing day.

More bright wintry sunshine most of yesterday, which made the cross-country train journey from Ely to Leicester most enjoyable, first across the flat fens - reminiscent of the Canadian prairies on a very small scale - then throgh the undulating fox-hunting terrain of Rutland (smallest county) and Leicestershire, finally arriving only a few minutes late, at Leicester station, where I was met by cousin Gill, able to drive despite on-going issues after her summer knee replacement surgery. We drove to her sisters' home, in the village of Stoughton just outside Leicester, en route passing by the house which had been our grandmother's, where both Gill and I were born - some eighteen months apart. As we gathered around the table at Ann and Judith's, enjoying a 'proper' English tea, we all agreed that Granny Plum would have been very proud to see her four granddaughters carrying on that wonderful tradition!

A

Long Silence!

If you have been taking a look to see what flotsam 'n' jetsam may have been washed up onto the pages of this blog since the Cape Cod accounts, you will have been disappointed.... My apologies!
Since my return from Massachusetts, much has been happening here at Bevan Walk, though. In fact, so much has been happening that there is another blog on the go, giving a blow-by-blow account of what's going on. You may wish to visit www.bevanwalk.blogspot.com to find out all about it!
As seems to be the case these days, I am currently racing against the clock, to try to get my 'To Do' list finished, before I head off to catch the plane to London, Heathrow, in anticipation of celebrating, just with immediate family, Mother's 100th birthday, on Tuesday, December 22. Check back here to read about how the celebration went, and maybe even to see some pictures!! (No promises, though!)

Cape Cod Capers - PP on the CCRT and other CCTs

Now, that title has you guessing, doesn't it??! As the 'passenger' in the back of Sue's car during the course of our travels was a bike, you may well guess that the above stands for 'Pedal Pushing on the Cape Cod Rail Trail and other Cape Cod Trails'!
I must say I was VERY impressed with the trails on the Cape, and really enjoyed exploring the countryside by bike. Sue was a supportive and encouraging 'coach', each morning suggesting a 'trail of the day', then dropping me off at the trailhead and picking me up at the end of the trail. Sometimes it took as long for her to drive to the pick-up point as it did for me to pedal there... Obviously, trains in the past took a direct route from point A to point B, along a gentle gradient, with NO traffic hold-ups along the way, so it wasn't difficult to see why that should be so....
For those of you familiar with Saanich Peninsula's Lochside Trail, particularly the stretch approaching Matticks' Farm, the Cape Cod Rail Trail is very similar, though somewhat wider, and paved the whole way - definitely the 'leafy lane' kind of trail, particularly striking with fall colours much in evidence. Along the way I encountered some interesting fellow-pedallers, several of whom had retired to their former summer beach cottages - now winterized - from other parts of the States. I gleaned useful local information from these regular CCRT pedallers, plus it was a good excuse to pause and rest awhile.
Head of the Meadows Trail was somewhat different from the CCRT, as it was just a couple of miles long, making its way among scrub-covered sand-dunes, interspersed with bushes sporting brilliant red berries. Once I reached the end of the trail, I noticed another 'trail' which seemed to be heading towards the beach, but as it turned out, it wasn't a trail at all and I was soon bogged down in the sand.. Returning to the official trail, it was an easy pedal back to the trailhead and Coast Guard Beach.
In addition to pedalling along the trails, I also enjoyed exploring some of the residential neighbourhoods, particularly any little lane that caught my fancy. (Who wouldn't be tempted to explore Uncle Abner's Lane, or Aunt Tabitha's Path??) As a result of my explorations, both by bike and on foot, I have a wonderful collection of pictures of Cape Cod cottages - and castles!
Province Lands Trail, at the top end of the Cape, appeared on the map to be a much more challenging trail, but I thought I was up to the challenge (!). Posted signs warned that some parts of the trail were under construction, and I learned later that the plan is to cut out some of the hairpin bends, and eliminate some of the steep hills to make the trail more user friendly. Not sure that I really would have been up to the challenge before the proposed modifications, but as it turned out, that was a moot point anyway;I was stymied in my efforts by a broken chain on the first hill!! Thankfully I was only about half a mile along the trail, so not too far to walk the bike back to the car, oily chain in hand. As the Cape is such a mecca for cyclists, a bike repair shop was easy to find.
The culmination of my Cape Cod Capers of the biking variety was another ride alongside the Cape Cod Canal. We parked the car at Buzzards' Bay, having once again driven across the Bourne Bridge, and enjoyed lunch in the sunshine, beside the rail bridge. The bridge is an unusual structure, bookended by turrets and of sufficient height for a tall ship to pass underneath, yet with the ability to lower the railway track if needed, to allow a train to run along the track to cross over the canal. As we were about to set off along the trail - I on the bike and Sue on foot - a train whistle alerted us to the fact that the bridge was about to lower the railway track, something that obviously doesn't happen too often, so we just timed that right!
Judging by the number of fishermen strung out along the canal bank, this was a good spot for dropping your line in the water, but...... not once did I actually see a fish being landed! Buzzards were much in evidence as well, socializing together on the waterside rocks, but again no sign of a fish ever being caught.... Whether or not they were successful in their efforts, sitting by the water in the sunshine was a pleasant way for both fisherfolk and buzzards to spend an afternoon!

Cape Cod Capers - Kettle Ponds, Lighthouses and Beaches

Yes, Cape Cod has all of the above - in abundance! The Cape is a glacial deposit that is constantly undergoing natural changes, as winds and water move sand along the shorelines,tearing away one place and building up another. Away from the shorelines, there are many indentations in which ponds, known as kettle ponds, were formed after glaciers receded. We passed many such ponds in our wanderings around the Cape. It seemed that, no matter where we looked, the sun was reflecting off some body of water or another.... if it wasn't a kettle pond, it was an inlet or the ocean itself.
What a variety of beaches we visited! Herring Cove, at the north end of the Cape, had the wildest waves, and it was easy to see why nearby Race Point Light was so necessary. As is the case with so many of the lighthouses on the Cape, there was no access for the general public, so we were just able to gaze from a distance.
The site of the oldest lighthouse, known as either Cape Cod Light or Highland Light, was easily accessible though. The original structure, however, had been taken down and replaced by a newer one. Because the sandy shore is so easily eroded by wind and waves, the new lighthouse was erected some distance farther inland from the shoreline.
The lighthouse closest to where we were staying was, of course, the Chatham Light, guarding the entrance to the harbour, ensuring that vessels don't run aground on the long sandbar that stretches some distance out to sea, down the east side of the harbour. The sandbar was clearly visible from the beach, and the powerful force of the waves has even broken breached the sandbar recently.
The current claim to fame of the beach in front of Chatham Light is that it is shark-infested!! Apparently a great number of seals have moved in, and this has enticed the sharks to come for the easy pickings! As it was a beautiful sunny morning when we were down on the beach, I couldn't resist kicking off my flip-flops and wading into the chilly Atlantic - which actually wasn't too chilly! My time up to my ankles in the waves was brief, and the moment I exited the water, there was a flurry of activity nearby...but thankfully it was just a few seals approaching the beach to see what was going on!
Many of the beaches we visited had interesting names: Head of the Meadows, Longnook, Coast Guard, Great Hollow, Pilgrim Heights and Corn Hill, which gave us a clue as to what had happened there in the past and/or the kind of terrain to expect. As our bag lunch each day was enjoyed at a different beach, we visited a number of beaches then, plus explored others during the day. Many of the beaches were surrounded by fragile sand dunes, with signs erected to discourage people from climbing the dunes, or even from walking on them, for that matter... We were told that much effort has been put forth in recent years, as volunteers have painstakingly planted tufts of grass on the dunes, in hopes of to cutting down on wind erosion. As we drove along, we certainly saw evidence of the power of the wind to shift sand - negotiating our way through a number of mini sand drifts was much like driving through drifting snow on the prairies!

Cape Cod Capers - Arriving on the Cape

Not sure how many 'capers' I shall get around to relating, but this is the first...
As is the case with getting on and off Vancouver Island, much thought and planning is put into getting on and off Cape Cod, the only difference being that the traveller to the Cape has two bridges - Bourne and Sagamore - rather than ferries to contend with. Add to the mix the fact that the Sagamore Bridge is undergoing repairs, and it's easy to see why good planning is so important. Sue's neighbour, Trudi, whose Cape Cod Beach cottage we were heading to, gave us excellent directions, so that we were able to avoid those dreaded traffic line-ups, and getting on to the Cape was a breeze!
We had breezy weather that day - last Monday, Sept. 28 - and sunshine as well, so as soon as we were across the Bourne Bridge, we wended our way down to the Cape Cod Canal, and the multi-purpose trail running alongside it. This turned out to be an ideal spot for biking - and walking, roller-blading, skate-boarding or whatever you felt like doing - so I wheeled along for some six or seven miles, to rendezvous with Sue at the Sandwich Marina. Making our way through Sandwich, we did encounter some traffic line-ups, but thankfully they were not going our way, but were commuters returning to the mainland after their day of work on the Cape. We learned that for many, living on the Cape is not an option, as it is so expensive....
It was an easy drive up the scenic Mid-Island Highway,, and soon we were at the 'elbow' of the Cape, where Chatham is located. We took an unplanned drive of exploration around Chatham - I misread Trudi's excellent directions! - and were wowed by the huge homes on expansive estates, interspersed with bays and ponds, that we passed along the way. We eventually found ourselves at Squanto Drive, where Trudi's cottage is located. It is nestled down a slight slope, close to the bank of the Oyster River, where we could watch various little sailboats and other craft bobbing around at anchor.
The cottage itself was quite charming! Each of the three bedrooms, and the living room, had its own unique beach/nautical decor, and was so cozy and inviting. In no time at all, we had made ourselves thoroughly at home, preparing a 'gourmet'supper in the well-equipped kitchen...

Fall Foray

After a couple of weeks of sunny September days in Sidney, it was time to set off for my second annual Fall Foray to New England, to spend time with dear friend, Sue Dierks - most recently of Nanaimo, Vancouver Island.

Bright sunny weather greeted my arrival early last week, and that was the norm, until Sunday. Making the most of the sunshine, though, we spent lots of time outside. Thursday was the day for a trip up into Vermont, where the fall colours were much more in evidence than here, so with all those tree-covered hills and mountains, we were constantly turning our heads this way and that, to appreciate the wonderful variety of shades, and subtleties of colour, all around us. The Woodstock Inn, in Woodstock, VT, was our lunch destination. The Inn was built on a grand scale, with an impressive front entrance leading into a lobby with an enormous fireplace. The logs stacked beside it were each several feet long, and it was easy to imagine a blazing fire in the grate, with skiers toasting their toes after an energetic day on the slopes!  Of course, the day we were there was a warm and sunny fall day, and we were able to enjoy the colourful flowers in the gardens, and to explore the town of Woodstock itself.

Quechee Gorge - described as Vermont's little Grand Canyon - was the next stop along the way.We were cautioned not to go down to the bottom of the gorge, but I did take a little walk along the edge, as far as the dam, marvelling at the depth of the canyon. 

A demonstration of glass-blowing, at the Simon Pearce glass factory, was most interesting - and hot, too! Apparently most of the glass-blowers working there had never done any glass-blowing before they came to work at the factory, but became proficient at the art in a matter of just a few years.

Just a few yards from the property on which Sue's condo is situated, there is a wonderful rail trail, primarily for biking , but also for walkers. As the weather has been so beautiful, I have been able to get out quite a bit on the trail, even pedalling a couple of times to Curves, in Northampton, just over 6 miles in each direction. As we are heading off to Cape Cod to spend a few days there, I am planning to get in some more biking, as I have heard that there are some very good trails there. Sue's neighbour, Trudi, has very kindly invited us to use her cottage, in Chatham, on Cape Cod, so we are definitely looking forward to that. We are optimistic that the weather will be sunnyToday for our Cape capers! 

Today's adventure - in the rain! - was to walk into the centre of Amherst to watch the big parade in honour of the town's 250th anniversary. We  took along the 'granny cart',  loaded with folding chairs, umbrellas and  our lunch, and made our way into town along the rail trail. We found ourselves a prime spot in the town centre, set up our chairs and umbrellas, and proceeded to enjoy our lunch, in the rain, as we awaited the start of the parade. The parade had hardly begun, when the rain eased off, and it remained dry for the next two hours, as the various floats, bands, vehicles and animals wended their way past us. There were several marching bands, the most impressive of which, for sheer numbers alone, was the University of Massachusetts (UMass) band. It seemed as though there were several hundred musicians and singers, but that is probably a gross exaggeration! The UMass campus is just a few minutes away from where Sue lives.

In addition to the marching bands, there were floats depicting the history of Amherst, local clubs and associations, such as 4H, Skating Club. Swim Club, Pony Club, Shriners and Rotary. As is traditional at such events, there was much tossing of candy etc., by the parade participants, into the crowds of spectators. Of course, the candy is primarily for the kids, but I did make a rather spectacular catch of a donut (in plastic bag) tho' I do say so myself!

Coming soon - an account of our Cape Capers!! 

Saskatchewan in September

September began with a visit to Saskatchewan....by way of the Okanagan, my home during the seventies and early eighties. The purpose of that whistle stop visit was to attend the memorial service for Rose Shingler, a friend and former teaching colleague. It was a beautiful service of remembrance, and there were a number of friends from years gone by who were there in Oliver to pay tribute to Rose, and to support Les and family in their loss.

Thanks to Nell and Gerhard, who picked me up at Kelowna airport, then delivered me back there afterwards, I was still able to make it to Oliver, despite the flight out of Victoria being delayed in the morning. By the time I arrived back at the Kelowna airport, my day was far from over; I still had two more flights to take, before I arrived in Saskatoon, just before midnight. I was so thankful to be met by friend Phyllis, who so kindly came to meet me, despite the late hour...

My time in Saskatoon was a whirlwind of activity, with warm sunny weather, apparently some of the best of the summer! Much time was enjoyed on the scenic riverbank with various friends - Phyllis, Eileen, Eleanor and Helen - with even a trip on the 'Meewasin Queen' in the late afternoon sunshine. Another evening there was a spectacular display of fireworks, set off on the historic iron bridge, in honour of Labour Day weekend. 

I was blessed with more sunshine as I drove out to Macklin, on the Saskatchewan - Alberta border, where I spent time with Bill's sister, Clara, and his brother, Jim. It was good to see them, plus various other younger members of the family, and to catch up on the news.

My return journey to Saskatoon was very enjoyable - and literally took an unexpected turn! Earlier last month I had been looking through some old papers of my pioneering grandparents, who had come to Canada in March, 1906 to settle in the west. Their first place of residence, after they had made their way by train following disembarkation in Quebec, was Fielding, Saskatchewan. In all my years of living on the prairies, I had never taken this detour, but when I turned off the Yellowhead highway, at the sign indicating Fielding, I was hard-pressed to even find the community! I came across a number of abandoned buildings, without much sign of life at all, and I was trying hard to imagine, through the eyes of the newly-weds from England, what the place must have looked like during the early 1900s....

Rounding the corner of the dusty road that led to the Fielding Memorial Hall, all of a sudden I noticed several signs of life - smoke curling out of a stove pipe in a cluster of trees, a small black and white dog dashing out towards me - barking furiously! - then, finally, a little old lady emerged, curious to know what all the commotion was about! This proved to be a most interesting encounter.

Although it turned out that my new acquaintance was not a genuine 'old-timer' of Fielding, having lived most of her life elsewhere in Saskatchewan,  she was able to fill in a number of details for me. Whatever the population had been in 1906, the current population is just 7! I should imagine that it must have dwindled considerably, as young people born and raised in the community moved away to find work in the city, where they often married and settled down.... Katerina told me that she herself was married - for the second time - in the Memorial Hall I had been busy photographing, and she was sad to see that it had become so neglected after having provided a focal point for the community for so long.

Katerina was obviously very happy to have company, and she showed me all around her property. She had created several memorials to various family members, no longer living, and she told me about each one. She also showed me all around her summer kitchen - from whence the smoke was drifting up the stove pipe - .as well as her summer dining room, summer living room, and summer bedroom, all nestled in the trees, ready to be enjoyed by Katerina and her guests during the summer months.

Short though my visit to Saskatchewan was, it was good to see so many friends in Saskatoon, as well as Bill's family out in Macklin, and to get caught up on the latest news.  Special thanks to Phyllis for her wonderful hospitality, and to Barry and Eileen for the generous loan of their Pathfinder wheels to drive to and from Macklin.

I Think She's Got It!!

It looks as though I have succeeded in getting the pictures more or less where I want them to be... so to each of you viewing - ENJOY!
And a BIG thanks to each of you Golden Gals for a most memorable day!

Passing in Active Pass..

Hang onto Your Hats!

The Golden Gals!!

The Scrabblers - Jean, D and Linda (supervised by Lesley!)

Lesley Knitting, Catherine Chatting....

Must be a Good Book, Shirley!

An Interesting Encounter....

Thanks for the Leis, Catherine!

Ready for Dessert Yet?

Shirley, Jean and Linda before we board...

Checking out the buffet!

A Memorable Day! Gold Plus One!

As 'Gold Plus One Day', I think today warrants a few lines - and possibly a few pictures as well, if I can remember how to get them here....
I have just returned from a 'Gold Card Cruise' with five lovely ladies of a certain age - that 'certain age' being such that we all qualify for free ferry travel Mon. - Thurs. All we had to do was to flash our Gold Cards as we boarded the 'Coastal Celebration' (apt name, eh?) and we were on our way. Our 'cruise' was a continuous ferry ride from Swartz Bay (Victoria, but actually only a few minutes' drive from Sidney, where most of us live) to Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and back to Swartz Bay.
The weather was perfect for such a trip; sunny, but with a pleasant breeze to keep it from being too hot. However, most of the first leg of our cruise was actually spent inside, as we ate lunch in the comfort of the Pacific Buffet. Several trips to the sumptuous spread were taken by each of us as we sampled the varied offerings. Whenever we took a break from our chatting or sampling delicacies, our eyes were drawn to the spectacular scenery slipping by in an ever-changing vista of sailboats, islands, and even the ferry passing in the opposite direction. Where else could we have found a more scenic spot for lunch??
A quick trip to the Gift Shop, and another flashing of the Gold Card, and we were all set for the trip back, without even having to disembark at Tsawwassen! As 'Coastal Celebration' can be 'driven' in either direction, we headed to the open deck on the other end of the vessel (so that once again we'd be at the 'front') climbed one level up from the Pacific Buffet, and prepared for some serious relaxation (after the serious chatting and serious eating...) As I hope you'll be able to see from the pictures, some of us relaxed by playing Scrabble, while knitting, reading and chatting were popular too.
The day is not yet over by a long chalk - browsing around the weekly Thursday evening market is next on the agenda, followed by an outdoor movie showing of...? ....I'm not sure what the movie is, but the idea of a movie under the stars appeals, particularly as the weather is warm and clear.
Many thanks to those who phoned and/or sent birthday greetings today. All much appreciated, even though I know I haven't responded to each of you personally!

My Fisherman Friend!

A Chapter Closes

Just to clarify: most of the post identified as being composed on Monday, May 25, was actually composed today, Saturday, May 30 - the day when the chapter closes!
(I had the first part saved as a draft, and assumed that it would all go under today's date... still lots to learn!)

How Time Flies!

I can hardly believe that it is now way more than two weeks since I returned from England - and I have hardly had time to sit at the computer to post a blog! I'm sure you all assumed that no news is good news, and that I had returned safely, even though I hadn't actually reported the fact... All flights were on time, and more importantly, uneventful.
My time away concluded with another pleasant gathering, this time in St. Alban's. I met up with a couple of gals with whom I started at The Abbey in 1954, so there was lots of ground to cover! Good to see you both again, Kay and Gill - and thanks, Gill, for picking me up in Oxford, and dropping me off in St. Alban's after lunch, at Di and John's home. Di and I were on staff together at the Abbey Junior School, the year just before I left for Canada in 1968 - so we go back quite a while! It was a lovely, relaxing visit to round off my time away, and many thanks, Di and John, particularly for getting up early to drive me to Heathrow airport through the challenging M25 Monday morning traffic!
Since my return I seem to have been busy, busy, busy, as I've settled back into my routine, plus been drawn into the decision-making process for the required remediation of the building. The decision to have the work done is now official, and apllication for the government interest-free loan is underway. Apparently it takes some six weeks before approval is given - if it's going to be given! - so it will be at least early July before I hear know what's what....
We have been having some wonderful sunny, warm weather, so I have been making the most of that, with daily walks along the waterfront, plus biking excursions. It's good to be home for a while, and so far I have no definite plans for another trip, as I discovered that grandson Tony's official high school grad ceremony isn't until the end of October! He may come out here for a visit sometime after school finishes, but that will depend on summer work plans at the Golden Arches...!
If he does come, I shall look forward to having a personal computer coach on hand, and - who knows? - one of these days, there might even be some pictures for you to view on this page. Perhaps on Facebook too - but time will tell, so don't hold your breath!
Apart from that possible development, please consider this, oh faithful reader, the official conclusion of this chapter of the blog (but check back once in a while in case a new chapter begins!).

I Rode Trigger at the Badminton Horse Trials....

...and have the pictures to prove it!! However, you'll have to wait for the picture(s) until such time as I figure out how to include them in 'F 'n' J'. I should add that great-niece Lily (5) also rode Trigger, once Grauntie Di had him well warmed up! As mentioned on the ad beside him, Trigger had real horsepower, in fact he had unlimited horsepower because.....he was a mechanical horse!! Fortunately there was a mounting block conveniently located, so climbing aboard wasn't a problem - all that swinging of the leg over the bike seat stood me in good stead, but dismounting was another story... Somewhat reminiscent of the 'beached whale' act, for those of you who remember that! Anyway, the ride would have been worthy of a place on my 'Bucket List', if I had one, and I surprised myself at still being able to canter - gallop? - without falling off. Of course, little Miss Lily rode like a real pro, with Mummy Sue and Grandma Judy on either flank 'just in case'.
Despite the strong winds all day, we had a most enjoyable time at the Badminton Horse Trials yesterday afternoon. There wasn't a lot of action by the horses and riders, other than in the dressage ring, but there was a great deal of action on the shopping front! Apparently, that is the main thrust for the first two days. Very interesting to poke around the endless rows of stalls and stands, and see what is on offer, but neither Judy nor I found anything we couldn't resist. A good thing for me certainly, as I have limited space for extra stuff.... Thanks, Sue, for arranging the afternoon for us, and thanks, Judy, for accompanying me - and making sure I didn't get lost!
And now back to that gathering of the 'lovely ladies of a certain age who left the Abbey School in 1962', in London on Thursday. It was a most successful day, a real blast from the past, as several of us hadn't met since 1962! Lots to catch up on! I arrived last, as the ticket I had didn't permit travel until 9:30am, and the journey from Bristol to London is 90 mins, without counting the time to travel by tube then cross the Thames (by bridge). Things were well under way by that time, the old photo albums were being scrutinized (must remember to take a magnifying glass next time) and the anecdotes were in full swing. Our meeting place was at the National Theatre coffee shop, then we moved on to a nearby restaurant for lunch, stopping en route for pictures by the Thames (hopefully with St. Paul's Cathedral in the background) kindly taken by a good-hearted and patient passerby. After our 'power lunch', some had to head off home, while the rest of us continued our reminiscing in the foyer of the Royal Festival Hall. So long did we reminisce that I almost didn't make it to Victoria Coach Station in time to catch the Chippenham coach. Had it not been for a man standing at the coach door, with tickets in hand, waiting in vain for his wife to turn up, who was happy to recoup anything he could on those tickets I would have been left behind, as I was too late to buy a ticket in the regular way. Anyway, everything turned out fine - and thanks to Beryl for leading me at a brisk pace to Victoria, to Judy for picking me up in Chippenham, to Ruth and Gill for arranging the gathering, and to Anne, Jane, Judith, Pam and Sandra, plus the previously mentioned, who travelled from various points to be there. To those who weren't able to come - we missed you, but hope we'll all manage to get together in the not-too-distant future.
Well, my time in the UK is drawing to a close. I leave Chipping Sodbury tomorrow morning - thenks for picking me up, Jim, to drive me to Chippenham, and thanks, Gill for picking me up in Oxford, then driving me to St. Albans., hopefully to meet a few more of those'lovely ladies....' for lunch, before overnighting with friends, Di and John, who have very kindly offered to drive me to Heathrow on Monday am in time for my flight. thanks, D & J! I know I shall be very happy to get back, to my own place, and particularly to my own bed!
Aside from all the adventures related in 'F 'n' J', I have had some good visits with Mother at 'The Heathers' - and have the pictures to prove that too! Some of the time, I think she knows who I am, and when she doesn't, well, it doesn't really matter , so long as she is enjoying having me there.

Ceilidhs and Other Assorted Gatherings

I think I made mention of the dancing in the street in Pitlochry in the past, but didn't describe the two ceilidhs we attended this time around. They proved to be a lot of fun, as active participation was definitely encouraged! Despite aching muscles and weary bones after the activities of the day, at the sound of the accordion music, we were up on our feet and ready to go! We had great fun joining others of the same ilk, as we tried to remember how to dance 'Strip the Willow', the 'Gay Gordons', 'Circassian Circle' etc. etc. There was much hilarity, particularly when there were women having to dance the man's part, and it was unclear who was who!
The Saturday night festivities included a Highland Feast - no haggis though! - as well as a demonstration by two gold-medal dancers. The 'wee laddie', who looked about ten, but was actually 13, was multi-talented, as he also played the bagpipes. Some of the local dancers were on hand to encourage and guide us, particularly in the intricacies of the 'Grand March', a popular dance at Highland weddings, led by the bride and groom.
Another gathering, this time in Leicester, was the first item on the agenda when we returned from north of the border. Cousins three - Ann, plus her sisters, Gill and Judith - Gill's husband, Chris, plus Simon, the eldest of their five sons, and Matthew, son number 4, as well as Simon's girlfriend, Katrina, made up the party gathered at the Yews - a Chef and Brewer. It was a very cheerful - and perhaps a little noisy? - gathering, and we were the last ones to leave, around 11pm, so we were obviously having a good time! It was certainly great to see everyone who was able to make it. I sat beside Simon, and we were able to chat a little about Simon's visit to Canada a couple of years or so ago, when he stopped off to visit me in Sidney for a few days.
The next gathering, on a smaller scale, was in Chipping Sodbury, where four of us who had been at college together in Portsmouth, gathered at the 'Beaufort Hunt' to enjoy a 'Golden Oldies' lunch together in the lounge bar - which we fortunately had to ourselves, as, once again, things got a little noisy! Thanks, Brenda and Maggie, for making the trek down from London and Godalming by train, and thanks to Jane for doing the pick-up from Chippenham station to C/S, and then taking us on a lovely drive out to Stout's Hill after lunch. (Although we ate well at lunch time, that wasn't the reason we chose to visit a hill of that particular name! Stout's Hill is actually a beautiful old country estate, formerly a prep. school, but now a timeshare where Bill and I had stayed in the past, and where I have stayed since then.)
Yesterday was the gathering of 'lovely ladies of a certain age who left The Abbey School, Reading in 1962' in London - again another larger gathering. The previous day it had been a quiet lunch gathering at the 'Dog' in Old Sodbury, with Stella and Graham. Stella and I taught together in Cumnor - just outside Oxford - in 1966/67, and we have met up several times in recent years at the 'Dog'. We had a very enjoyable lunch together, then they very kindly dropped me off in C/S before heading back up the M4 to the Swindon area. Thanks so much for coming!
as I have just been warned that my session is about to come to an end, I shall leave you on tenterhooks, as you wonder what transpired at the gathering of 'the lovely ladies of a certain age.....' yesterday!

Motoring and Meandering!

Tomorrow's travel plans having been finalized, and a few e-mails dealt with, I can now turn my attention - and remaining allotted time on the computer - to filling in some of the details of our Scottish doings...
Friday was our day for venturing farther afield - by car, not by bike! - and it turned out that we chose the right day. There were some heavyish showers at various times throughout the day, when we were particularly glad that we weren't either walking or on our bikes....
From Aviemore we drove to the farthest point, then worked our way back, stopping at the places that particularly interested us. I had a query as to whether we had made it to Kenmore, a quaint little village at the head of Loch Tay,and that was our farthest point out! Its claim to fame is that its hotel, the Kenmore Hotel, is the oldest inn in Scotland! IDates are not my strong point, but it seems to me that it was built sometime in the late 1500's. We were very taken with both the village and the hotel, enjoying a coffee-time sit down in front of a blazing log fire in the lobby. Of course we were very interested in the name, because our grandmother's house in Leicester - the house where I was born - went by that name, and we were wondering whether there was any connection with the Scottish Kenmore.....
Aberfeldy was our next stop. On a trip to Scotland with my father, when I was perhaps fifteen, I remember going to the Aberfeldy Agricultural Show in the area. This time we wandered along the main street, buying meatpies for our supper at the local butcher's, but declining the black pudding and other 'delicacies' on display... A couple of doors down was a very old-fashioned looking clothing store, not too inviting, but the rain propelled us in. Despite appearances to the contrary,we discovered that there were good buys to be had, particularly on rainjackets, which was just what I was looking for! Then it was a question of what to do with the jacket I already had? No problem! A thrift sale underway in a nearby church enabled me to do a 'shop-drop', and I'm sure the ladies running it - very busy at the time when we were there - wondered later where a certain royal blue jacket appeared from on the ladies' coat rack, still covered with raindrops! No doubt some local'sauncy lass' would have been very happy to find it!!
Our lunch stop was Grantully, at the 'Inn on the Tay', formerly the Riverside Inn. A little side trip up a narrow track on the opposite bank of the Tay to a bluebell wood, brought us to the spot where the Wilkie cousins gathered a few years ago to scatter the ashes of Uncle Sandy and Auntie Anna. Such a beautiful and peaceful spot...
It seemed that, at every turn along our route, we were 'wowed' by the scenery - the intense green of the grass (all that rain!) the sheep, with lambs either nestled beide their mothers or gambolling nearby, plus the occasional 'hairy coo' in the distance.
Driving through Pitlochry, we recollected our time of dancing in the street there on 'N'er Day' (New Year's Day) 2005, and spotted the hotel from whence hot chocolate and sausage rolls had been brought at that time! We continued on through Pitlochry to the Soldier's Leap in the Pass of Killiecrankie, en route for the Queen's View (Queen Victoria? Queen Isabella?)to enjoy both the view and a wee spot of tea.
By the time we reached Blair Atholl and Blair Castle, it was getting too late to see around the castle and grounds, but we were rewarded with a close encounter, fortunately behind several strands of electric fence and barbed wire, with several 'hairy coos'. (In case you have been wondering, these are those hairy highland cattle with the decidedly manacing horns, native to the highlands of Scotland!)
On previous visits to the area I myself have explored both Blair Castle and grounds, of particular interest to members of the Wilkie clan as Peter Wilkie, cousin of our grandfather Alexander Wilkie, was Pipe Major some forty or fifty years ago, of the Duke of Atholl's army, the only private army in the land. Peter Wilkie's picture even graced the cover of the glossy magazine 'The Field' for one issue during his tenure!
In relating the doings of last Friday, I am surprised at all the things we managed to accomplish in one day!
There is yet more to tell of our Scottish adventures, so continue to watch this space!

Back in Chipping Sodbury!

Well, here I am, back sitting at the computer in Chipping Sodbury Library! Much to tell, but little time in which to tell it. My allotted computer time is running out, as I have had to use much of it to research possible travel plans for the next few days. Now I must away to pay a short visit to Mother at The Heathers, before meeting three college friends for lunch here in C/S. Just wanted to post a few lines, though, so that you, my loyal readers, would know that there is the possibility of more news being posted here in the near future!

Haggis, Osprey, Pipes - Not to Mention More Biking!!

The days - and evenings - are so full that there is little time to journal before moving on to the next thing, so apologies for the silence during the last few days. Amazingly the weather has been mostly dry, with even a little sun, and has in no way limited our outdoor activities.
Wednesday saw us taking a trip back in time as we rode the Strathspey Steam Train up to Broomhill station - Glen Bogle station to those who are fans of 'Monarch of the Glen'. The scenery was spectacular, and quite varied - heather-covered flattish heathland, billiant green hillsides dotted with sheep and lambs of several different varieties, with the Cairngorms themselves making a backdrop of purplish mauve. Our time in Broomhill was brief, just long enough to take the requisite pictures, then we began our return journey to Aviemore. We had opted to take a 2hour stop in Boat of Garten, which proved to be the right decision as there was a lovely, peaceful bird sanctuary where we found a very convenient bench for our noon 'wee piece'! In fact, we were so taken with boat of Garten (so-named because of the ferry that crossed the River Spey at that point prior to the building of the bridge) that we decided to rent bikes again the next day, and bike up there for ourselves. Needless to say, the 'flattish' areas did not feel that way when our legs were providing the power....It was 7 miles in each direction, then we added on a further 2.5 miles in each direction as we visited the local Osprey Protection Centre, where we were able to view, through binoculars, the osprey - both mama and papa! - sitting on the eggs, but not both at the same time! The 'expert' there was very passionate about osprey, and we gleaned a lot of info.
Later that same day we drove into Inverness, to dine out on some wonderful haggis and attend a concert with the pipes and drums of the Scots Guards!

Biking, Swimming, Foot-Slogging - No Time for Blogging!!

A little damp and bedraggled after my swim - and soak in the not-too-hot tub for those sore muscles - I am swinging by the internet access to get a few lines posted, while cousin Ann goes to make a start on supper. We have been very good about 'eating in' in the evening,and making a 'wee piece' to have at noon!
As you probably gathered, our days are full, but we have been blessed with dry weather, and even sun at times, so have been making the most of that! Yesterday we walked for at least five miles, through woods and heathland, then partway around a nearby loch. Today we rented bikes - set off at 9:30am and returned at 4:30pm, so we may well be unable to get out of bed in the morning..... No idea just how many miles we pedaled, but it certainly wasn't an 'easy ride' and entailed much pedal-pushing. We came upon a herd of deer at the start of our ride, but they scattered at speed when they heard us. A little later we came upon a gentleman, of a certain age, who told us that he had camped out last night. I wasn't surprised as he was beside a lochan (small loch) and appeared to be just finishing his morning ablutions! His local knowledge proved to be very useful as he pointed us in the right direction for our destination.
During the course of the day the weather just got better and better, so that we decided to drve up Cairn Gorm. Despite the sunny periods though, visibility wasn't too good. There is a funicular railway which could take us farther up, but unless the visibility is good, not much point in making the trip.
I realize that I haven't mentioned much about the days preceding our flight to Scotland, but everything went really well. My time with Ruth and Bern in Ely, Cambs. was very relaxing and enjoyable - and the sun shone!! Saturday morning Ruth and I made an early start to travel by train to Reading, via London, to attend the reunion at The Abbey. Even though it had not been widely publicized, there was quite a good crowd there, some of whom I hadn't seen for ages. Needless to say, we were pretty talked out by the end of the day.....
Now to do a little research on the internet in preparation for tomorrow's activities - and maybe find some e-mail. (Thanks to those who have sent news - much appreciated.)

Here in the Highlands!

A soft Scotch mist was dampening our jackets as we strolled along the road leading from Sacandinavian Village in Aviemore, our home for the rest of this week. When we left cousin Ann's place near Leicester, the sun was shining, but of course here in Scotland we are at a higher altitude, plus quite a bit farther north..... All parts of our journey here went without a hitch, so that we enjoyed a leisurely drive here from Inverness, after having picked up some groceries en route. We feasted our eyes on the beautiful mountain scenery, with sheep - and lambs! - grazing amongst the tussocks of heather in the foreground. Right now, Ann is studying brochures for ideas of what we could do. Despite the fact that it is the 'quiet' season (post ski-and pre-summer tourist-) it looks as though there will be lots to do. Hadn't planned this little session at the computer, but came upon free internet access,so... carpe diem!

Safe Arrival!

The most important piece of news to report is that I arrived safely in England, just twenty-four hours ago. After a good night's sleep I feel a lot more rested, so here I am, seated at a computer in Chipping Sodbury Library, ready to do some blogging. I have just read my e-mails, so many thanks to those who sent them! I hope your queries will be answered in today's 'Flotsam and Jetsam'.
I was asked how you send me an e-mail via 'F & J' - the answer is that I don't know! However, I do know that you can e-mail me at seasiderdi@gmail.com, as well as at my usual shaw.ca. If you wish to phone, my mobile no. here in the UK is 07969 742965 (01144 7969 742965 from Canada).
As mentioned previously, I made a quick trip to Abbotsford on Monday morning. Having arrived in Vancouver by 6am, I was out to Abbotsford shortly after 8am, where I was warmly welcomed by dear friends of longstanding, Ruth and John. The purpose of my visit at that particular time, was to attend with R & J the funeral service for our mutual friend, and former teaching colleague at Oliver Elementary School in the '70s, John McRae. The service was a wonderful celebration of the life of a Godly man, who will be sorely missed by his loving wife of 43 years, Mary, their five kids and 17 grandkids, plus all those whose lives he touched. I hadn't seen the kids for many years, so it was very special to be greeted by name (Miss Wilkie!) and a hug byJames, whom I had taught in Grade 4. He did a wonderful job of leading the singing for the service, as well as sharing with the congregation - together with his brother and three sisters - fond memories of his father, both poignant and humorous....
I was very thankful that the weather was fine for my driving on Monday, and that I managed to get there and back without getting lost, in good time to check in for my flight. I am very thankful, too, that the flight was uneventful, and the subsequent parts of the journey, via underground and train, went smoothly. Brother Jim was at the train station to meet me, and after a few side trips in Bristol, we went together to 'The Heathers' to visit Mother. We had a good time together. She knows very well who Jim is, but was somewhat hazy about who I was. It will be interesting to see how my viasit today with her goes. Apparently she is better when there is just one person visiting....

A Short Night...and a Long Day

Just a few lines before I crawl into bed for some shuteye... My bag is packed, papers dealt with, with dear friend Merlie offering to drive me to the airport for 4: 30am.
Once in Vancouver, I pick up a car to drive to Abbotsford, where I shall visit with friends before heading back to YVR in time to catch the evening flight to London. I am anticipating being tired enough to sleep at least part of the way....
Apologies if I didn't respond to/contact you, but I just ran out of time. More details once I am in the UK!

Is Spring Here to Stay??

Wow! Back to back sunny days! It feels so good to get out there and enjoy that sunshine, whether walking or biking....

However, the countdown is on, so I need to concentrate on preparing for my trip to the UK, which promises to be an interesting and busy time. There will be visits to Mother (99) at The Heathers in Chipping Sodbury, get-togethers with family members, several gatherings of former Abbey 'girls', plus lunches with other friends, as well as a week in Scotland, in the Cairngorms, with cousin Ann. Hopefully, spring weather will be in evidence for my visit, especially during that week in the Scottish mountains!!

It Worked!

Well, it worked! This has turned out to be much easier than I thought.... I don't plan to divulge too much information re:my identity, but those who are reading this will know who I am! I have just finished measuring the dimensions of my various bags in preparation for my departure for the UK on Monday, April 20 (arriving at Heathrow on Tuesday, April 21). The need to have a bag of the correct dimensions is for the Flybe flight from Birmingham to Inverness, when Cousin Ann and I travel to Scotland for a week in the Cairngorms. Trying to restrict myself, for a week, to what will fit into a bag 50cm long, 35cm wide and 23cm deep (including wheels and handle) will be quite a challenge... but at least I have identified the bag of the correct dimensions.

First Foray

Here is my first foray into the world of blogging!
I am hoping that this blog will be particularly useful when I am travelling, as I'll be able to let others know what I'm up to without having to send out a slew of e-mails! Less work for me, and less intrusive for those who may or may not be interested in my doings.....