Sunday morning and readjusting to homelife in the Land of Nine Smiles.
Oi's mum kept the house in great order and the garden is looking fine.Grace is having sleepless nights due to the time difference and went to bed at 2 o'clock last night. Oi is happy to be back in her homeland and enjoying her mum's company. I have been disappearing into the world of Cadfael and the game Knights of Honour. Why am I being so medieval? The Cadfael download of 21 books by Ellis Peter is fantastic. I am still on the first one, One Corpse Too Many but am hooked. I haven't enjoyed a book this much in ages. Madam Bovary remains unfinished. If you have a moment, or the inclination, Knights of Honour is an awesome strategy game.
The weather is hot as usual and I have a few tasks to do. I phoned Phit who said Gee has left Smart English and the office has lost two schools since last term which is a shame.
I have put my new Maisy books proudly with the others and sorted my Carcassonne game and hidden it from Grace's naughty fingers.
Grace was delighted to be reunited with Ching-Ching, the girl next door, and they instantly began fighting as before.
It's back to Thai food and perhaps the most mournful thing for me is the end of pork pies. Yea, I shall miss them, but Thai food is great too.
Glad to see the Royal Wedding went well. Looks like quite a day.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
Phew....We made it!
An excruiating journey home, but we made it in one piece.
Having caught the train to Woking, we lugged the bags relay style to the hotel. Blimey! Talk about gangland. The place was crawling with Asian gangsters. Bad boys with hoods and shades mouthing into mobile phones and looking dodgy.
We went for a stroll to do some last time shopping in the prestigous Peacock Centre, Woking's pride and joy. I had my only hamburger at Burger King and spotted Toys R Us, so bought a final Night Garden action figure set for Grace. In the evening I took Grace miles to get to the park, which was actually brilliant. She went on the slide about thirty times and it was nearly dark when I carried her back to our cosy, little room.
The 4 o'clock wake up call never came. Luckily, I didn't sleep at all so was ready anyhow. We got the coach successfully and finally checked it. Here we were spotted with Calpoll which was taken from us.
The first flight to Adu Dabi was good. Loads of empty seats and Grace ran around the plane the entire trip. The second leg was a nightmare. Heaving and very cramped. Grace slept through the entire leg of the journey. I was very uncomfortable.
Next stop; Bangkok. Here, we got pulled on the luggage allowance for the flight to Hat Yai. It wasn't too bad though and had to shell out 2100 Baht. I was fairly dizzy but this stage, and the last flight was fairly horrid.
The final taxi ride was weird and I feel like I don't know this place at all. Such a strange feeling. At home, Ching-Ching came running out and Oi's mum rushed back from the market to let us in. I took a 4 hour kip, my first since Wednesday morning, blew the dust out of my PC, unpacked my bag and retrieved my precious Carcasonne game (plus expansions) and Maisy books.
I just see the wedding went well. Grace is sleeping in our mats on the floor now and Oi is showing the photos to her mum.
Phew!
Having caught the train to Woking, we lugged the bags relay style to the hotel. Blimey! Talk about gangland. The place was crawling with Asian gangsters. Bad boys with hoods and shades mouthing into mobile phones and looking dodgy.
We went for a stroll to do some last time shopping in the prestigous Peacock Centre, Woking's pride and joy. I had my only hamburger at Burger King and spotted Toys R Us, so bought a final Night Garden action figure set for Grace. In the evening I took Grace miles to get to the park, which was actually brilliant. She went on the slide about thirty times and it was nearly dark when I carried her back to our cosy, little room.
The 4 o'clock wake up call never came. Luckily, I didn't sleep at all so was ready anyhow. We got the coach successfully and finally checked it. Here we were spotted with Calpoll which was taken from us.
The first flight to Adu Dabi was good. Loads of empty seats and Grace ran around the plane the entire trip. The second leg was a nightmare. Heaving and very cramped. Grace slept through the entire leg of the journey. I was very uncomfortable.
Next stop; Bangkok. Here, we got pulled on the luggage allowance for the flight to Hat Yai. It wasn't too bad though and had to shell out 2100 Baht. I was fairly dizzy but this stage, and the last flight was fairly horrid.
The final taxi ride was weird and I feel like I don't know this place at all. Such a strange feeling. At home, Ching-Ching came running out and Oi's mum rushed back from the market to let us in. I took a 4 hour kip, my first since Wednesday morning, blew the dust out of my PC, unpacked my bag and retrieved my precious Carcasonne game (plus expansions) and Maisy books.
I just see the wedding went well. Grace is sleeping in our mats on the floor now and Oi is showing the photos to her mum.
Phew!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
UK Closure - So Long and Thanks for all the Fish
This is the last evening at Borough Hill and I am definitely in closure mode. I find it hard to be jovial with the upcoming journey home looming and the departure form the UK. It has been an awesome holiday and well timed as it covered a whole bunch of important events; Oi sees UK, Mum sees Grace, I see UK, food, friends, ale etc.
Grace has had a whale of a time and has developed at an alarming rate since being here. I put this down to UK being culturally rich compared to dusty Thailand. Mum's house isn't really designed for kids and we have had many incidents; cat teasing, fingers caught, sharp knives on tables, falling down the stairs etc. Nothing scares like your kid getting hurt. This aside she has probably benefited more than anyone on this trip and her language is going exponential.
The last few days have been a bit strange with mum's departure on a cruise with Tish. Things were booked in advance and it is just circumstantial, but it is strange spending the last days "hanging around". Nicholas has always also been very sick with gout, now thankfully on the mend. Mum was also sick nearly for the entire duration of our stay. I guess it's called getting old.
Tomorrow we must make our way to Woking (of all places) and spend a sterile night in a sterile hotel, waking up at about 4 to get the first bus to Heathrow. Of course, we are going to have some potential problems with weight allowance and four massive bags and Grace to maneuver. Things should be fun.
Somethings come up....must go
Grace has had a whale of a time and has developed at an alarming rate since being here. I put this down to UK being culturally rich compared to dusty Thailand. Mum's house isn't really designed for kids and we have had many incidents; cat teasing, fingers caught, sharp knives on tables, falling down the stairs etc. Nothing scares like your kid getting hurt. This aside she has probably benefited more than anyone on this trip and her language is going exponential.
The last few days have been a bit strange with mum's departure on a cruise with Tish. Things were booked in advance and it is just circumstantial, but it is strange spending the last days "hanging around". Nicholas has always also been very sick with gout, now thankfully on the mend. Mum was also sick nearly for the entire duration of our stay. I guess it's called getting old.
Tomorrow we must make our way to Woking (of all places) and spend a sterile night in a sterile hotel, waking up at about 4 to get the first bus to Heathrow. Of course, we are going to have some potential problems with weight allowance and four massive bags and Grace to maneuver. Things should be fun.
Somethings come up....must go
Sunday, April 24, 2011
The Harrow
After Mum left on her cruise and Nicholas's gout was crippling him so badly, Oi and I were feeling a bit downcast and kicking around ready for our long journey home. We have had a great time but it sort of feels like the partys over and its time to make tracks.
So, it was a great surprise to have Joel and Darren descend on Borough Hill for one last shin-dig. Arriving about mid-day, Joel, Daz and I enjoyed a fast walk to the Harrow, behind Tilmore Gardens and down Harrow Lane. All the trees are out now and beautiful light green leaves form a canopy above the sunken lane. A shame the new A3 bypass destroys the final approach.
Still, at the Harrow we ordered cider and for a while sat in the baking sunshine that was Easter Sunday. We chatted over all that has happened over the passed twenty years. Retiring to the shade of the garden, Darren had a Brie ploughmans and Joel and I more cider.
Joel wanted a roast dinner so we eventually left the Harrow and walked back into town and went to the Square Brewery which was still busy at four o'clock. No more food, so after a couple of pints of HSB we dropped in at Tesco express, and through some cunning shopping obtained enough ingredients for a BBQ.
Back at home, Joel set to work in the kitchen with Oi while Darren and I got things ready in the garden. Grace ran about being cute and Nicholas got all social with his leg feeling better. We all ate salmon and sausages, salad and chutney while Nicholas brought us wine, as he was celebrating the end of Lent. As others went to bed, Joel, Daz and myself chewed the fat still further into the night.
At some point, Joel yearned for bed, so Daz made tracks and I also retired.
I said to Joel that is was a great thing to have this happy time so close to our departure, which broke the gloom I had been under.
Now Monday with just a couple of days to go, our minds must turn to packing and the long journey home.
So, it was a great surprise to have Joel and Darren descend on Borough Hill for one last shin-dig. Arriving about mid-day, Joel, Daz and I enjoyed a fast walk to the Harrow, behind Tilmore Gardens and down Harrow Lane. All the trees are out now and beautiful light green leaves form a canopy above the sunken lane. A shame the new A3 bypass destroys the final approach.
Still, at the Harrow we ordered cider and for a while sat in the baking sunshine that was Easter Sunday. We chatted over all that has happened over the passed twenty years. Retiring to the shade of the garden, Darren had a Brie ploughmans and Joel and I more cider.
Joel wanted a roast dinner so we eventually left the Harrow and walked back into town and went to the Square Brewery which was still busy at four o'clock. No more food, so after a couple of pints of HSB we dropped in at Tesco express, and through some cunning shopping obtained enough ingredients for a BBQ.
Back at home, Joel set to work in the kitchen with Oi while Darren and I got things ready in the garden. Grace ran about being cute and Nicholas got all social with his leg feeling better. We all ate salmon and sausages, salad and chutney while Nicholas brought us wine, as he was celebrating the end of Lent. As others went to bed, Joel, Daz and myself chewed the fat still further into the night.
At some point, Joel yearned for bed, so Daz made tracks and I also retired.
I said to Joel that is was a great thing to have this happy time so close to our departure, which broke the gloom I had been under.
Now Monday with just a couple of days to go, our minds must turn to packing and the long journey home.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Ebooks
I bit the bullet and rushed out to buy an ereader. I opted for the smaller Sony 350, and it seems to be great. Within minutes on the Net I had a handful of books installed to read; Heart of Darkness, Madam Bovary, Edward Lear...then I found a file on the top 20 New York Times current bestsellers (fiction and non-fiction), so I put some of those on it too.
Yes, it has encouraged me to read, something I have had a problem with now for many years, averaging about one book a year. Sister, Tish pointed out that with a physical book there are many variables that might affect how you read; paper quality, size etc. The ereader seems very user friendly and you can swop between books, resuming the last page read automatically. It will be a good thing in Thailand that's for sure.
Saturday today, and Mum and Tish leave for their cruise down to Spain. Nicholas has chronic gout and his foot is in agony. Poor chap has had one affliction after another since we have been here. Mum too, has been sick most of our stay.
This weekend is our last in UK. We are going to Henry's for tea today. Joel is due down and we may hook up with Darren too. We are yet to enjoy Harrow cider together.
Packing and our journey home is on my mind. We have to spend a night in dismal Woking in order to get the first bus to Heathrow the morning we fly out. We have a ton of luggage and not only do I not yet know if we can get it all back to Thailand without paying a fine. I noticed on the Net that to connecting flight in Thailand to take us to Hat Yai has vastly reduced luggage weight allowance compared to our main international flight. Not very helpful. At worst we may be forced to get the train to Hat Yai if we are presented with some astronomical fee.
Having gained 5 kilos since I have been here, and unable to stop drinking Old Speckled Hen, I am looking forward to light Thai meals and crap beer once again. Actually, I might try to knock beer on the head as it offers little pleasure and my best times are spent with Oi and Grace these days relaxing at home with the family. Friends are wonderful, of course, but I know I need to be a bit strict with myself if I want to keep fit and healthy, and I am very easily led when the boys come over to let the good times roll.
We have loads of UK goodies to enjoy back at home, and I am sure Oi and I will reflect a lot on the holiday we have experienced.
Yes, it has encouraged me to read, something I have had a problem with now for many years, averaging about one book a year. Sister, Tish pointed out that with a physical book there are many variables that might affect how you read; paper quality, size etc. The ereader seems very user friendly and you can swop between books, resuming the last page read automatically. It will be a good thing in Thailand that's for sure.
Saturday today, and Mum and Tish leave for their cruise down to Spain. Nicholas has chronic gout and his foot is in agony. Poor chap has had one affliction after another since we have been here. Mum too, has been sick most of our stay.
This weekend is our last in UK. We are going to Henry's for tea today. Joel is due down and we may hook up with Darren too. We are yet to enjoy Harrow cider together.
Packing and our journey home is on my mind. We have to spend a night in dismal Woking in order to get the first bus to Heathrow the morning we fly out. We have a ton of luggage and not only do I not yet know if we can get it all back to Thailand without paying a fine. I noticed on the Net that to connecting flight in Thailand to take us to Hat Yai has vastly reduced luggage weight allowance compared to our main international flight. Not very helpful. At worst we may be forced to get the train to Hat Yai if we are presented with some astronomical fee.
Having gained 5 kilos since I have been here, and unable to stop drinking Old Speckled Hen, I am looking forward to light Thai meals and crap beer once again. Actually, I might try to knock beer on the head as it offers little pleasure and my best times are spent with Oi and Grace these days relaxing at home with the family. Friends are wonderful, of course, but I know I need to be a bit strict with myself if I want to keep fit and healthy, and I am very easily led when the boys come over to let the good times roll.
We have loads of UK goodies to enjoy back at home, and I am sure Oi and I will reflect a lot on the holiday we have experienced.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Tooth
I have just been exposed to the fine art of tooth pulling. I don't know if its the Scottish bones in my body, but, like the Hygenist, he had a real hard time pulling the fucker. There was only a tiny bit of exposed tooth left to get a grip on too, which made it work. Though the anasethic was obviously wonderful, I could still feel the stubborn white chomper hanging on for dear life. There was a terrific crack and that was the end of it. Now, I lie in wait for the drugs to wear off and for pain to come seering into my gums.
As light relief, and though I am really trying not to buy anything more in this country of shopping opportunities, I am however mighty tempted to grab one of those ereader thingys. I was going to go for a Kindle 3, which are apparently all the rage, but I am being steered towards a Sony 350 by the Richard Dryfuss lookalike in the book shop. I shall wander back to the shops tomorrow for a demonstration. Any books I acquire will be through from pirates anyway, though I do fancy some historical reading brought on my Nicholas's fine collection. In fact, I have started reading two of his purchases; The Templars and Generals. Perhaps I am at that stage in life when Men disapear into a world of military history books. I am still listening to my substantial collection of In Our Time episodes I brought with me. Last night was relistens of War and Babylon. I also squeezed in the Bette Davies version of Of Human Bondage prior to Melvin Bragg.
On the social side, we have enjoyed a BBQ every night this week as the weather is still fantastic, and I have been taking Grace to the parks a couple of times every day.
Tomorrow Tish will arrive before departing on a cruise with Mater. Mater will also take Oi on a lightening tour of London. I am opting to stay at home and take care of the girl.
As light relief, and though I am really trying not to buy anything more in this country of shopping opportunities, I am however mighty tempted to grab one of those ereader thingys. I was going to go for a Kindle 3, which are apparently all the rage, but I am being steered towards a Sony 350 by the Richard Dryfuss lookalike in the book shop. I shall wander back to the shops tomorrow for a demonstration. Any books I acquire will be through from pirates anyway, though I do fancy some historical reading brought on my Nicholas's fine collection. In fact, I have started reading two of his purchases; The Templars and Generals. Perhaps I am at that stage in life when Men disapear into a world of military history books. I am still listening to my substantial collection of In Our Time episodes I brought with me. Last night was relistens of War and Babylon. I also squeezed in the Bette Davies version of Of Human Bondage prior to Melvin Bragg.
On the social side, we have enjoyed a BBQ every night this week as the weather is still fantastic, and I have been taking Grace to the parks a couple of times every day.
Tomorrow Tish will arrive before departing on a cruise with Mater. Mater will also take Oi on a lightening tour of London. I am opting to stay at home and take care of the girl.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Walking With Snowdon
Today, I met Jonathan at his workplace in Greatham. A deathly quiet and sterile architects office in the middle of glorious countryside. We made a quick exit and headed for the hills around Empshott. It was like Summer, so hot and not a cloud in the sky. The green fields, oaks, and woodlands were at their best and Jonathan immediately launched into discussion covering such subjects as; Viz, Portugal, his children now grown, walking, how he lost his hair, a ton of relatives who had passed on, free bus passes, Portsmouth and a host of others. I am pleased to report Winkles Patch Chinese Film Club is still in operation with Jonathan as President.
It was great to see him and just like old times. He retires in 2 years and is looking forward to uninterrupted walking.
It was great to see him and just like old times. He retires in 2 years and is looking forward to uninterrupted walking.
Snaps
Due to multiple camera cock-ups, many recent posts on the UK trip have gone without photos. So, here is a smattering of bite-size posts containing visual moments of events missed. Enjoy.
Project Eden
Daniel Beck
Marwell Zoo
Jimmy V's House
Monday, April 18, 2011
Victory
Still denied of photograghs, today our merry ensemble headed down to Southsea and Londesborough Road to call in at my house. The tenant was very lovely with a small son called Charlie who instantly became friends with Grace. We had a chat to Andy the Builder over the garden wall. His wife has just passed on, so it was a little tender, though he obviously enjoyed a chin-wag with mum. Everything appears to be good there so touch wood.
From there we headed to Gun Wharf and back to the fish and chip shop at Portsmouth Harbour. Yes, they were as delicious as at the beginning of our holiday.
I wanted to show Oi the Victory so we had a stroll around the free part of the naval docks. There was a great gift shop where we all bought maritime souvineers. Mum bought me an awesome compass as an early birthday present, and I bought a cap with "Old Sea Dog" written on it.
We headed back to Gun Wharf and after a bit more shopping came home.
Presently, Mum and Oi are preparing a BBQ supper in the garden on another glorious evening.
Mum accidently bought a couple of bottles of Perry for me. This is Pear Cider to the uniniated and it delicious. I will attempt to have several more before journey's end. I had seen it talked about on River Cottage back in LOS with Hugh Fernley Whittingstall and it had sparked my interest. So sad I will be to leave behind these treasures I so enjoy.
I should say that this morning, for the first time ever, I saw the Blue Pontipine family in In the Night Garden. I called for Oi to come immediately should they dissapear. I was glad she witnessed them too. They are called the Washingsons for something indeciferable.
Last night in bed I watched Brassed Off with the recently departed Pete Postleswaite. It was just as good as I remembered it. A sad lose, losing Pete.
Talking of Pete, Congrats to oldest buddy Peter for birth of new daughter. Best Wishes sent your way, old pal.
Tonight, I hope to play Oi at Carcassonne with the new expansion packs I bought for added mirth. She's beaten me once already so we could be evenly matched.
I have been thinking of inventing a game based on the City of Winchester, following my visit.
I have been really enjoying the book Nicholas lent me, "The Templars", though I fear I will not complete it before end time. I am also loathed to stow it in my bag...
From there we headed to Gun Wharf and back to the fish and chip shop at Portsmouth Harbour. Yes, they were as delicious as at the beginning of our holiday.
I wanted to show Oi the Victory so we had a stroll around the free part of the naval docks. There was a great gift shop where we all bought maritime souvineers. Mum bought me an awesome compass as an early birthday present, and I bought a cap with "Old Sea Dog" written on it.
We headed back to Gun Wharf and after a bit more shopping came home.
Presently, Mum and Oi are preparing a BBQ supper in the garden on another glorious evening.
Mum accidently bought a couple of bottles of Perry for me. This is Pear Cider to the uniniated and it delicious. I will attempt to have several more before journey's end. I had seen it talked about on River Cottage back in LOS with Hugh Fernley Whittingstall and it had sparked my interest. So sad I will be to leave behind these treasures I so enjoy.
I should say that this morning, for the first time ever, I saw the Blue Pontipine family in In the Night Garden. I called for Oi to come immediately should they dissapear. I was glad she witnessed them too. They are called the Washingsons for something indeciferable.
Last night in bed I watched Brassed Off with the recently departed Pete Postleswaite. It was just as good as I remembered it. A sad lose, losing Pete.
Talking of Pete, Congrats to oldest buddy Peter for birth of new daughter. Best Wishes sent your way, old pal.
Tonight, I hope to play Oi at Carcassonne with the new expansion packs I bought for added mirth. She's beaten me once already so we could be evenly matched.
I have been thinking of inventing a game based on the City of Winchester, following my visit.
I have been really enjoying the book Nicholas lent me, "The Templars", though I fear I will not complete it before end time. I am also loathed to stow it in my bag...
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Winchester Cathedral
Last night had some beers in Petersfield with Marc and his wife Jackie. Good times. Marc also put me at ease about my house in Southsea and possible future decisions.
This morning I ran through life and financial situations with Mater which were quite positive. I also arranged to go and see the tenant at my house in Southsea. Anyway, things seem to be fairly okay, as long as we are careful.
Today, Mum, Oi, Grace and I drove over to Winchester and enjoyed a sunny day wandering around the old city and cathedral. The architecture is superb and the walk by the river glorious. I pick up three hard-to-come-by Maisy books too, which I am very excited about. I have quite a collection now.We explored the ruins of Wolvesley Castle and found an excellent childrens playground where Grace tried all the rides she has come to love whilst being in England. The leaves on the trees have really come on since we arrived, most a fresh light green as the Spring truly breaks any reminder of Winter. We had a roast dinner in the cathedral grounds and ice creams on a grassy bank.
So, a great day and more plans developing for our final days here and securing agreements and understandings about the future.I have also had a couple of ideas for new schemes back in Thailand that holidays so often bring.
This week we shall be going back down to Portsmouth, visiting Jonathan Snowdon in Greatham, paying my final visit to the dentist, meeting up with Tish as she embarks on a cruise with Mater, hooking up with Jimmy V and Darren, and probably paying a visit to Marc and family on the Isle of Wight. A London visit is on the cards for Oi, maybe I will tag along...
This morning I ran through life and financial situations with Mater which were quite positive. I also arranged to go and see the tenant at my house in Southsea. Anyway, things seem to be fairly okay, as long as we are careful.
Today, Mum, Oi, Grace and I drove over to Winchester and enjoyed a sunny day wandering around the old city and cathedral. The architecture is superb and the walk by the river glorious. I pick up three hard-to-come-by Maisy books too, which I am very excited about. I have quite a collection now.We explored the ruins of Wolvesley Castle and found an excellent childrens playground where Grace tried all the rides she has come to love whilst being in England. The leaves on the trees have really come on since we arrived, most a fresh light green as the Spring truly breaks any reminder of Winter. We had a roast dinner in the cathedral grounds and ice creams on a grassy bank.
So, a great day and more plans developing for our final days here and securing agreements and understandings about the future.I have also had a couple of ideas for new schemes back in Thailand that holidays so often bring.
This week we shall be going back down to Portsmouth, visiting Jonathan Snowdon in Greatham, paying my final visit to the dentist, meeting up with Tish as she embarks on a cruise with Mater, hooking up with Jimmy V and Darren, and probably paying a visit to Marc and family on the Isle of Wight. A London visit is on the cards for Oi, maybe I will tag along...
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Jonathan Snowdon
While in UK I keep going passed places I have walked with Jonathan Snowdon many years ago. We walked all over Hampshire and beyond for quite a few years. He was a wonderful guy with amazing stories and a jolly manner.
This evening I searched the Net and found his phone number. He's 63 now, it's been more than 9 years since I have spoken to him and he had that lovely, chuckling voice he always had. We caught up on the news and I am going to see him on Tuesday. I'm really excited and glad that I contacted him. I'll try to get a photo.
This evening I searched the Net and found his phone number. He's 63 now, it's been more than 9 years since I have spoken to him and he had that lovely, chuckling voice he always had. We caught up on the news and I am going to see him on Tuesday. I'm really excited and glad that I contacted him. I'll try to get a photo.
Bluebells
The cameras are messed up, but we did take some pretty good snaps of our outing today.
Last night I went to the Square Brewery with Jimmy V and Steve Cannings. It was good to drink some HSB and have a decent talk. We spoke of the old days, friends, Thailand and Petersfield when we grew up. It was a great crack. At closing time, Steve went home and Jimmy slept at our house. I had bought some Old Speckled Hen for the after party. I played him an In Our Time episode on the Sassanian Empire and then we had a game of Carcassonne. I suggested he might like it to play with Harry. Nicholas came down twice in rising fury at the noise we were creating (which was totally minimal). I thought he was a bit crap, though glad he took the good road of saying nothing about it the next morning. Anyway, that's him.
Today, me, Mum, Oi and Grace went to the woods where we used to collect magic mushrooms. Wendy had told me it is excellent for Bluebells, and indeed, it was. We sat in the woods for an hour and chilled out. Grace loved running about in the leaves and we saw a couple of deer. Got some great snaps that I will post later.
After that we headed to a wonderful pub near Petworth and ate lunch in the garden. I had my usual ploughmans. We had some Rhubarb Fool for dessert which was yummy. Grace found a small cart to push about the garden.
Now full, we drove about for a bit in the beautiful West Sussex countryside in view of the South Downs. We found a garden open and did the tour. Quite splendid, with tea and lemon cake on the lawn afterwards. Oi really enjoyed herself and Mum had a great time too.
On the way home we stopped at Derly Marsh Farm Shop for some pick-your-own food and other favourites.
Tonight, I am tired but have to meet up with Marc and his wife for a pint.
Last night I went to the Square Brewery with Jimmy V and Steve Cannings. It was good to drink some HSB and have a decent talk. We spoke of the old days, friends, Thailand and Petersfield when we grew up. It was a great crack. At closing time, Steve went home and Jimmy slept at our house. I had bought some Old Speckled Hen for the after party. I played him an In Our Time episode on the Sassanian Empire and then we had a game of Carcassonne. I suggested he might like it to play with Harry. Nicholas came down twice in rising fury at the noise we were creating (which was totally minimal). I thought he was a bit crap, though glad he took the good road of saying nothing about it the next morning. Anyway, that's him.
Today, me, Mum, Oi and Grace went to the woods where we used to collect magic mushrooms. Wendy had told me it is excellent for Bluebells, and indeed, it was. We sat in the woods for an hour and chilled out. Grace loved running about in the leaves and we saw a couple of deer. Got some great snaps that I will post later.
After that we headed to a wonderful pub near Petworth and ate lunch in the garden. I had my usual ploughmans. We had some Rhubarb Fool for dessert which was yummy. Grace found a small cart to push about the garden.
Now full, we drove about for a bit in the beautiful West Sussex countryside in view of the South Downs. We found a garden open and did the tour. Quite splendid, with tea and lemon cake on the lawn afterwards. Oi really enjoyed herself and Mum had a great time too.
On the way home we stopped at Derly Marsh Farm Shop for some pick-your-own food and other favourites.
Tonight, I am tired but have to meet up with Marc and his wife for a pint.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Dentist
Three of my four dentists appointments are out of the way. Yes, I had neglected my teeth for over ten years and I felt very small when he told me things weren't great in the cakehole. Still, things are underway.
Yesterday, Oi, Grace and myself went to see Wendy Collett, which was great fun. We walked around the heath and fed the ducks. She had to buy some rhubarb so we accompanied her to the market on the way back home. She called Peter while we were there but, unfortunately, he was cat-sitting at the time and we were unable to speak.
Continuing the Collett Revisited tour, I went for a drink with Charles in the evening. We went to the Square Brewery and had HSB (Horndean Special Bitter, to the uninformed) and then some Cornish Doom Bar ale in Foggies. We talked about old times and life views etc. He was a tad knackered so we didn't stay out too late. I made the terrible mistake of having a kebab on the way home. Actually, it wasn't too bad and kept me from thinking about how chilly it has become over the last couple of days.
Nicholas is off for his anal probe this morning. He has been unable to eat for the past day as he cleans out his insides. Although he doesn't like it, he is more than prepared.
One of Mum's Bridge partners is sleeping with her in the cabin at the moment. That means the house is fairly chocha and there is a constant fight as to who can get into the bathroom.
I am hoping to see some Bluebells as the man on the telly said they were out two weeks early. I think there are some near Trotton, so I aim to show them to Oi. Unfortunately, our camera has bust, and I left mum's at Jimmy V's house and I won't see him until Friday.
With mounting costs and debts to pay I can't see us making it back over here anytime soon. I will almost certainly have to do some extra work in Thailand and Oi will have to start working again. The fun times could be over but I guess it had to happen sometime, and Grace is ready to join the system, poor lass. Although, everyone I meet tells me having the house in Portsmouth is a good thing and that I should keep it, regular repairs eat up the majority of my savings. We are at the point now of any more major repairs and we may be forced to sell it. Sucks.
Not too many boxes to tick off here in UK now, and I am making mental preparations to start back to the school. Hopefully, it will be lovely and pleasant and despondency won't set in until late in the year. I will endeavour to introduce some new stuff to keep everything fresh.
Back at home I am looking forward to downloading a modest queue of PC games that have been released whilst abroad and I have made a decision to acquire an N-box and get another terrabyte harddrive so I can view TV and movies at home without burning any DVDs.
The weather may have peaked too and it will be good to get out into the garden again. Grace has developed quite a lot and it will be interesting to see what the neighbours make of her.
Enough.
Yesterday, Oi, Grace and myself went to see Wendy Collett, which was great fun. We walked around the heath and fed the ducks. She had to buy some rhubarb so we accompanied her to the market on the way back home. She called Peter while we were there but, unfortunately, he was cat-sitting at the time and we were unable to speak.
Continuing the Collett Revisited tour, I went for a drink with Charles in the evening. We went to the Square Brewery and had HSB (Horndean Special Bitter, to the uninformed) and then some Cornish Doom Bar ale in Foggies. We talked about old times and life views etc. He was a tad knackered so we didn't stay out too late. I made the terrible mistake of having a kebab on the way home. Actually, it wasn't too bad and kept me from thinking about how chilly it has become over the last couple of days.
Nicholas is off for his anal probe this morning. He has been unable to eat for the past day as he cleans out his insides. Although he doesn't like it, he is more than prepared.
One of Mum's Bridge partners is sleeping with her in the cabin at the moment. That means the house is fairly chocha and there is a constant fight as to who can get into the bathroom.
I am hoping to see some Bluebells as the man on the telly said they were out two weeks early. I think there are some near Trotton, so I aim to show them to Oi. Unfortunately, our camera has bust, and I left mum's at Jimmy V's house and I won't see him until Friday.
With mounting costs and debts to pay I can't see us making it back over here anytime soon. I will almost certainly have to do some extra work in Thailand and Oi will have to start working again. The fun times could be over but I guess it had to happen sometime, and Grace is ready to join the system, poor lass. Although, everyone I meet tells me having the house in Portsmouth is a good thing and that I should keep it, regular repairs eat up the majority of my savings. We are at the point now of any more major repairs and we may be forced to sell it. Sucks.
Not too many boxes to tick off here in UK now, and I am making mental preparations to start back to the school. Hopefully, it will be lovely and pleasant and despondency won't set in until late in the year. I will endeavour to introduce some new stuff to keep everything fresh.
Back at home I am looking forward to downloading a modest queue of PC games that have been released whilst abroad and I have made a decision to acquire an N-box and get another terrabyte harddrive so I can view TV and movies at home without burning any DVDs.
The weather may have peaked too and it will be good to get out into the garden again. Grace has developed quite a lot and it will be interesting to see what the neighbours make of her.
Enough.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Sunshine
The weather has been fantastic for nearly the whole holiday and I actually got sun burnt at Marwell on Saturday. We had a great time with Jimmy V and family. Grace loves being with Jim's kids and Sophie and Heidi have been very sweet to Grace.
Dan Beck came over from Wiltshire last week and we had lunch at the Harrow and a walk around the heath. It was great to catch up and obviously, we talked about Matt. It was sad to see him without his brother. It must be incredibly tough for him and his family. Thank heavens young Arthur came along to bring some joy into the world.
Just over a couple of weeks left of our holiday and we have to start thinking about trying to fit everything into our suitcases and what ever last things that we want to do and buy. I want to get some more books and stuff for the kids at school. My current favourite is the books about Maisy, I will snap up as many as I can find.
Still yet to catch up with a couple of people.
I have finally started to cut down on eating, as I was feeling really awful; fat and bloated and going to bed on a full stomach. Things like chocolate biscuits now taste incredibly sweet and the years have taken their toll. I hate being ill and feeling like shit, so I am trying to eat very moderately and staple foods that I can easily digest.
After a filling fell out in Cornwall, I was ordered to go to the dentist. I now have 3 appointments to attend and a whole bunch of teeth pulling. Also, an order to get a wisdom tooth pulled back home in Thailand. Oh boy! I won't talk about how much it costs.
Overall, I am coming away with thoughts that it has been a great time, yet fairly content to be heading back to Hat Yai and the kindergarten. It's stress free, pleasant and small (in a nice way). Spending breezy days at home and in the garden is about where I am at right now.
Dan Beck came over from Wiltshire last week and we had lunch at the Harrow and a walk around the heath. It was great to catch up and obviously, we talked about Matt. It was sad to see him without his brother. It must be incredibly tough for him and his family. Thank heavens young Arthur came along to bring some joy into the world.
Just over a couple of weeks left of our holiday and we have to start thinking about trying to fit everything into our suitcases and what ever last things that we want to do and buy. I want to get some more books and stuff for the kids at school. My current favourite is the books about Maisy, I will snap up as many as I can find.
Still yet to catch up with a couple of people.
I have finally started to cut down on eating, as I was feeling really awful; fat and bloated and going to bed on a full stomach. Things like chocolate biscuits now taste incredibly sweet and the years have taken their toll. I hate being ill and feeling like shit, so I am trying to eat very moderately and staple foods that I can easily digest.
After a filling fell out in Cornwall, I was ordered to go to the dentist. I now have 3 appointments to attend and a whole bunch of teeth pulling. Also, an order to get a wisdom tooth pulled back home in Thailand. Oh boy! I won't talk about how much it costs.
Overall, I am coming away with thoughts that it has been a great time, yet fairly content to be heading back to Hat Yai and the kindergarten. It's stress free, pleasant and small (in a nice way). Spending breezy days at home and in the garden is about where I am at right now.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
UK Best and Worst Top 5 + Inns and Traders
Best
1. The Countryside. A great secret to come in early Spring.
2. Pork Pies and beetroot. I adore you.
3. Friends. Fantastic meet ups with terrible old rogues.
4. Ale. Gallons of the stuff. Current favourite? Old Speckled Hen.
5. Cool stuff in shops. Jaw dropping buys from the centre of civilisation.
Worst
1. Prices. Crucifyingly expensive. A land only for billionnaires.
2. Toilet Paper. The Thais definitely have the heads up on arse wiping. Who would use anything except water?
Add the remaining 3 later.
Also included are covers for the 2 purchased expansion packs for Carcassonne. No more purchases of this silly game. Oi and I became instantly addicted at the start of our first trial game this morning on the kitchen table. Duty stopped play as Grace started to strop and mater had to be driven to the doctors. Hopefully we will attempt a replay this evening.
Harting Down and Portsmouth
Struck by a worrystorm about just how horribly expensive everything is and seeing the lifesavings cash pot draining at an alarming rate the while we stay in this country, I was in need of a joy kickstart. Worrying about this and the "upcoming homeward slog to get to Heathrow on the first train and checking in on time" blues. Seriously though, I don't understand why there are any humans in England right now as one seems to need Gertrude's Sack of Infinite Cash Holding to survive. I have been spending in an afternoon what would normally last a week in the Land of Nine Smiles. I understand why a couple of friends admitted to me that they never go out, and not because they are anti-social gits, but simply don't possess the ducats to do so. Frightening. A first hand experience of the result of the fall a couple of years ago, and the worse thing is, it is still going down. Watch as one unexpected world event follows another, and yet the Royals and celebs of this country enjoy fast cars and parties. Actually, it seems that the cheap and expensive things here and in Thai exactly reflect each other. Cars, rent, eating out etc...
Enough of my arse-boring rant, on with the show...
Yesterday morning I pulled myself out of my pit of self loathing, doubt etc, and informed Oi we were going for a walk as the weather has become glorious once again. Cocking tunnel, Harting Down, Shoulder of Mutton, Sandy Lane? I elected for Harting Down, despite the 2 bloody quid one now has to fork out just to park in the middle of the frigging countryside. It was gorgeous and we walked to the bottom of the hill that leads to the trig point. I wasn't going to carry a 9 kilogram infant up that fucking hill.It's hard enough when you're fit and strong. We took some snaps and headed back. Sadly, I reflected that the last time I was there was 2 years ago with my long, lost friend Matty. I thought of him as I stood there basking in the Spring sunshine.
Returning home. mum, who is suffering from a dreadful earache and still not recovered from the Cornish holiday, suggest taking Oi to go shopping in Portsmouth. I had arranged to meet old-time buddy Marc Vincent down there at six, so I went along for the ride and to waste some hours in the shops. Hundreds of dresses and clothes for Grace and Alexandra later and hours of chasing Grace around the bustling shopping centres of Commercial Road, I broke away. It's nice to see Commercial Road has lost none of it's urban charm. Fat women pushing high tech prams around the store, effing and blinding into mobile phones clutching in their chubby, grubby pork pie fingers. Heaps of clothes pulled of racks and trod on and ridden over by an army of aggressive, yet cheerful shoppers.
Wasting some time in the Froddington Arms, where I had a bargain pint of Flowers bitter at only 2.20, I eventually caught up with Marc, Marsha and Andy in some irrelevant half built bistro type affair down in Southsea. These things spring up and vanish in the blinking of a year. Pints went up to 3.30 I was horrified to discover. Marc and co. were all in great spirits and Andy, very kindly, presented me with a music CD compilation and a bottle of Bishop's Finger. I shared this with a young lad on the train home that night. I said if he could open it we could share it. Which he did. Nice lad, and just got out of prison. His view of the world was even dimmer than mine. It occurred to him that the dimness of the world is probably proportional to the quality of one's life. Anyway, back to the bistro. Andy made a chance call to guitar wizz and great friend of Kevs (enraged guitar teacher from Newcastle) who was drinking in the Auckland Arms watching the jazz band at the open mic night. It was just around the corner so we trotted over. It was great to see Paul and I sank many pints of Bombadier ale as I took turns chatting to this fine collection of buddies. Keith and his girlfriend also joined us.
At night's close I successfully caught the last train home and woke up lifted of my worry blues that had dogged me for the previous couple of days.
All's well that end's well, so far at least...
Enough of my arse-boring rant, on with the show...
Yesterday morning I pulled myself out of my pit of self loathing, doubt etc, and informed Oi we were going for a walk as the weather has become glorious once again. Cocking tunnel, Harting Down, Shoulder of Mutton, Sandy Lane? I elected for Harting Down, despite the 2 bloody quid one now has to fork out just to park in the middle of the frigging countryside. It was gorgeous and we walked to the bottom of the hill that leads to the trig point. I wasn't going to carry a 9 kilogram infant up that fucking hill.It's hard enough when you're fit and strong. We took some snaps and headed back. Sadly, I reflected that the last time I was there was 2 years ago with my long, lost friend Matty. I thought of him as I stood there basking in the Spring sunshine.
Returning home. mum, who is suffering from a dreadful earache and still not recovered from the Cornish holiday, suggest taking Oi to go shopping in Portsmouth. I had arranged to meet old-time buddy Marc Vincent down there at six, so I went along for the ride and to waste some hours in the shops. Hundreds of dresses and clothes for Grace and Alexandra later and hours of chasing Grace around the bustling shopping centres of Commercial Road, I broke away. It's nice to see Commercial Road has lost none of it's urban charm. Fat women pushing high tech prams around the store, effing and blinding into mobile phones clutching in their chubby, grubby pork pie fingers. Heaps of clothes pulled of racks and trod on and ridden over by an army of aggressive, yet cheerful shoppers.
Wasting some time in the Froddington Arms, where I had a bargain pint of Flowers bitter at only 2.20, I eventually caught up with Marc, Marsha and Andy in some irrelevant half built bistro type affair down in Southsea. These things spring up and vanish in the blinking of a year. Pints went up to 3.30 I was horrified to discover. Marc and co. were all in great spirits and Andy, very kindly, presented me with a music CD compilation and a bottle of Bishop's Finger. I shared this with a young lad on the train home that night. I said if he could open it we could share it. Which he did. Nice lad, and just got out of prison. His view of the world was even dimmer than mine. It occurred to him that the dimness of the world is probably proportional to the quality of one's life. Anyway, back to the bistro. Andy made a chance call to guitar wizz and great friend of Kevs (enraged guitar teacher from Newcastle) who was drinking in the Auckland Arms watching the jazz band at the open mic night. It was just around the corner so we trotted over. It was great to see Paul and I sank many pints of Bombadier ale as I took turns chatting to this fine collection of buddies. Keith and his girlfriend also joined us.
At night's close I successfully caught the last train home and woke up lifted of my worry blues that had dogged me for the previous couple of days.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Carcassonne
Great reviews and a rush back to the shops, I have secured this little treasure with one expansion pack for some gaming fun, if I can find a willing victim. Nice to buy something like this for myself. I am hoping Tom might be willing for a game and maybe Oi if I am lucky.
Meanwhile, taking some downtime from the social scene as I am feeling rather exhausted. UK is great, but my mind is settling with Thailand as the home of choice. Prices are just crippling here. Jimmy V told me it would cost about a hundred just for us to get to London.These things have set me worrying, though I think we should go for it while we are here, but I don't see a return trip in the foreseeable future, unless some unknown relative dies and leaves us a ton of cash. And the thought of working here leaves me colder than the chilling wind outside my window.
I picked up The Secret Garden in Mum's cabin for a little childhood reading. Fine it is too, snuggled in a cosy home.
Gin and Tonic is calling....must go....
Monday, April 4, 2011
Old Winchester Hill
Friday, April 1, 2011
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