Sunday: Dazzle - purchased a Nick Hubbard ring and a brooch. Went back to Art Fair and talked with founder of Art in Hospital.
Monday: Went to Willow Tea Room and looked up Joann Murray. Had great chat and will meet up Thursday for tea. Finished Boy in the Striped Pajamas. Very disappointing. I think this is a book where you can't be an adult when reading it. Didn't work for me.
Tuesday: Rain, but okay rain. Went to the Tramway Airworld show. Fun, and a Hidden Garden that was a treat. the Chic pea and vegetable dhal with naan was daunting. And very orange. Had all day bus ticket so changed buses and went to Kelvingrove. Don't like the way they made it all touchy-feelie interactive. Laundry. Finished my Doctor Who video.
Wednesday: Slept late, had breakfast and went to PO to mail a book to Tom and some papers I didn't want to carry around, then to the train station to confirm my sleeper reservation. ARGHHH! Nightmare! I didn't have one! The Railpass.com people totally f*(^ked up. Woman at the station snooty, too. Dashed back to flat and called Massachusetts to complain and they grovelled. No, I didn't have one, Oops!! Bad us. They are refunding my money, postage and handling charge. Jessica, the MA woman was very nice, though.
Called FirstScot to see if I could buy a sleeper reservation and they were sold out GRRRR, ARGHHH!!! There went that idea. No I am not sharing with 'another female'. Calm down. Rethink: Okay. Leaving Glasgow on Friday morning, the 27th, not Thursday night the 26th. Taking train to Euston, and yes, I do have a ticket. Somehow getting from Euston to Victoria to take train to Brighton.
Well, I will have a better night's sleep, and about $100 more money.
Doing laundry. Not feeling sorry for myself or mad at the train people. Must go watch football game now. I am addicted to English football.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Art Fair, Books, Art again
The week of culture continued. Thursday morning I was up early for the Art Fair. It was great, so much better than last year.
Several interesting galleries presented exhibits. Artists in Exile - refugees, asylum seekers and new immigrants. The work was powerful and I saw a connection between this and NICE in JH. NICE works with the same type of populations except here the people are from Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Art in Hospital, a project whereby artists go to hospitals and hospices to work with patients has produced some wonderful work. Last year I spoke at length with the founder and wonder why we don't have something like it. This year I looked at the works and found a piece, mixed media, that I really liked. The exhibit guide said only buy something if you like it. I went back three times and finally decided I wanted it. But when I went to pay with credit card, they only took cash! Hmm, since the flat is about half a block away, I asked them to put a sticker on it and dashed back for some cash. I also got the book which describes the project and profiles some of the artists.
I did see one work, a print, that had a date and was tempted to buy it, but (1) I didn't like it much and (2) it cost GBP 100. Not at the current exchange rate, thanks.
After leaving the art fair I headed to the art store and bought a piece of foam core. Back at the flat I made a rigid but light package to mail the picture home and took it to the PO.
Good fun for Thursday.
Friday I spent most of the day reading Louise Perry's first book Still Cold. I forgot how stunned I get after this - reading for a long time.
I got an email from a friend saying her sister died after a battle with cancer. My first inclination was to call, but AZ is even earlier than NY, so I sent an email. I probably would have been crying on the phone, so I will call her when I get back. Marnie, the sister, was very kind to me when I was little, and I've never forgotten it.
Saturday, today, I woke up early, then nodded off again. Finally made some coffee and breakfast, checked mail, etc. and did some research.
Artists in Exile had a reception this afternoon at their space so I went there for a while and chatted with Fiona, the woman in charge. More powerful art.
Then a hunt around bookstores for some books my DIL is looking for. Forbidden Planet, A1 Comics, Borders, Waterstones, W.H. Smith - EHHH! No dice. Will consult tomorrow on a revised plan.
Came back after ambling around in time to see Doctor Who in 1930's NYC. The Daleks are back, and it was part 1 - continued next week.
Ten o' clock and I am thinking of turning in. Tomorrow is the first day of Dazzle! the traveling jewellery show. I've been twice before and really like Nick Hubbard's silver work. I think I have 2 pieces of his.
Okay, battery low, brain power low.
Outta here.
Several interesting galleries presented exhibits. Artists in Exile - refugees, asylum seekers and new immigrants. The work was powerful and I saw a connection between this and NICE in JH. NICE works with the same type of populations except here the people are from Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Art in Hospital, a project whereby artists go to hospitals and hospices to work with patients has produced some wonderful work. Last year I spoke at length with the founder and wonder why we don't have something like it. This year I looked at the works and found a piece, mixed media, that I really liked. The exhibit guide said only buy something if you like it. I went back three times and finally decided I wanted it. But when I went to pay with credit card, they only took cash! Hmm, since the flat is about half a block away, I asked them to put a sticker on it and dashed back for some cash. I also got the book which describes the project and profiles some of the artists.
I did see one work, a print, that had a date and was tempted to buy it, but (1) I didn't like it much and (2) it cost GBP 100. Not at the current exchange rate, thanks.
After leaving the art fair I headed to the art store and bought a piece of foam core. Back at the flat I made a rigid but light package to mail the picture home and took it to the PO.
Good fun for Thursday.
Friday I spent most of the day reading Louise Perry's first book Still Cold. I forgot how stunned I get after this - reading for a long time.
I got an email from a friend saying her sister died after a battle with cancer. My first inclination was to call, but AZ is even earlier than NY, so I sent an email. I probably would have been crying on the phone, so I will call her when I get back. Marnie, the sister, was very kind to me when I was little, and I've never forgotten it.
Saturday, today, I woke up early, then nodded off again. Finally made some coffee and breakfast, checked mail, etc. and did some research.
Artists in Exile had a reception this afternoon at their space so I went there for a while and chatted with Fiona, the woman in charge. More powerful art.
Then a hunt around bookstores for some books my DIL is looking for. Forbidden Planet, A1 Comics, Borders, Waterstones, W.H. Smith - EHHH! No dice. Will consult tomorrow on a revised plan.
Came back after ambling around in time to see Doctor Who in 1930's NYC. The Daleks are back, and it was part 1 - continued next week.
Ten o' clock and I am thinking of turning in. Tomorrow is the first day of Dazzle! the traveling jewellery show. I've been twice before and really like Nick Hubbard's silver work. I think I have 2 pieces of his.
Okay, battery low, brain power low.
Outta here.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Music night - Fab
Joshua Bell & Academy of St. Martin's in the Fields! Wow! Beethoven program. Terrific and it seemed like the orchestra was having fun too! Such energy he has. I had 2nd row seat.
Sorry to be writing in shorthand, but I am exhausted! I dined at the Concert Hall on something with a forgetable name, but was excellent beef stew, savoy cabbage and 'mustard mash' (mashed potatoes with mustard) and a salad that sounds like it wouldn't go together but did - watercress, fennel, rocket (arugula) and pear.
Today I mailed off a present to Msbelle's son. I don't know when his b'day is, or was, but I got him a ball that starts out like a Frisbee when you toss it, then pops into a ball. I don't know what 6 year olds like, but the card had SpiderMan on it and I know he likes that.
Today the flat got 2 new dining chairs. Olive, ochre sort of. I should take a picture. I think they are changing from the blue, and beige theme.
Tired tired zzzzzz. Art show tomorrow and definitely LAUNDRY!
Sorry to be writing in shorthand, but I am exhausted! I dined at the Concert Hall on something with a forgetable name, but was excellent beef stew, savoy cabbage and 'mustard mash' (mashed potatoes with mustard) and a salad that sounds like it wouldn't go together but did - watercress, fennel, rocket (arugula) and pear.
Today I mailed off a present to Msbelle's son. I don't know when his b'day is, or was, but I got him a ball that starts out like a Frisbee when you toss it, then pops into a ball. I don't know what 6 year olds like, but the card had SpiderMan on it and I know he likes that.
Today the flat got 2 new dining chairs. Olive, ochre sort of. I should take a picture. I think they are changing from the blue, and beige theme.
Tired tired zzzzzz. Art show tomorrow and definitely LAUNDRY!
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Watch what you eat! Lost in translation??
I constantly discover the subtle differences in our languages. Today I went to a restaurant, perused the menu, and decided on a BLT. I should have remembered - British/UK/Scottish? bacon includes the part we call Canadian Bacon, and the regular US bacon that they call Streaky Bacon. What a handful, let alone stomach full. And it came with chips, not US chips, proper British 'French (what was it Bushie called them? Liberty Fries)'. Not hungry for dinner, at all.
Today was more Scottish - sun, drizzle, sun, clouds, drizzle, more sun and temps in the 50s. Wind was 'fresh' which means zip up your coat but leave the hat at home.
Mailed postcards and some magazines home today. So amazing how heavy paper is.
I hear the British inflation rate has jumped to 3.5% and that food is more expensive. No shit, Sherlock. It also means the GBP is over $2.00. Que sera sera.
One of my favorite TV shows started this week, season 3 or 4 of 'Sea of Souls' with Bill Paterson. I could watch him read the phone book! Speaking of TV: if you followed 'Life on Mars' on BBC America, the series concluded last week. Also, strange things are happening on 'Foyle's War'. 'Doctor Who' has that perennial favorite, The Daleks (EXTERMINATE!!) coming back this Saturday. And tomorrow they will be filming scenes for 'Rebus' outside my window. I will either have a great view, or go out and gawk. Depends when they begin and when I wake up.
Tomorrow night is Joshua Bell and the Academy of St. Martin's in the Fields at the Concert Hall. Looking forward to culture and wearing a skirt. Also eating at the concert hall restaurant which is quite nice and posh.
Sent more personalized post cards today. I think I have to go back to Boots to make more pictures. Now if I could only figure out how to get the pictures from my cell phone to print. . .
Ta Ta
Today was more Scottish - sun, drizzle, sun, clouds, drizzle, more sun and temps in the 50s. Wind was 'fresh' which means zip up your coat but leave the hat at home.
Mailed postcards and some magazines home today. So amazing how heavy paper is.
I hear the British inflation rate has jumped to 3.5% and that food is more expensive. No shit, Sherlock. It also means the GBP is over $2.00. Que sera sera.
One of my favorite TV shows started this week, season 3 or 4 of 'Sea of Souls' with Bill Paterson. I could watch him read the phone book! Speaking of TV: if you followed 'Life on Mars' on BBC America, the series concluded last week. Also, strange things are happening on 'Foyle's War'. 'Doctor Who' has that perennial favorite, The Daleks (EXTERMINATE!!) coming back this Saturday. And tomorrow they will be filming scenes for 'Rebus' outside my window. I will either have a great view, or go out and gawk. Depends when they begin and when I wake up.
Tomorrow night is Joshua Bell and the Academy of St. Martin's in the Fields at the Concert Hall. Looking forward to culture and wearing a skirt. Also eating at the concert hall restaurant which is quite nice and posh.
Sent more personalized post cards today. I think I have to go back to Boots to make more pictures. Now if I could only figure out how to get the pictures from my cell phone to print. . .
Ta Ta
Monday, April 16, 2007
On a roll!
Arran?
Rotten sleep last night. I kept dreaming I was still doing my job, but had retired. I kept telling people I didn't need to be here, I wasn't being paid, just loved to do researh. Odd dreaming of ways to get home, too.
I guess I was waiting for the alarmS to ring. Won't go, I said, No. Not today. 7:04 the second alarm. I get up, make coffee. Check email after kicking my laptop. Ok, not kicking, just popping the battery pack out again - cussing until the count of 10 then putting it back. Nothing important except a sunscreen warning from Matt. Heeded.
Shower, dress, What the heck, I might as well go. So on to the train to Ardrossan Harbor. Had a really unPC breakfast on the CalMac ferry to Arran - 2 fried eggs, toast and bacon (English style), coffee. Lots of blue sky, some clouds but the temps were in the high 50-low 60 range. I was wearing the Bubble Gum Barbie jacket and blue fleece socks, so okay there.
The train went past gentle rolling hills, sheep in fields and my first glimpse of a wind power farm. They look like Tripods*.
Arran: beautiful island in the Firth of Clyde. More prosperous than 2 years ago, and light years from my first visit in 1987. More building projects, more industries - Arran Aromatics, Arran Breweries, many hotels refurbished. The mussels that had covered the rocks in 2005 seem to have gone - leaving the rocks exposed. I saw a beautiful piece of pink quartz embedded in the sandstone. It wasn't ready to 'pop' out leaving a moon crater yet.
Walked along the shore, went to the Burnside Gallery and admired the art - no dates. Continued to the Auchrannie Hotel, asked for a brochure, wandered the gift shop, and headed for the toilets. Nothing like knowing the territory (I was there for a week in 2005). I then walked back to the ferry terminal, stopping in all the gift shops and the COOP where I bought some 'Rocket' (arugula). In the past 20 years the COOP has 'continentalized', where you can buy whole selections of Polish products even!
I got some funky socks, cotton, in case it gets warmer (besides, they go with my jacket), and some cortisone cream for a strange rash I've gotten on my face.
Ferry ride and train uneventful. As soon as I got back I went to Somerfield Supermarket and bought more for dinner.
I was cold, no lunch, so when I got back, I donned the sweatshirt, cranked up the heat and ate. After all that, I fixed the DVD player, watched a Doctor Who episode, called Velma, and am now about to sign off and go to bed,
Happy Trails to you, Until we meet again!
*Tripods are aliens which play a big part in a trilogy for Young Adults. Author is John Christopher. Books are great!
Rotten sleep last night. I kept dreaming I was still doing my job, but had retired. I kept telling people I didn't need to be here, I wasn't being paid, just loved to do researh. Odd dreaming of ways to get home, too.
I guess I was waiting for the alarmS to ring. Won't go, I said, No. Not today. 7:04 the second alarm. I get up, make coffee. Check email after kicking my laptop. Ok, not kicking, just popping the battery pack out again - cussing until the count of 10 then putting it back. Nothing important except a sunscreen warning from Matt. Heeded.
Shower, dress, What the heck, I might as well go. So on to the train to Ardrossan Harbor. Had a really unPC breakfast on the CalMac ferry to Arran - 2 fried eggs, toast and bacon (English style), coffee. Lots of blue sky, some clouds but the temps were in the high 50-low 60 range. I was wearing the Bubble Gum Barbie jacket and blue fleece socks, so okay there.
The train went past gentle rolling hills, sheep in fields and my first glimpse of a wind power farm. They look like Tripods*.
Arran: beautiful island in the Firth of Clyde. More prosperous than 2 years ago, and light years from my first visit in 1987. More building projects, more industries - Arran Aromatics, Arran Breweries, many hotels refurbished. The mussels that had covered the rocks in 2005 seem to have gone - leaving the rocks exposed. I saw a beautiful piece of pink quartz embedded in the sandstone. It wasn't ready to 'pop' out leaving a moon crater yet.
Walked along the shore, went to the Burnside Gallery and admired the art - no dates. Continued to the Auchrannie Hotel, asked for a brochure, wandered the gift shop, and headed for the toilets. Nothing like knowing the territory (I was there for a week in 2005). I then walked back to the ferry terminal, stopping in all the gift shops and the COOP where I bought some 'Rocket' (arugula). In the past 20 years the COOP has 'continentalized', where you can buy whole selections of Polish products even!
I got some funky socks, cotton, in case it gets warmer (besides, they go with my jacket), and some cortisone cream for a strange rash I've gotten on my face.
Ferry ride and train uneventful. As soon as I got back I went to Somerfield Supermarket and bought more for dinner.
I was cold, no lunch, so when I got back, I donned the sweatshirt, cranked up the heat and ate. After all that, I fixed the DVD player, watched a Doctor Who episode, called Velma, and am now about to sign off and go to bed,
Happy Trails to you, Until we meet again!
*Tripods are aliens which play a big part in a trilogy for Young Adults. Author is John Christopher. Books are great!
Sunday, April 15, 2007
the wonderful day
April 14th. I woke up, had breakfast, washed me, washed up and got to the train station in time for the 8:42 to Montrose. A cloudy start to the day, but forecast was for excellent weather. Following my instructions from www.planajourney.co.uk I asked the way to town so I could catch the #30 bus. But! Look! There was the #30 at the train station! Do you go to Brechin? I ask. Aye, Breekin. Close enough. I got on and chatted with a sweet lady with dandielion blow hair. After being assured that the 21A to Aberlemno would stop at the Brechin bus stop, I got off. I had a 40 minute wait for the bus and the stop is located in front of an antique shop. (Great placement!) In I go and 35 minutes later and GBP 16 lighter I leave. Terrific couple, I heard all about the merchant navy, children living in all parts of the world and many other interesting things. I bought: 1 silver ring, 2 souvenier spoons from NZ (for Tammy) and a scale. The kind you hang up and it has a hook and you hang things from it. Made in NY in the 1800s. Then off to Aberlemno on the bus, the 21A.
Aberlemno stop is opposite the bus shelter. The 'town' seems to be 4 houses, lots of plowed fields, many standing stones (my objective) and friendly people. I talked for a while with a couple who are restoring a coaching station from 1650. We commiserated about the standards set by landmarking committees. I took a picture of the little man who guards the corner of their roof.
Off down the road to the first stone. Hmm. Interesting, but small. Then the next stone. Big, carved on the front with a cross and a hunting scene on the back. Picture worthy. Then first left and on to the church with 'the' stone cross. Subject of the journey. It sits in the graveyard but looks alien. Since it was created in the 7th century and the oldest stones I saw were from the 17th century, it isn't hard to figure out why. It is really beautiful and I took lots of pictures. I only hope with skillful editing they turn out well.
Of course I also took pictures of gravestones and my socks with a flower. A couple came along and we chatted for a long while. They have a house over the hill (east, I guess) and are hoping to move up permanently. I can see why. The area is soft rolling hills, some trees, but mostly farms. The day was perfect - a bit misty, but sunny and warm. We went into the little church which was very plain, no adornments except the parish list of births on the wall. There was a gallery upstairs. This is Church of Scotland - Presbyterian? No stained glass, certainly no smells and bells.
When I finally left, I realized I still had 45 minutes until the bus came, so I sat on the bench in the sun and took notes. Then I walked down to the bus shelter, then I walked back to the second standing stone (stele) and sat on the grass enjoying the peace around me.
Oops, time to go back to wait for the bus. Oh oh! The bus, the 21A!! A few minutes early, but maybe he didn't have many pickups.
Now I must explain that this trip was planned as follows: Train to Montrose, Bus to Brechin, Bus to Aberlemno. Return: Bus to Forfar, Bus to Dundee, Train to Glasgow.
I get on and ask, is this the bus to Forfar? No. This is the bus to Brechin. Oh. Do you know when the bus for Forfar arrives? No, this is my first day on the route.
Okay, what the heck, I get on. We get to Brechin, 5 minute wait for the bus to Montrose, I get off at the train station. So? 25 minute wait until the bus to Glasgow. I nip into the supermarket, pick up stuff for dinner (save myself some time) and get on the train to Glasgow at 3:17.
Home by 5:30, just in time to watch Manchester United win their semi-final match for the FA cup, and to watch Doctor Who.
A glorious day.
Sunday, today, I woke up at 9:30 had a drink of water, then next I knew it was 2:30!
Made coffee and breakfast, checked my email, called Dorothy for a long chat and watched Chelsa win their semi-final match in overtime.
Just to prove I'm not a complete slug, I am doing a load of laundry. . .
Tomorrow, one more day left on my train pass - perhaps Arran for the day.
Stay tuned.
Aberlemno stop is opposite the bus shelter. The 'town' seems to be 4 houses, lots of plowed fields, many standing stones (my objective) and friendly people. I talked for a while with a couple who are restoring a coaching station from 1650. We commiserated about the standards set by landmarking committees. I took a picture of the little man who guards the corner of their roof.
Off down the road to the first stone. Hmm. Interesting, but small. Then the next stone. Big, carved on the front with a cross and a hunting scene on the back. Picture worthy. Then first left and on to the church with 'the' stone cross. Subject of the journey. It sits in the graveyard but looks alien. Since it was created in the 7th century and the oldest stones I saw were from the 17th century, it isn't hard to figure out why. It is really beautiful and I took lots of pictures. I only hope with skillful editing they turn out well.
Of course I also took pictures of gravestones and my socks with a flower. A couple came along and we chatted for a long while. They have a house over the hill (east, I guess) and are hoping to move up permanently. I can see why. The area is soft rolling hills, some trees, but mostly farms. The day was perfect - a bit misty, but sunny and warm. We went into the little church which was very plain, no adornments except the parish list of births on the wall. There was a gallery upstairs. This is Church of Scotland - Presbyterian? No stained glass, certainly no smells and bells.
When I finally left, I realized I still had 45 minutes until the bus came, so I sat on the bench in the sun and took notes. Then I walked down to the bus shelter, then I walked back to the second standing stone (stele) and sat on the grass enjoying the peace around me.
Oops, time to go back to wait for the bus. Oh oh! The bus, the 21A!! A few minutes early, but maybe he didn't have many pickups.
Now I must explain that this trip was planned as follows: Train to Montrose, Bus to Brechin, Bus to Aberlemno. Return: Bus to Forfar, Bus to Dundee, Train to Glasgow.
I get on and ask, is this the bus to Forfar? No. This is the bus to Brechin. Oh. Do you know when the bus for Forfar arrives? No, this is my first day on the route.
Okay, what the heck, I get on. We get to Brechin, 5 minute wait for the bus to Montrose, I get off at the train station. So? 25 minute wait until the bus to Glasgow. I nip into the supermarket, pick up stuff for dinner (save myself some time) and get on the train to Glasgow at 3:17.
Home by 5:30, just in time to watch Manchester United win their semi-final match for the FA cup, and to watch Doctor Who.
A glorious day.
Sunday, today, I woke up at 9:30 had a drink of water, then next I knew it was 2:30!
Made coffee and breakfast, checked my email, called Dorothy for a long chat and watched Chelsa win their semi-final match in overtime.
Just to prove I'm not a complete slug, I am doing a load of laundry. . .
Tomorrow, one more day left on my train pass - perhaps Arran for the day.
Stay tuned.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Wonderful day!
I had a glorious day. As the Wallace & Gromit short title was: A Grand Day Out. That's the good news, the bad is that I am so tired I can't write it all out.
Tomorrow, I promise.
Tomorrow, I promise.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Bagpipes out my window
And I'm not sure why. Things are always happening here. Och, lads and lassies, y've missed me.
Well, I'm back and have had adventures!
After finishing another excellent book, a Quebecois police procedural mixed with a 'cosy' called 'Still Cold' I have finally stirred. I slept through Easter - woke up about 3 in the afternoon. Easter Monday is a holiday here so lots of stores were closed, but the modern art museum was open, so I wandered in there a bit.
Wednesday I went to Edinburgh to locate the picture described in Early German Painting from 1350-1550 so I could see if it had a date. I validated my train pass and took the 45 minute ride to the Capital. Before I went to the National Gallery, I went to the Scottish Academy exhibits. Very much fun. Lots of mixed media work. Took some pictures of penguins covered in mirrored tiles.
Now you can walk underground to the National Gallery - this must have been the big project they were working on the last time I was here. I located the research center, figured it was the place to begin. Logical. I spoke to the head librarian 'I am the Library' she said. At first she was a bit cold, but I'd done my homework and gave her the correct title, etc. Their books are cataloged on 3x6 pieces of paper held together with screw posts (Yikes!!). She found the book on the shelf and I located the picture on p. 65. Now my mission was really to find the picture in the collection and look at that, not the black & white book illustration. Well, what a hunt! Penny (she had warmed to me), the assistant (I am not really the Library?) and me watching, searched their in house data base, another art data base and guess what? The damn picture isn't in their collection. As I was leaving Penny said, "Well, you'll have to call the Thyssen and tell them they are wrong!" I said, don't worry, Tom speaks German. We ended on a happy note even though the trip was for nought.
Feeling a bit peckish and it being about 5, I decided to go to that culinary delight, Spud U Like for a baked potato. Yum, coleslaw and cheese. Oops, too much onion in the coleslaw, but I was so hungry I almost ate the styrofoam plate. I decided to make an Art Photo of my notes, the dated receipts and my food tray. I will upload it later on. I strolled onto the 5:45 train and got home by 7.
Thursday I was thinking of going to Aberlemno, but it was cloudy when I woke up at 8, so I rolled over and went to sleep again. When I did get up I kept thinking, the 12th, what is it about the 12th? Ahh, the new Doctor Who Adventures magazine comes out! So I took a big long walk around town, then headed for W. H. Smith and their Tardis cardboard magazine holder and there it was! And a free pencil case, pen, ruler (centimeters only), and 2 erasers. And there were two versions. Oh yes, I bought both. Cheap fun. Made a nice dinner, did the laundry, worked out the schedule for going to Aberlemno on Friday. If I haven't explained before, this town has a Celtic cross with a battle scene on the back that I need to photograph. One train and 2 buses and it better be within sight of the bus stop or I am screwed. But a Glasgow cabbie told me once, Ye'll never be lost as long as ye've got a tongue in yer head.
Friday, up early, wash, dress, make bed, breakfast - coffee, yogurt, juice, digestive biscuit. Out the door, walk to the train station. Ah, there it is, track 5. I nip into Smith's for a paper. Come out. Gone. Left. Departed. But, but, but. . yes, the trains DO leave on time in Scotland. Oh well, the next train is in an hour. Yeah, but who wants to hang around the train station for an hour? Hmm, where else can I go? How about Falkirk? Okay. So five minutes later I'm on the train to Falkirk. Why?
Well, Falkirk has this really cool thing called the Falkirk Wheel. It is a device that takes the place of 9 locks on a canal. It links the Union Canal and the Forth & Clyde Canal. You can go from the east coast, Edinburgh, to the west coast, Glasgow by boat. There is a tourist trip on a barge boat that explains it all. Go to www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk for more. It was a beautiful sunny day, the landscape lovely, great people to talk to and an all around excellent substitute for my missed train.
When I got back here, I spent about 20 minutes online figuring out if I could make my trip on Saturday. Yes. But the logistics are completely different from the ones I had first planned. A train to Montrose, bus to Brechin, bus to Aberlemno. Back it is Aberlemno, Forfar, Dundee, Glasgow.
So stay tuned. Right now I'm washing a dark wash. The teeny tiny washer dryer takes about 2 hours to damp dry the clothes. All chairs, drawer handles and hangers are in use after my laundry is done.
More exciting adventures later.
Well, I'm back and have had adventures!
After finishing another excellent book, a Quebecois police procedural mixed with a 'cosy' called 'Still Cold' I have finally stirred. I slept through Easter - woke up about 3 in the afternoon. Easter Monday is a holiday here so lots of stores were closed, but the modern art museum was open, so I wandered in there a bit.
Wednesday I went to Edinburgh to locate the picture described in Early German Painting from 1350-1550 so I could see if it had a date. I validated my train pass and took the 45 minute ride to the Capital. Before I went to the National Gallery, I went to the Scottish Academy exhibits. Very much fun. Lots of mixed media work. Took some pictures of penguins covered in mirrored tiles.
Now you can walk underground to the National Gallery - this must have been the big project they were working on the last time I was here. I located the research center, figured it was the place to begin. Logical. I spoke to the head librarian 'I am the Library' she said. At first she was a bit cold, but I'd done my homework and gave her the correct title, etc. Their books are cataloged on 3x6 pieces of paper held together with screw posts (Yikes!!). She found the book on the shelf and I located the picture on p. 65. Now my mission was really to find the picture in the collection and look at that, not the black & white book illustration. Well, what a hunt! Penny (she had warmed to me), the assistant (I am not really the Library?) and me watching, searched their in house data base, another art data base and guess what? The damn picture isn't in their collection. As I was leaving Penny said, "Well, you'll have to call the Thyssen and tell them they are wrong!" I said, don't worry, Tom speaks German. We ended on a happy note even though the trip was for nought.
Feeling a bit peckish and it being about 5, I decided to go to that culinary delight, Spud U Like for a baked potato. Yum, coleslaw and cheese. Oops, too much onion in the coleslaw, but I was so hungry I almost ate the styrofoam plate. I decided to make an Art Photo of my notes, the dated receipts and my food tray. I will upload it later on. I strolled onto the 5:45 train and got home by 7.
Thursday I was thinking of going to Aberlemno, but it was cloudy when I woke up at 8, so I rolled over and went to sleep again. When I did get up I kept thinking, the 12th, what is it about the 12th? Ahh, the new Doctor Who Adventures magazine comes out! So I took a big long walk around town, then headed for W. H. Smith and their Tardis cardboard magazine holder and there it was! And a free pencil case, pen, ruler (centimeters only), and 2 erasers. And there were two versions. Oh yes, I bought both. Cheap fun. Made a nice dinner, did the laundry, worked out the schedule for going to Aberlemno on Friday. If I haven't explained before, this town has a Celtic cross with a battle scene on the back that I need to photograph. One train and 2 buses and it better be within sight of the bus stop or I am screwed. But a Glasgow cabbie told me once, Ye'll never be lost as long as ye've got a tongue in yer head.
Friday, up early, wash, dress, make bed, breakfast - coffee, yogurt, juice, digestive biscuit. Out the door, walk to the train station. Ah, there it is, track 5. I nip into Smith's for a paper. Come out. Gone. Left. Departed. But, but, but. . yes, the trains DO leave on time in Scotland. Oh well, the next train is in an hour. Yeah, but who wants to hang around the train station for an hour? Hmm, where else can I go? How about Falkirk? Okay. So five minutes later I'm on the train to Falkirk. Why?
Well, Falkirk has this really cool thing called the Falkirk Wheel. It is a device that takes the place of 9 locks on a canal. It links the Union Canal and the Forth & Clyde Canal. You can go from the east coast, Edinburgh, to the west coast, Glasgow by boat. There is a tourist trip on a barge boat that explains it all. Go to www.thefalkirkwheel.co.uk for more. It was a beautiful sunny day, the landscape lovely, great people to talk to and an all around excellent substitute for my missed train.
When I got back here, I spent about 20 minutes online figuring out if I could make my trip on Saturday. Yes. But the logistics are completely different from the ones I had first planned. A train to Montrose, bus to Brechin, bus to Aberlemno. Back it is Aberlemno, Forfar, Dundee, Glasgow.
So stay tuned. Right now I'm washing a dark wash. The teeny tiny washer dryer takes about 2 hours to damp dry the clothes. All chairs, drawer handles and hangers are in use after my laundry is done.
More exciting adventures later.
Friday, April 6, 2007
Beside the Oceans of Time
I think that's the title of George MacKay Brown's book. It was a great book, but the title reminds me of why I've meant to be here but haven't. Sometimes, I am just lazing in the shallow end of the pool, or in the lagoon, to use the correct term, and time just flows by. Hmmm. Flow would mean river. Okay, but you know what I mean.
Sunny days, cool nights, long walks, people watching, they all flow together. Nothing gripping on the telly, but books to read.
So far, two: Friends, Lovers, Chocolate and The Spanish Game. The first was an excellent Scottish cosy with nothing much happening and the second a book by a young wannabe John Le Carre. Damn the stores here. I have no resistance for book stores, especialy when the have Buy 1 Get 1 half off, or Buy 2 Get 3. I lasted 5 days before I broke down and bought one. Then yesterday, I went to Borders to get a Starbucks and came out with 3 books, a DVD - Doctor Who Christmas Special on sale, a newspaper and no Starbucks. Yikes. The next book I am going to read is a Quebecois police procedural. Chief Inspector Armand Gamache, mais oui!
Saints be Praised! The shower is fixed! Lucky for me as No. 11 is now occupied. It was not the shower unit, it was the switch. I know the poor Plumber's Apprentice tested the electrical switch several times, but he didn't unscrew it to see the insides were crispy-fried. His boss did, and called the electrician. Also Boss was threatening to 'have a word with the young lad'. Hmm. There was a family resemblance, so maybe it was his son. I prefer the thought of 'boxing about the ears'. Just a language thing.
Today Steve the electrician arrived, gave a running commentary on the failings of the LAST electrician, put in a new box, I heard the wonderful sounds of running water and thanked him very much. He then went off to play golf.
And they say you need a higher education degree to have a good life.
Big sneezing attack today & runny nose. I took a UK Benedryl and was out like a light. No sneezes, no runny nose. Just completely stoned.
I would still be asleep except for the calls from Mauricio, Matt, Mauricio, Mauricio, Matt and David, and my calls to Jim and Dorothy. The bathroom and window sill are done. Matt and Jim approve, payment has been made and arranged for (the extras). I didn't have to listen to the banging, or know that the sub-floor was completely shot and required 150 lbs of concrete to level it.
Been following the JHfamilies group site. I've decided the problem is all these people who have no support group except eachother - moved away from home. Lots of dithering about tax accountants, home owners insurance, and the owner of the only bar with draft beer being arrested in a gambling ring. Fervent wishes for his acquittal as many of us want to troop down for the pleasure of a 'pulled pint'.
Regarding going to Aberlemno, I went to the Tourist Board and found it easy to get to by 1 train and 2 busses. Was going to go yesterday, a beautiful day, but figured if I waited until next week my Rail Pass which is only good for 8 days wouldn't run out too soon.
Went to GoMA to see a new art exhibit. Hard to explain - it is about the different cultures in Glasgow as represented by the two major football teams: the Rangers and the Celtics. Rangers are supported by the Protestants, and the Celtics the Catholics. Almost 30 years ago, Matt and I were staying in Inverness on our way to Skye. We saw a powerful TV movie on the subject. Until then I had no idea that there was sectarian violence anywhere but Ireland.
The Lighthouse, the museum of architecture has an exhibition of movies made over a period, 1920-1978, by the City Council. Exhibition entitled Happieness Sadness is about the effects of housing and benefit programs on the city. I've seen one of the four sets, and my ticket is good for returning to finish seeing them. I love this stuff. The viewing areas are set up as period rooms and I was in the one from the 1950s.
What else? Took some pictures, printed them and sent them out as postcards. That was fun.
Tonight is the beginning of a 4 day holiday period and the youths are out celebrating. One of the down sides of being on the town square. With the bedroom in the back it will be fine.
Signing off.
Sunny days, cool nights, long walks, people watching, they all flow together. Nothing gripping on the telly, but books to read.
So far, two: Friends, Lovers, Chocolate and The Spanish Game. The first was an excellent Scottish cosy with nothing much happening and the second a book by a young wannabe John Le Carre. Damn the stores here. I have no resistance for book stores, especialy when the have Buy 1 Get 1 half off, or Buy 2 Get 3. I lasted 5 days before I broke down and bought one. Then yesterday, I went to Borders to get a Starbucks and came out with 3 books, a DVD - Doctor Who Christmas Special on sale, a newspaper and no Starbucks. Yikes. The next book I am going to read is a Quebecois police procedural. Chief Inspector Armand Gamache, mais oui!
Saints be Praised! The shower is fixed! Lucky for me as No. 11 is now occupied. It was not the shower unit, it was the switch. I know the poor Plumber's Apprentice tested the electrical switch several times, but he didn't unscrew it to see the insides were crispy-fried. His boss did, and called the electrician. Also Boss was threatening to 'have a word with the young lad'. Hmm. There was a family resemblance, so maybe it was his son. I prefer the thought of 'boxing about the ears'. Just a language thing.
Today Steve the electrician arrived, gave a running commentary on the failings of the LAST electrician, put in a new box, I heard the wonderful sounds of running water and thanked him very much. He then went off to play golf.
And they say you need a higher education degree to have a good life.
Big sneezing attack today & runny nose. I took a UK Benedryl and was out like a light. No sneezes, no runny nose. Just completely stoned.
I would still be asleep except for the calls from Mauricio, Matt, Mauricio, Mauricio, Matt and David, and my calls to Jim and Dorothy. The bathroom and window sill are done. Matt and Jim approve, payment has been made and arranged for (the extras). I didn't have to listen to the banging, or know that the sub-floor was completely shot and required 150 lbs of concrete to level it.
Been following the JHfamilies group site. I've decided the problem is all these people who have no support group except eachother - moved away from home. Lots of dithering about tax accountants, home owners insurance, and the owner of the only bar with draft beer being arrested in a gambling ring. Fervent wishes for his acquittal as many of us want to troop down for the pleasure of a 'pulled pint'.
Regarding going to Aberlemno, I went to the Tourist Board and found it easy to get to by 1 train and 2 busses. Was going to go yesterday, a beautiful day, but figured if I waited until next week my Rail Pass which is only good for 8 days wouldn't run out too soon.
Went to GoMA to see a new art exhibit. Hard to explain - it is about the different cultures in Glasgow as represented by the two major football teams: the Rangers and the Celtics. Rangers are supported by the Protestants, and the Celtics the Catholics. Almost 30 years ago, Matt and I were staying in Inverness on our way to Skye. We saw a powerful TV movie on the subject. Until then I had no idea that there was sectarian violence anywhere but Ireland.
The Lighthouse, the museum of architecture has an exhibition of movies made over a period, 1920-1978, by the City Council. Exhibition entitled Happieness Sadness is about the effects of housing and benefit programs on the city. I've seen one of the four sets, and my ticket is good for returning to finish seeing them. I love this stuff. The viewing areas are set up as period rooms and I was in the one from the 1950s.
What else? Took some pictures, printed them and sent them out as postcards. That was fun.
Tonight is the beginning of a 4 day holiday period and the youths are out celebrating. One of the down sides of being on the town square. With the bedroom in the back it will be fine.
Signing off.
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Sunday, the day of rest
And rest I did. Woke up about 10, had breakfast and went back to sleep until 2:30. Beautiful day, sun streaming in the windows, I slept.
Hopped over to #11 for a shower then out for Starbucks. Lost the thread though, and bought a bag of coffee for less than one Grande. Also fresh veggies and the paper. A luxurious rest of the afternoon drinking French Roast coffee and reading the paper.
My walkabout was about an hour. Lots more good people watching. Temps in low 60s I think. Short sleeve shirt and jacket.
I bought the Doctor Who magazine. On the basis of a really great show last night. Monsters, explosions, lots of running about. Roy Marsden was in it, until the Plasmphore sucked out all his blood with a bendy straw. And the rhino headed mercenarys were good monsters. The new companion seems like a winner, too. So the magazine came with markers, a sketch book and a plastic folder with the Tardis on it. What more could a girl want?
It is so quiet here. Lovely.
Can't sleep as much tonight because Christine will be coming for the keys. And besides, I forgot how badly #11's shower drips on the floor. And also the plumber will be coming. And besides, getting back to a day schedule is better than being a night owl.
Ottaker's, a local Scottish book seller is gone now. Eaten up by one of the UK chains. I am looking for some DVDs on local Glaswegian history. Guess it is Waterstone's or Borders. And I read that Borders is going to close or franchise their European branches which means the huge one down the street is going to change. When I first came here there was John Smith Booksellers, Dillon's, Ottaker's, Blackwell's and Waterstone's. Is this progress?
I made a fresh vegetable combo with basil and soft cheese to top my spaghetti. The flat has no salt or pepper, so I need to wander in to BK or MickyD to get some.
Ok, I'm outta here.
Hopped over to #11 for a shower then out for Starbucks. Lost the thread though, and bought a bag of coffee for less than one Grande. Also fresh veggies and the paper. A luxurious rest of the afternoon drinking French Roast coffee and reading the paper.
My walkabout was about an hour. Lots more good people watching. Temps in low 60s I think. Short sleeve shirt and jacket.
I bought the Doctor Who magazine. On the basis of a really great show last night. Monsters, explosions, lots of running about. Roy Marsden was in it, until the Plasmphore sucked out all his blood with a bendy straw. And the rhino headed mercenarys were good monsters. The new companion seems like a winner, too. So the magazine came with markers, a sketch book and a plastic folder with the Tardis on it. What more could a girl want?
It is so quiet here. Lovely.
Can't sleep as much tonight because Christine will be coming for the keys. And besides, I forgot how badly #11's shower drips on the floor. And also the plumber will be coming. And besides, getting back to a day schedule is better than being a night owl.
Ottaker's, a local Scottish book seller is gone now. Eaten up by one of the UK chains. I am looking for some DVDs on local Glaswegian history. Guess it is Waterstone's or Borders. And I read that Borders is going to close or franchise their European branches which means the huge one down the street is going to change. When I first came here there was John Smith Booksellers, Dillon's, Ottaker's, Blackwell's and Waterstone's. Is this progress?
I made a fresh vegetable combo with basil and soft cheese to top my spaghetti. The flat has no salt or pepper, so I need to wander in to BK or MickyD to get some.
Ok, I'm outta here.
Sunday, the day of rest
And rest I did. Woke up about 10, had breakfast and went back to sleep until 2:30. Beautiful day, sun streaming in the windows, I slept.
Hopped over to #11 for a shower then out for Starbucks. Lost the thread though, and bought a bag of coffee for less than one Grande. Also fresh veggies and the paper. A luxurious rest of the afternoon drinking French Roast coffee and reading the paper.
My walkabout was about an hour. Lots more good people watching. Temps in low 60s I think. Short sleeve shirt and jacket.
I bought the Doctor Who magazine. On the basis of a really great show last night. Monsters, explosions, lots of running about. Roy Marsden was in it, until the Plasmphore sucked out all his blood with a bendy straw. And the rhino headed mercenarys were good monsters. The new companion seems like a winner, too. So the magazine came with markers, a sketch book and a plastic folder with the Tardis on it. What more could a girl want?
It is so quiet here. Lovely.
Can't sleep as much tonight because Christine will be coming for the keys. And besides, I forgot how badly #11's shower drips on the floor. And also the plumber will be coming. And besides, getting back to a day schedule is better than being a night owl.
Ottaker's, a local Scottish book seller is gone now. Eaten up by one of the UK chains. I am looking for some DVDs on local Glaswegian history. Guess it is Waterstone's or Borders. And I read that Borders is going to close or franchise their European branches which means the huge one down the street is going to change. When I first came here there was John Smith Booksellers, Dillon's, Ottaker's, Blackwell's and Waterstone's. Is this progress?
I made a fresh vegetable combo with basil and soft cheese to top my spaghetti. The flat has no salt or pepper, so I need to wander in to BK or MickyD to get some.
Ok, I'm outta here.
Hopped over to #11 for a shower then out for Starbucks. Lost the thread though, and bought a bag of coffee for less than one Grande. Also fresh veggies and the paper. A luxurious rest of the afternoon drinking French Roast coffee and reading the paper.
My walkabout was about an hour. Lots more good people watching. Temps in low 60s I think. Short sleeve shirt and jacket.
I bought the Doctor Who magazine. On the basis of a really great show last night. Monsters, explosions, lots of running about. Roy Marsden was in it, until the Plasmphore sucked out all his blood with a bendy straw. And the rhino headed mercenarys were good monsters. The new companion seems like a winner, too. So the magazine came with markers, a sketch book and a plastic folder with the Tardis on it. What more could a girl want?
It is so quiet here. Lovely.
Can't sleep as much tonight because Christine will be coming for the keys. And besides, I forgot how badly #11's shower drips on the floor. And also the plumber will be coming. And besides, getting back to a day schedule is better than being a night owl.
Ottaker's, a local Scottish book seller is gone now. Eaten up by one of the UK chains. I am looking for some DVDs on local Glaswegian history. Guess it is Waterstone's or Borders. And I read that Borders is going to close or franchise their European branches which means the huge one down the street is going to change. When I first came here there was John Smith Booksellers, Dillon's, Ottaker's, Blackwell's and Waterstone's. Is this progress?
I made a fresh vegetable combo with basil and soft cheese to top my spaghetti. The flat has no salt or pepper, so I need to wander in to BK or MickyD to get some.
Ok, I'm outta here.
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