The Shoot
I am lucky to have relatives who manage the North Slipperfield Estate in the Scottish Borders. They are very close relatives indeed, and I am staying in my own fully equipped bothy. As I look out of my window I can see the Pentland hills, covered in a dusting of snow. The bread and butter here is pheasant shooting. Now, I wasn’t at all sure about this, but was asked if I’d like to join the last day of the season. This was a thank you shoot for the Beaters who have worked hard all season. Still, I wasn’t sure, but I thought I might get some decent pictures, and there would be plenty of dogs. There were. I helped with the preparation of food, and got caught up with the anticipation of the day. I watched the tweeds being brought out, the leather gaiters polished and guns carefully prepared. There was excitement in the air.
Decisions have to be made about where each gun (that means person and dog with gun) would stand. Easy solution is to give each one a shot of sloe gin with their number on the bottom of the glass. You have to drink it to find out your position……no sweat there then!
The well-trained dogs were just about able to contain themselves while they waited and waited for things to get going
This pretty girl managed to more or less sit still. It was hard though.
Some of the more experienced dogs waited in their vans, knowing what was coming. Very soon!
Not everyone got to go. Some were just too young, and not yet trained. Hard to resist though
Off at last! I must say, a nicer group of individuals I have yet to meet.
There is a strict code of conduct that ensures safety for the humans and humane treatment of the dogs and birds. I wasn’t sure how I would feel about the shooting of the birds, but there was such an emphasis on maintaining the rules, that I relaxed somewhat.
It was cold. The guns and their dogs waited while the Beaters did their work. No one moved, least of all those dogs. It was a longer than normal wait, as it was the last day of the season.
This fellow is the number two shot in Scotland. Such a nice fellow too. His dog was perfectly behaved.
And then is was over. Birds are not carried by the feet. It’s just not done. Always by the head. I must say, I always look away on nature documentaries when creatures and birds are killed. I don’t like it. Somehow, today I grasped the whole culture of this ancient sport, and felt in no position to object. I also have to tell you that I will be cooking a pheasant dinner tomorrow night. Each to his own I say.
There is something lovely about a well-trained dog. This little boy was a star!
A Visit to the Scottish Borders
Just an 8 hour drive and I am in Scotland. I am fortunate enough to stay in West Linton with views of the Pentland Hills.
The day was cold and bright. There were dogs to be walked
Or rather, dogs to be let out to run freely
This group of Highland cattle were not much fussed about us passing by
And quite happy to pose for a portrait shot
They are lovely docile creatures
These rams have done their work this year, and it won’t be long before the results are born
This lovely lady is one of many wives. They have to be hardy to survive out here.
Snow s expected tonight.
It’s Raining in London Town
Decided to pop into London to see the sights. However it rained, and rained. A warming curry was called for, so headed over to Brick Lane (where else?)
Not much evidence of Christmas down here, but the graffiti’s good
Brick Lane is lined with exotic little shops and restaurants. The smells are wonderful
At the end are the bagel bakeries, selling wonderful Jewish breads and of course…
Salt beef. I thought I was back in New York for a moment
After our curry, we fancied some ice cream
Benets of Brick Lane did the trick. Luscious recipes. My favourite being Bakewell tart ice cream. They also served home-made cakes to tempt us
These were somehow resisted. Out into the dark streets looking for some sparkle
There are shops selling hand-made everything here in Spitalfields
Some of the models have over done the dieting I thought.
As we moved nearer to the City the windows became more elegant, then the rain came
And we all hurried to get to the railway station
The Gherkin turned on its lights
And soon we were warm and cosy and fast asleep.
Happy Christmas!
Poppy’s Day Out
Poppy went to the circus. As long as there were no animals she was happy to go. So was I. I don’t want to see animals performing, but am pleased with what people can do:
Oh look at that! It’s so exciting I have to make a funny face!
How did he do that??
This is nail bitingly good!
The ring master had electricity in his hair, I think he saw me!
Sparkly, fluffy things
Then we all sang and Santa came!
And the pretty ladies took care of us
Then it was all over and time for bath and bed.
The Eats of New York
It’s impossible not to overeat in New York. There’s plenty of junk if that’s what you’re after. It’s all there. But the food I was after was in the delicatessens. The older the better. Probably the most authentic deli in New York is Katz.
We went for breakfast. I asked our waiter (David) what the pancakes were like. He answered ‘Mediocre’ and then ‘Nobody comes here for breakfast.’ What shall I have then? ‘There are only three things people have here; pastrami sandwiches, mazo ball soup, and potato latkes.’ We had all three.
The soup. Matzo dumplings as light as air
Crunchy potato latkes served with sour cream. I could have happily eaten ten!
But the pastrami sandwich was especially delicious with special mustard and of course……..
their own pickles. I particularly enjoyed the green tomatoes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, all in one go!
Everyone has been here, including When Harry Met Sally
Long may it last.
Time for a Show!
I’ve never been to Times Square before. Suddenly, you arrive and someone’s turned the lights on!
Along with all the lights, the atmosphere is electric
There is a sense of anticipation. People milling about, hoping to get tickets for the best price
Look up, and there are the tower blocks all lit up
Yellow taxis dominate the streets. No one seems to be getting anywhere fast
This place is like nowhere I’ve ever been. I love it in a strange sort of way. Probably one visit will last a while!
Of course we had to see a show. Follies was our choice. I’m still singing!
A Walk Along the Canal St-Martin, Paris
So, here I am in Paris. The second of my Bucket-List trips. It’s warm and autumnal. We decided to walk along the Canal St-Martin. We started at Stalingrad Metro station. This is graffiti-land. It’s splattered over every available space
Somehow they manage to get up the chimneys as well
The first sight of the canal at Basin de la Villette. That’s the fire station down on the right, and much more graffiti opposite
This fine barge was emerging from the lock as we passed by
Little parks run on either side of these locks. People spend their lunch hour watching while they eat.
The little bridges are also popular for hanging out (plus doing a spot of graffiti if no one’s looking)
Not sure who this lady was. The bird liked her though
We drifted into the Jewish Quarter and found the smell of cholla bread inviting. Look at all these wonderful treats!
The final lock before the end of this lovely little canal
Then lunch at Cafe la Marine
Here they serve the most delicious chicken with mashed potatoes I have ever eaten. Then it’s almond and pear tarte with ice cream. The pastry is beyond description. Go there please!
The Lungs of Vienna
It was steaming hot during our trip to Vienna. Where ever you are, there is always a little or big park to dive into for some air. Here is what we saw in the parks we found
Some are huge and formal with spectacular water features
Some were less formal, but had even more interesting water features. These lily pads were enormous!
There are still plenty of flowers blooming
The brighter the better in my view.
These flower beds were shaped in swirls found only in special parks
This must be the oldest glass house in the world.
There was a pumpkin display on. Harvest festival perhaps?
The exotic ferns were gorgeous. Especially on a hot September day.
I Went to the Animal Fair, the Birds and the Bees were There, the Elephant Sneezed and Fell on his Knees and What Became of the Monkey…………
I don’t like the idea of Zoos. But, this was a good one, and there were babies, which means there is some contentment among its residents
Mrs Giraffe had just had a baby, who wasn’t about to have her picture taken
This fellow was heading straight for me, keen to be in the shot
I don’t think the spectacled bear was happy about his situation. They are normally illusive in the rain forests of Peru
A rhino’s behind is really quite neat
These beautiful creatures don’t really belong here, but they had plenty of babies
I liked these birds a great deal. I think they are pelicans.
Elegant in the water
I’m still ambivalent about zoos, but I enjoyed Vienna Zoo. They said it was the oldest in the world. Not sure if that helps.
Nova Scotian Treats
Nova Scotia has many treats for the visitor. The colour. Of everything. The food. The people.
These are a few treats I came across
The seafood chowder at The Wooden Monkey
A soaring osprey
A wave on Sybil’s secret beach
One of the many dogs I met
One of Sybil’s best friends who carries her shopping
Blueberry pie just has to have a mention
The words of the late Jack Layton. A huge loss
The Gardens in Halifax
I’m back home now after three lovely weeks in Halifax Nova Scotia. I saw so much, and mostly in the sunshine. On this particular day we walked around the public gardens. I remember going there as a child
I don’t know who the two fellows are on the gate, but we did feel welcome
A very special and ornate bandstand. There was nothing on that day
Hard to believe we a right in the centre of town
Yes, the Titanic is here too. Much of the wreckage of the real one was washed up in Halifax
There was a special display of dahlias on that day
Some real beauties
Not everyone could stay awake for the show. A bit of a rare beauty though in her own right!
Canadian Colour
There’s something about the Canadians and colour. Maybe it’s the long, white winters. Maybe they just like colour. Maybe Brits prefer more subtle tones
There is a special shade of red. I think it’s probably called ‘Bright Red’
It goes well with everything, even when it clashes
Look at this lovely row of shops in Halifax. How cheerful they are!
Freshly painted tinkling boats
Who cares if this gorgeous green house clashes with next door. I don’t!
I took this view of Lunenburg in the depths of winter earlier this year. As cheerful as a summer day.
Just a few reasons why I am coming to live here sooner than later!
A Charming Island
A visit to Prince Edward Island is a delight. It reminds me of all those sunny places I have been to and loved.
As with everything here, there is much colour, naturally and man-made
These wooden seats are popular and come in every colour possible. I shall have them when I move here
The sand on the south side of the island is red. It’s white up north. I rather like the red.
This pretty little lighthouse is in Victoria. Yes there were also tourists, but there was room for all of us. I had the most delicious apple crumble pie a la mode in one of its little cafes.
How lovely is this! No wonder Anne of Green Gables was such a happy individual….she was wasn’t she?
Certainly a place I will come for holidays when I move to Nova Scotia. Anyone want to join me??
Looking for Whales
We had booked up to do a spot of whale watching in an area where they were sure to turn up. So excited at the prospect of seeing one of these magnificent creatures. Just imagining the impact a sighting would have on the little boatful of happy Canadians we were with:
Digby was quite a drive from Halifax, but a beautiful spot from which to launch ourselves to view the wondrous whales
Off we set with our friendly boat full of Canadians. See how excited everyone is!
Sybil had difficulty in containing herself…
So this is what we saw: Lovely boats..
A bird on a post
Various marvellous views of water moving………….
And no whales. They just didn’t show up……..so to compensate we had…….
Digby scallops and fries. Very delicious and better than whale meat……..maybe next time we will be lucky!
A Stroll in Point Pleasant Park
My friend Sybil took us for a walk in Point Pleasant Park in Halifax. Hard to believe it’s just a few moments from the city. Of course, dogs don’t care where it is, as long as they can run after critters….
This is just one of Sybil’s canine friends. She doesn’t belong to Sybil, in fact you could say that Sybil is her Grand-Dog-Mother, as she belongs to her daughter
So it was fitting for my granddaughter to come too. Little Poppykins of course
What a lovely crew!
Suddenly there was a rustling in the woods……..something was chattering and teasing doggie
Aha, got you! A baby red squirrel trying it’s luck with a dog who wanted lunch
Luckily for it, squirrel wasn’t on the menu today.
Nova Scotia Again
This time I’m visiting Nova Scotia in the summer. It’s quite a different place in the sunshine. People come out and stay out.
The waterfront is where people go. They do boats here. Big time.
There was a busker festival on. It went on for days, and the people kept coming. Compared with the UK, there aren’t many people living in Canada. So I guess that they all came to the harbour today
Canadians are laid back and friendly. They enjoy getting together for some fun. The atmosphere is easy here.
Places to sit outside and eat are plentiful. I recommend blueberry pie a la mode
Guess who else came too? Poppy’s first holiday. She likes it here! We all like it her
British Summer Time
The summer in England is unmistakable
Markets set up in country towns. This one in Petworth has local grown produce, hand-made chocolates and specialty breads
There is a lot of food and eating going on
There’s also a wedding going on
And old English roses and lavender
There’s cricket on the green. What on earth are they doing??
Green and Pleasant Land
This really is a beautiful part of the world. I have been home for a week now. Working. My mind is still walking though.
Because the air is pure lichen grows freely here
These iron gates are featured all over the Cornish Coast. A sort of House Style. Aren’t they lovely…
Little streams leading to this sea. The water is clear enough to drink.
Little surprises hidden and waiting for viewing. Such an abundance of colour. Never get enough of this!
St Michael’s Mount
You can get on to St Michael’s Mount by boat at high tide and on foot across a causeway at low tide. Either way it is a wonderful sight, especially now with the gardens at their best
The National Trust has maintained the plants in keeping with the area, and the gardens are allowed to grow without looking too manicured
There are some exotic plants anyway in Cornwall, and the ones here were excellent
Someone had decided to make an art work of what might have been an insignificant building
I personally preferred the outside of St Michael’s Mount to the inside.
Worth a visit, and the crab sandwiches and cake at the NT tea shop are good.
More of The Path
What makes the walk along the Cornish Coastal path so lovely is the variation in terrain. You climb, twist and scramble along the trail, enjoying stunning views from all angles. Then, you come around another corner to reveal more
The colours are vivid, but predominantly blue, green and yellow. The water looks at times Mediterranean. It’s easy to forget where you are
Around another corner we came across old abandoned tin mines, now overtaken by 21st century technology
It was a bit like reaching Macchu Picchu
Except that the sea was crashing waves along its edge
The whole place is peppered with chimneys that have somehow stayed in place. More or less. The men who worked in these mines ate pasties with sweet fillings at one end and meat the other. The pastry was discarded as it was spoilt by the arsenic from their hands. Hence the famous Cornish Pasty. Can’t say I am too taken with them, even though the ones we had were served with a good portion of crispy chips. We ate all the pastry and have lived to tell the story.
Coastal Observations
There’s something about the seaside that makes sitting and watching pleasurable. We sat having lunch at this pretty little cove just observing
This lady was settling down for a day of reading, or drawing,. What ever it was, she was all set
Some happy person is retiring soon. So am I. We are both happy!
Lunch by the way was delicious. A warm chicken sandwich on very soft and malty bread
These two chaps were keen not to miss anything that might want to be eaten.
And this pair of birds were doing a dance along a rope. Very charming!
Some people may find this a little distressing. Tee hee!
Coastal Flowers
The South West Coastal Path is at its best. I’ll start with the wild flowers:
This is a lovely speckled orchid. There are many varieties in abundance
A sea of foxgloves all along the path
The bluebells are still out, waiting to line our path
These look like a wild form of mimulus
Dog Roses. Why are they called DOG roses? They smell far too sweet
Don’t know what these are. They remind me of an iris. There were plenty of them.
More to come!
Beach Combing in Nova Scotia
The beaches are rocky and wild. Some have ice and snow still on the sand. There are many lovely things to see for those who look.
These muscles are extra large and a brilliant blue colour
This rock has another embedded in its centre
Huge glossy rocks are deadly slippery underfoot
Hummm, someone’s got something to tell us
Inside a sea urchin’s ‘mouth’
