Although Boscastle wasn't on my itinerary, after we arrived in Port Isaac we heard of it several times ... people saying to go there. So one day we took the bus from Port Isaac (at the top of the steep hill) to the quaint, small village of Boscastle that was also a cove.
I took photos of the drive through the bus windows, and even had the 'flaming' driver on the way back that we'd had returning from Tintagel earlier in the week. Only this time he had pink fingernails whereas before they were ruby red. :) He lives in Tintagel, a very entertaining and informative driver. Nice guy, someone that would be fun to know.
At The Riverside Inn (owners - Peter and Margaret Templar), we had lunch at the hotel restaurant/tearoom & Garden overlooking the River Valency (we call them creeks here) in Boscastle. We met the proprietor, Peter, a really nice man. His son also works there. In fact I took a pic of Peter as we were leaving while he was on the phone. Wonderful food, wonderful relaxing restaurant with lovely ambiance.
There's also a pic of the owner of The Leather Shop in Boscastle holding up a handmade journal, his wife made the paper and the fabric of the cover. I bought it, the last of its kind, she won't be making any more. Now she only makes dolls, first collection (more to come) called The Woodland Collection . . .
"Inspiration for this collection is drawn from the magical woodlands of North Cornwall incorporating the textures and hues that mirror its natural beauty. THE BRACKEN have been individually created using embellished handmade fabrics. Their characters and personalties develop in the making with time and care taken to ensure each one is unique. All THE BRACKEN have a name carefully chosen to be in harmony with the woodland and its surroundings. They are all numbered and are part of a Limited Edition of 250 with their own Certificate of Authenticity." www.thebracken.com
Trish bought one of the dolls - Shamrock, I believe is her name.
We didn't meet the artist, only her husband, he makes the leather goods in "The Leather Shop" at "The Old Mill". Very interesting afternoon we spent in Boscastle, regardless of the rain.
You'll also see the back alleyway that actually fronts cottages and houses along the 'river' that empties into the sea. An afternoon well spent. Glad we went.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Charming Port Isaac!
I think the best way to encapsulate a description of Port Isaac is ... one of the most charming seacoast villages in England, set in a cove stretching up the enbankment, peaceful with cobblestone alleyways (streets), shops, pubs, and holiday cottages. The perfect place to get away from it all and settle in to write, rest, eat and drink.
I could live there, easily, except for the steep climb to the CoOp (grocery store) and lack of medical facilities and drug store. For medical treatment one has to travel to another town if you need more than aspirin and simple cold remedies. But that's easy, just have to plan in advance for all of that. As well as grocery. We would take the hike up the hill maybe every other day to get what we needed at the grocery, I was always bringing up the rear of course, since I'm not good on uphill hikes. And we could only carry a lightly packed bag of goods at a time. So we planned our purchases carefully. There were always the pubs and cafes in which to dine, too, so if one wanted to eat out all the time, no problem. But I'm a finger food sort of person, sometimes cheese and bread is enough for me in a meal. I was hooked on the beet root, ate several packages of that while there with my cheese and bread. Yum yum.
We would build a nightly fire in the fireplace, in fact in some of the Port Isaac photos to the left you will see the smoke rising from our chimney, the light is on in the living room ... cozy, huh? Trish was in the cottage while I was down in the cove taking pics. We stayed in the White House Cottage to the left of the White House which is to the left of 'Doc Martin's' brick dwelling used in the TV series. Ironic that a series with a doctor is set in a village that doesn't have any doctors. And the candy store is used as a pharmacy in the series, no pharmacy in Port Isaac. lol lol Interesting.
The photo of the four men that you'll see as you watch the slide show, are the 2 husbands of the gals that I wrote of in the previous post who helped me plot a novel (the two men on the left). That was a fun evening with those four guys at the Slipway, before and after the wives returned. Hilarious, actually. They were calling me Jessica ... of Murder She Wrote. The two on the right were visiting the cove from the Midlands - wild and crazy guys - dentists. Where were they when I lost a cap the last day we were there?
As you'll see, the streets are narrow and winding between the dwellings and other buildings and although looking grey and dismal, there is a tranquil, joyous feeling amidst them. I always feel that way in England wherever I am. One reason I'm drawn back to it time and time again. And in that tranquility, I am always inspired in my quiet thoughts. So much so that I look forward to time alone with my thoughts. But then I'm the same at home, even here in Arizona or wherever I call home.
More later ...
I could live there, easily, except for the steep climb to the CoOp (grocery store) and lack of medical facilities and drug store. For medical treatment one has to travel to another town if you need more than aspirin and simple cold remedies. But that's easy, just have to plan in advance for all of that. As well as grocery. We would take the hike up the hill maybe every other day to get what we needed at the grocery, I was always bringing up the rear of course, since I'm not good on uphill hikes. And we could only carry a lightly packed bag of goods at a time. So we planned our purchases carefully. There were always the pubs and cafes in which to dine, too, so if one wanted to eat out all the time, no problem. But I'm a finger food sort of person, sometimes cheese and bread is enough for me in a meal. I was hooked on the beet root, ate several packages of that while there with my cheese and bread. Yum yum.
We would build a nightly fire in the fireplace, in fact in some of the Port Isaac photos to the left you will see the smoke rising from our chimney, the light is on in the living room ... cozy, huh? Trish was in the cottage while I was down in the cove taking pics. We stayed in the White House Cottage to the left of the White House which is to the left of 'Doc Martin's' brick dwelling used in the TV series. Ironic that a series with a doctor is set in a village that doesn't have any doctors. And the candy store is used as a pharmacy in the series, no pharmacy in Port Isaac. lol lol Interesting.
The photo of the four men that you'll see as you watch the slide show, are the 2 husbands of the gals that I wrote of in the previous post who helped me plot a novel (the two men on the left). That was a fun evening with those four guys at the Slipway, before and after the wives returned. Hilarious, actually. They were calling me Jessica ... of Murder She Wrote. The two on the right were visiting the cove from the Midlands - wild and crazy guys - dentists. Where were they when I lost a cap the last day we were there?
As you'll see, the streets are narrow and winding between the dwellings and other buildings and although looking grey and dismal, there is a tranquil, joyous feeling amidst them. I always feel that way in England wherever I am. One reason I'm drawn back to it time and time again. And in that tranquility, I am always inspired in my quiet thoughts. So much so that I look forward to time alone with my thoughts. But then I'm the same at home, even here in Arizona or wherever I call home.
More later ...
Monday, October 31, 2011
Northwest Coast of Cornwall
Here I am, at last, in Port Isaac, Cornwall. And here I've been dredging my imagination inspired by this incredible fishing village to come up with an idea and a story for a new novel. A novel not part of my 'Midnight' series. A complete stand-alone. But still a contemporary romantic suspense novel, but the first one without my character Rachel O'Neill.
So, I've been thinking and thinking and thinking, making notes about possibilities, scrutinizing my surroundings with the purpose of creating the backdrop for my story, focusing my every waking thought on it ... until last night. Last night I met up with a couple gals and their husbands who we'd met the first night Trish and I arrived in Port Isaac. Fun people. And last night I put a question to the gals ... why would my protagonist be in Port Isaac, hiding out, living in a cottage she purchased without her husband of six months knowing, while he's back in New York City not knowing where she is? Why is she here? Why did she disappear?
Well, then the story unfolded. Between the three of us, we came up with a wonderful plot. At least a starting point with possible plot points ... and it was a fabulous brain-storming session. So now I'm eager to get to the writing of it.
After leaving them, I went for dinner at The Mote - crispy salmon, spinach, potatoes, and salad - then I walked back up the hill to our cottage in the rain, feeling the night had been totally productive and exhilarating. Trish stayed in for the evening, had been out walking all day while I worked - publishing stuff.
Today we went to Tintagel a few miles from here - the Camelot Castle Hotel and the village that was a complete surprise (the village is not portrayed well on the Internet, it's terrific). And as we traveled the bus ride to and from Tintagel, my mind continued writing this new novel ... working title JESSICA. (Oh, our busdriver on the return trip was a flaming queen - ruby red nail polish and all. He was a riot, entertained us all the way back. Lots of laughter.)
By the way this was the first time I've discussed a possible plot with anybody else. And it's strange how it all came about. It only goes to show that wherever and whenever you can come up with a story, and with whomever, do it. They were very helpful. Both Brits. And I truly thank them.
So, I've been thinking and thinking and thinking, making notes about possibilities, scrutinizing my surroundings with the purpose of creating the backdrop for my story, focusing my every waking thought on it ... until last night. Last night I met up with a couple gals and their husbands who we'd met the first night Trish and I arrived in Port Isaac. Fun people. And last night I put a question to the gals ... why would my protagonist be in Port Isaac, hiding out, living in a cottage she purchased without her husband of six months knowing, while he's back in New York City not knowing where she is? Why is she here? Why did she disappear?
Well, then the story unfolded. Between the three of us, we came up with a wonderful plot. At least a starting point with possible plot points ... and it was a fabulous brain-storming session. So now I'm eager to get to the writing of it.
After leaving them, I went for dinner at The Mote - crispy salmon, spinach, potatoes, and salad - then I walked back up the hill to our cottage in the rain, feeling the night had been totally productive and exhilarating. Trish stayed in for the evening, had been out walking all day while I worked - publishing stuff.
Today we went to Tintagel a few miles from here - the Camelot Castle Hotel and the village that was a complete surprise (the village is not portrayed well on the Internet, it's terrific). And as we traveled the bus ride to and from Tintagel, my mind continued writing this new novel ... working title JESSICA. (Oh, our busdriver on the return trip was a flaming queen - ruby red nail polish and all. He was a riot, entertained us all the way back. Lots of laughter.)
By the way this was the first time I've discussed a possible plot with anybody else. And it's strange how it all came about. It only goes to show that wherever and whenever you can come up with a story, and with whomever, do it. They were very helpful. Both Brits. And I truly thank them.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
OH TO LIVE IN ABBOTSBURY!
Yes, Trish and I both agree ... we would love to live in Abbotsbury. Such a quaint little village, lovely cottages and tea rooms ... perfect. And with the gardens and the swannery, so beautiful. If we would need to go to a larger town, Weymouth is just a few minutes down the road to the sea, and Dorchester is a few minutes to the east. Bridport, another sea town is just a few minutes to the north. So Abbotsbury is perfectly situated.
I've uploaded a few slide shows of the trip thusfar, to the left, so take a look. If you click on them you'll be taken to the site where the photos are located and you can see them in larger versions, if you wish.
In fact I'll let the photos speak for themselves of Abbotsbury.
I've uploaded a few slide shows of the trip thusfar, to the left, so take a look. If you click on them you'll be taken to the site where the photos are located and you can see them in larger versions, if you wish.
In fact I'll let the photos speak for themselves of Abbotsbury.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
SUNDAY LUNCH AT THE COVE HOUSE - CHESIL BEACH
Something I didn't know till recently is that Chesil Beach or Chesil Bank as it is sometimes referred to is one of three shingle structures in Britain. And the size of the chert and flint shingle varies from pea sized to orange sized from one end of the beach to the other stretching 18 miles to the Abbotsbury swannery (going to the swannery tomorrow). It is said that "the beach provides shelter from the prevailing winds and waves for the town of Weymouth and the village of Chiswell, which would otherwise probably not exist."
Anywho ... we boarded a local bus to Portland and to The Cove House (circled in black) for Sunday lunch - a very special place on Chesil Beach.
Anywho ... we boarded a local bus to Portland and to The Cove House (circled in black) for Sunday lunch - a very special place on Chesil Beach.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Monday - Off to Dorchester - Hardyland
A rainy day in Dorset land ... but it's only to ignore. Which is what we did. Off on a bus ride to Dorcester with our umbrellas and warm outer coverings and this time a small roller bag. We figured it out, how to make ourselves more comfy while walking without a heavy shoulder purse or bag to tote. A roller bag, small but spacious enough to carry our purses and whatever 'stuff' we collect along the way. Worked perfect. We each found the proper one, same, but I painted the emblem on mine with a tad of nail polish to differintiate between the two, which belongs to which. So now no more heaviness on the shoulders and arms.
So, I'm packing a few items I'm not using that I brought along, and will ship them home in the carryon luggage that is too heavy to carry through bus and train stations. I'll send them back to the U.S. before we leave Weymouth on Friday. That will leave a lightened load for my check-in bag, making it easier to manuever, and this small roller bag will replace the one I'm shipping home. Much better.
What it amounts to is a purse on rollers and a check-in bag that I'll be left with, both easy to lift. Works for me.
Alright, back to Dorcester ...
But before that, I was up shampooing and doing my nails this morning at 3:30 a.m., could not get to sleep. Had fallen asleep yesterday afternoon (Sunday) after our day out to Portland and the Cove House on Chesil Beach. Haven't posted that day yet, but will ... am behind on my writing.
Today we bused it to Dorcester, like I said, and had a very pleasant late lunch at Nappers Mite, a cafe in a 17th century alms house. Very small and crowded, but interesting nevertheless. Made of stone as most places are, hand hewn beams in the ceiling, wooden planks and stone floors, low doorways. The people in those times were much shorter than they are now. I would imagine you know all about that ... the evolution of the short of yesteryear to the tall of today. It's very evident in the cottages and buildings of England. I had a cheese & onion panini and Trish had a quiche.
After lunch we headed for the Thomas Hardy section in the Dorset Museum, which was the object of my interest. Then we went into the church next door, St. Peters, I believe it is. It was quaint, small, beautiful stained glass windows. I took pictures which I'll upload soon, as well as other pics thusfar.
Then it really began to rain, so we decided to come back to Weymouth, caught the bus, and here we are again. After a brief rest, though, we're off again to have a nice Italian dinner downtown by the drawbridge. So more later, gator . . .
So, I'm packing a few items I'm not using that I brought along, and will ship them home in the carryon luggage that is too heavy to carry through bus and train stations. I'll send them back to the U.S. before we leave Weymouth on Friday. That will leave a lightened load for my check-in bag, making it easier to manuever, and this small roller bag will replace the one I'm shipping home. Much better.
What it amounts to is a purse on rollers and a check-in bag that I'll be left with, both easy to lift. Works for me.
Alright, back to Dorcester ...
But before that, I was up shampooing and doing my nails this morning at 3:30 a.m., could not get to sleep. Had fallen asleep yesterday afternoon (Sunday) after our day out to Portland and the Cove House on Chesil Beach. Haven't posted that day yet, but will ... am behind on my writing.
Today we bused it to Dorcester, like I said, and had a very pleasant late lunch at Nappers Mite, a cafe in a 17th century alms house. Very small and crowded, but interesting nevertheless. Made of stone as most places are, hand hewn beams in the ceiling, wooden planks and stone floors, low doorways. The people in those times were much shorter than they are now. I would imagine you know all about that ... the evolution of the short of yesteryear to the tall of today. It's very evident in the cottages and buildings of England. I had a cheese & onion panini and Trish had a quiche.
After lunch we headed for the Thomas Hardy section in the Dorset Museum, which was the object of my interest. Then we went into the church next door, St. Peters, I believe it is. It was quaint, small, beautiful stained glass windows. I took pictures which I'll upload soon, as well as other pics thusfar.
Then it really began to rain, so we decided to come back to Weymouth, caught the bus, and here we are again. After a brief rest, though, we're off again to have a nice Italian dinner downtown by the drawbridge. So more later, gator . . .
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Friday, October 21 - Gettin' to know you . . .
We spent Friday acclimating and getting to know our surroundings. Best thing to do on the first full day and night in town, wherever, is learn what's available and chart your course.
Weymouth is a sea town, has a glorious harbour (British spelling) of fishing boats and pleasure boats, and a sand beach for those on holiday. Tons of B&Bs and hotels along the shore, and a shopping mall which is an area of streets criss-crossing right near the water. Has a ferry dock, hover craft travel between the isles of Guernsey and Jersey and to St. Malo, France. I've done that trip before, loved it.
Weymouth harbour has a draw bridge separating one bank of pubs and shops, apartments, hotels, from the other ... definitely not a scarcity of pubs and shops. In England a pub is an eating place as well as a bar, in case you aren't aware. In the old days they were the only restaurants available in England, still are in some towns. Some pubs are old-world and very charming ... low ceilings, hand-hewn timbers, rustic accoutrements.
So, Friday we had our first meal of the day at the Swan Pub right near the draw bridge at the harbour. The Swan is popular, larger than most, packed all the time. I had a belgian waffle and a side of bacon, although I had to be a bit creative. The waffle was on the menu as a dessert with ice cream. Ordered it without the ice cream, but with maple syrup. I could see they had bacon, because they had sandwiches with bacon on them. So there you go, my bacon and waffle. Now the bacon here is different than ours in the U.S., not what you expect. Not in strips, usually thin slabs. Not round like Canadian Bacon, but sort of in between that and ours. And it tastes more like ham. Breakfast hit the spot, even though it was 4:30 p.m. by the time I had it. lol lol We slept till 3. The Swan is my usual place for regular meals when I'm here, and now Trish has experienced it. In most pubs by the way, the patron goes up to the bar and places their food order, no waiters or waitresses to take orders, but they do deliver it to you.
After that we walked along the harbour for a short distance, stopped by the George Inn, the pub in my writings of Weymouth (novels and short story - Mama's Diaries). It was quiet there so we didn't stay, planned to return later to watch people and have a glass.
So we walked through the streets, the shops were closing, but we were getting our bearings as I mentioned before. Found out where we had to go to get bus information for our sidetrips while here - the Pavillion - and plan to do that on Saturday. Always in the past there was an information center by the clock tower, but it is there no more.
After returning to the hotel and having a rest, still acclimating to the time change, we decided at 9 pm to head back to town for some live music. Bundled up warmly, we let our ears direct us ... they're all over the place, the music venues are. In every pub and hotel almost. We went back to the George Inn, and as chance would have it the band had canceled that night. So we sat and talked to a couple drunks at the bar till their repetitiveness bored us ... lol lol. We stopped and listened to one band but it wasn't exactly our cup of tea and then another which was perfect!
"Replay" is their name. Five guys that play '50s and '60s music - they were terrific! Loved 'em. So we stayed till closing time and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves listening to Buddy Holly tunes, Beach Boys, and much more. They lead vocalist was superb, lead guitarist and bass guitarist were topnotch as well as the keyboardist and drummer. So much fun. They are on youtube. Type WEYMOUTH REPLAY on Youtube videos. We each bought a CD, but on you Youtube we can get our fix watching them when we get back to the states. Sure wish they could be in Phoenix performing. Oh, they invited us to come see and hear them on Saturday night at the Centenium ... a private club, sort of like the Elks in the U.S. So we're going.
So that finished off our first full day and Friday in Weymouth. After the music we walked back to the hotel along the beach and called it a night.
Hopefully we will be on Britain time on Saturday. We're working on it.
Weymouth is a sea town, has a glorious harbour (British spelling) of fishing boats and pleasure boats, and a sand beach for those on holiday. Tons of B&Bs and hotels along the shore, and a shopping mall which is an area of streets criss-crossing right near the water. Has a ferry dock, hover craft travel between the isles of Guernsey and Jersey and to St. Malo, France. I've done that trip before, loved it.
Weymouth harbour has a draw bridge separating one bank of pubs and shops, apartments, hotels, from the other ... definitely not a scarcity of pubs and shops. In England a pub is an eating place as well as a bar, in case you aren't aware. In the old days they were the only restaurants available in England, still are in some towns. Some pubs are old-world and very charming ... low ceilings, hand-hewn timbers, rustic accoutrements.
So, Friday we had our first meal of the day at the Swan Pub right near the draw bridge at the harbour. The Swan is popular, larger than most, packed all the time. I had a belgian waffle and a side of bacon, although I had to be a bit creative. The waffle was on the menu as a dessert with ice cream. Ordered it without the ice cream, but with maple syrup. I could see they had bacon, because they had sandwiches with bacon on them. So there you go, my bacon and waffle. Now the bacon here is different than ours in the U.S., not what you expect. Not in strips, usually thin slabs. Not round like Canadian Bacon, but sort of in between that and ours. And it tastes more like ham. Breakfast hit the spot, even though it was 4:30 p.m. by the time I had it. lol lol We slept till 3. The Swan is my usual place for regular meals when I'm here, and now Trish has experienced it. In most pubs by the way, the patron goes up to the bar and places their food order, no waiters or waitresses to take orders, but they do deliver it to you.
After that we walked along the harbour for a short distance, stopped by the George Inn, the pub in my writings of Weymouth (novels and short story - Mama's Diaries). It was quiet there so we didn't stay, planned to return later to watch people and have a glass.
So we walked through the streets, the shops were closing, but we were getting our bearings as I mentioned before. Found out where we had to go to get bus information for our sidetrips while here - the Pavillion - and plan to do that on Saturday. Always in the past there was an information center by the clock tower, but it is there no more.
After returning to the hotel and having a rest, still acclimating to the time change, we decided at 9 pm to head back to town for some live music. Bundled up warmly, we let our ears direct us ... they're all over the place, the music venues are. In every pub and hotel almost. We went back to the George Inn, and as chance would have it the band had canceled that night. So we sat and talked to a couple drunks at the bar till their repetitiveness bored us ... lol lol. We stopped and listened to one band but it wasn't exactly our cup of tea and then another which was perfect!
"Replay" is their name. Five guys that play '50s and '60s music - they were terrific! Loved 'em. So we stayed till closing time and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves listening to Buddy Holly tunes, Beach Boys, and much more. They lead vocalist was superb, lead guitarist and bass guitarist were topnotch as well as the keyboardist and drummer. So much fun. They are on youtube. Type WEYMOUTH REPLAY on Youtube videos. We each bought a CD, but on you Youtube we can get our fix watching them when we get back to the states. Sure wish they could be in Phoenix performing. Oh, they invited us to come see and hear them on Saturday night at the Centenium ... a private club, sort of like the Elks in the U.S. So we're going.
So that finished off our first full day and Friday in Weymouth. After the music we walked back to the hotel along the beach and called it a night.
Hopefully we will be on Britain time on Saturday. We're working on it.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
ARRIVAL IN ENGLAND . . . October 20
Here we are at the Prince Regent in Weymouth UK. Spacious, lovely room with a sea view. Our window is wide open, can hear the waves hitting the shore and hear the night noises. Last night we arrived after a long, long trip to get here – left home in Arizona at 4:15 a.m on the 19, arrived at our hotel around 8 p.m. on the 20th. Delays along the way with buses, accidents on the M3 highway. Other than missing our first bus and waiting for a later bus that had been caught in traffic and was 45 minutes later than scheduled at Victoria Station in London, and the delays along the way to Weymouth due to horrific accidents, the trip went rather well I would say.
Oh, had a little mishap, my thigh gave away when I first stepped up on the bus. Meaning, it was like a stress burn from too much exercise and it just quit on me. I couldn't get up to go any further, the fellow behind me had to lift me up for me to make it to the seat. The muscle is still very sore and I have to take care in using that leg climbing stairs, but I'm not complaining ... the good part is that my feet are holding up very well. The new supports are working!!!! I am so happy about that. So a strained thigh muscle is okay, I can still walk. It was the feet I was worried about before the trip, and I'm a-okay in that department. Jeez, I sound like an old woman ... lol
The first plane from Phoenix to Miami was like being stuck in a sardine can, I’m telling you they are squeezing more people together on those planes, especially the domestic flights. The international flight wasn’t as tightly packed, but had a full load too. Lot of people traveling these days.
On the international flight I met a very nice man sitting next to me. British, but living in Scottsdale and had been in Tampa for a few days before boarding. Coincidence that he is also living in Arizona. He’s in the music industry, tall, long white hair, interesting looking as well as in conversation. He’s very active in music and the writing of. Enjoyed the conversing for once, usually don’t take part on a plane, usually separate myself from my surroundings, but this time, it was a pleasure having him there. Had dinner with wine and quite a remarkable time, actually. We exchanged info and hopefully we’ll meet up again in this lifetime or the next. Trish and I sat on opposite sides of the plane, both planes.
So, our first night here on the 20th, we checked into the hotel, freshened up and went across the street to a Chinese restaurant on the beach, view wonderful, sea all around us, food even more wonderful. I had chicken chow mein and scallops with cashews ... soooooooo good! Trish had lamb. Then we went back to the hotel and listened to a fellow who was very good with his guitar and canned band, terrific voice, sang country mostly. Fun group of people listening to him. After he finished for the night, Trish went to the room, I went to the ballroom and watched the dancers - mostly seniors here for the ballroom dancing break (holiday) the hotel offers mid-week. Most of the hotels here offer the same. They quit around 1 a.m. and then I gave up and went to the room, didn't take long before I fell asleep that's for sure.
We awoke at 3 p.m. yesterday (21st) and began our first day in Weymouth. I'll tell you about that later ... right now I must get dressed for a walk we're taking to the fort on the other side of the harbour.
Oh, last night a birthday bag was delivered from Martin & Ali - champagne and chocolates - yum yum. I couldn't believe they were still here, I thought they'd left for Florida before we arrived. Damn! I wish I would have known that, we would have gone over to say hi before or after we had our chinese dinner. Their B&B is just a few doors up the road. Darn!
Okay, more later ....
Here we are at the Prince Regent in Weymouth UK. Spacious, lovely room with a sea view. Our window is wide open, can hear the waves hitting the shore and hear the night noises. Last night we arrived after a long, long trip to get here – left home in Arizona at 4:15 a.m on the 19, arrived at our hotel around 8 p.m. on the 20th. Delays along the way with buses, accidents on the M3 highway. Other than missing our first bus and waiting for a later bus that had been caught in traffic and was 45 minutes later than scheduled at Victoria Station in London, and the delays along the way to Weymouth due to horrific accidents, the trip went rather well I would say.
Oh, had a little mishap, my thigh gave away when I first stepped up on the bus. Meaning, it was like a stress burn from too much exercise and it just quit on me. I couldn't get up to go any further, the fellow behind me had to lift me up for me to make it to the seat. The muscle is still very sore and I have to take care in using that leg climbing stairs, but I'm not complaining ... the good part is that my feet are holding up very well. The new supports are working!!!! I am so happy about that. So a strained thigh muscle is okay, I can still walk. It was the feet I was worried about before the trip, and I'm a-okay in that department. Jeez, I sound like an old woman ... lol
The first plane from Phoenix to Miami was like being stuck in a sardine can, I’m telling you they are squeezing more people together on those planes, especially the domestic flights. The international flight wasn’t as tightly packed, but had a full load too. Lot of people traveling these days.
On the international flight I met a very nice man sitting next to me. British, but living in Scottsdale and had been in Tampa for a few days before boarding. Coincidence that he is also living in Arizona. He’s in the music industry, tall, long white hair, interesting looking as well as in conversation. He’s very active in music and the writing of. Enjoyed the conversing for once, usually don’t take part on a plane, usually separate myself from my surroundings, but this time, it was a pleasure having him there. Had dinner with wine and quite a remarkable time, actually. We exchanged info and hopefully we’ll meet up again in this lifetime or the next. Trish and I sat on opposite sides of the plane, both planes.
So, our first night here on the 20th, we checked into the hotel, freshened up and went across the street to a Chinese restaurant on the beach, view wonderful, sea all around us, food even more wonderful. I had chicken chow mein and scallops with cashews ... soooooooo good! Trish had lamb. Then we went back to the hotel and listened to a fellow who was very good with his guitar and canned band, terrific voice, sang country mostly. Fun group of people listening to him. After he finished for the night, Trish went to the room, I went to the ballroom and watched the dancers - mostly seniors here for the ballroom dancing break (holiday) the hotel offers mid-week. Most of the hotels here offer the same. They quit around 1 a.m. and then I gave up and went to the room, didn't take long before I fell asleep that's for sure.
We awoke at 3 p.m. yesterday (21st) and began our first day in Weymouth. I'll tell you about that later ... right now I must get dressed for a walk we're taking to the fort on the other side of the harbour.
Oh, last night a birthday bag was delivered from Martin & Ali - champagne and chocolates - yum yum. I couldn't believe they were still here, I thought they'd left for Florida before we arrived. Damn! I wish I would have known that, we would have gone over to say hi before or after we had our chinese dinner. Their B&B is just a few doors up the road. Darn!
Okay, more later ....
Monday, October 17, 2011
MONDAY, TUESDAY ... BAM! Off to the races!
Check! Check! Check! Checking off the to do list and the to purchase list before leaving 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday ... excitment abounds, I can tell you that right now!
But there is a feeling of trepidation creeping in ... it's my babies ... my Princie, Albee, and Oreo. Always this happens leading up to the departure. I start worrying about them, wondering how they're going to deal with their mama away. I mean like they aren't human, they probably won't miss me once I'm out of sight. M.L. is a good auntie to them, they know her and trust her. I think it's just me that will have the problem. I've been away longer than this trip will be, and they've been just fine. Okay, feeling, get thee hence!
My carry-on bag and the check-in bag are both zipped and ready to go. I don't have to open them again until I arrive at our first destination in Dorset. Trish is still packing, didn't start till yesterday. Because I packed early it's given me all this crucial time to catch up with business and personal tasks and make sure I'm on top of things till November when I return.
Today, I sent out the RJBP newsletter, yesterday updated all the websites, posted on the blogs, sent out book orders ... so I'm feeling good. One last task, getting HOLLOWING SCREAMS to the author for one last look-see before I send it to the wholesaler tomorrow afternoon. Book release on October 31. Just in time. Hooray!!!!
Okay, tonight I'm going to relax and think good trip thoughts, pet my babies, maybe watch a good movie if I can find one I haven't already seen, and then soak in a perfumed bath before going to bed. Maybe have a glass of wine for relaxing too.
Tomorrow is my last chance to remember things I've forgotten to do before leaving the country. But, that's a bonus, I usually don't have a full day to spare, planned it better this time.
Ciao for now ...
But there is a feeling of trepidation creeping in ... it's my babies ... my Princie, Albee, and Oreo. Always this happens leading up to the departure. I start worrying about them, wondering how they're going to deal with their mama away. I mean like they aren't human, they probably won't miss me once I'm out of sight. M.L. is a good auntie to them, they know her and trust her. I think it's just me that will have the problem. I've been away longer than this trip will be, and they've been just fine. Okay, feeling, get thee hence!
My carry-on bag and the check-in bag are both zipped and ready to go. I don't have to open them again until I arrive at our first destination in Dorset. Trish is still packing, didn't start till yesterday. Because I packed early it's given me all this crucial time to catch up with business and personal tasks and make sure I'm on top of things till November when I return.
Today, I sent out the RJBP newsletter, yesterday updated all the websites, posted on the blogs, sent out book orders ... so I'm feeling good. One last task, getting HOLLOWING SCREAMS to the author for one last look-see before I send it to the wholesaler tomorrow afternoon. Book release on October 31. Just in time. Hooray!!!!
Okay, tonight I'm going to relax and think good trip thoughts, pet my babies, maybe watch a good movie if I can find one I haven't already seen, and then soak in a perfumed bath before going to bed. Maybe have a glass of wine for relaxing too.
Tomorrow is my last chance to remember things I've forgotten to do before leaving the country. But, that's a bonus, I usually don't have a full day to spare, planned it better this time.
Ciao for now ...
Saturday, October 15, 2011
THREE MORE DAYS!
Oboy! Just three more days till departure to England. Leaving at 4:30 a.m. on the 19th, will arrive at Heathrow at 8:10 a.m. the next day, 20th. I was just trying to remember how many times I've made the flight from the U.S. to England. Fifteen, perhaps? My first trip was in the '80s after I met Mr. Moore in the San Joaquin Valley, CA (Ethan in my romantic suspense novels).
That's when I fell in love with England. And more specifically, Cornwall. I didn't discover Dorset till later, on my own. In fact I ended up living in England for a time after that. And even spent three months there a couple years after living there and returning to the U.S. One of my dreams - to buy a cottage in England and live there six months out of the year.
This trip will be to Weymouth - Dorset and Port Isaac - Cornwall. Port Isaac is the home of the British TV series Doc Martin. It airs on public television, in fact you can see the reruns now. The fifth season was filmed this summer, darn, we just missed it. And we're staying one house down from Doc Martin's place in the tiny fishing village. So exciting.
More on Port Isaac after we get there. 'We' means my friend and housemate, Trish, and I.
Another dear friend of mine and her fella are staying here to housesit and take care of my babies - Oreo, Princie, and Albee. The cats know both of them, for they've sat with my babies before, and as friends they are here quite often. So all should be well. But I can tell you right now, I'm already missing my feline beauties just thinking about being gone. I'll worry about them anyway. Silly, huh? Can't help it, I'm so attached to them and they me.
So, I'll be posting daily about the trip, and will be posting photos starting on the day we leave. Am already packed, have been for a week. But of course I've unpacked a few times, taking things out and then putting them back, decisions, decisions, decisions - should I take this blouse or this sweater. It's hard to travel light when you know you need to keep it at a minimum because of the many train stations in England that don't have elevators. And invariably, you arrive on one floor and have to depart on another. And sometimes you have only a few minutes to spare from one train to the next. So if you have several pieces of luggage and they're heavy as hell, you are so out of luck. Learned that on past trips. Especially traveling the underground in London to get to the station one needs to depart from to all points west, east, south, and north. It'll be an adventure, regardless. Trish hasn't made this trip before. So that'll be fun watching her excitement.
Actually once we travel by train from Heathrow to Victoria Station in London, we're busing it west to Weymouth. The lesser of two evils, and easier to transfer with luggage from bus to bus. More comfy traveling too.
Okay, just wanted to get the ball rolling about the trip. Do comment as we go along. Would love to hear from you.
Ta Ta ...
That's when I fell in love with England. And more specifically, Cornwall. I didn't discover Dorset till later, on my own. In fact I ended up living in England for a time after that. And even spent three months there a couple years after living there and returning to the U.S. One of my dreams - to buy a cottage in England and live there six months out of the year.
This trip will be to Weymouth - Dorset and Port Isaac - Cornwall. Port Isaac is the home of the British TV series Doc Martin. It airs on public television, in fact you can see the reruns now. The fifth season was filmed this summer, darn, we just missed it. And we're staying one house down from Doc Martin's place in the tiny fishing village. So exciting.
More on Port Isaac after we get there. 'We' means my friend and housemate, Trish, and I.
Another dear friend of mine and her fella are staying here to housesit and take care of my babies - Oreo, Princie, and Albee. The cats know both of them, for they've sat with my babies before, and as friends they are here quite often. So all should be well. But I can tell you right now, I'm already missing my feline beauties just thinking about being gone. I'll worry about them anyway. Silly, huh? Can't help it, I'm so attached to them and they me.
So, I'll be posting daily about the trip, and will be posting photos starting on the day we leave. Am already packed, have been for a week. But of course I've unpacked a few times, taking things out and then putting them back, decisions, decisions, decisions - should I take this blouse or this sweater. It's hard to travel light when you know you need to keep it at a minimum because of the many train stations in England that don't have elevators. And invariably, you arrive on one floor and have to depart on another. And sometimes you have only a few minutes to spare from one train to the next. So if you have several pieces of luggage and they're heavy as hell, you are so out of luck. Learned that on past trips. Especially traveling the underground in London to get to the station one needs to depart from to all points west, east, south, and north. It'll be an adventure, regardless. Trish hasn't made this trip before. So that'll be fun watching her excitement.
Actually once we travel by train from Heathrow to Victoria Station in London, we're busing it west to Weymouth. The lesser of two evils, and easier to transfer with luggage from bus to bus. More comfy traveling too.
Okay, just wanted to get the ball rolling about the trip. Do comment as we go along. Would love to hear from you.
Ta Ta ...
Saturday, September 3, 2011
2010 TRIP - Paris
My friend Barbara and I took a 17-day trip to Paris, France and England in April 2010.
We stayed at a small econo-priced hotel near the River Seine and the Eiffel called Hotel Au Pacific. Since we were to be on foot, this seemed to be the best choice, centrally located to the places we wanted to see, and a Metro station was close by to take us to the outer reaches. Great plan!
Interesting tidbit ... my friend Bob who owns the Simpatico houseboat on the Seine near the Eiffel where I've stayed before ("Midnight at the Eiffel"), suggested in an email after I alerted him to our upcoming arrival (inviting him for a drink or two and to meet Babs), he suggested "Don't forget to eat lots of garlic between now and take off to get those immune levels up for breathing all those non-filered microbes in the aircraft." Well, I didn't do that, didn't want to offend everyone within breathing range on the trip over, and as it turned out, I didn't need immune safety, what I needed were new feet!
I flew from Phoenix, Babs flew from LAX, both of us meeting at the Dallas/Fort Worth airport for the final leg of the trip to Paris. Well, her connection arrived earlier than mine, and the deal was we were to meet at our departure gate.
I arrived and browsed through a few shops first, had a cup of coffee, and visited the ladies before going out to the gate. I didn't feel there was any hurry and I wanted to walk rather than sit before that last few hours stuck on the plane. So about 30 minutes before the flight departure I went to the gate. Babs was fit to be tied! She was afraid I'd miss the flight and was panicking. I had all the hotel info and all the other tickets I'd booked for the trip. She said she would've gotten on the plane regardless, but she was so glad to see me as I came down the corridor. All was well.
After arriving at our hotel in Paris (took a cab from the airport) and settling in, we went for a walk to familiarize ourselves with the area. Found a few cafes, one across the intersection near us and a patisserie on the other corner. Down a side street right at our corner there were all sorts of food markets - fish, bread, vegetables and fruit, cheese - lining both sides of the street. So the walk gave us our bearings, now we knew where the groceries were. lol lol This is what I do on every trip I take regardless of the destination - walk the area to get a good idea of what is available close by. Usually I'm alone, usually travel alone which I enjoy. But this time it was nice traveling with my long-time friend Babs. She's a kick.
We met with Bob a few streets over from the hotel (at the end of the street we'd already traversed) where several pubs, or rather cafes (France-cafes; England-pubs), and caught up on the latest, I hadn't seen him in two years. I enjoyed our chat over champagne.
But on the second day in Paris, the second day of walking the slanted sidewalks, my left foot began to hurt. Old injuries, arthritis, fallen arches, name it, all in my left foot. And I couldn't walk without pain. So we packed my foot in ice repeatedly ... ice that Babs finally found at a fish market down the street, lol lol, would you believe it ... no ice in the hotel. I took Aleve, and it still hurt. Lord, we were just beginning our journey!
So I decided to grin and bear it, and do the best I could, I wasn't going to spoil our trip. I'd ride on the Metro, buses, and sit whenever I could at the places we visited. Here I was, miserable in one of my favorite cites - PARIS of all places! It hindered my enjoyment, though, I must tell you that. Hurt like hell, the whole time. I think the slanted sidewalks aggravated it, my foot leaning inward down the slopes.
We went to the Louvre Museum, have to do that everytime I'm in Paris, took a river ride - always fabulous! Walked through the flower market along the river, and visited some other sites and squares of interest: Trocadero, Montmartre,Invalides, Eiffel, etc. Dined in some neat places, too, while we were there (and some not so nice places). It's just too bad I wasn't up to par and couldn't venture out more than we did. I had so wanted to show Babs a good time.
But she enjoyed the patisseries, the bread and cheese shops, etc. in spite of it all. And we would stop and have a pastry and coffee periodically, people watching, as we treked through the city. Thank god for the Metro! And it's very easy to navigate, so simple to get from one point to another. One of the best trans-systems, I feel, in the world.
One day we were on the Metro when a sleezy Frenchman, older, and a bit crazy, starting making eyes at Babs. Literally. He'd lick his lips and pucker up, kissing the air towards her, then indicating he wanted her to go with him, off the bus. If it weren't so comical, it would have been downright lude and rude. We both snickered our heads off. He was incredibly nuts and repulsive. Yikes! She said that had happened to her in New York (she's a New Yorker) and she was wondering if it was the same guy, thinking maybe he followed her. lol lol
Regardless of the foot pain, Paris is never a disappoinment to me. Whether it's good or bad weather, crowded or not, it's a city that remains to be in the top three for me. It's inspiring, energetic, and one that stays in your memory forever. And contrary to what some say, I find it a friendly city, have never had a problem with communicating or socializing, the French are always gracious to me. Wonderful place to go. I'd love to live there.
So the day came when we had to leave Paris and board a train for Calais. As we were preparing to leave the hotel, handling our own luggage, no valets, Babs reached for her roller suitcase thinking it was the one she'd left home, with four wheels instead of two. So when she pulled at it, it fell over and the weight of it twisted her arm and shoulder. Injured her, honest to Pete! Right on the spot. She was in agony. But we had to go, the taxi was due to arrive ... early in the morning. So we got downstairs and waited for the cab. She said it was really hurting, and that she'd take some Advil or whatever she had when we got to the train station.
We went on, took the cab then the train to Calais. She wasn't complaining too much, so I thought it was getting better. But here we were, me with a bum foot and now her with a bum shoulder. Quite a pair to draw to.
I'd never taken a ferry from Calais to England, only from St. Malo to England, so decided it might be fun to cross over to Dover. But to time it right in order to take a train to our destination - Weymouth in Dorset, England, we would have to spend a nite in Dover.
So I had booked a hotel in Dover - The Premier Inn - for a one-nite's stay.
More to follow . . .
We stayed at a small econo-priced hotel near the River Seine and the Eiffel called Hotel Au Pacific. Since we were to be on foot, this seemed to be the best choice, centrally located to the places we wanted to see, and a Metro station was close by to take us to the outer reaches. Great plan!
Interesting tidbit ... my friend Bob who owns the Simpatico houseboat on the Seine near the Eiffel where I've stayed before ("Midnight at the Eiffel"), suggested in an email after I alerted him to our upcoming arrival (inviting him for a drink or two and to meet Babs), he suggested "Don't forget to eat lots of garlic between now and take off to get those immune levels up for breathing all those non-filered microbes in the aircraft." Well, I didn't do that, didn't want to offend everyone within breathing range on the trip over, and as it turned out, I didn't need immune safety, what I needed were new feet!
I flew from Phoenix, Babs flew from LAX, both of us meeting at the Dallas/Fort Worth airport for the final leg of the trip to Paris. Well, her connection arrived earlier than mine, and the deal was we were to meet at our departure gate.
I arrived and browsed through a few shops first, had a cup of coffee, and visited the ladies before going out to the gate. I didn't feel there was any hurry and I wanted to walk rather than sit before that last few hours stuck on the plane. So about 30 minutes before the flight departure I went to the gate. Babs was fit to be tied! She was afraid I'd miss the flight and was panicking. I had all the hotel info and all the other tickets I'd booked for the trip. She said she would've gotten on the plane regardless, but she was so glad to see me as I came down the corridor. All was well.
After arriving at our hotel in Paris (took a cab from the airport) and settling in, we went for a walk to familiarize ourselves with the area. Found a few cafes, one across the intersection near us and a patisserie on the other corner. Down a side street right at our corner there were all sorts of food markets - fish, bread, vegetables and fruit, cheese - lining both sides of the street. So the walk gave us our bearings, now we knew where the groceries were. lol lol This is what I do on every trip I take regardless of the destination - walk the area to get a good idea of what is available close by. Usually I'm alone, usually travel alone which I enjoy. But this time it was nice traveling with my long-time friend Babs. She's a kick.
We met with Bob a few streets over from the hotel (at the end of the street we'd already traversed) where several pubs, or rather cafes (France-cafes; England-pubs), and caught up on the latest, I hadn't seen him in two years. I enjoyed our chat over champagne.
But on the second day in Paris, the second day of walking the slanted sidewalks, my left foot began to hurt. Old injuries, arthritis, fallen arches, name it, all in my left foot. And I couldn't walk without pain. So we packed my foot in ice repeatedly ... ice that Babs finally found at a fish market down the street, lol lol, would you believe it ... no ice in the hotel. I took Aleve, and it still hurt. Lord, we were just beginning our journey!
So I decided to grin and bear it, and do the best I could, I wasn't going to spoil our trip. I'd ride on the Metro, buses, and sit whenever I could at the places we visited. Here I was, miserable in one of my favorite cites - PARIS of all places! It hindered my enjoyment, though, I must tell you that. Hurt like hell, the whole time. I think the slanted sidewalks aggravated it, my foot leaning inward down the slopes.
We went to the Louvre Museum, have to do that everytime I'm in Paris, took a river ride - always fabulous! Walked through the flower market along the river, and visited some other sites and squares of interest: Trocadero, Montmartre,Invalides, Eiffel, etc. Dined in some neat places, too, while we were there (and some not so nice places). It's just too bad I wasn't up to par and couldn't venture out more than we did. I had so wanted to show Babs a good time.
But she enjoyed the patisseries, the bread and cheese shops, etc. in spite of it all. And we would stop and have a pastry and coffee periodically, people watching, as we treked through the city. Thank god for the Metro! And it's very easy to navigate, so simple to get from one point to another. One of the best trans-systems, I feel, in the world.
One day we were on the Metro when a sleezy Frenchman, older, and a bit crazy, starting making eyes at Babs. Literally. He'd lick his lips and pucker up, kissing the air towards her, then indicating he wanted her to go with him, off the bus. If it weren't so comical, it would have been downright lude and rude. We both snickered our heads off. He was incredibly nuts and repulsive. Yikes! She said that had happened to her in New York (she's a New Yorker) and she was wondering if it was the same guy, thinking maybe he followed her. lol lol
Regardless of the foot pain, Paris is never a disappoinment to me. Whether it's good or bad weather, crowded or not, it's a city that remains to be in the top three for me. It's inspiring, energetic, and one that stays in your memory forever. And contrary to what some say, I find it a friendly city, have never had a problem with communicating or socializing, the French are always gracious to me. Wonderful place to go. I'd love to live there.
So the day came when we had to leave Paris and board a train for Calais. As we were preparing to leave the hotel, handling our own luggage, no valets, Babs reached for her roller suitcase thinking it was the one she'd left home, with four wheels instead of two. So when she pulled at it, it fell over and the weight of it twisted her arm and shoulder. Injured her, honest to Pete! Right on the spot. She was in agony. But we had to go, the taxi was due to arrive ... early in the morning. So we got downstairs and waited for the cab. She said it was really hurting, and that she'd take some Advil or whatever she had when we got to the train station.
We went on, took the cab then the train to Calais. She wasn't complaining too much, so I thought it was getting better. But here we were, me with a bum foot and now her with a bum shoulder. Quite a pair to draw to.
I'd never taken a ferry from Calais to England, only from St. Malo to England, so decided it might be fun to cross over to Dover. But to time it right in order to take a train to our destination - Weymouth in Dorset, England, we would have to spend a nite in Dover.
So I had booked a hotel in Dover - The Premier Inn - for a one-nite's stay.
More to follow . . .
Sunday, August 14, 2011
CATCHING UP ON TRIPS
I see there are a few trips I've made that I haven't posted here. So I'll gather the material and will catch up with you soon. Will try to do that before the next trip to England coming up Oct 19 - Nov 7.
COMING UP! TRIP TO ENGLAND IN OCTOBER 2011!
Yes, it's getting close ... I'll be blogging every day while on the trip ... so be sure you add me to your list of blogs.
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