So welcome to the first week of our trip to the UK! We arrived in London Thursday, September the 13th. Our flight was uneventful but I do have to say - I don't care for O'Hare airport in Chicago. For us tech junkies, there are almost no plugs in this airport. The only plugs we could find were on these chairs - a total of four chairs. Pfft. But my flight left 30 minutes late and arrived in Heathrow 30 minutes early! Yay tailwinds! Neither Victoria or I slept on the flight so, by the time we made it to Heathrow, we were already tired.
Our first adventure was into town to have lunch and get my cell phone sorted out. We had Indian food and it was good! It was my first time, so I was a bit apprehensive. Getting a cell phone sim card was not as easy, but we managed.
This was all down on Oxford Street. Our first real visit into the city. We were tired, a bit cranky, and in desperate need of sleep. We headed back to our hotel and we were asleep by 6:30pm. We awoke at 8:00am! You cannot imagine how exhausted we actually were. We started traveling by arriving at the airport in Dayton at noon the day before. Then four and a half hour layover in Chicago didn't help. LOL. We slept so soundly!
The next three days were spent in London doing the sightseeing thing. Big Ben, London Eye, Westminster, Camden Town, etc, etc. We didn't go in much - but with the time we had, just kinda did an overview. We talked to people we met - even the grumpy guy on the subway who did not appreciate it when I said "hi" after hitting his hand while sitting down next to him. Victoria reminded me not to talk to people again LOL! I suppose I don't listen well ;)
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Friday, October 12, 2012
Portmeirion - A day in history
Wales. The United Kingdom. Britain. Scotland. Northern Ireland. No matter what you call home, the beauty here is amazing. I've been in the UK for 28 days now, and every day, I see new beauty in it. Every day, I discover something new about this place that I love. I've learned that I am stronger than I thought in some ways too.
These days, I'm in the middle of no where. I'm building fires to keep warm. I'm washing laundry and hanging it by the fire to dry. I'm chopping wood and I'm burning that wood to warm our water. The store isn't just around the corner so I am having to plan a bit better what we will do for the week.
Even our outings are a bit more planned. This week we went to Portmeirion.
Portmeirion is a cute place. It's in Gwynedd, North Wales. If you ever heard of the tv series "The Prisoner", it was filmed here. It was built starting in 1925 and was finished in 1975. It's the dream of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, this town resembles an Italian villa. Quaint is a word I don't use often, but this would fit that bill. It's been compared to Portofino, Italy but Sir Clough Williams-Ellis repeatedly denied this. He did, however, draw from a love of the Italian village stating, "How should I not have fallen for Portofino? Indeed its image remained with me as an almost perfect example of the man-made adornment and use of an exquisite site."
When we arrived, a lot of the shops were still closed, so we set off to the Town Hall for a traditional Welsh breakfast which was very good. Way more food than we could eat though! Wasn't a bad deal - breakfast this big for around $8 and full of protein to keep us going all day. Don't buy bottled water here though - it was like $2.50 each! I didn't care for the sausage much - they could stand improvement on that one but I've never been a big sausage fan to begin with - so maybe I am a little biased on that one!
We then headed down to the beach. It was an amazingly beautiful day with the sun shining down on us, a cool breeze (but not too much!) and the view was stunning! The sand was soft and not a rock in sight, as we have found many on some of the beaches. The view of the water and of the town from this direction were both quite impressive! From there, we headed back to the town and explored a few more of the areas. They have their own pottery design and quite a few of the stores were dedicated to this cause. Definitely, a nice place to visit.
If you haven't heard of The Prisoner, you can view them on www.Youtube.com and search for it by name. Make sure you start at Episode 1 and not the Series Finale like I did - it won't make any sense if you watch it backward (speaking from experience here!).
I'm sure Portmeirion had even more features than what we saw but it was a lovely day out with no rain and a lovely town to explore. If you are in the area (and I hope you do visit Wales one day!), be sure to make this one of your stops. Thanks Steve for the heads up! ;) You will want to watch at least the first episode though so it makes more sense to you!
Here is a link to the rest of our Portmeirion pictures! http://s1145.photobucket.com/albums/o504/ItsTheWriter/MarianneUK/Wales/Portmeirion/
Till we meet again...
Love ~ Peace ~ Happiness
Marianne
These days, I'm in the middle of no where. I'm building fires to keep warm. I'm washing laundry and hanging it by the fire to dry. I'm chopping wood and I'm burning that wood to warm our water. The store isn't just around the corner so I am having to plan a bit better what we will do for the week.
Even our outings are a bit more planned. This week we went to Portmeirion.
Portmeirion is a cute place. It's in Gwynedd, North Wales. If you ever heard of the tv series "The Prisoner", it was filmed here. It was built starting in 1925 and was finished in 1975. It's the dream of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, this town resembles an Italian villa. Quaint is a word I don't use often, but this would fit that bill. It's been compared to Portofino, Italy but Sir Clough Williams-Ellis repeatedly denied this. He did, however, draw from a love of the Italian village stating, "How should I not have fallen for Portofino? Indeed its image remained with me as an almost perfect example of the man-made adornment and use of an exquisite site."
When we arrived, a lot of the shops were still closed, so we set off to the Town Hall for a traditional Welsh breakfast which was very good. Way more food than we could eat though! Wasn't a bad deal - breakfast this big for around $8 and full of protein to keep us going all day. Don't buy bottled water here though - it was like $2.50 each! I didn't care for the sausage much - they could stand improvement on that one but I've never been a big sausage fan to begin with - so maybe I am a little biased on that one!
We then headed down to the beach. It was an amazingly beautiful day with the sun shining down on us, a cool breeze (but not too much!) and the view was stunning! The sand was soft and not a rock in sight, as we have found many on some of the beaches. The view of the water and of the town from this direction were both quite impressive! From there, we headed back to the town and explored a few more of the areas. They have their own pottery design and quite a few of the stores were dedicated to this cause. Definitely, a nice place to visit.
If you haven't heard of The Prisoner, you can view them on www.Youtube.com and search for it by name. Make sure you start at Episode 1 and not the Series Finale like I did - it won't make any sense if you watch it backward (speaking from experience here!).
I'm sure Portmeirion had even more features than what we saw but it was a lovely day out with no rain and a lovely town to explore. If you are in the area (and I hope you do visit Wales one day!), be sure to make this one of your stops. Thanks Steve for the heads up! ;) You will want to watch at least the first episode though so it makes more sense to you!
Here is a link to the rest of our Portmeirion pictures! http://s1145.photobucket.com/albums/o504/ItsTheWriter/MarianneUK/Wales/Portmeirion/
Till we meet again...
Love ~ Peace ~ Happiness
Marianne
Friday, September 28, 2012
The time is drawing near!
Today is Saturday, September 8th, 2012. I leave for the UK September 12th at 3pm. It's surreal to imagine the time is here. I've been so consumed with getting ready. Our bags are packed to the brim with things that I apparently think I cannot live without while there. I've purchased a back up hard drive for my computer for files. I've updated mine and my daughters glasses just in case (we needed new ones anyhow). We've both had physicals and such that we needed. After all, six months is a long time when you are that far away from your home! You just never know what will happen!
My cat Callie knows something is up. She insisted on lying on my bag, on top of brand new blue jeans!!! Victoria relocated her for me and she came back for more.
My cat Callie knows something is up. She insisted on lying on my bag, on top of brand new blue jeans!!! Victoria relocated her for me and she came back for more.
MarketDay meets the Baileys
Market Day - September 27, 2012
Till we meet again!
Peace ~ Love ~Happiness
Marianne
Victoria and I embarked on a delightful journey to our inaugural Market Day in the charming town of Machynlleth today, immersing ourselves in a vibrant tapestry of colors, aromas, and lively chatter. The atmosphere was electric, buzzing with the energy of enthusiastic vendors and eager shoppers alike, all converging under the open sky to partake in this beloved local tradition.
As we meandered leisurely along the bustling main street, we were greeted by an unexpectedly rich array of stalls, each one a small treasure trove of its own. From the glistening scales of fresh fish to the robust, hearty aroma of quality meats, and even to the meticulous craftsmanship of watch repair, the market unfolded before us like a storybook of diverse chapters.
We indulged in a delightful shopping spree, filling our bags with an abundance of fresh fruits and crisp vegetables, each piece seemingly kissed by the morning dew. The sausages we procured were artisanal, crafted with care, and promising a future meal of comforting warmth and savory delight.
The market was not merely a feast for our culinary desires but also catered to a spectrum of other interests. Stalls adorned with books promised adventures bound within their pages, while clothing racks displayed a myriad of textures and styles, inviting us to refresh our wardrobes with their offerings.
From whispered tales and shared experiences, we understood that this market holds the distinguished title of being the largest in the vicinity. It has triumphantly endured, blossoming with unabated vitality, even as some of its counterparts in neighboring areas have gracefully bowed out of the scene.
The Machynlleth Market Day, with its rich offerings and communal spirit, not only provided a splendid day out but also gently whispered the tales of tradition, resilience, and community, which have been woven into its existence throughout the years. It was not merely a market; it was a vibrant celebration of life, culture, and shared humanity, which we were elated to be a part of.
(sorry for the stock photo)
Till we meet again!
Peace ~ Love ~Happiness
Marianne
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Polly Want a Cracker? Maybe Indian Food Instead?
Hey! Pennal? Ya - it's quaint - and small. But since I've been in the UK I've done my share of sightseeing... and even learned to drive on the left side of the road! Yes, it is different than what I am used to but I'm a fast learner.
We are in Wales after four days in London sightseeing. Yesterday was a week, and we've learned to build fires to keep us warm and to heat our water for cleaning, dishes and showers. Let me tell you - you only push the glass door shut with your fingers ONCE before you learn that skin singes instantly when something is that hot! But the good advantage of this is that this hot fire dries clothes unbelievable fast! Seriously - it dries big heavy towels, my jeans, sweatshirts, etc in 15 min. A dryer doesn't work that fast! And look at the money saved!
Till we meet again.
Love ~ Peace ~Happiness
Marianne
The first week here was mostly dry. It's now cold and rainy and I have forgotten what the sunshine feels like on my face.
We went to the beach! To my shock, it was covered in rocks! I've never seen such a harsh beach before. I sat up in the sand of the dunes, but Victoria and Howl pretty much stayed down by the water since Howl loves the water. It was great to sit in the sun and listen to the ocean lap up against the little bit of sand on this beach. This particular beach is on the opposite side of not only a train track, but also a golf course in which you have to walk across. There are literally signs that say to stop and look left/right for golfers - since golf balls do damage. Ya think? Fore!
(Just in case you were wondering..."Fore" is another word for "ahead" (think of a ship's fore and aft). Yelling "fore" is simply a shorter way to yell "watch out ahead" (or "watch out before"). It allows golfers to be forewarned, in other words.
The British Golf Museum cites an 1881 reference to "fore" in a golf book, establishing that the term was already in use at that early date (the USGA suggests the term may have been in use as early as the 1700s). The museum also surmises that the term evolved from "forecaddie.")
The house is cute. Built in the 1800s, the doorways are lower and Victoria finds herself forgetting to duck! The only heat we have is from the fireplace and we find ourselves getting a lot of fire-building practice! After a while, it's nice and cozy in the family room - but the other rooms are still a bit chilly. Thank goodness for a warm blanket on the bed.
The animals here are a trip. Howl is the dog. The two cats are 'Monkey Cat' and 'Merlin'. Oh and did I mention the chicken, Polly? She's a hoot. She hears the door and comes running. She wants food. Not just corn, but cut-up leftovers of whatever we eat. Hmmm, we are having Indian tonight - wonder if she likes spicy foods? She also stalks me. If she doesn't see me, she'll get up on a bench outside and stare at me through the window. She apparently likes the table too. I suppose no surface is safe from Polly.
Love ~ Peace ~Happiness
Marianne
Monday, September 10, 2012
All Packed and Two Days till Leavin on a Jet Plane
**Setting Sail on a New Adventure with My Sidekick, Victoria!**
In a mere two days, my spirited 14-year-old daughter, Victoria, and I will embark on an adventure of a lifetime. While my passport boasts stamps from the US to the romantic alleys of Italy, France, and my all-time favorite, the UK, this journey is unparalleled. It's not just another trip; it's a six-month-long voyage with my daughter, exploring the world as we've never done before. Can you imagine? We won't be back until March 6th, and the anticipation is electric!
The weeks leading up to our departure have been a blend of nostalgia and surreal excitement. I've been incredibly fortunate to reconnect with old friends in the UK and make new ones, especially some wonderful souls from Google Plus. Their outpouring of support, sharing everything from train schedules to local hidden gems, has been heartwarming.
Our journey begins with a vibrant long weekend in London. While I've wandered its streets before, seeing it through Victoria's fresh eyes, on her first trip abroad, promises to be special. She's already made a list! Topping it are the majestic London Eye and the trendy Drop Dead London store.
By Monday, we'll transition from the city's hustle to the tranquil embrace of Mid Wales. I've committed to house-sitting for Sian, a homeowner with a delightful ensemble of pets - two curious cats, a playful dog, and an endearing chicken (who, amusingly, is thick as thieves with the dog!). Adapting to the rustic charm of a home where fires warm the rooms and water, and embracing a wholesome, unprocessed culinary lifestyle are changes we're both eagerly looking forward to.
One of the things I'm particularly excited about? The serene writing opportunities this journey promises. Back in Ohio, my writing sessions were often punctuated by the buzz of daily life. But in the peaceful Welsh countryside, with only Howl, the dog, for company, I anticipate many uninterrupted hours of writing.
And there's more good news for fellow travel enthusiasts! I've been invited to chronicle our house sitting experiences for www.trustedhousesitters.com. Additionally, I'll be sharing our Welsh adventures on www.smittenbybritain.com. I promise to keep you all updated with our tales!
Until then, sending waves of joy, adventure, and warmth from our corner to yours!
Cheers,
Marianne
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| London Eye |
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| This is Howl :-) Sian's dog |
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Saturday, August 25, 2012
Crash Bang Boom - getting covered with Insurance
I'm house sitting for a couple in Pennal, Wales for three months. They are graciously giving me the use of their car to drive while they are gone. In America, car insurance is easy to obtain if you have a drivers license. But guess what? It's not so easy for Americans to obtain insurance in the UK for a LOANED car (not rented from a ''car hire company" as they call it). Do they Americans are all nuts? We drive insane? Um - don't answer that.
So Sian spent weeks calling around finding a company that would cover me. We finally found one - Yay! But the cost? Almost the equivalent of $500!!! For three months! Really? So my rationing for this is that
it would cost me much more money per day to rent a car and have it insured.
Then Sian reads the fine print... it's not fully comprehensive! It will only cover fire, theft and the other car. Ok, that's something but not enough for $500. So the hunt is back on....
Then a friend of mine searches online and he finds something. I tell her to check out Norwich Union. The next day I see an email in my inbox from her... I close my eyes quickly saying repeatedly "Please be good news! Please be good news!" Upon opening my eyes, I notice that the subject line says Ï love Norwich Union"!
She calls them and finds out yes! They will cover me! And for only £80!!! Woot! And it's fully comprehensive! I'm so excited I could jump hoops! The difference is what I paid for the hotel room for London at Hilton Docklands! Woot! Doing the happy dance!
Could use some more good news this week! Anyone got any???
Love ~ Peace ~ Happiness
Marianne
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Tick Tock Tick Tock
Tick Tock Tick Tock says the clock. For me, though, it's the calendar speaking to me. Exactly one month and one hour to go till my plane flight takes off for Chicago.. then on to the UK. ONE MONTH! In some ways, it seems so far away, and in others, right around the corner. Nerves have set in a bit - it's a big trip.
I've flown overseas before, but not for six months, and not being responsible for my teenage daughter while there. I've always been on my own before, mostly.
So many things have had to align for this to happen. I had to find a place to stay. Check. I'm house sitting for a couple who is going to Australia for three months in Wales. I had to have transportation while I was in Wales. Check. Sian is graciously loaning me her car. I had to find insurance to cover me driving said car. Check. Sian found a policy to cover me - 290 pounds for three months. Ouch. but Check.
I'm not sure where I am staying the second three months yet. More things that need to fall in place. I am willing to take a leap of faith though and believe that it will fall into place while I am there. I'd love to find a job there. More things to fall in place.
All my friends are concerned that we will be bored in Wales. Wales happens to be a new place for me so how can we get bored? Plenty of places to go explore. We'll have a car so this is not a problem. I'm sure we'll make friends with some of the locals and this will help too. All will be good. How could I be bored with Snowdonia nearby?
Snowdonia, by the way, is Wales largest mountain which stands at ,1,085 m high. In Welsh, it is called Eryri. Some say it means Eagle, but was proved to mean it stands for "Highlands"by Sir Ifor Williams. From what I have read, there's hiking and a lot of really awesome nature to be found in Snowdonia and appears to be one of the wettest spots in the UK - although this years rain has not be calculated in that theory yet (ok maybe someone has but I haven't seen it yet LOL). Here's a pictture of Snowdonia from Wikipedia page - so I take no credit for it :)
Love ~Peace ~Happiness
Marianne
I've flown overseas before, but not for six months, and not being responsible for my teenage daughter while there. I've always been on my own before, mostly.
So many things have had to align for this to happen. I had to find a place to stay. Check. I'm house sitting for a couple who is going to Australia for three months in Wales. I had to have transportation while I was in Wales. Check. Sian is graciously loaning me her car. I had to find insurance to cover me driving said car. Check. Sian found a policy to cover me - 290 pounds for three months. Ouch. but Check.
I'm not sure where I am staying the second three months yet. More things that need to fall in place. I am willing to take a leap of faith though and believe that it will fall into place while I am there. I'd love to find a job there. More things to fall in place.
All my friends are concerned that we will be bored in Wales. Wales happens to be a new place for me so how can we get bored? Plenty of places to go explore. We'll have a car so this is not a problem. I'm sure we'll make friends with some of the locals and this will help too. All will be good. How could I be bored with Snowdonia nearby?
Snowdonia, by the way, is Wales largest mountain which stands at ,1,085 m high. In Welsh, it is called Eryri. Some say it means Eagle, but was proved to mean it stands for "Highlands"by Sir Ifor Williams. From what I have read, there's hiking and a lot of really awesome nature to be found in Snowdonia and appears to be one of the wettest spots in the UK - although this years rain has not be calculated in that theory yet (ok maybe someone has but I haven't seen it yet LOL). Here's a pictture of Snowdonia from Wikipedia page - so I take no credit for it :)
 |
| Snowdonia |
Marianne
Saturday, July 7, 2012
It's Raining, It's Pouring - Hopefully not everyone is snoring!!!
Sometimes disaster hits and we are knocked on our feet. What we choose to do with that disaster is solely up to us. We can either just accept it and be swept away with the flood - or we can fight back, swim against the current and pop our head up on the other side of the waterfall.
My new friends that I will be house sitting for in Wales chose to do exactly that! As in my previous post, they had 1.5 feet of water, mud and silt in their house due to flooding a month ago. They are not the first and only people in the world to ever have their house devastated by a disaster. But it was their disaster and they, in my opinion, have dealt with it with much grace. Luckily, they are insured and they have a great positive attitude. They've been in contact with me and the trip is still on and she's pleased that I am willing to still come. I told her, "Of course I am! I made a commitment to you!" I would have been crushed if they had to cancel their trip but would have completely understood. She said she would have understood if I changed my mind about coming to their house. Now, how could I miss the opportunity to meet this chicken???
In line with what my blog is all about - melting the technology part of computers with the human part of life, I have been in contact with a few places and people in the Mid Wales area that I am staying in. First, was Sian, the woman I am house sitting for. It's been fun learning about their animals, children, life. I don't know very much, but what I do, they sound like fascinating people. I think what bonded us was three things. 1. My love for animals. They knew their dog, two cats and one chicken would be well cared for. 2. My sense of adventure matched hers. They are going to Australia while we are in their home. 3. My feelings on education. Life is not always books and four walls. As a child, I often took my daughter out of school for a day to take her places. I felt she needed to know that life is the world - not just a classroom. Sian is taking her two children with her to Australia with the same life lessons in mind.
I've been in touch with Lucie Llewellyn who owns and runs The Escape Guest House in Pennal with her husband Stuart. I found them by watching the videos of the flooding in Pennal and they were being interviewed. I happened to be on their website when I viewed them in an interview for the news. Was quite startled at the coincidence. I emailed them to make sure they were the same people and they were! We've emailed a few times back and forth discussing Pennal and the area, their family, etc. Very nice people.
I was driving around on Google Maps and saw a fish shop called Top Shop. I emailed them and the owner, David Hennighan emailed me back explaining they were having their this summer and it'd be a shame I'd have to miss their special day. Congratulations for them for celebrating their 23rd anniversary! (My lucky number by the way) I recently emailed him back asking why it was called "Top Shop" as I have asked a few people if that was a common name for a fish and chip place in the Uk, and no one had been able to say it was. His answer was: "aware it has always been know as top shop,the only reason i can think of is because it is the last shop on the left hand side of the street as you are looking from the town clock,so maybe thats the reason, TOP OF TOWN hence Top Shop,i might be wrong but it seems logical."
We will have to go try their fish while we are there.
I was also in contact with Roxane Smith who has a few music groups and invited Victoria to sing in one of them while she was there. She hasn't answered my emails for awhile though so I am hoping that invitation is still there.
Another contact I made was with Emma Macey with Film15 in Wales. They teach their students about film. I thought it would be cool to introduce Victoria (my wonderful daughter) to that, but she explained that most of their stuff is done in the summer. Since we'll be arriving in September, it'll be over. She did mention the art center in Aberystwyth. I'll be looking more into that today.
I also have been in contact with Jacqui at the White Lion Hotel in Machynlleth. She didn't offer much insight on her first email other than it'll be nice to meet in Autumn. My second email to her was about the flooding and she explained that they were not affected in Machynlleth, but talked about a few of the places that were, such as Pennal.
I also contacted a few local stores that have not responded. One was a green store that sold a lot of natural products from skin care to paint. Seemed like an interesting place. I'll still stop in despite their lack of communication.
I also emailed the Centre for Alternative Technology whose website is: http://www.cat.org.uk/ . This is from their site: CAT is an education and visitor centre which demonstrates practical solutions for sustainability. We cover all aspects of green living: environmental building, eco-sanitation, woodland management, renewable energy, energy efficiency and organic growing.
CAT is in Sians backyard practically. I can't wait to explore it some, and meet some people there. They too have not acknowledged my email though. I emailed them asking if they had any volunteer opportunities that we could get involved with.
So you can see, I am busy reaching out to people in Wales. One of my friends on Google Plus, Hannah, has been most helpful in things, which I am grateful for. She is a wealth of information and I'm grateful :)
Love ~ Peace ~ Happiness
Marianne
My new friends that I will be house sitting for in Wales chose to do exactly that! As in my previous post, they had 1.5 feet of water, mud and silt in their house due to flooding a month ago. They are not the first and only people in the world to ever have their house devastated by a disaster. But it was their disaster and they, in my opinion, have dealt with it with much grace. Luckily, they are insured and they have a great positive attitude. They've been in contact with me and the trip is still on and she's pleased that I am willing to still come. I told her, "Of course I am! I made a commitment to you!" I would have been crushed if they had to cancel their trip but would have completely understood. She said she would have understood if I changed my mind about coming to their house. Now, how could I miss the opportunity to meet this chicken???
 |
| Sian's Chicken |
In line with what my blog is all about - melting the technology part of computers with the human part of life, I have been in contact with a few places and people in the Mid Wales area that I am staying in. First, was Sian, the woman I am house sitting for. It's been fun learning about their animals, children, life. I don't know very much, but what I do, they sound like fascinating people. I think what bonded us was three things. 1. My love for animals. They knew their dog, two cats and one chicken would be well cared for. 2. My sense of adventure matched hers. They are going to Australia while we are in their home. 3. My feelings on education. Life is not always books and four walls. As a child, I often took my daughter out of school for a day to take her places. I felt she needed to know that life is the world - not just a classroom. Sian is taking her two children with her to Australia with the same life lessons in mind.
I've been in touch with Lucie Llewellyn who owns and runs The Escape Guest House in Pennal with her husband Stuart. I found them by watching the videos of the flooding in Pennal and they were being interviewed. I happened to be on their website when I viewed them in an interview for the news. Was quite startled at the coincidence. I emailed them to make sure they were the same people and they were! We've emailed a few times back and forth discussing Pennal and the area, their family, etc. Very nice people.
I was driving around on Google Maps and saw a fish shop called Top Shop. I emailed them and the owner, David Hennighan emailed me back explaining they were having their this summer and it'd be a shame I'd have to miss their special day. Congratulations for them for celebrating their 23rd anniversary! (My lucky number by the way) I recently emailed him back asking why it was called "Top Shop" as I have asked a few people if that was a common name for a fish and chip place in the Uk, and no one had been able to say it was. His answer was: "aware it has always been know as top shop,the only reason i can think of is because it is the last shop on the left hand side of the street as you are looking from the town clock,so maybe thats the reason, TOP OF TOWN hence Top Shop,i might be wrong but it seems logical."
We will have to go try their fish while we are there.
I was also in contact with Roxane Smith who has a few music groups and invited Victoria to sing in one of them while she was there. She hasn't answered my emails for awhile though so I am hoping that invitation is still there.
Another contact I made was with Emma Macey with Film15 in Wales. They teach their students about film. I thought it would be cool to introduce Victoria (my wonderful daughter) to that, but she explained that most of their stuff is done in the summer. Since we'll be arriving in September, it'll be over. She did mention the art center in Aberystwyth. I'll be looking more into that today.
I also have been in contact with Jacqui at the White Lion Hotel in Machynlleth. She didn't offer much insight on her first email other than it'll be nice to meet in Autumn. My second email to her was about the flooding and she explained that they were not affected in Machynlleth, but talked about a few of the places that were, such as Pennal.
I also contacted a few local stores that have not responded. One was a green store that sold a lot of natural products from skin care to paint. Seemed like an interesting place. I'll still stop in despite their lack of communication.
I also emailed the Centre for Alternative Technology whose website is: http://www.cat.org.uk/ . This is from their site: CAT is an education and visitor centre which demonstrates practical solutions for sustainability. We cover all aspects of green living: environmental building, eco-sanitation, woodland management, renewable energy, energy efficiency and organic growing.
CAT is in Sians backyard practically. I can't wait to explore it some, and meet some people there. They too have not acknowledged my email though. I emailed them asking if they had any volunteer opportunities that we could get involved with.
So you can see, I am busy reaching out to people in Wales. One of my friends on Google Plus, Hannah, has been most helpful in things, which I am grateful for. She is a wealth of information and I'm grateful :)
Love ~ Peace ~ Happiness
Marianne
Saturday, June 23, 2012
But I don't speak Welsh....
Luckily, I'm told, that Welsh people are bi-lingual. They speak Welsh and English. Does that mean I will understand what that person sitting across the table from me at the pub next to the house I'm staying at in Pennal is saying? I sure hope so. I'd hate to be smiling and nodding to be polite and be offering to sell my first born child just for a ride into town! I'm pretty sure Victoria will NOT appreciate this.
This past few weeks have been hair raising for not only me, who has been sitting on the edge of my chair, but for the people in Mid Wales. They have had some really bad storms lately as well as flooding and threats of dams breaking and washing them all away! Here's what happened:
Apparently, the storms they had were normal for autumn there, but not spring/summer. Without getting detailed about it, these storms came in and flooded different areas of Mid Wales. The home that we are house sitting for this fall was flooded with 1.5 feet of water and mud. I learned of their fate by an email answer to one of mine, after people I know in the UK kept texting me to look at the news for the UK and that area. People who have never heard of Pennal before me saying I was going there were now hearing of this small village on their local news. WoW! So I go to the BBC's webpage and search for Pennal. This video is found in my search:
This past few weeks have been hair raising for not only me, who has been sitting on the edge of my chair, but for the people in Mid Wales. They have had some really bad storms lately as well as flooding and threats of dams breaking and washing them all away! Here's what happened:
Apparently, the storms they had were normal for autumn there, but not spring/summer. Without getting detailed about it, these storms came in and flooded different areas of Mid Wales. The home that we are house sitting for this fall was flooded with 1.5 feet of water and mud. I learned of their fate by an email answer to one of mine, after people I know in the UK kept texting me to look at the news for the UK and that area. People who have never heard of Pennal before me saying I was going there were now hearing of this small village on their local news. WoW! So I go to the BBC's webpage and search for Pennal. This video is found in my search:
Blown away from this video, I immediately emailed Sian who a few days later answered telling me that they had flooded and would be moving out for 10 days as the insurance company does their magic. The animals were fine (a dog, two cats and one chicken), so were the humans, and that they'd be in contact in about two weeks. So I proceeded to bite my nails as I waited to see if their trip was still on to know if mine was still on. If they canceled, I'd completely understand. I can't imagine my home being flooded and what stress, frustration and anger it might cause. Plus regardless of insurance coverage, things always cost more than we all think they should or could when it comes to home repairs.
Finally, this past week, I got an answer that they were not back in the house but all was going well and it was still a go. Yay!
Remember when I started this blog? My goal was meet people online before I go and connect with them when I get there. Well, related to this weather story - let me tell you what I was doing when I was texted about this flooding.... I was researching businesses in the area and emailing them to introduce myself. At the time, I was reading this website: http://www.aberdovey-escape.co.uk/ . No biggie you think, right? Well, no, I suppose it is not. But ... then again... I switch over to the BBC website to check out the flooding and I find this video:
Did he say he owned The Escape Bed and Breakfast? Yup. Here I was on their website without knowing what was going on and now I'm watching the owners on the web! I've emailed them and verified that, indeed, these were the people on the news and it was their website I was on. Amazing how the internet brings news from such a small town in the UK to people all over the world!
Here's a another video that shows the seriousness of their flooding. Note the water flowing through yards about half way and the firefighters/rescuers punching holes in peoples doors to let out the water! I'm not sure if the pressure from the water prohibited the door from being opened or if they were locked doors.
My heart really does go out to all these people. People in the US get flooded mostly from hurricanes and such storms and it's really an awful thing!
 |
| Pennal - where we are staying - flooded :( |
At least the dam didn't break but still, enough is enough. I'm sure flood warnings today are not a welcome thing. I hope it dries out soon!!!!!
Peace ~ Love ~ Happiness
Marianne
Thursday, June 7, 2012
God Save the Queen! 2012
This past weekend, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her sixty year Diamond Jubilee. As an American, the thought of having one person in charge for so long is a bit mind boggling. Our presidents are in office a maximum of eight years, so sixty is huge! At first, my initial thought was "those crazy brits will do anything for a holiday" but after watching the celebrations, I'm astonished at how much the country really does love their Queen. If you think about it, only those people who are older than sixty years old can even begin to remember royalty other than Queen Elizabeth II. She took her crown on February 6, 1952. Eighteen years before I was even born!
As to date, Queen Elizabeth is the oldest reigning British monarch. In 2007, she surpassed her great great grandmother, Queen Victoria who lived to be 81 years old and reigned for sixty three years. Queen Elizabeth II will have to reign until September 2015 to pass that mark.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I am not an overly political kind of person, but the monarchy in the UK has always fascinated me, as it does so many other people, including local Brits and Americans alike. Proof of this is evident in Princess Diana and Prince Charles' wedding. Many Americans were awake in the wee hours of the morning to be able to watch that wedding. We were all fascinated by her beauty, her dress, the family, and her new place in it. When she died, we all cried. It's a family affair that has been played out in the public eye since the year 871 when Alfred the Great was the first effective King of England. Queen Elizabeth is his 32nd great granddaughter. It always amazes me that England has had some great Queens ruling them and America has never had a female president, but we'll discuss that another day.
Keep in mind, I know not all Monarchy in the past has been perfect and wonderful, but it takes a lot of guts to run a country. Not all your decisions will be liked or trusted, and there will always be people out there hoping for your demise. She is the Queen of over 134 million people. She became Queen when her father died when Elizabeth was only 25 in 1952. Can you imagine running one country, with alone others at the age of 25?? I sure can't. It takes guts. In my opinion, Queen Elizabeth has guts. Lots of them.
So congratulations to Queen Elizabeth II for sixty years. Her bravery and strength stands out. Her weekend long celebration included The River Thames Pageant, a huge concert, among other activities. Please enjoy the pictures I took of The River Thames Pageant.
~Peace ~ Love ~ Happiness
Marianne
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Sherwood Forest - Home of Robin Hood
Robin Hood? Is that
you? Today Ed (my Google man partner in crime!) landed in Edwinstowe,
England which is the legendary home of Robin Hood! I'm writing as I do
this travel so we see where it takes us!
Hop on board and let’s get moving – I have a feeling we have a lot of
forest to cover!
Upon driving just a few blocks down the road, Ed comes to the
Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve.
He’s giddy in anticipation as to what he will find there! Well come on Ed – get a move on it!
Guess what!?!? Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre is proud to have been chosen as a site to
host a leg of the Olympic Torch Relay on the morning of 28th June 2012.
Wow! We’ve discovered that this reserve is home to some of the oldest oak trees, over 900 of them, that span the ages of over eight hundred years! “Major Oak” lives in the middle of the forest and after all this time is still producing acorns! That must be some magical soil in that 450 acre nature preserve. Can you imagine being here? Standing on the soil, the same soil that Robin Hood did? (And yes, before you correct me on this, I am aware that Robin Hood was an outlaw based on English Folklore but for the sake of fun, let’s pretend, shall we?)
I just thought this picture was lovely!
I can envision standing on these grounds, inhaling fresh
air. My toes dig into the undergrowth of
the forest a bit, where rotting fallen trees and branches decay, giving all
kinds of bugs and fungus’ homes. Good
thing I have on shoes, I’d hate to have fungus in my toe nails. Ed doesn’t have shoes though – I wonder if he
is bleach proof?
This blog has led me along many paths so far. I have learned so much about the United
Kingdom. I thought I knew a lot about
England, and as it turns out, I knew nothing.
Even this blog about Sherwood Forest has made me research about Robin
Hood – you should too! It’s quite
interesting. Here’s a link to help you
out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robin_Hood
Wiki's rendition of information is interesting but here is a very interesting breakdown of the insight of Robin Hood that hopefully you will find interesting also. It speaks about the Pagan and neo pagan aspect of it all. http://hesternic.tripod.com/robinhood.htm
By the way, were any of the Robin Hood stories in winter? (The above link addressed this some btw) The sign above talks about ice on the road - I'd imagine it would be rather cold in the woods during winter for Robin Hood and her Merry Men! We'll be in the UK over the winter. Ed wants to see Sherwood Forest in person - I'll be sure to pack some warm socks!
Ed wants to take a break, so I’ll oblige. Ssshhh… he’ll just think I’m resting but in
truth, I’ll be doing more research and traveling without him on the side… don’t
tell him! He’ll feel left out!
I'm off to Wales! See you there!
Peace ~ Love ~ Happiness
Marianne
Monday, May 7, 2012
I bought British food today!
This weekend, I discovered that there was a website featuring British stuff and guess what? Their store is here in the Dayton area! So today, off I went to explore this store. Wise Choice British Foods, Gifts and Candies is on Brandt Pike in Huber Heights. While there, exploring, we first met Greg who we enjoyed talking to very much. Then out comes the owner, who at first thought I sounded a bit British. I kept talking, I'm sure he changed his mind ;) Here's the owner Harry:
This store was interesting. It had a wide variety of things from food items to personal hygiene items. I have had a few British foods while in the UK but also have had many discussions about food with UK friends. Here's a breakdown of what we bought and why:
Digestive Biscuits and Butter Crinkle Biscuits
I first learned of Digestives when I went to Portugal. We started a conversation about them at lunch one day and it was hard to understand what they were because America doesn't have anything like them. When you hear of them, you think maybe graham crackers but they are nothing like them. They are like .. hmm... not a cracker... not a cookie....
Then the Crinkle Biscuits are like a cookie to us. They are sweet and delightful. One is enough ;)
Heinz Beans
Don't laugh! Ok, you can laugh. Yes, Beans. Has anyone ever seen Heinz Beans in America? Every time I hear about English breakfasts, they say they had beans. HUH? BEANS? I'm always astonished by this. So my friend Peter and I had this huge conversation one day about them. I explained that none of the grocery stores I go to sell Heinz beans, and that in fact, Americans don't eat beans for breakfast. Lunch? Maybe. Dinner? Yup. But Breakfast??? nah...
He googled it and discovered I speak the truth. I showed him various websites that had beans on them and discovered they are quite different here - most of our beans are sweet and the ones shown above are not. They come in a tomato base and from our talk and a google search, are served on buttered toast for breakfast. So I bought some to try. I'll let you know what I think. But at $3.29 a can, I can't afford to become addicted. I know they cost less in the UK.
Earl Grey Tea
Earl Grey is my favorite tea of all time. Why? I love the taste. I first tried it because I kept hearing Jean Luc Piccard order it on Star Trek when my husband was watching it and decided to give it a try. I was hooked from the first cup. So they had Earl Grey on the clearance rack for $6.00. I wanted to see if it tasted any better than the $3.00 package I buy at Meijer. I'll let you know.
Ginger Beer
Ok - most people who know me know I do not drink alcohol much. Well luckily, Ginger Beer is not alcoholic at all. But wow! it sure packs a punch! Goes down smooth then hits hard! You know you have had ginger beer when you drink it!
Here's some more pictures I took of the place. We had a nice time visiting and learned a lot about Wales (where I'll be visiting for a few months in September). Here is their website - it's fun to look at their site and see the different offerings from what we are used to in America!
http://www.wisechoiceuk.com/Scripts/default.asp
So if you are in the Dayton area - stop by and say hi to these nice folks! If not, go check out their website. It's definitely iinteresting how varied our foods are. By the way, did you know that CADBURY chocolate here is owned by Hersheys and laiden with wax, yet in the UK, CADBURY is owned by CADBURY and is amazing??? I had a sample yesterday and OMG. I love bringing home chocolate from Europe for this reason! *Note: a friend just told me KRAFT bought Cadburys - I'm shocked!!*
Love ~ Peace ~ Happiness
Marianne
This store was interesting. It had a wide variety of things from food items to personal hygiene items. I have had a few British foods while in the UK but also have had many discussions about food with UK friends. Here's a breakdown of what we bought and why:
Digestive Biscuits and Butter Crinkle Biscuits
I first learned of Digestives when I went to Portugal. We started a conversation about them at lunch one day and it was hard to understand what they were because America doesn't have anything like them. When you hear of them, you think maybe graham crackers but they are nothing like them. They are like .. hmm... not a cracker... not a cookie....
Then the Crinkle Biscuits are like a cookie to us. They are sweet and delightful. One is enough ;)
Heinz Beans
Don't laugh! Ok, you can laugh. Yes, Beans. Has anyone ever seen Heinz Beans in America? Every time I hear about English breakfasts, they say they had beans. HUH? BEANS? I'm always astonished by this. So my friend Peter and I had this huge conversation one day about them. I explained that none of the grocery stores I go to sell Heinz beans, and that in fact, Americans don't eat beans for breakfast. Lunch? Maybe. Dinner? Yup. But Breakfast??? nah...
He googled it and discovered I speak the truth. I showed him various websites that had beans on them and discovered they are quite different here - most of our beans are sweet and the ones shown above are not. They come in a tomato base and from our talk and a google search, are served on buttered toast for breakfast. So I bought some to try. I'll let you know what I think. But at $3.29 a can, I can't afford to become addicted. I know they cost less in the UK.
Earl Grey Tea
Earl Grey is my favorite tea of all time. Why? I love the taste. I first tried it because I kept hearing Jean Luc Piccard order it on Star Trek when my husband was watching it and decided to give it a try. I was hooked from the first cup. So they had Earl Grey on the clearance rack for $6.00. I wanted to see if it tasted any better than the $3.00 package I buy at Meijer. I'll let you know.
Ginger Beer
Ok - most people who know me know I do not drink alcohol much. Well luckily, Ginger Beer is not alcoholic at all. But wow! it sure packs a punch! Goes down smooth then hits hard! You know you have had ginger beer when you drink it!
Here's some more pictures I took of the place. We had a nice time visiting and learned a lot about Wales (where I'll be visiting for a few months in September). Here is their website - it's fun to look at their site and see the different offerings from what we are used to in America!
http://www.wisechoiceuk.com/Scripts/default.asp
So if you are in the Dayton area - stop by and say hi to these nice folks! If not, go check out their website. It's definitely iinteresting how varied our foods are. By the way, did you know that CADBURY chocolate here is owned by Hersheys and laiden with wax, yet in the UK, CADBURY is owned by CADBURY and is amazing??? I had a sample yesterday and OMG. I love bringing home chocolate from Europe for this reason! *Note: a friend just told me KRAFT bought Cadburys - I'm shocked!!*
Love ~ Peace ~ Happiness
Marianne
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Traveling - Why it's important to me
When I was fourteen years old, I came home from school one day and announced that I was going on a trip to Europe. My father looked at me and said, "Oh yeah?" Well guess what? I went. I left in August of 1985 (then fifteen years old) and flew to Heathrow airport with a group from school. What a blast that trip was. I fell in love with Europe on that trip and knew I wanted to return. We visited the tourist spots in England, France and Italy for two weeks and then returned with some amazing stories of sightseeing, history, people and even some partying that we were legal to do there (but not the US). I am not 42 and I still have not lost that determination to return to Europe.
Since that trip, I've graduated from school, worked, married, had a daughter, started my own business, closed that business. My favorite thing to do before my daughter started school was to travel. Her and I used to jump in the car and just go. She was (and still is) an amazing traveler. School has slowed this down quite a bit and I miss it terribly. But, I always swore I'd travel with my daughter when I had her. I didn't want her thinking that the world was a small place. I wanted her to know people from other countries, realizing that there's many acceptable ways of living and thinking on this spinning planet. It's still my determination to do that. She's visited many US states and cities, but I want her to experience Europe. And not just the tourist spots! I want her seeing how people there live and the difference between our cultures!
We discuss the United Kingdom quite a bit. We have a running joke that she wants to go and see if cats meow with British accents. We are convinced that they do and Brits don't know it because they hear it all the time and it's normal for them. If we are wrong, please don't bust our bubbles... we'd prefer to stay in the world of la la la and disillusionment, ok? We'll discover that on our own time frame :)
You can read about places, tour them online, talk with people who have been there but until you truly experience a place on your own, you won't understand a thing about that place. This blog has caused me to stop and study so many aspects of the United Kingdom so far it astonishes me, and even having been there twice, I know that I won't completely understand what I have studied until I am actually there again visiting these places in person. Imagine how I will feel when I am sitting at The Minack Theatre after having studied it's history and following their recent performances and pictures on Facebook, etc. It'll be bittersweet. Maybe I need to move to the SW part of the UK in order to experience all the shows here!
Everyone knows I am infatuated with the stones in the UK, but imagine how I will feel when I am walking along, running my hand across stones that have been there for the ages. Stopping to think about the source of these stones, how long they have been there, who else may have placed their hands on these stones throughout the years, how these stones may have protected the land from various aspects such as war, or waves from the ocean. Or as simple as keeping a child safely in someones yard :) Or the neighbors dog out of that same yard :)
Nothing can compare to the feeling of being on a plane, closing your eyes and waking to the voice of the pilot saying "We'll be landing in xyz country in about 20 minutes - please return your seat and tray to their upright position".
they say only 10% of Americans have a passport. Their IS a reason so many people in other countries call Americans closed minded. There is more to the world than just the US. Let's go explore it! I'm not saying everyone should want to move places like I do, but go see them, appreciate their beauty then you can return home to yours.
Since that trip, I've graduated from school, worked, married, had a daughter, started my own business, closed that business. My favorite thing to do before my daughter started school was to travel. Her and I used to jump in the car and just go. She was (and still is) an amazing traveler. School has slowed this down quite a bit and I miss it terribly. But, I always swore I'd travel with my daughter when I had her. I didn't want her thinking that the world was a small place. I wanted her to know people from other countries, realizing that there's many acceptable ways of living and thinking on this spinning planet. It's still my determination to do that. She's visited many US states and cities, but I want her to experience Europe. And not just the tourist spots! I want her seeing how people there live and the difference between our cultures!
We discuss the United Kingdom quite a bit. We have a running joke that she wants to go and see if cats meow with British accents. We are convinced that they do and Brits don't know it because they hear it all the time and it's normal for them. If we are wrong, please don't bust our bubbles... we'd prefer to stay in the world of la la la and disillusionment, ok? We'll discover that on our own time frame :)
You can read about places, tour them online, talk with people who have been there but until you truly experience a place on your own, you won't understand a thing about that place. This blog has caused me to stop and study so many aspects of the United Kingdom so far it astonishes me, and even having been there twice, I know that I won't completely understand what I have studied until I am actually there again visiting these places in person. Imagine how I will feel when I am sitting at The Minack Theatre after having studied it's history and following their recent performances and pictures on Facebook, etc. It'll be bittersweet. Maybe I need to move to the SW part of the UK in order to experience all the shows here!
Everyone knows I am infatuated with the stones in the UK, but imagine how I will feel when I am walking along, running my hand across stones that have been there for the ages. Stopping to think about the source of these stones, how long they have been there, who else may have placed their hands on these stones throughout the years, how these stones may have protected the land from various aspects such as war, or waves from the ocean. Or as simple as keeping a child safely in someones yard :) Or the neighbors dog out of that same yard :)
Nothing can compare to the feeling of being on a plane, closing your eyes and waking to the voice of the pilot saying "We'll be landing in xyz country in about 20 minutes - please return your seat and tray to their upright position".
they say only 10% of Americans have a passport. Their IS a reason so many people in other countries call Americans closed minded. There is more to the world than just the US. Let's go explore it! I'm not saying everyone should want to move places like I do, but go see them, appreciate their beauty then you can return home to yours.
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