Just back in from the Christmas Concert. Ciaran was performing with the Wind Ensemble.
Talk about mixed emotions.
I got a phone call just after 1400 from the school - Ciaran was complaining about feeling ill. He has been off his food for the past few days and I had sent him to bed early Monday night which he did without arguing. He said he was feeling hot with an upset stomach but conceded it may have been nerves. He actually went back to class for the end of the day.
He was nervous when we arrived for the start but said it was more about the heat and we didn't suggest it may be butterflies.
The concert consisted of choirs, brass band, Ciaran's wind group, a fiddle band, and the local BB drummers.
I have heard the combined schools orchestra practice and they were pretty good so I'm not sure what we were expecting but after noticing about 10 spelling mistakes in the programme, including Ciaran's name, the year, "Bach" I was not inspired.
I was right.
But its not really fair to be critical since I don't play or sing. One of the choirs sang Fur Elise - I didn't even know there were lyrics for that. At least you could hear them. The other choir was accompanied by piano, bass and drum, but were virtually drowned out by the music.
The wind ensemble didn't have a conductor so the music teacher who was also playing an oboe was bobbing up and down, like a snake charmer, keeping time. They did sound good though. I was nervous for Ciaran as I don't think his breathing method is right and he was getting redder and redder as the pieces progressed.
The drummers were fantastic - they put on a good show with spinning drumsticks and playing each others drum. The only other highlight was "O Holy Night". Two girls sang this and it was beautiful.
The last weird thing was the raffle. In order not to delay our leaving they decided not to announce the winners and have the usual come up and collect your prize. Instead they drew the prizes during the second half and we had to check the results ourselves on the way out. Naturally massive jam on the way out.
20 December 2011
09 December 2011
Worst storm ever! *
* ever refers to the past 10 years, and if the way the weather is going is any indication, until the next storm.
Yesterday saw Scotland battered by extreme winds causing damage and disruption. There are still 50000 homes without power as the power companies try to repair downed lines.
In the far north gusts reached 138.5 mph but at work the wind stayed in the 30- 50 mph region all day - with gusts up to almost 80mph.
The drive home was interesting. At least traffic was light, but then the police had advised everyone not to travel at all. Hard to observe when you are 30 miles from home.
It certainly took its toll on my arms holding the car in its lane. The route home brings me past Whitelees Wind Farm, the largest onshore windfarm in Europe. Guess what the weather was like there?
Luckily I have not heard of anyone who has been hurt or suffered major damage, so at least there that. And all the snow from earlier this week is gone, but likely due back tonight...
The only damage I suffered was the demise of my fence. While I was painting it this summer I noted that it was quite fragile. I was using a sprayer and was afraid I would punch a hole through it!
The fence though didn't fall down though. It looks more like the mass of air hitting it blasted a hole in it.
Naturally, my insurance doesn't cover storm damage to fences.
.
Yesterday saw Scotland battered by extreme winds causing damage and disruption. There are still 50000 homes without power as the power companies try to repair downed lines.
In the far north gusts reached 138.5 mph but at work the wind stayed in the 30- 50 mph region all day - with gusts up to almost 80mph.
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| Wind Speed and Wind Gust data for 08 Dec 2011 from Prestwick Aiport (wunderground.com) |
The drive home was interesting. At least traffic was light, but then the police had advised everyone not to travel at all. Hard to observe when you are 30 miles from home.
It certainly took its toll on my arms holding the car in its lane. The route home brings me past Whitelees Wind Farm, the largest onshore windfarm in Europe. Guess what the weather was like there?
Luckily I have not heard of anyone who has been hurt or suffered major damage, so at least there that. And all the snow from earlier this week is gone, but likely due back tonight...
The only damage I suffered was the demise of my fence. While I was painting it this summer I noted that it was quite fragile. I was using a sprayer and was afraid I would punch a hole through it!
Naturally, my insurance doesn't cover storm damage to fences.
.
20 November 2011
A week in uniform
Thats my first week in Cub Leader uniform completed.
In the past week I've appeared in public for the first time in uniform at the Remembrance Service, surprised and confused my pack by taking my oath in front of the pack, and had my first of many training sessions.
11 Nov - Baptism of fire.
Dave was away on a Beaver's camp so I was left on my own representing the Cubs at the Remembrance Service. After having Fiona stay up late sewing badges onto my shirt, and having Ciaran show me how to fold the neckie we arrived at the service to be asked if I wanted to know how many badges were in the wrong place. I think everyone there mentioned that they had never seen me in uniform before. We had a solemn service and then a quick march to the monument for the wreath laying.
13 Nov - The funny handshake
Tuesday saw me arrive for our cub night in uniform. Despite it only being a shirt, and me being involved each week for the past 5 years, it did feel different. It certainly threw the cubs. Dave, having missed Sunday, didn't bother to ask and simply identified the badges that have to be moved. After a normal evening's activities we gathered for the flag break ceremony and Dave surprised me by asking was I ready and then launching into the oath, followed by the traditional Scouting left hand handshake. Dave had been told to get photos...
20 Nov - The training begins
I spent 5 hours today in a training session, covering just 3 of the 15 training modules I have to complete in the next 3 years. No one menti0oned the training when I signed up for the uniform. I knew there would have to be some training, but I was thinking knots and how to set up tents (pitch apparently) and indeed two of the modules are 'Practical Skills' and 'Activities Outdoors' but I didn't expect topics like 'Administration' and 'Working with Adults' to be required. And there's more than just attending the training - it all has to be verified. Naturally some will be verified on a nightly basis as we manage the cubs but each module has a minimum list of tasks which have to be completed and assessed before we get the tick/done.
In the past week I've appeared in public for the first time in uniform at the Remembrance Service, surprised and confused my pack by taking my oath in front of the pack, and had my first of many training sessions.
11 Nov - Baptism of fire.
Dave was away on a Beaver's camp so I was left on my own representing the Cubs at the Remembrance Service. After having Fiona stay up late sewing badges onto my shirt, and having Ciaran show me how to fold the neckie we arrived at the service to be asked if I wanted to know how many badges were in the wrong place. I think everyone there mentioned that they had never seen me in uniform before. We had a solemn service and then a quick march to the monument for the wreath laying.
13 Nov - The funny handshake
Tuesday saw me arrive for our cub night in uniform. Despite it only being a shirt, and me being involved each week for the past 5 years, it did feel different. It certainly threw the cubs. Dave, having missed Sunday, didn't bother to ask and simply identified the badges that have to be moved. After a normal evening's activities we gathered for the flag break ceremony and Dave surprised me by asking was I ready and then launching into the oath, followed by the traditional Scouting left hand handshake. Dave had been told to get photos...
20 Nov - The training begins
I spent 5 hours today in a training session, covering just 3 of the 15 training modules I have to complete in the next 3 years. No one menti0oned the training when I signed up for the uniform. I knew there would have to be some training, but I was thinking knots and how to set up tents (pitch apparently) and indeed two of the modules are 'Practical Skills' and 'Activities Outdoors' but I didn't expect topics like 'Administration' and 'Working with Adults' to be required. And there's more than just attending the training - it all has to be verified. Naturally some will be verified on a nightly basis as we manage the cubs but each module has a minimum list of tasks which have to be completed and assessed before we get the tick/done.
06 November 2011
WOHFTF 2011
This is a curling competition held in Stranraer with a fair amount of eating and drinking thrown in. Of course I don't curl so I was really only there for the food, but I have been inducted as a WOHFTF groupie.
Every November Fiona, her curling pals, and the entourage (in total there were 17 of us) head off to the North West Castle in Stranraer where a weekend event is organised. The hotel was the first in the world to have it own indoor curling rink.
The hotel runs competitions throughout the curling season (October to April) where you get 2 nights full board with entry to the group stage of the curling. You also get to use the pool etc and get a buffet lunch. Normally the group will have at least 2 teams entered, so in addition to their placings in the overall competition there is the private rivalry between the teams. The curling is bookended by lots of fine eating and drinking.
Fiona and I arrived just before 1900 on Friday evening and once we had checked in we met up with the others in the dining room. After dinner and retiring to the bar we had a fairly early night, with the teams anxious about the next days play.
As Fiona was on ice at 0830 she left me to sleep, so after breakfast I headed down to the rink to see how they were getting on. As is common with curling rinks, the viewers gallery overlooks the short end of the rink, and there is a bar. They won so they then held the post match discussion. It seems curling is a very social sport. It is customary after a game for the winning team to buy the losers a drink and discuss the match.
After the game it was out for a walk through the shops of the village - this is also the custom it seems. After some retail therapy it was back for lunch and the next match. While Fiona curled and won again, I was up preparing a training plan for my cubs - there is a lot more to this Bagheera business than anyone let on. Once Fiona was done we headed off for a swim (really a sit in the sauna and jacuzzi) though we did actually do about 3 lengths each. Then it was dress for dinner. And then veg out with the rest of the wine...
Sunday morning was low key - after breakfast we planned on a drive out to Port Patrick but eventually decided that by the time we got out there it would be near enough time to come back, so we just walked around the harbour in Stranraer. It was a lovely still morning and the sea was like a mill pond:
After our walk it was back in for lunch and Fiona's third game. Since this wasn't that long after breakfast she decided to only have the soup and dessert and left he main meal plated up for after her game. The rest of us just ate again.
That was them into the semi finals.
After a quick turn around it was out again onto the ice. I have to admit this was the first match I've actually watched from start to finish and I do have to admit that once you have a vested interest it becomes more exciting. At this point the gallery/bar was filling up as the others players finished their games and watched. This was a close game with great shots and strategy by both sides. Fiona and the teams came through this close game in the front and were now into the final. After the customary drink with the opposition it was back out onto the ice for the final and another close game, with both sides evenly matched. After Alan's final shot the opposing skip realised they were now too far behind to catch up and they 'shook hands' the formal method of conceding defeat. Again the round of drinks and then the prize giving for an exhausted team.
The best thing about the victory is that they are now invited back to play in the champion's weekend in March - another weekend away.
18 October 2011
Stirling Castle
Spent day 2 of the midterm at Stirling Castle.
What a place!
We got lucky with the weather. After yesterday's downpour to day was reasonably dry and bright, but there was a stiff breeze which was bitterly cold in Stirling. The peaks to the north are already snow capped.
It sits on top of a glacial crag and completely dominates the local area.
A lot of time and effort (and money) had gone into restoring the castle over the past number of years and it seems to have all been worth it.
One of the more impressive features is the Great Hall. This has been restored to its original look of 1500.
This meant removing the conversion from a hall to an army barracks, restoring the ceiling beams and whitewashing the outer walls with "Royal Gold" lime wash. The final results are impressive.
The audio tour also had lots of historical info presented as 'overheard' conversations between the Queen and her advisers. Cheesy French accents aside (reminded me of Allo Allo) it was quite entertaining.
Like many of these places there is just too much info to take it all in in one go and we'll have to come back again some time soon. Hopefully it won't be quite so cold and windy so we may get a chance to see the battlements.
What a place!
We got lucky with the weather. After yesterday's downpour to day was reasonably dry and bright, but there was a stiff breeze which was bitterly cold in Stirling. The peaks to the north are already snow capped.
It sits on top of a glacial crag and completely dominates the local area.
A lot of time and effort (and money) had gone into restoring the castle over the past number of years and it seems to have all been worth it.
One of the more impressive features is the Great Hall. This has been restored to its original look of 1500.
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| Royal Palace (left) and Great Hall at Stirling Castle |
This meant removing the conversion from a hall to an army barracks, restoring the ceiling beams and whitewashing the outer walls with "Royal Gold" lime wash. The final results are impressive.
The audio tour also had lots of historical info presented as 'overheard' conversations between the Queen and her advisers. Cheesy French accents aside (reminded me of Allo Allo) it was quite entertaining.
 |
| Fighting a chill wind at Stirling Castle, in front of the Foreworks |
Like many of these places there is just too much info to take it all in in one go and we'll have to come back again some time soon. Hopefully it won't be quite so cold and windy so we may get a chance to see the battlements.
17 October 2011
Washed away, almost...
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| Rear of Burn's Cottage |
But as it is school holidays we have to do something other than xbox all day, and when Ciaran suggested watching DVDs it wasn't appreciated too much. The other suggestion - take the ferry to Arran and go gorge walking - also wasn't likely to happen but it did suggest going outside wasn't altogether out of the question.
The new Burns Museum was a eventual winner. This Burns is the one of "Auld Lang Syne" at New Years and "My Love is Like a Red Red Rose" from my Leaving Cert fame. I have to admit that I am not a great fan but as a local boy done well he has a huge following here generally, and in Ayrshire in particular.
The new museum was opened in January this year and despite it being so close and us being just down the road for the Eddie Reader concert we had never been.It was really quite an interesting visit. Unlike most poets who only become famous after they die, Burns was already popular during his lifetime so once he died people did start to collect and preserve items of his. So the museum is full of his original notebooks and the like. It was actually quite interesting.
The weather though was terrible. By this time it had been raining all day, but getting heavier and heavier. The new building is across the road from the Burns birthplace cottage but it was so wet we had to drive across. Once we go there we got soaked getting from the car to the cottage and from the cottage to the gift shop. By the time we got out of the gift shop we were already soaked so we didn't really notice the run back to the car - but the car did steam up as the 3 of us dried off!
08 October 2011
Two new names
I have been given two new names this week. These are different from the other names I get called which I tend to just ignore.
The first is Bagheera. This is the panther from The Jungle Book.
This is the name traditionally given to assistant Cub leaders. This is down to the original connections between Kipling and Baden-Powell. When Baden-Powell was developing scouting for younger boys he based it on Kipling's Jungle Book stories, specifically "Mowgli's Brothers". The leaders still take their names from the main characters in the story.
It seems Akela is fairly confident that my application will go through. I certainly got that impression from the interview I had on Wednesday night. I now have study modules to work through...
The second is "Juror #6". It have been called up as juror in an assault, GBH and attempted murder case. They are hoping that it will only take 4 days but after day 1 yesterday, a short day as the Sheriff like to get away quick on a Friday, only the first prosecution witness has been done, and the second prosecution witness will have their cross starting Monday morning.
The first is Bagheera. This is the panther from The Jungle Book.
This is the name traditionally given to assistant Cub leaders. This is down to the original connections between Kipling and Baden-Powell. When Baden-Powell was developing scouting for younger boys he based it on Kipling's Jungle Book stories, specifically "Mowgli's Brothers". The leaders still take their names from the main characters in the story.
It seems Akela is fairly confident that my application will go through. I certainly got that impression from the interview I had on Wednesday night. I now have study modules to work through...
The second is "Juror #6". It have been called up as juror in an assault, GBH and attempted murder case. They are hoping that it will only take 4 days but after day 1 yesterday, a short day as the Sheriff like to get away quick on a Friday, only the first prosecution witness has been done, and the second prosecution witness will have their cross starting Monday morning.
11 September 2011
Ardal O'Hanlon
We went to see Ardal O'Hanlon in Kilmarnock last night.
He was absolutely brilliant.
There was only one passing reference to Father Dougal and no mention at all of "Thermoman" for which I at least was very pleased.
I haven't seen him in much recently (he was a teacher or something on an episode of skins) and was surprised at how much older he looked, but then Father Ted was a long time ago.
Absolutely fantastic show - two 45min sessions which completely flew.
Well worth catching if you get an opportunity.
He was absolutely brilliant.
There was only one passing reference to Father Dougal and no mention at all of "Thermoman" for which I at least was very pleased.
I haven't seen him in much recently (he was a teacher or something on an episode of skins) and was surprised at how much older he looked, but then Father Ted was a long time ago.
Absolutely fantastic show - two 45min sessions which completely flew.
Well worth catching if you get an opportunity.
06 August 2011
All Dressed Up
Fiona and I have had a lovely weekend away in North Berwick at her cousin's wedding.The wedding was great - a traditional Scottish wedding with all the trimmings and the weather was incredible, especially considering how wet it was the day before and this morning.
One thing that was impressive was the cake. One of the groom's pal's wife made it as a present. It seems that there is quite a number of people who make really cool sugar figures for cakes and she was one of them. It seems the bride got a telling off for adjusting her hair colour without consulting the baker.
Being a wedding I had to do that suit thing.
Those that know me know I don't normally do suits or ties. Button shirts are also not that usual but that has been changing. Luckily (for me anyway) work does not require me to wear a shirt and tie so I tend to dress casual upping my game to business casual if I am meeting clients. So, a new suit was required as I wasn't prepared to go kilted.Dashing though I may be, I don't think its going to be a regular thing...
This morning also started out nice so we spent the morning walking around the harbour and earwigging on the children's science lecture at the bird centre. The guy doing the science demo (a baking soda volcano to point out the 2 volcanic plugs in the village) was absolutely brilliant.
But then it started to rain so we headed to the Museum of Flight. Last year when we were here for the air show Fiona never got a chance to see Concorde. The very first one is on permanent display here. I promised I would take her again (expecting it to be the air show) but she saw that coming and swerved. Since it was miserable by lunch time she agreed. We got absolutely soaked but I think she enjoyed it...
27 July 2011
Garden Conversion
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| after the weeds have been cleared |
The people here before me put down wood bark as a way of keeping the weeds down. Sadly its just not very nice - it looks dark, its mostly damp, and it disappears at a surprising rate given I never see any on the path and its an enclosed garden. I don't understand why its so patchy even though I have topped up the amount of bark a few times already.
Grass would be the best solution, but the poor quality soil would mean I should get topsoil and turf it. If I was going to that effort then I should do the front also but there are buried cables and old tree roots to consider... Of course, I would also have to cut it.
While walking around the garden centre with Fiona I saw some nice granite chips which I thought would make a nice replacement for the bark. This thought coincided with one of the nice days we had. Due t the horrible condition of the bark we don't like to sit out on it but that corner of the garden tends to get the afternoon sun. A plan was hatching.
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| removing the old membrane |
I figure if I get the chips delivered mid week, Ciaran and I can have the old bark and membrane lifted and cleared, and the fence painted, new membrane down and the chips added without really stretching ourselves. After all, it is our holidays.
After checking the website I decided that 2 tonne of chips will be enough to cover the garden.
We start out by clearing the weeds. Fiona and I had cleared the worst of them a few weeks earlier but they grow like weeds.
Once that was all done we tackled the bark. Luckily I had a good supply of charity donation bags that we used to pack all the rubbish away. We ended up with a full car load of fragile plastic bags full of bark, stone, and weed roots. I have never seen so many roots at once. Some of the garden looked like a plate of spaghetti had been spilled.
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| new membrane down |
The sheets of membrane were then rolled up and dumped into the bin.
At this point Ciaran noticed what appeared to be a ring of some sort. As he investigated it turned out to be the old anchor for the rotary clothes dryer. The previous owners didn't move their old one, just cut it off level with the top of the concrete and lay the membrane over it. we then decided to remove it, something easier said then done, especially with sandy soil and no levers. As we couldn't get a good grip of it I finally got some old CAT5 cable which was laying about and hauled it out with that. The power of the internet. Of course, we now have a huge hole which we filled with some attempts to level the surface. We also have a stonking great big lump of concrete that I cannot lift to get into the car and if I could I wouldn't be able to get it back out!
The new membrane then went down. This was the first test of Ciaran's measuring as we had bought just enough to cover the area. Naturally I had forgotten to consider the overlap and we were a bit short, but there was some left from fixing the path at the front of the house so we were fine. Ciaran was relieved that his numbers were right.
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| serious rabbit problem |
Ciaran was chief lugger and I was on loading. It took only a few hours to move them all onto the membrane and then we managed to level everything out reasonable quickly after that.
This is when I realised my mistake with the gravel order. I naturally overcomplicated it.
A bulk bag would cover between 10m2 at 40mm depth and 12m2 at 50mm depth. I converted these to a volume and then used my garden area to determine how deep the layer would be. Since the minimum depth would be 30mm I ordered 2 bags. Had I been less clever and just used the info provided - 10m2or 12m2at at least 40mm depth I would have realised I needed at least 2.5 bags to give around 40mm at their worst case scenario. The whole area is covered, but its only a single stone thick in some places. The end result is I'll need to get another bag to put down at some point. The current plan is to wait until next spring. Since its just sand underneath I feel the stone may compress the ground a bit and then I may want more than just an additional single bag. In the meantime we have moved the picnic table of the drive an onto the 'patio' .
Then the table was christened with a cold beer.
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| all we need now is weather |
13 July 2011
All the way home
Finally made it back home tonight after getting our ferry from Larne back to Troon.
We were a little early for the ferry so we spent some time at the beach outside Larne.
The ferry trip back was quite busy with a number of pipe bands that were over for the 12th. I think the 3 of us were a little nervous but in all fairness there was no trouble. There was a noticeable security presence though.
By the time we got back home I had driven 1200 miles, so so much for my walking holiday or having Fiona drive but the three of us seemed to enjoy it. Ciaran and Fiona are both still talking to me and I'm still glad they are both around.
Success all round
We were a little early for the ferry so we spent some time at the beach outside Larne.
The ferry trip back was quite busy with a number of pipe bands that were over for the 12th. I think the 3 of us were a little nervous but in all fairness there was no trouble. There was a noticeable security presence though.
By the time we got back home I had driven 1200 miles, so so much for my walking holiday or having Fiona drive but the three of us seemed to enjoy it. Ciaran and Fiona are both still talking to me and I'm still glad they are both around.
Success all round
12 July 2011
Walk like an Egyptian
Looking at the craftsmanship of these items you get some idea of the lavish lifestyle the very rich had, and of the skill of the people keeping them in the lifestyle they became accustomed to.
I don't know how much of what was found was shown here but just the complexity of how it was all stored is amazing.
This was a very interesting day and we were lucky we caught one of the last days it was in Dublin.
As it happens, Ciaran didn't find anything of interest at Forbidden Planet and seems to have outgrown the need to simply spend his money, just to have spent it on something.
11 July 2011
Rock of Cashel
Headed back to Dublin today with the now traditional stop in Cashel.
The Rock is being preserved at the moment so externally its not as impressive due to the scaffolding, at least from some angles. It seems there are very few of these types of structures still upright, and water is their particular poison. A protective roof has been placed over the chapel in order to keep some of the moisture out of the building.
Again our tour guide was brilliant. A local man he kept us captivated for over 90 minutes as he walked us around the site.
The Rock is being preserved at the moment so externally its not as impressive due to the scaffolding, at least from some angles. It seems there are very few of these types of structures still upright, and water is their particular poison. A protective roof has been placed over the chapel in order to keep some of the moisture out of the building.
10 July 2011
Weekend in Cork
Saturday evening was a quick tour of Crosshaven followed by fish and chips and then my first pints of the holiday.
Sadly Dara had to travel on business but the rest of us had a great day on Sunday at Fort Camden which involved stairs, face painting and a small cafe.
The fort is being restored by a local conservation group and looking at the work they have carried out in the past year gives great hope for its future.
08 July 2011
Kylemore Abbey
Today was our last full day in the cottage and we spent most of it at Kylemore Abbey.
This has been a wedding present, famine relief work, a money pit, a royal hunt lodge, a convent and girls school. The nuns are still there but the sschool has now shut down as its getting too much for the nuns to cope with.
We did our now standard tour of the house and the tea room but spent a lot of time walking around the Victorian garden.
The original garden was left and became overgrown. one of the nuns started to restore it and now a team of students work alongside the full time staff to restore the huge garden.
What was really impressive was to see the class divide. Within the garden was both the Head gardener's house and the bothy for the garden staff. The Head gardener had this lovely house for himself and his family. It was bright and spacious with a beautiful view over the garden. The bothy was in behind the shed, with windows looking out onto an earth bank with 5 or 6 living in less space than the head gardener has for breakfast.
It was dry inside, but dark, cramped and the turf smoke really couldn't get out.
When we got back to the cottage we had another Rummikub session but I was strictly limited to a minute per turn by the other 2.
This has been a wedding present, famine relief work, a money pit, a royal hunt lodge, a convent and girls school. The nuns are still there but the sschool has now shut down as its getting too much for the nuns to cope with.
The original garden was left and became overgrown. one of the nuns started to restore it and now a team of students work alongside the full time staff to restore the huge garden.
When we got back to the cottage we had another Rummikub session but I was strictly limited to a minute per turn by the other 2.
07 July 2011
Down the mine
In keeping with yesterday, today was another geology day. We headed to Glengowla mines. This was primarily a lead mine and was hand dug.
After arriving just after a school trip and having to wait in the gift shop we were able to head into the mine.
It was as impressive as the caves yesterday, but its incredible to think this was all dug out by hand. With no explosive.
After the mine we headed to Aughnanure Castle.
The central keep was restored with new floors and a roof so you can get some idea of how life in a castle was lived.
Ciaran cooked again tonight, his third night in a row. We had one pot noodles tonight, a type of chicken stir fry. This cookbook was the best present anyone's has ever given him.
After dinner we had another Rummikub session but I kept getting hassle for thinking to much about my moves. Of course, Ciaran sending me texts while playing imploring me to speed up didn't help!
After arriving just after a school trip and having to wait in the gift shop we were able to head into the mine.
After the mine we headed to Aughnanure Castle.
Ciaran cooked again tonight, his third night in a row. We had one pot noodles tonight, a type of chicken stir fry. This cookbook was the best present anyone's has ever given him. After dinner we had another Rummikub session but I kept getting hassle for thinking to much about my moves. Of course, Ciaran sending me texts while playing imploring me to speed up didn't help!
06 July 2011
Really dark caves
Ciaran has been a Father Ted fan for quite a while now and one of the pulls of going to the West of Ireland was a chance to see the "Really Dark caves" from "The Mainland". These are Ailwee Caves in Clare.
So we were up early today and off to Clare.
The caves are really impressive and the tour was fantastic. Ciaran being into rocks managed to keep the guide on her toes with some impressive questions and to my surprise didn't mention Father Ted or respond "I don't believe it" (in the episode Richard Wilson from One Foot in the Grave is visiting the caves and typical Father Ted antics occur after Ted uses his catchphrase) to any of the facts. It certainly was his favourite day.
The rain of the yesterday meant that there was good flow in the caves and we only got a little wet after the tour when we went for a short climb up above the cave structure.
So we were up early today and off to Clare.
The caves are really impressive and the tour was fantastic. Ciaran being into rocks managed to keep the guide on her toes with some impressive questions and to my surprise didn't mention Father Ted or respond "I don't believe it" (in the episode Richard Wilson from One Foot in the Grave is visiting the caves and typical Father Ted antics occur after Ted uses his catchphrase) to any of the facts. It certainly was his favourite day.
05 July 2011
Wet wet wet
We got rained on today. Not very often, actually just the once, but it was quite severe.
Although the day started out wet with a Scot, a half Scot and a honorary Scot, we figured we wouldn't let it stop us. Anyway, if you want good weather you wouldn't choose Ireland (or Scotland), you just hope.
We decided to go see Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord. Part of this is a fabulous weekend there at the start of 4th year (Ocotober 1995?) with the school on an outdoor pursuits weekend, and because Ciaran wanted to cook dinner and it was close to Westport, our best supermarket option.
When we got to Leenane it was wet so we decided to continue onto Aasleagh falls in the hope it would dry up a little bit. When we arrived in the car park another couple with their infant were preparing to head off. Well he was and was trying to get the child into a backpack while she looked on unimpressed. Then the raining got really heavy. He looked optimistic for a minute or so and then got back into the car and off they went, but we persevered! and a few minutes later it stopped raining and we headed off to see the falls.
Naturally, as we were enjoying all that nature could show us, as far from the car as we could get, it decided to up the ante and started to absolutely bucket it down.
By the time we got back to the car we were soaked through, and about 10 minutes later the car looked like the inside of a steam room as we began to dry out.
Once we were dry enough to travel (someone's trousers went somewhat translucent) we headed into Westport where we did the now normal task of windows shopping, browsing and cafe visiting.
Having finally found the supermarket Ciaran pulled out his shopping list and started filling the trolley. We then found what seemed like a really nice restauraunt but there was no stopping Ciaran so we had to head back to the cottage for him to cook.
He produced a really good jambalaya from a Christmas present he was given. It was worth missing eating out and the wait.
Although the day started out wet with a Scot, a half Scot and a honorary Scot, we figured we wouldn't let it stop us. Anyway, if you want good weather you wouldn't choose Ireland (or Scotland), you just hope.
We decided to go see Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord. Part of this is a fabulous weekend there at the start of 4th year (Ocotober 1995?) with the school on an outdoor pursuits weekend, and because Ciaran wanted to cook dinner and it was close to Westport, our best supermarket option.
When we got to Leenane it was wet so we decided to continue onto Aasleagh falls in the hope it would dry up a little bit. When we arrived in the car park another couple with their infant were preparing to head off. Well he was and was trying to get the child into a backpack while she looked on unimpressed. Then the raining got really heavy. He looked optimistic for a minute or so and then got back into the car and off they went, but we persevered! and a few minutes later it stopped raining and we headed off to see the falls.
By the time we got back to the car we were soaked through, and about 10 minutes later the car looked like the inside of a steam room as we began to dry out.
Once we were dry enough to travel (someone's trousers went somewhat translucent) we headed into Westport where we did the now normal task of windows shopping, browsing and cafe visiting.
Having finally found the supermarket Ciaran pulled out his shopping list and started filling the trolley. We then found what seemed like a really nice restauraunt but there was no stopping Ciaran so we had to head back to the cottage for him to cook.
He produced a really good jambalaya from a Christmas present he was given. It was worth missing eating out and the wait.
04 July 2011
Inis Mor
what a fabulous day, but we, well me anyway, will pay for it.
Early start this morning as we headed the down to Rossaveel for the ferry to Inis Mor, the largest of the Aran islands. The plan was to hire bikes and cycle round the island and visit Dun Aengus, the ring fort.
The drawback was the ferry trip - though he's better than me, neither Ciaran nor I are great on boats. We arrived in good time and get onto the ferry, careful to pick seats outside. Is a good dry day with a bit of a breeze but the crossing should be quick enough, and having taken the magic pills I was sure I would be OK.
Once we got onto the island we headed to the bike hire and choose bikes for the day and then headed off to get some sandwiches for the trip. Finally we were off.
There are not a lot of roads on the island so choosing a route was fairly easy. The island was amazing. Just the amount of stone was incredible. I would have been a hard life here before electricity and central heating - I bet its a hard life even with all that.
On our cycle we saw seals basking, though they are hard to pick out from the rock. Sadly the zoom on the camera doesn't make them much clearer.
We continued with our cycle for a little further until we came to a quiet place to have lunch after which we came upon the nicest beach I have seen in a long time.
If only Ireland had the climate, it would beat all tourist destinations, but its just too cold on this occasion.
After making it almost to the end of the line - it was almost to the end due to the nasty hill we climbed. Once we started the descent we figured the road just ended and we would have to climb back out and just couldn't face that - after all its our holiday - we headed off to the ring fort.
After cycling as close as we could, which was into the car park, we headed off on foot, with the fort sitting on the hilltop in front of us, with the cliffs beyond and the Atlantic behind.
The fort is essentially a series of concentric arcs of stone enclosing the top of the hill, with the other side being the 100m cliffs.
The effort to build this is not really comprehensible - the walls are 4m think in some places and 6m high.
But the real breath-taker is the cliffs.
The Cliffs of Moher get all the press but they are an extension of this outcrop.
What is most impressive is the completely open nature of it all - nothing except common sense between you and the 300ft drop
After taking in all the view had to offer it was back to the bikes (with the obligatory stop in the cafe) and the cycle back to the ferry.
The one thing I haven't mentioned is the weather. We have been very lucky today especially since we were basically stuck on the island all day. It not only stayed dry but was really quite warm (out of the breeze) and all three of us got some colour ie I am now lobster colour and darkening.
Early start this morning as we headed the down to Rossaveel for the ferry to Inis Mor, the largest of the Aran islands. The plan was to hire bikes and cycle round the island and visit Dun Aengus, the ring fort.
The drawback was the ferry trip - though he's better than me, neither Ciaran nor I are great on boats. We arrived in good time and get onto the ferry, careful to pick seats outside. Is a good dry day with a bit of a breeze but the crossing should be quick enough, and having taken the magic pills I was sure I would be OK.
Once we got onto the island we headed to the bike hire and choose bikes for the day and then headed off to get some sandwiches for the trip. Finally we were off.
There are not a lot of roads on the island so choosing a route was fairly easy. The island was amazing. Just the amount of stone was incredible. I would have been a hard life here before electricity and central heating - I bet its a hard life even with all that.
We continued with our cycle for a little further until we came to a quiet place to have lunch after which we came upon the nicest beach I have seen in a long time.
After making it almost to the end of the line - it was almost to the end due to the nasty hill we climbed. Once we started the descent we figured the road just ended and we would have to climb back out and just couldn't face that - after all its our holiday - we headed off to the ring fort.
After cycling as close as we could, which was into the car park, we headed off on foot, with the fort sitting on the hilltop in front of us, with the cliffs beyond and the Atlantic behind.
The effort to build this is not really comprehensible - the walls are 4m think in some places and 6m high.
But the real breath-taker is the cliffs.
The Cliffs of Moher get all the press but they are an extension of this outcrop.
What is most impressive is the completely open nature of it all - nothing except common sense between you and the 300ft drop
The one thing I haven't mentioned is the weather. We have been very lucky today especially since we were basically stuck on the island all day. It not only stayed dry but was really quite warm (out of the breeze) and all three of us got some colour ie I am now lobster colour and darkening.
03 July 2011
Clonbur
Today was a fairly restful day. After a fairly late night with intense raving rabbits we had a late start.
We drove in to Cong. This is the village were John Ford's "the Quiet Man" was filmed with John Wayne in the '50s. The village is lovely but very touristy, and being tourists we had a wander around. We saw the pub - "Over here its pronounced Co - Han" - but decided against the Quiet Man tours and just went to the abbey and then a stroll. We got turned round and missed the trail and ended up at Ashford castle. After a walk around the grounds we headed back t the car and made our way into Clonbur with the promise of another nice walk and then a good meal.
after a bit of a struggle to find the start of the trail we headed off and ended up at a neat ruined keep.
Since by this point we had walked about a mile and a half and still had to go back for dinner we turned back to the car and went to eat.
Once back at the cottage we decided that tomorrow would be the Aran islands...
We drove in to Cong. This is the village were John Ford's "the Quiet Man" was filmed with John Wayne in the '50s. The village is lovely but very touristy, and being tourists we had a wander around. We saw the pub - "Over here its pronounced Co - Han" - but decided against the Quiet Man tours and just went to the abbey and then a stroll. We got turned round and missed the trail and ended up at Ashford castle. After a walk around the grounds we headed back t the car and made our way into Clonbur with the promise of another nice walk and then a good meal.
after a bit of a struggle to find the start of the trail we headed off and ended up at a neat ruined keep.Since by this point we had walked about a mile and a half and still had to go back for dinner we turned back to the car and went to eat.
Once back at the cottage we decided that tomorrow would be the Aran islands...
02 July 2011
Holiday starts here
After a surprising easy drive we have arrived at our cottage - a new built thatched cottage in Galway.
The cottage is on a peninsula in the north end of Lough Corrib. Bit of a funny design though. Downstairs is open plan with two separate bedrooms and a conservatory out the back. Upstairs is a double bedroom on the mezzanine and a second sitting room, with en-suite, and doors onto the sun lounge. To me, it looks like the bedroom and the sitting room should be swapped. The views are amazing though...
Once we got settled in and picked rooms we headed into Clonbur for some dinner.
After getting back tot he cottage we went out for a quick walk around the cottage. Since the cottage is basically in the lough the scenery is incredible.
Our token exercise complete we broke out the wii for some rabbid entertainment.
Once we got settled in and picked rooms we headed into Clonbur for some dinner.
After getting back tot he cottage we went out for a quick walk around the cottage. Since the cottage is basically in the lough the scenery is incredible.
Our token exercise complete we broke out the wii for some rabbid entertainment.
25 June 2011
Royal Highland Show
Had the day out at the Highland Show. It was a bit of a laugh but I'm not sure how much Ciaran enjoyed it.
There was arts and crafts, livestock, live haggis, a trade show of mostly Scottish food producers, machinery and tools, tree climbing, and the competition entries for the Young Farmers competition.
This is a photo of a domesticated haggis. Naturally its much larger than the wild haggis found in the Highlands. For those people who don't know what a haggis is:
Wild haggis (Haggis scoticus) is a fictional creature said to be native to the Scottish Highlands.It is comically claimed to be the source of haggis, a traditional Scottish dish that is in fact made from the innards of sheep (including heart, lungs, and liver). According to some sources, the wild haggis's left and right legs are of different lengths (cf. Sidehill gouger or Dahu), allowing it to run quickly around the steep mountains and hillsides which make up its natural habitat, but only in one direction. It is further claimed that there are two varieties of haggis, one with longer left legs and the other with longer right legs. The former variety can run clockwise around a mountain (as seen from above) while the latter can run anticlockwise.The two varieties coexist peacefully but are unable to interbreed in the wild because in order for the male of one variety to mate with a female of the other, he must turn to face in the same direction as his intended mate, causing him to lose his balance before he can mount her. As a result of this difficulty, differences in leg length among the haggis population are accentuated. from Wikipedia
This is a Highland cow and calf. They come is a variety of colours though this brown seems to be the most common. For some reason this image is particularly associated with toffee
The Queen had some cattle entered into the livestock show. She even managed to win a prize for her highland cattle, albeit fourth place. Is this a testament to the cattle or to the judges ensuring they don't get invited to the Tower?
Wandering around was good fun but I had the misfortune of spilling some sample curry on my shirt. Of course it was commented on by everyone. And then for the rest of the day whenever the wind would blow just right, that is when there was no smell of cow sh*te in the air, I could smell curry coming form my shirt.
There was arts and crafts, livestock, live haggis, a trade show of mostly Scottish food producers, machinery and tools, tree climbing, and the competition entries for the Young Farmers competition. This is a photo of a domesticated haggis. Naturally its much larger than the wild haggis found in the Highlands. For those people who don't know what a haggis is:
Wild haggis (Haggis scoticus) is a fictional creature said to be native to the Scottish Highlands.It is comically claimed to be the source of haggis, a traditional Scottish dish that is in fact made from the innards of sheep (including heart, lungs, and liver). According to some sources, the wild haggis's left and right legs are of different lengths (cf. Sidehill gouger or Dahu), allowing it to run quickly around the steep mountains and hillsides which make up its natural habitat, but only in one direction. It is further claimed that there are two varieties of haggis, one with longer left legs and the other with longer right legs. The former variety can run clockwise around a mountain (as seen from above) while the latter can run anticlockwise.The two varieties coexist peacefully but are unable to interbreed in the wild because in order for the male of one variety to mate with a female of the other, he must turn to face in the same direction as his intended mate, causing him to lose his balance before he can mount her. As a result of this difficulty, differences in leg length among the haggis population are accentuated. from Wikipedia
This is a Highland cow and calf. They come is a variety of colours though this brown seems to be the most common. For some reason this image is particularly associated with toffee
Wandering around was good fun but I had the misfortune of spilling some sample curry on my shirt. Of course it was commented on by everyone. And then for the rest of the day whenever the wind would blow just right, that is when there was no smell of cow sh*te in the air, I could smell curry coming form my shirt.
12 June 2011
Scrubs up well
He loves spraying the hose and was itching to get his hands onto the pressure washer a few years ago when I last cleaned the slabs.
Of course, he now almost a teenager and developing his 'Kevin the teenager' persona so he wasn't that impressed with it. I suspect if 'patio cleaner' was available on the x-box he'd be a huge fan.
In all honesty, he did a really good job of it and the cleaner itself is a great time saver - using the jet nozzle used to take most of the day, but now he can clean it all in under 2 hours.
Guess it will be a regular job from now on!
11 June 2011
Gala Day
Today was the Loans Gala. The Scout pack have a couple of stalls to help with our fundraising.
The Beavers, well the Beaver Leader, sells popcorn, the Cubs leaders, Dave, Shirley and me, sell ice cream, while Iain and Colin, the Explorer and Scout leaders man the smash the plates with a golf ball stall.
We had a mixed day. After some initial problems with the electricity supply (the amp they plugged into our extension cable was dodgy) we got the popcorn machine on and the fridge running. Naturally the ice cream tubs were too big to fit in, so only 2 could get in and that was with the door ajar. We did account for this and decided not to have cones, just tubs as it then becomes easier to serve when the ice cream gets softer and melts.
Weather wise it was dry and clear but a bit cool, but still hot enough for ice cream. There was a good turnout as ever and we did brisk business. It stayed dry all afternoon and we sold out again this year. Literally 10 minutes after we sold our last 'flake' it started to rain, and within 10 minutes it was a complete downpour which ended the gala about 30-45 minutes early.
We tidies up as best we could but it was just too wet to bring the marquees down so we agreed to leave them till later. Lucky for us it did dry up a few hours later and we managed to get the gear packed away. However because I had to go back I really couldn't cook could I? So dinner in town as a treat!
The Beavers, well the Beaver Leader, sells popcorn, the Cubs leaders, Dave, Shirley and me, sell ice cream, while Iain and Colin, the Explorer and Scout leaders man the smash the plates with a golf ball stall.
Weather wise it was dry and clear but a bit cool, but still hot enough for ice cream. There was a good turnout as ever and we did brisk business. It stayed dry all afternoon and we sold out again this year. Literally 10 minutes after we sold our last 'flake' it started to rain, and within 10 minutes it was a complete downpour which ended the gala about 30-45 minutes early.
We tidies up as best we could but it was just too wet to bring the marquees down so we agreed to leave them till later. Lucky for us it did dry up a few hours later and we managed to get the gear packed away. However because I had to go back I really couldn't cook could I? So dinner in town as a treat!
07 June 2011
Last night of Cubs
That's Cubs finished for another year.
We took them out on the Smuggler's Trail from Loans to Dondonald.
It was a bit muddy but not that bad considering the weather we've had recently. In fact the only one who got dirty as me because I slipped on one of the steeper bits. The worst bit was that it was seen by a few people and there was no way to pass it off as intended. Anyway it's hard to explain a muddy bum and still try to be cool.
4 of our 10 cubs are going up to Scouts when we resume in August, and I'm not sure how many Beavers are coming up to us.
It was also my last night out as an Adult helper. I have been convinced to 'go uniformed' and should hopefully get my own neckie by the start of the new session.
We took them out on the Smuggler's Trail from Loans to Dondonald.
It was a bit muddy but not that bad considering the weather we've had recently. In fact the only one who got dirty as me because I slipped on one of the steeper bits. The worst bit was that it was seen by a few people and there was no way to pass it off as intended. Anyway it's hard to explain a muddy bum and still try to be cool.
4 of our 10 cubs are going up to Scouts when we resume in August, and I'm not sure how many Beavers are coming up to us.
It was also my last night out as an Adult helper. I have been convinced to 'go uniformed' and should hopefully get my own neckie by the start of the new session.
30 May 2011
Sunny Day...Finally
There was a strange yellow globe seen in the sky today - been so long it took a while before we recognised it as the sun.
We decided to use our NTS membership before it expires and headed off to Culzean Castle.
It as an absolutely beautiful day. We wandered around the grounds, took the castle tour, had a stop at the tea room, and then walked around the headland since the tide was out.
We decided to use our NTS membership before it expires and headed off to Culzean Castle.
22 May 2011
Sailing...
What a wet weekend!
We were away with the Scouts this weekend and we were essentially washed away. I have never seen so much rain, especially from the inside of a tent.
I had been in Aberdeen at a conference all week and did not realise just how wet it had been down here. By the time got home Friday night it looked all right. Granted I only had about 30 minutes in which to grab my gear and eat before I was away to Lapwing Lodge a Scout camp in Paisley, just south of Glasgow.
Since I was about 2 hours later than everyone else I manage to avoid the tasks of setting up the tents. The field was a bit wet - you could hear it in some places when you walked across it but it wasn't to bad. In short order my tent was up and the scouts were getting ready for bed. Not tired mind you. For the next 2 hours they "tried to go to sleep" while we, sitting outside, would let out an occasional "settle down".
Saturday morning started early - about 6 for some of them but most stayed quiet until about 7. Everyone up and washed while breakfast - cereal, bacon, sausage, french toast and juice. Tea and coffee for the grown-ups (who were all more subdued than the kids).
Once breakfast was done and the cubs gear cleared away we headed for the first for the days activities. Aerial Assault and canoeing.
We split into 2 groups with Dave and I heading off with 8 to hit the water. At this point it was still dry. After about 40 minute on the water it started to rain then the win picked up dramatically. By the time we finished our hour it was raining heavily and blowing a gale. The rest of the activities were cancelled due to the weather.
"Be Prepared" is the scout motto and fortunately we had an ace up our sleeve. We had arranged to have use of a mini bus so we were mobile. All we needed is an activity which would engage all the scouts and take enough time to keep them out of the rain. We decided on heading across towards Edinburgh and walking over the Forth Bridge. We would stop off at the climbing centre on the way to show them what they would be dong come October and have them bring swimming gear if we had time left. Naturally we told them none of this - just to bring their swimming stuff as we were off on a trip.
When we got to the climbing centre it was incredible. This is an artificial climbing wall built inside a disused quarry, with an skyline assault course off the ceiling, about 6 stories up.
We knew there was a height limit, so after telling them that we tried to get them ashot on the assault course. The staff we receptive and let a few of the smaller cubs through after checking the harness could not fall off. Those that didn't fancy it we took 'bouldering' downstairs. What an incredible trip.
By the time we got back to the camp it was still very wet. There was now standing water in the main tent which all the cubs were using, and the mini tent one of the junior leader was using was truly afloat. We managed to get them settled and finally got to sleep.
Sunday dawned wet. And windy, and oh so early. After breakfast we headed off to the local swimming pool for a few hours and then back to tidy the tents and pack the gear.
All in all it was a really good weekend but very very wet. I think the adults were bothered by the rain much more than the kids were
We were away with the Scouts this weekend and we were essentially washed away. I have never seen so much rain, especially from the inside of a tent.
I had been in Aberdeen at a conference all week and did not realise just how wet it had been down here. By the time got home Friday night it looked all right. Granted I only had about 30 minutes in which to grab my gear and eat before I was away to Lapwing Lodge a Scout camp in Paisley, just south of Glasgow.
Since I was about 2 hours later than everyone else I manage to avoid the tasks of setting up the tents. The field was a bit wet - you could hear it in some places when you walked across it but it wasn't to bad. In short order my tent was up and the scouts were getting ready for bed. Not tired mind you. For the next 2 hours they "tried to go to sleep" while we, sitting outside, would let out an occasional "settle down".
Saturday morning started early - about 6 for some of them but most stayed quiet until about 7. Everyone up and washed while breakfast - cereal, bacon, sausage, french toast and juice. Tea and coffee for the grown-ups (who were all more subdued than the kids).
Once breakfast was done and the cubs gear cleared away we headed for the first for the days activities. Aerial Assault and canoeing.
 |  |
We split into 2 groups with Dave and I heading off with 8 to hit the water. At this point it was still dry. After about 40 minute on the water it started to rain then the win picked up dramatically. By the time we finished our hour it was raining heavily and blowing a gale. The rest of the activities were cancelled due to the weather.
"Be Prepared" is the scout motto and fortunately we had an ace up our sleeve. We had arranged to have use of a mini bus so we were mobile. All we needed is an activity which would engage all the scouts and take enough time to keep them out of the rain. We decided on heading across towards Edinburgh and walking over the Forth Bridge. We would stop off at the climbing centre on the way to show them what they would be dong come October and have them bring swimming gear if we had time left. Naturally we told them none of this - just to bring their swimming stuff as we were off on a trip.
 |  |
We knew there was a height limit, so after telling them that we tried to get them ashot on the assault course. The staff we receptive and let a few of the smaller cubs through after checking the harness could not fall off. Those that didn't fancy it we took 'bouldering' downstairs. What an incredible trip.
By the time we got back to the camp it was still very wet. There was now standing water in the main tent which all the cubs were using, and the mini tent one of the junior leader was using was truly afloat. We managed to get them settled and finally got to sleep.
Sunday dawned wet. And windy, and oh so early. After breakfast we headed off to the local swimming pool for a few hours and then back to tidy the tents and pack the gear.
All in all it was a really good weekend but very very wet. I think the adults were bothered by the rain much more than the kids were
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