Family Bowling

The Kiwis come back to see the Limey’s

2011-10-04T14:54:00.001Z

Marc and Cath have brought their beautiful little daughter back over to see friends and family recently. They came to stay last weekend and seemed to bring the weather with them. It was the start of October and nearly thirty degrees!

Great to see you all and thanks for making the effort to come over. Hope its not so long next time…

Sure as eggs is eggs.

2011-10-04T14:28:00.001Z

Its been a long wait but the chickens are finally laying. We have tried to incentivise Morwenna into looking after the little darlings; if she feeds them and collects the eggs, we will sell them at the clinic for her and that can be her pocket money.

Without eggs, there has been little incentive to look after the chooks. Now that we have found where they are laying, the kids have gone crazy for all things eggy; pancakes for breakfast, boiled eggs in the packet lunch and tortilla for dinner.

This has proved to be incentive enough. The kids now have to hunt the entire garden each time they come home from school just in case they have laid somewhere new.

Cornish Bank Holiday

2011-09-02T11:27:00.001Z

So, we finally took some time away from the clinic and headed down for the annual August festivities at George and Rowly’s. We picked up a couple of waifs and strays from Spain on the way down too.

We camped with Dom, Heather and Annabel through weather fair and foul. Campfire cooking was the order of the day, but was always best at marshmallow o’clock.

We met up with the usual suspects and had all the normal fun. Singing, swimming, kayaking rockpooling and boating. Had a lovely day with high water on the Helford. A few quick ones at the ferry boat Inn then back for a fantastic curry.

Mr and Mrs. Stavri were sorely missed, but I suppose a honey moon has to be allowed. Hope to see you all at our place for the Haloween party. Thanks again to all involved.

Another busy weekend

2011-08-10T08:49:00.001Z

Its all happening at our place at the minute! Morwenna and Bryn are learning to cycle, with or without stabilisers. Bryn helped me in the veg patch today; we managed to get a bumper crop of over 20kg of onions out of one raised bed. Cant imagine why he thought it would make a comfortable to rest on.

They are both also learning to swim too, but that’s more difficult to get a photo of. Morwenna is able to do about 3-4 metres before sinking and Bryn just spends all his time underwater with his goggles on. The words confident and non-swimmer never make comfortable reading in the same sentence.

Last Weekend

2011-08-10T07:26:00.001Z

Happily married Stavris had a birthday at our house last weekend after THE wedding of the year. Lovely to see you all again.

You can tell from the photo that Morwenna still thinks all birthdays are a lot of fun, even if they’re not hers. Watch out for the cake Alex!

Lilly Anna Bowling

2011-08-10T07:22:00.001Z

I forgot to say that Christa has done her normal magic and helped us remember when Lilly was born.

Clan Bowling expands again

2011-08-08T12:57:00.001Z

Lilly Anna Bowling has come into our lives 15th July at 12.50AM (just in case any of you need to check her birthday in about 1 years time!) Weighing in at a respectable 7 pounds 11 ounces, she’s a beautiful little thing and our kids loved going over to say hello a few weeks ago.

It also gave us a chance for our bunch to be spoiled by the grandparents. Mission very probable. A little time on the beach chasing blennies for old times sake and a few beers with Mike for the same completed the weekend. I’m sure it will be repeated. Welcome to the clan, Lilly. You’ll find out we are a funny old bunch, but we’re OK when you get to know us.

The River Stour

2011-07-12T10:01:00.001Z

Saturday took is to see some friends from College days. First up, Roz, who lives near Blandford. Her beautiful house backs onto the river, so the kids were keen to get out with her little boat for an adventure. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t excited too…

Fishing round Hegistbury from Tuckton.

Playing on the Stour.

After a pleasant afternoon on the river, we headed down to Tuckton where Rik and Michelle live (along with homeless jobless friends). Although it was a little blowy still, the fish jumped on the hooks and the beers went down well. Some one got a little green round the gills, but I wont mention any names… Lovely to see you all. We will be posting Morwenna down to you Michelle. Seems she was rather smitten. Hope we can make it down again soon.

Another Great Weekend

2011-07-10T21:05:00.001Z

Lulworth cove, durdle door, Poole harbour. All iconic locations on the Dorset coast that we had the pleasure of today. I will have to add some photos of our rambles on the river Stour yesterday. Christa got us a free weekend in a great caravan, so we had a good starting point. More to come soon.

Coasteering

2011-06-28T11:42:00.001Z

For those of you who don’t know, coasteering is a hybrid of sea level traversing, cliff jumping and coastal exploration. Add a 4-6 foot swell and it all gets a little interesting. I joined a session going out from one of the local adventure centres that I used to work with in Pembrokeshire and had a great time.

Sea caves, sumps, cliff jumps and big swell. happiness is…

Skomer trip

2011-06-27T12:28:00.001Z

Skomer is a delight whatever time of year that you go across, but its particularly interesting at this time of year. Many of the Orcas (puffins, guillimots and razorbills) are nesting and whilst on land and in the air look rather cumbersome. However, if you have the chance to see them in crystal clear water, you can see how their little stubby wings provide them with excellent sub-aquatic skills.

The yearling seals are still loitering around the caves and islands too, ready for the imminent pupping season, when Skomors beaches will become covered with females, pups and bull seals vying for dominance

for the mating season which happens straight afterwards. Jon and I paddled across Jack Sound in fairly lumpy conditions to go round the island and came across more seals than I remember from previous trips. It will be interesting to see what happens to the recorded numbers of pups this year.

Between sets at the Mewstone, Skomer

south side of skomer

Big thanks out to all who put up with me for the weekend; Toby and Brita for their hospitality, Tom and Lara for the brilliant seaweed jelly, Jon for the tunes and Angharad for the rum and for stealing her husband on Sunday.

Busy Weekends in the garden

2011-06-19T21:09:00.001Z

Christa has been busy making willow hurdles this weekend, ready for taking them to Morwenna’s school. The kids are always keen to get involved. Morwenna is getting good at whittling and Bryn just want to climb into everything.

For my part, we have been rebuilding two retaining walls, which has allowed us to make some more use of the garden. Once these were done another raised bed, a greenhouse and a chicken run were next on the list.

The chooks are settling in well and should be coming to lay in the next month. They scrabble round the veg patch, but as yet they are still going for the grubs and not the vegetables. I’m sure that wont last.

The greenhouse is already helping us grow things we otherwise wouldn’t have any chance with; cucumbers, melons, peppers, chilli’s and aubergines are all on the go. Its all a little bit hit and miss for these new crops, so I’m not expecting much. Will keep you all informed.

Extending family Bowling

2011-05-16T10:16:00.001Z

Well, we have finally taken the plunge and got some chickens. To be specific, we have 3 porcelain bantam (of the D’uccle variety I think). As you can see they are still only 8 weeks old. It will take them another 8 weeks or so before they start to lay, but it will take them that long to get used to the kids and their gentle ministrations!

Will and Amy came round and together we went up to the heart of Exmoor, where Wills parents have a smallholding.

Nik and Jenny were very patient with the kids and having showed us around their fantastic spread then promptly scrambled twenty eggs for lunch. Thanks so much for your help. No doubt we will be in contact again very soon for more advice and probably a couple of your Rhode Island Reds!

We then brought the little darlings home in a box and finished off the chicken run. Thanks again to Will and Amy for getting stuck in.

All that remained to complete the weekend was a walk around a Castle Neroche up on the Blackdown Hills. I was up there about 2 weeks before and noticed that the Bluebells were still out.

May is a normal time for Bluebell woods to be in full show, but its been such an unusual Spring this year that most woods have already finished their bloom.

Getting to love Somerset. What a fantastic place!

Familia Ashdown

2011-05-06T18:50:00.001Z

Lovely time was had by all last week in Altafulla with Dom, Heather and Annabel. Great weather and lots of time spent on the beach. Im sure I will continue to blog about the history of the area, but this is just a quick chance to put up some photos.

Beach was clean and had enough surf for the kids to contend with. Bryn learned pretty quickly that you underestimate the Med at your peril. The words confident and non-swimmers never go well in the same sentence…

The old town is beautiful and we spent many hours just exploring and we will no doubt be back for more as long as you will all have us. The kids obviously enjoyed the whole process, so I hope you don’t mind if sometime in July we post them over in a big box marked ‘warning-may contain nuts.’ Will post over all the piccies soon. Thanks for having us guys.

Morwenna’s New Room

2011-04-17T21:29:00.001Z

A little bit of paint and a whole lot of attention to detail. Christa reproduced the apple tree in our garden in Morwenna’s new room. We repainted the rest of the room overnight whilst the kids were asleep. You can see what she thought in the next photo.

Taunton Half Marathon

2011-04-03T22:01:00.001Z

Well, I've been running and crawling half marathons for ten years now and I'm not getting any better at them. You reap what you sow as far as training is concerned, so no surprises as to how this one went. I beat 600 people, which sounds great until you realise I was beaten by 700 others. Oh well, there’s always next year…

Well done to to Sam Wallis, who pulled a 1.38 out of the bag today. You were born to run, so keep it up Sam.

It was lovely to see my little brood at the finish line, where Morwenna presented me with my cup for 1st prize. She was a little miffed at the fact I made her wait so long before she could give me my prize though, and wondered why I didn't win. Is she too young to tell her life is full of little disappointments?

Birthday Boy

2011-01-24T12:22:00.001Z

Its been over 10 years since I last went climbing. But, like I have always maintain, its like falling off a bike: once you’ve done it, you never forget how (much it hurts).

I got the all clear from Christa, who kept the kids happily entertained at the swimming pool, then a birthday party. Baggy point, down at Croyde was beautiful but only just above freezing when we turned up. By the time we had the abseil done and got out of the wind, it was a balmy 6 degrees. Or maybe barmy is closer to the point.

Anyway, All went well. Even got to lead a V.S. Had a little mental wobble for a moment about familiy and responsibilities, but worrying doesn't make finding the protection any easier. Thanks to Will & Amy for a fantastic and well needed day out. Good to meet up with the Dorchester and Portland crew. Lets all do it again soon.

Now that’s what I call a Proper Winter

2011-01-06T13:33:00.001Z

It came down fairly well on the Somerset Levels this Christmas. Just after I took this photo (but before cycling to work) two tractors with snow ploughs went down South Road abreast. Oncoming traffic beware. It was –15 celsius on boxing day. Cant say that happens very often!

A lovely Christmas was spent with a houseful of family and friends. I will put some pictures up at a later stage when there is some time. More snow expected tomorrow, but I don’t think its likely to stick

Devils Festival

2010-12-07T12:49:00.003Z

Like this video from Dom. The transition from Norfolk to Spain is complete. Burning hair and screaming teenagers...makes me think you never moved!

Cant wait to see you guys over Xmas.

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3Dw5zeAeaNjlM&h=acb58

Isle of Wight

2010-11-09T16:07:00.006Z

Found this photo of a quick trip this Summer over to the Isle of Wight. I set off from Keyhaven around lunchtime in lovely weather this July. Christa was working in Poole, so it looked like a good chance for some escapism!

Being a little unfit and in the sit on kayak, it took a little longer than normal to get across. By the time I was near the main channel from Portsmouth, I was aware of some heavy fog coming over from Hengistbury Head. It didn't move fast, but when it came I couldn't see more than thirty feet.

Not a good time to be in one of the busiest shipping channels in the UK in a vessel to small to be noticed by radar. With lightening quick thinking (Who am I trying to kid, I was glad for the rest) I clipped on to a nearby channel marker and waited for it to pass by catching a few mackerel. At least Bryn approved!

Cousins

2010-09-12T15:48:00.008Z

The kids always seem to enjoy the beach time when we're down in Cornwall. We made it to the Minack theatre for a puppet show this time as well, which is where the girls can be seen parading in front of the crowds.

Finn is great with Bryn too, so it makes our life a little easier when there are an extra pair of eyes out for danger on the beach.

Beach Daze II

2010-09-12T14:59:00.005Z

Some good rock pooling to be had in Cornwall. Crabs (edible, velvet & shore), blenny's and goby's, pipe fish, lug worms and anemone's all kept the children entertained for much of the day. Whilst the adults enjoyed other aspects of beach life. Simple pleasures don't cost much... (here comes the surf Dan).

Summer Sun

2010-09-12T12:49:00.005Z

We have taken our 1st week off in over a year, and what a week. Whilst the summer holidays have been a bit of a damp squib, the last week before the schools started up again were blissful. Camping, fishing, surfing, boating, drinking, singing and beach BBQ were the order of the day.

More details will follow on all the above, but it was high time for a break. Proof positive of the need for a holiday was that both Christa and I were both ill. I find this the best way of truly relaxing. I even had to gib out on the Bristol half marathon, which was very unusual. I would say that'll learn me, but you know it probably wont.

Garden works

2010-05-09T10:21:00.005Z

Thought you might all like to see the beginnings of the work going on in the garden. About 8 tonnes of material has ended up coming out of the house during the work we have done. Not wanting to get a skip in (for reasons I wont explain), the garden seemed the most obvious place for the rubble.

Well, from that rubble Pete had built a circle. I have done some of the finishing, to produce a raised bed. Then it was a simple matter of getting 12 tonnes of topsoil delivered and spread over the offending rubble. We have seeded the topsoil now, but the amount the pigeons have pinched from us, I think we may have to do it again.

The circle will become a firepit, a barbeque area, a home for the trampoline, or simply a place for morwenna to have teddy bear picnics (its current use). I couldnt help myself and had to plant some maize and carrots too.

We have also made a start on some raised beds in the sunny corner of the garden. Broad beans, spuds and onions are well on the way. All else is in its infancy. Much of the seed we are using has come from last years crops in Norfolk that bolted and seems to have a good germination rate. Oviously this first year on new soil is a bit of an experiment, but its easier to grow in a garden than in field for sure! The manure has come from a local freecycle fanatic which is helping bring everything on, so many thanks for that Jacquie.

Easter Frolicks

2010-04-25T20:30:00.011Z

I know this post is a little late, but life is a little hectic at the moment. Had a lovely time with a house full of friends from Norfolk, Cornwall and Wales. Well done to Zara and Rowan, Dan and Anna, plus Dom and Heather for making the trip.

We got to show off the work that Rowan, Pete and I have done on the old playroom, turning it into the dining room you see here. Not to mention the new bathroom...

Ceilings have been lifted, walls have been knocked out and others rebuilt, radiators re plumbed, showers erected, floors poured and levelled, not to mention the Welsh slate and the real oak floor you can see. Then there is the manhole covers that we have internalised and worked around, the hundreds of kilos of metal beams we have slid into place to hold everything up, the electrics installed, the insulation scratchily put in place... Then there's the painting, the wood finish, the alcatrave, the skirting etc. There will be a blog for it at some stage in the future.

The kids looked like they had a good time and were (a little) more exhausted than their parents when bedtime came around. You know when they're cream crackered when they can all sleep in the same room and not wake each other up.

The weather was a bit rough, but no-one seemed to mind. The Easter egg hunt went down well and children seemed to be maxed out on chocolate, but there's always room for another. There wasn't a pair of shoes in sight, but they all seemed happy with muddy toes. Good old fashioned country kids.

Taunton Chiropractors Centre

2010-02-05T10:30:00.010Z

Well, this is it everyone. The clinic opened its doors in March. I still work 4 days a week at Ilminster and Barnstaple, so it not easy to be there as much as I need, but thats the way it will have to be for the first year or so. However, now that Erica has started working with us at the clinic, the doors are open a little more than before!

http://www.tauntonchiropractors.co.uk/

http://www.jones-chiropractic.co.uk/

7 Kingston road,

Taunton,

Somerset.
TA2 7SA

It's near Taunton railway station. The location is eye catching and patients are booking up weeks in advance already!

New Year's

2010-01-13T15:07:00.012Z

A great one here in Taunton was simply a spill over from Christmas. There were so many good photos to be posted that I simply don't know where to start. Here's a selection for all and sundry. I managed to put the camera down by the time we were mixing brandy and champagne (yum) with tequila (not so yum and a bit more ouch).

Dan got a bit attached to his moustache.

Face painting or fancy dress were required by all. Both was even better.

Winter Solstice

2010-01-13T14:46:00.004Z

Having been in Taunton for a few weeks, it seemed time to get our bearings. What better way than seeking high ground. Considering the time of year and that granny Vicky was up to stay, what better way than a trip up this ol' hill.

Even though snow laden clouds kept us from seeing across the water to Wales, the view across the Quantocks, Blackdowns, Brent knoll and the Somerset levels was fantastic. The short walk up the Tor was strange sense of familiarity, but it was difficult to think about why, since the contemplative silence was rudely shattered by screaming children. Ours. Sorry to anyone who was after a different experience on that particular morning, but it was just a little too cold for them.

From my personal perspective, winter solstice gets far too little coverage in comparison to his equinoctial sister. Its great to wake up early (but not too early), get outside and think that for the next 6 months, its only going to get warmer and sunnier. Here's to hoping...

Mistletoe and Wine

2010-01-12T20:54:00.007Z

"He's Been!" cried Tallulah at 5.30 AM in Christmas morning. Roughly 4 hours beforehand, Christa, Anna, Dan and I were plotting how to convince the children that the main man had arrived. A half eaten carrot, nibbled mince pies and sooty footprints placed carefully around the room were convincing enough for the kids.

The reason it was special was that we had all the family over. Dan and Anna brought the kids over , plus Rowan, Zara and Kian came too. Grandparents all put in a show too which was great, and Pete celebrated his birthday on the way down to Cornwall. It was lovely to have a house full and was the house warming that we needed.

I cant escape the feeling kids become overwhelmed by Christmas these days. I know its a bit BAH HUMBUG, but the more presents the kids opened, the worse behaved they were. Morwenna said this was her best Christmas ever at the point when she had only opened her stocking. I think the Quakers have it right; keep it simple and focus on the family. The more stuff you have, the less each thing seems to matter. God, where is my soapbox? I'm sure I left it round here somewhere. Don't get me started.

Westward Ho!

2010-01-12T11:07:00.003Z

Ok, we're here. Its taken a few years of procrastination and recession, but we made it. We now own a beautiful grade 2 listed building in the conservation area that is South Road, Taunton.

We got here in early December and soon realised that the house could do with a lot of work. Nothing tragic, but some damp issues, poor insulation, poorly fitting windows and doors, cracked panes. All stuff you don't pay too much attention to when you view a property in July. Things are a little different during the coldest winter we have had in Britain for 30 years. I remember that one well too.

We loaded up in Norfolk on Friday, unloaded in Somerset on Saturday and started work at a couple of local clinics on Monday. After a frantic 2 days, furniture was in place. 3 days later, family started coming to stay. This was all a build up to Christmas proper, more of which in the next few posts.

We have had a brilliant few years in East Anglia, but family and new Chiropractic challenges have drawn us back this way. Christa has gone back to work now and we are closer to her contacts over here in the South West. We are still 2 hours from Cornwall and 3 hours from Pembrokeshire, but that's a vast improvement on the 8 and 7 hours respectively that it took from Norfolk.

Halloween

2009-11-07T10:27:00.005Z

Bungay always has a good Halloween celebration. They close the centre of town, carve loads of pumpkins up and start pouring beer. Ive never seen pumpkins this size and some of the carvings were brilliant. Not to be outdone, Christa did a great Dora the explorer one for Morwennas birthday.

Good to meet some familiar faces amongst all the ghosts and ghouls...

Better Late Than Never

2009-10-28T20:26:00.005Z

Well, these are some of the photos from our Cornish trip this Summer. Many thanks to Rowly and George for putting us up and Anna and Dan for putting up with us. Plus Jason for the firewood. Lucy, Alex and Cathy were all stars in camping with us through some really crap weather. However, the photos do show some occasional sun, so it cant have all been bad.

The usual frolics gave all the kicks. If it aint broke don't fix it I say. Lots of decent surf, with a good dawn patrol at Gwithian. We got the best of it that day Dan. Lots of paddling with the kids too. Finn got on really well and was properly going for it on his own straight away this time.

Gone Fishin'

2009-10-04T18:46:00.005Z

What else would you expect me to do with some good weather, a kayak and a trip to Pembrokeshire. Mike and I went round Caldey on a lovely calm day and caught a few. That continued all week til Yens and I went out from Abercastle in heavy seas and didn't catch a thing. Thats the problem in a kayak; there are too many things to think about as well as catching fish. Like staying alive...

I have also added this picture of domestic bliss to let everyone know that i do occassionally cook. Ok, not often (nor would you if you were married to Christa). So when I do, its probably worth collecting the evidence.

Welsh Holidays

2009-09-13T17:20:00.013Z

It's difficult to put words to how beautiful Pembrokeshire is on a sunny day. You could think you're in the Bahamas. Don't take my word for it, have a look at these video clips of us playing around at Barfundle. It makes up for all the crap weather we had last Summer on our camping trip. I'm not one to complain generally, but that was grim.

It was great to get mum and Morwenna out on the kayaks. I have always scorned these sit-on-tops, but for family days our and exploring the shores, they really come into their own. Not to mention the trips we have done around Ramsey and Caldey we have done in them.

Had a good catch up with all and sundry in Pembs both North and South. Lots of camping and fishing. More of that later.

100 years old

2009-09-13T17:04:00.004Z

...and still going strong. No daily medication required to keep Granny Molly going. I don't imagine the same will be said of anyone reading this blog when their time comes around (myself included). Perhaps the secret to longeivity is not allowing us blokes with the white coats any where near you.

We had a lovely time with family from near and far when we were back in Wales this August. Nan was on great form and it was wonderful to have a room full of well wishers from near and far, from both sides of the family. Dad orated and gave nans life story (thus far!) so that all and sundry knew their connection with everyone else around the table.

Its extraordinary to think of the changes that you have seen in the last 100 years nan. Keep it up and we will celebrate all the rest of your years with as much vigour as we did this one!

Pub Crawl

2009-07-12T21:42:00.005Z

OK, so there was only 1 pub and we didn't crawl, but it was fun. We took the kids by bike to the Hoxne swan and had a lovely time today. The roads were quiet and we cycled along the river that Dom and I paddled yesterday. Had to pop in for a swim with Morwenna at Syleham wier too. What a great weekend! Mum, I know you will like this photo of Bryn .

Waveney Otters

2009-07-11T20:17:00.006Z

Kayaks are always the best vehicle for wildlife watching. Kingfishers, perch, otters and of course cows were all spotted on the Waveney today. The image above is really just a homage to Jane German's work, a local artist who sums up the rural idyll nicely. She's also Dom's mum and does a wicked Sunday roast.

Water Sports

2009-07-06T13:11:00.005Z

Morwenna is getting good in the pool now. I seem to remember learning to swim in a converted cow feeder, so things have improved in the last generation. Tell that to the yoof of today and they wont believe you.

The other quick video is of the road directly outside our house. The neighbours would be knee deep but for some clever sand bagging. luckily our front door is to the side. If you look closely at the corner you can just make out the man-cover which has been blown off by the water pressure in the drains. And the council still pretend they haven't allowed too much building on the outskirts of town. Hhhhmmmnnn.

Dom has also conquered his fear of flumes by the look of this.

Allotment Update

2009-07-06T11:43:00.005Z

The onions all bolted, the garlic all got rust and the spuds have got a magnesium deficiency. The spring onions were great mind. Its a bloody hard life as an allotmenteer. Lots of learning this year. The crops have all been salvageable, but will be easy to improve upon. I think that's why growing is so addictive.

Morwenna's Contribution.

2009-07-06T11:12:00.005Z

Morwenna has started to take pics now. With these compact cameras, it really is child's play. This 1st one she has the camera the wrong way round, but she would never let me get this close up.

She got a great one of Jesiica which I'm sure no adult would have been able to take. You can see Jesicca is fully alert and checking out the other little girl.

This last 1 I have snuck in simply because its a lovely pic of Morwenna catching sight of Jesiica and coming over for a closer inspection. Magic moments.

Family Forster

2009-07-06T10:23:00.004Z

Once there were 3, now there are 4. Baby Jesiica was born less than 2 weeks ago but didn't seem to mind our intrusion last weekend. As is traditional in our family, any excuse must be made for drinking, so we wet Jesiicas head over a few hours in the sweltering July heat on Saturday.

It was a true picture of domestic bliss. Kids everywhere underfoot and enough good quality hamburger to feed a rugby team. As you know Ben, I'm always happy to help out when there is simply too much food to eat.

The birth went well, though it seems these days that you don't get much chance for recovery ofter the birth. A measly 2 hours in hospital is all that you get nowadays. Still, alls well that ends well. Now the fun can really begin. Morwenna screaming downstairs reminds me that a parents work is never done...

For Sale- Broughton House

2009-06-18T10:37:00.004Z

I have to say this is our first real family home, and I'm not sure we will ever find a better one, but its going on the market next week. Having had the feelers out for work down in the West Country, we have been inundated with offers and will be starting a clinic of our own. So, before Morwenna gets into Primary school, we are on the move. Taunton Ho!

If anyone is interested in a 400 year old house in prime location in the centre of a small but thriving market town bordering Suffolk, its on the market for £192,500. Going, Going...

More Beach Moments

2009-06-14T18:37:00.005Z

Well, these beach moments are back in Norfolk, but now the sea is a little warmer. Coming up for the Summer Solstice too. We will be camping on the beach next weekend to remind ourselves of the joys of waking at 4.30 with Bryn wanting to start the day.

Big moves are afoot too. It appears we are on the move. Norfolk may not be for us for much longer. The West Country has sunk its teeth in again. What with job offers and other opportunities, we may be Somerset bound before long. Watch this space...

Beach Daze

2009-05-13T12:01:00.004Z

When the surf is too small (or too big in my case!) every self respecting Cornish family wants to be sand dune surfing. Where better than Holywell on the North coast. Even the bride found the breakneck speeds impossible to resist.

The May-Day

2009-05-13T08:38:00.014Z

We all got teary eyed. We all got drunk and ate fab food. We spent some quality family time together. Weddings are a great excuse for all the above. No two weddings are alike but they share the same recipe of love and well-wishing. When parties go this well, it makes you wonder why we don't all do it more often...

The day started with Anna and Christa on dawn patrol for flowers up in the woods where we were staying. Here you can see the result as modelled on the groom. Im afraid you ladies have missed your chance now he's married, but Dan is also available for children's parties and Bar mitzvahs.

The men then had to leave the house and let the ladies get beautiful. I think we all fell in love with Anna that day.

The service was lovely and the Tallulah and Morwenna were brilliant as bridesmaids. Finn was very grown up and Bryn was very asleep on Uncle Rowans shoulder. Then all piled into the 3 Mackerel for a right royal feed. Matt got some lovely photos of the couple on the beach which will come onto the site soon.

The party really got going back at Ponsanooth, where the Champagne and Anna's chocolate cake did the trick. Then the happy couple escaped to the North coast on their own. The next few days were lovely weather, so beach days were the order of the day. Why cant life always be this good?

Family Broadley

2009-05-13T08:02:00.005Z

We had a great time down in Cornwall last week. Weddings are always a good excuse for a holiday! Dan added Anna to the family Broadley when they got hitched in a family-only affair at Falmouth registry Needless to say it all went swimmingly.

I will be putting as many photos up as this blog will allow, but for anyone interested, they are all going to be sent out on CD. Dans brother Matt will be organising all the photos, so I will link this to his site when they're all ready. I think we have some new friends in Stockholm now too. All the more reason to get over there and find out more about family Karlsson.

Have pension, will travel.

2009-04-05T19:12:00.005Z

Happy birthday pops!

I know you have timed your trip to be away from the U.K over your birthday due to the overwhelming number of presents and congratulations you normally receive from us all.

Well, you cant escape us that easily! Hope youre having a good time. Speak to you when you get back.

Winter is over

2009-04-05T18:29:00.010Z

I hadn't realised that its been such a while since our last blog. There have obviously been some distractions.

The allotment has taken lots of getting into shape, but nowhere near as much as last year! I have started working at another clinic in Norwich, which adds up to not much spare time. Plus its the start of the bike races again (Beccles 50 miles in 5 weeks) and my current fitness levels are leaving a lot to be desired.

Not to mention these little tykes. Morwenna has some budding photography and cookery skills. These are her cakes and pics!

Bryn on the other hand has started a new craze- Hoover surfing! He finds the air that gets shot out of the the vacuum cleaner great fun and tries to stand on it during use.

Brits abroad

2009-01-22T23:01:00.004Z

If you cant beat 'em, join 'em. We joined the maddening crowds in the Canaries and introduced the cosmopolitan Italian and German families to the bucket and spade brigade, Britstyle. They were far too busy smoking cigarettes and making sure they were being noticed to enjoy themselves. Fingers were pointed at our poor children who were...covered in sand! Oh no. Call the social services. The Euro zone really has become intolerant of outsiders. Turkey beware.

Had a great time. Surf was overhead and then some most days. The weather was ideal and the Cabaret didn't stop playing Rod Stewart until 3 most mornings. Well, what did you expect, this is Tenerife!

Happy xmas everyone

2009-01-22T22:52:00.004Z

So, I know its late, but December got a little hectic. Some holiday snaps to follow. Another first t show you though; Morwenna's first Nativity play. Morwenna was the inn keeper, who' sole job it appears was to look after the blue cat. Certain liberties were taken with the Bibles version of the birth of Christ, but you can only forgive the little darlings.

"Mary had a baby in her tum tum tum

God said soon you'll be a mum mum mum"

Bryn's 1st birthday

2009-01-22T22:16:00.003Z

Yes, a truly fine moment. Another great moment is interrupting his footy watching to take a photo of this lounge lizard in his favourite environment- being waited on hand and foot whilst he contemplates his navel. Can't imagine where he learnt that kind of behaviour. Note to folks; this is the same nursing chair that I developed my bad posture with as a child.

Halloween Cornish style

2008-11-29T18:08:00.007Z

I know these are a little late in making it onto the blog, but better late than never. Christa went down with the kids (muggins was working) and had a good week.

Morwenna and Christa both had their birthdays down there. Why they're called the terrible twos is any ones guess. Now that Morwenna is three the tantrums are really going up a gear. Of course, when Daddy's around its like butter wouldn't melt in her mouth...

Bryn is coming up for 1 and considering how into biting everyone he is, I think the Dracula outfit was an inspired choice.

Seasons Greetings!

2008-11-29T17:54:00.006Z

Yup, sure did snow last weekend... all weekend. Bryn got his first taste of the white stuff and didn't think much of it. Too cold to enjoy it after 15 minutes. Morwenna got the hang of snowballs on her own, and got one down the back of my neck. I swear I didn't provoke her...

Had to get some photos, because you cant really count on it snowing most winters now. Saying that, it forecast to snow tomorrow. Another great forecast for the half marathon. It hailed on us last year too. Wish me luck. Time to beat this year; 1hr 40.

Family Bowling goes multi-sensory!

2008-11-27T20:09:00.004Z

This is it everyone. The grand unveiling of a plan that's been years in the making. I have been beavering away for the last few months learning how to record, edit and mix music. Oh, and learn to play the bass. And the flute... At least its a good reason why the blog has been so quiet of late.

Right click the link below to open in a new tab & make sure your speakers are on!

www.myspace.com/alexbowling1

I've written all the songs apart from the occasional anonymous folk tunes which work their way into the songs, in which case only the arrangement is my own. Currently Christa is the only other musician involved (I cant play the fiddle yet). Others have declared an interest, but as yet not brought their instruments around. Watch out for Ben/Doms' contributions in the acknowledgements.

The first tune starts with Turloch O'Carolan, a 15th Century lute piece that I've transposed onto guitar (a DADADE open tuning so the strings will ring like a lute) Its the normal blarney about a legendary battle between 2 groups of faeries. You've got to love the Irish. It then becomes another slow Irish traditional piece. I don't know its name, but I heard Frankie Kennedy play it years ago in Glasgow and it blew me away. The 2nd song is one I wrote years ago when Christa moved to Edinburgh 2 months after I met her. Still, its not all bad news...she came back in the end!

There is still plenty to learn about the whole recording process, so don't expect miracles from the 1st few tunes and you wont be dissapointed. Hope you enjoy.

1 Small Step for Man...

2008-09-17T20:11:00.006Z

A very small man. Bryn took his 1st steps tonight and looked right pleased with himself. At 9 months old I'm sure he is ahead of the game, but is still a little smaller than the average farmers boy here in Norfolk. Maybe that's what makes him light on his feet.

Welcome addition to Family Bowling

2008-08-27T11:09:00.009Z

Hello Alfie! Cousin Mark just sent these lovely photos of Morwenna and Bryn's cousin. I think Alfie is about Bryn age (8 months?) but i don't know when the pics were taken.

Its good to know that whilst my father is beginning to trace the family line backwards, the Bowling line is still making forward progress too. Oh and Mark, if you're reading this, just check the weather we have been having. With the Great British Summer as it is, we would all be better off in S.E. Asia. Keep sending the photos and we'll keep blogging.

And Finally...

2008-08-21T22:09:00.005Z

After a hard day playing together on the beach, what better than to fall asleep together in a proper, non camping bed?

The long way home

2008-08-21T21:35:00.005Z

Happy 99th birthday nan! Hope your good health augers well for the 3 generations that have come after you.

The drive back to East Anglia is always split up well by a stop over in Bristol to see Pete and Jenny. The grueling filming schedule has Jenny tied up in knots until November, so we always appreciate you 2 making us feel welcome. Anytime your passing Norfolk, be sure to give us a call ;-)

And finally, Bryn has decided to start walking around/ standing on his own. At 8 months old, he's earlier off the mark than Morwenna. Those thunder thighs don't come from my side of the family!

Pembrokeshire in Summer

2008-08-21T20:03:00.010Z

A week in the land of my fathers was in order. The new twist on a familiar week away- Dan, Anna and the kids (plus uncle Rowan, Nik, Jenny et al) came with us to camp near St. Davids. August in Wales, what could possibly go wrong.

Good company, crappy weather. Rain every day led to many nearby campsites flooding out. Not ours. With an unobstructed view West over Ramsey Island and the bitches, our main problem was the 50mph winds. Needless to say we packed up before the weather really came in...

Nevertheless, we reckoned the holiday a success. We caught up with a lot of friends and family, got some kayaking, fishing, sailing, coasteering and beachlife in. Thanks to Mike and Yens for lending us a the boats and John/Reesy for the g&t on a stormy night. Thanks also to Toby and Brita for helping us dry our clothes and feed us.

Toby and Brita

2008-07-03T12:35:00.006Z

As always, Toby has landed on his feet. Toby and the irrepressible Brita have moved all their worldly belongings to be near the small world theatre in Cardigan. Oft described as their 'resident genius' small world theatre must be happy to have him closer to the fold.

We had a great night with Richard, Tina, Luna, Will and all the kids. As soon as Morwenna and Jacob found the horn on Toby's pride and joy, they were up at 6.30am blasting away and trying to get the sun roof down. Thanks for a great night all of you.

Origins of the family Bowling

2008-07-03T10:26:00.010Z

Found some classic photos at the family manse. I have been trying to get my dad to start the family history for years now. All to no avail. Well, this blog may be looked at for countless generations of Bowlings and if it is, they will at least be able to see this far back... the era when black and white photos were based on necessity, not mood.

Not to be outdone, the Karlsson side of the family have this fine specimen of a lady. Correct me if I'm wrong mum, but I think this is Morwennas great, great, great grandmother. The headscarf was a permanent fixture in an effort to prevent forehead from meeting cow flank when milking.

Times are changed now and the Bowling family line includes a definite Scandinavian blond streak. Joe and I grew up on the beach and spent all of our time rock pooling and fishing.

Finally, to bring us up to date, the view from the family house remains unchanged. With all the rabbits on the burrows its still a doggy paradise. This is Poppet giving Morwenna lessons in dog handling.

North Pembrokeshire

2008-07-03T09:48:00.008Z

A return to the Shire can feel like something from a Tolkien book. A trip in North Pembs is like stepping back in time. Ancient oak forests, Iron age forts, standing stones and Celtic blood running through family lines.

Many of our friends seem to have migrated to the North of the county, much as we did before leaving for pastures green. Whether paddling round Cardigan island with Beany and Lara, surfing til dark at Abereiddy with Johnboy or watching the barn owls hunting around the farm with Yens, you really can't escape the feeling that this is Gods own country.

Thanks to all of you for having us around. Promise it wont be so long next time.

Take me home country road

2008-06-22T16:55:00.004Z

Why go abroad when the U.K is so beautiful at this time of year. Plenty to add to the blog , but just a little something to whet your whistle. Went up to see our 98 year old nan and show her the great grandchildren.

She now lives right next to Llawhaden castle looking down over the river, one of the line of castles that separates north and south pembrokeshire.

Allotment fever/ shed envy

2008-06-15T09:33:00.007Z

Christa's dad has an allotment to die for. Secret garden, wood burner, workshop, kitchen, flushing rainwater toilet and upstairs bedroom. All backing onto a beautiful deer park. Put it on the spit at Hengisbury head with the other 'non-permanent structures' and it would be worth 200 thousand like all the rest of 'em.

Chester the dog, as always, went down a storm. Like every good dog, Chester preys on the weak and the vulnerable- then sits under their chair with beseeching eyes waiting for tit bits. Works every time. Meanwhile, a red deer was scared from her newborn by a hedge strimmer. Naughty as it was, we went to check its health. After a check for broken bones, it was happy to skit away from us and find shade nearby.

Our allotment needs some serious tending after a fortnight away. The slugs have had a field day and the grass has started seeding. Looks like we will have to replant our carrots. Very few took from our 1st sowing. Just enough time to get some more in the ground before we head over to Wales for another holiday. I love Summer!

Surf's up Dan

2008-06-12T11:42:00.008Z

Someone upstairs is smiling at us. Got to Dan and Anna house on Thursday afternoon, just in time for the start of some great swell. Took Dan out for only his 2nd surf ever. Conditions were overhead and clean on a windless day on the North coast. Nothing can describe the joy of a perfect session in good company with happy locals. Totally blissed out.

Bigbury & Bantham

2008-06-12T11:23:00.005Z

Holiday time! 2 weeks of heaven in the South West to rekindle my passion for the area. Surfing, fishing, kayaking, swimming and exploring new areas with the kids. It really doesn't get better than this.

Bigbury is a small remote 1 shop town made famous by the Art Deco hotel on Burgh island. Cut off from the mainland at high tide, lock ins at the islands pub require the sea tractor, an aquatic car on stilts, to get revellers home. If you miss the last tractor home a kayak will work equally well.

The jewel in the crown of this stretch of coast is the flooded river valley. The wildlife and remote location make you feel like you're stepping back in time. You can use the flooding tide to drift dive (4 knotts) upstream with the mullet and flounders. Absolute magic, and we haven't even got to Cornwall yet...

Its gonna be beautiful man

2008-05-17T21:31:00.011Z

Yes, life really does begin at 40. Or was it 50? Either way, Domfest was a rollicking success.

Camping in the back garden, beer, burnt meat and footy (us big kids against the little 'uns) was the best way we could all think of spending the bank holiday.

We may all have kids now and be up before we would have gone to sleep in the old days, but the spirit of Glastonbury was there, man.

No, I don't mean everything got stolen and you couldn't find your way back to the tent. I simply meant that when you get a good bunch of people together, you will naturally have a good time.

Happy B-day old man. As long as Heather keeps you running straight, the next 40 shouldn't be too bad either.

Bryn

2008-05-17T17:33:00.006Z

It really must be tough at this stage of the game.

You cant move without help, no one understands a word you say and you have teeth problems that would send most sane adults screaming for the morphine.

Welcome to totsville.

Bryn of course takes all this in his stride. He is desperate to be up and about, got his teeth early and is keen to be trying new foods. The baby food I tried this evening was grim; bean and sweat potato goulash. No wonder he's looking for better stuff.

With all this frenetic activity comes

exhaustion. I just wish his sister slept as well as he does...

Dig for Victory!

2008-04-16T12:13:00.005Z

You may well be wondering why no blogs for the last month or so. Well, apart from having our hands full at home, we have taken on an allotment at the edge of town. What once was a field is now, well...a field with some holes in. We share our allotment with Dom and Heather, leaving us plenty of space to grow and some company when the going gets tough. The shed has gone up so when the weather comes in, we can sit in comfort with a cup of tea and complain about the rabbits.

Its a family affair, even this early in the process. The kids want to get involved...(off picture I am threatening Morwenna with a bull whip). Besides, I have always maintained that the re-introduction of child labour into Britain would make the UK more competitive and solve our energy crisis at the same time. And save my aching back. Genius eh?

Precocious children with extraordinary gifts

2008-03-10T21:40:00.004Z

Or am I just a little biased? At nearly 3 months old , Bryn is quite different to his big sister and wants wants to be up and about. Maybe encouraging him to walk at this age is expecting too much. Here is Morwenna making Christas fiddle look like a cello. Notice I didn't include a video of this, since it sounded a little like a cat being killed. Keep with the programme girl. They say Beethoven wrote his 1st concerto at 3...

More family Bowling

2008-03-10T21:28:00.005Z

My mum and dad were over for a few days. They would write me out of the will if I didn't put up a few of the photos taken last week. So, if you're out there fa-fa and fa-mor, these ones are just for you. Good to see you again.

Winter way out East

2008-02-11T22:40:00.002Z

Freezing fog this morning made for slippy conditions on the back roads to Norwich. Dom had to pull a lady out of her upturned car. What a boy! My run into work today was far less eventful, but allowed me a shot of Billingford Mill directly into the sun through crystalline air. Hope you like it.

The New Year

2008-02-07T21:44:00.001Z

Lots going on in the Bowling household. Bryn is settling in, Morwenna is starting pre-school and lots of people have come to say hello to us all. Ben and Ali (plus bump) have continued the very fashionable trend of moving from Bournemouth up to East Anglia. Good luck to you both, hope it works out as well for you as it has for us. Anna and Thomas have met up with Lilly from Sweden and came up for a week. Lovely to see you all, lets hope its not so long next time.

Christas sister Anna went jetset and came up from Cornwall for the weekend (Iwas sciving in Birmingham). Then Grandad Pete, Jenny and Chester finally made it up from Bristol. Chester the dog was, of course, the star of the show and is often talked about by Morwenna. He was also a great hoover and made cleaning a lot easier that weekend...

Christmas, Family & Friends

2008-01-09T18:34:00.000Z

As you can imagine, this was a magical Christmas for family Bowling. A proper tree, fairy lights and more presents for the kids than we knew what to do with. Morwenna even made some of the decorations herself. I don't think she really knew what was going on this year, but she is well primed for Christmas the next time around.

Lots of family have come to visit and everyone has been very supportive. Morwenna couldn't be more excited about having a little brother and always wants to hold his hand and cuddle him. Bryn for his part is always trying to find where she is in the room which is easy; she's where all the noise is coming from.

Number 2 has arrived!

2007-12-11T19:11:00.000Z

Born on the 10th of December at 8.21 AM, weighing in at a respectable 7 pounds 9 oz, Bryn shot into my hands unassisted. He was born at home in our birthing pool, with Rachel at hand in our front room in front of the fire. More about Rachel later.

Christa's pregnancy had been uncomplicated and the birth was too. At about 4 AM things started to get going, so we set up the pool and made some calls. I got Morwenna ready and took her down to the childminder at 8 AM. By the time I got home, he was crowning. With no sign of a midwife, Bryn was born. When I lifted him to the surface, he was already checking his new surroundings and clocked mummy before he had even drawn his 1st breath. Everyone safe and well.

Rachel is a Doula, a group of unqualified women with lots of birth experience. As always , the Greeks had a word for it; to Doula is to 'mother the mother.' As a group, they are becoming increasing popular as NHS midwifes are increasingly under strain. Having requested that we sign a document stating that we understood that the NHS couldn't guarantee provision of a midwife, we looked for alternatives to the paramedics that the NHS would provide for us taxpayers.

I shouldn't get on my high horse, but all the statistics show that childbirth is the most dangerous times in a young woman's life, and that home births are statistically safer than hospital births, therefore, due to the cost of intervention, cheaper too. Ironically, there was an infection (C difficile) at the Norfolk & Norwich, closing many wards, so we couldn't take him in for a check up. Our family G.P came out and checked him over instead. Whats wrong with the old way of doing things?

Morwenna was amazed to find a baby brother when she came home and has been brilliant with him. Look at her face when she 1st sees him. She is bringing him all her old toys , holding his hand and making sure he is wrapped up in lots of blankets.

It's a dream come true and all down to Christa being an astonishing woman and mother. Those readers who missed their children being born have truly missed out. Those men who have yet to have the honour will see a courage and determination in their partners to be proud of. As I have.

Next photo competition

2007-12-05T11:26:00.000Z

I cant leave a photo of blisters as the last pic on the blog, so have added this latest submission to the local photo awards. I took this photo of Nevada falls on a climbing trip in Yosemite valley six years ago. Hope you like.

I've got blisters on my blisters

2007-12-05T10:50:00.000Z

Ouch! 1 hour and 48 minutes later, I finished. The start of the run was delayed since the weather was so bad people were crashing their cars getting to the Norfolk showground.

That meant that we had to wait in the wind and rain for things to start. Conditions were so wet I'm sure most of ended up blistering in unusual places. Thanks for the "vaseline your nips" advise Susie.Spoken like a lady who truly understands the trials of long distance running...Morwenna allowed me no rest when I got home. Sensing vulnerability, she paid me back for all the times I splashed her.

Thanks to friends, patients and family that supported me. All told, we have raised over £400 for The Big C. Well done to all of you and thanks again.

Norwich Half Marathon

2007-11-27T21:48:00.000Z

Nearly 1 year ago, Dominic and I were sitting in the pub. Like many statements of sheer bravado, real ale fuels the fire quite nicely. Leaning across at me beerily, Dom said; "I've decided. I want to do a marathon before I'm 40." How old are you now I asked. "39" he said.

Without a moments regard for the hours of training, blisters and sweat, I agreed. We set our sights (in the clear light of day) on 2 half marathons 1st. Sensible, we thought. Well, the day is now upon us. Both of us now have injuries. Most recently Dom's old rugby injury has put him out of the running this year, but I'm just about ready.

December the 2nd, I shall be completing the Norwich Half Marathon in about 1hr 45mins (I'm just thinking positively!) Keep your fingers crossed for me, or even better, make a donation;

www.justgiving.com/alexbowling

Dancing Queen

2007-11-27T20:18:00.000Z

This little girl is set for the stage. Thanks to Grandad and Grandma she now thinks she is somewhere between Stevie Wonder and the girls from ABBA.

Only one week til baba number two!! All going well, we are looking at December the 7th.

Fear 'stops child development'

2007-10-28T13:16:00.000Z

"Some parents are afraid of letting children play unsupervised. Youngsters are missing out on their childhood because we over-protect them, a child play expert claims." Thus says Tim Gill on the beeb today. Well all a can say is Tim, Morwennas no-fear attitude is giving me a heart attack.

I never taught her this!

Here she is in October having an outdoor bath in cold water!

Below you will see her 'helping' wash the vegetables. We caught her licking the grease out of the grill 2 minutes later, but it didn't make for a good photo...

Life Begins @ 2

2007-10-25T11:59:00.000Z

Morwenna had her second birthday yesterday. Thanks to all of you sent cards and presents. Whilst she was aware that a special day was coming, the presents were still a suprise. All post through the door was apparently for her (including the bills) and since christa's birthday is this weekend lots of parcels addressed for her may well have Morwennas grubby little hands opening them on Sunday.

Happy birthday tune on her new organ...what else would you expect?

You have to listen hard though-this isnt the Monroe version mr. President

Home sweet Home

2007-10-03T20:59:00.000Z

The logs are in, the smell of woodsmoke and simmering fruit floats around the house. Small jobs that have been neglected take on levels of importance that cannot be dismissed. I even Spring clean arse about tit! Anyway, in an effort to stop our front step from wobbling, I took it up and this is what I found. I'm told that this is a common use for tombstones with typos by a stone smith patient. He could be telling me this so I dont get the willies. Anyone else heard this? Still, as a mark of respect we have left the stone face up. Most people don't seem notice it anyway.

Morwenna has taken to pulling faces. Most of the time its someone else's face she is pulling (ouch), but this picture shows she thinks its quite fun pulling her own occasionally.

Mum and Dad came over after a trip to Italy. This picture at least shows she can still pull the cute-little-grand-daughter out of the bag when she needs to.

Here is Morwenna's 1st video contribution to the blog. Turn up the speakers; I bet even George Formby couldnt play the ukulele so sweetly at this age. Only problem is as soon as she sees the camera, she wants to see the image. "I look daddy, I look." Honestly, the vanity.

Naughty but Nice

2007-10-03T17:51:00.001Z

Another Cornish holiday. We were certainly spoilt with the weather. No real floods this time! We went down via Lewes for Susie and Robs Cooke's wedding- more on that to come soon. Also managed a quick stop off in Bournemouth and Taunton to see Joe and Sam.

Fishing, swimming, the occasional coastal kayak trip and lots of time with the Brawdley family was the sum of the weeks activities. There is always a nature moment to be had in Cornwall. This time it was whilst swimming out to the islands off Portreath towing my fishing gear. A yearling seal was very surprised to see me and took many passes past me to see I wasn't either food or a mate. Still, she followed me back to the mainland after an unsuccessful hour fishing. No doubt a curious seal spoiled my chances of any bass that afternoon. That's my excuse and I'm sticking to it...

As always, its heaven to be way out West, but life always pulls us back to reality. Thankfully reality is just as much fun our holidays. Autumn has reached East Anglia. The fruit trees are ready early year due to the damp muggy conditions. Time for some jamming...

Cornish holiday

2007-07-26T10:03:00.000Z

Had a great week off at the end of June. Drove madly after work to get to see fatfreddysdrop/ in Bournemouth with Marc and Vern. Great night lads. Then on to see a very pleased Lucy in Bath. She was diagnosed cancer-free the morning we arrived. She took the news in the same down to earth manner that she had when finding she had cancer in the 1st place. Big respect.

Stayed with Pete and Jenny in Bristol before spending the morning pulling veggies at the allotment and trying to get a decent note out of Pete's trombone. The kids did a better job than the rest of us.

Stayed just outside Falmouth with the Broadley tribe for the rest of the week and had a great time exploring Cornwall. Cycled, walked, swam, surfed, kayaked and fished ourselves into a west country frenzy. Seals and dolphins were spotted aplenty, but alas no fish.

Of course the real reason we were there was for Franky and Artur's wedding. Trevarno gardens proved to be the right kind of venue for the special day. All was very relaxed as we Brits welcomed Arturs family and the Brazilian contingent. Soon enough we were grooving to the Latin beats put out by the DJ's. Vicky looked after all the children that night and gave us all the opportunity to let our hair down sans kids. Thanks goes to all those who helped us out over the week. It was a great trip and we wont forget it.

Tis the season to be jolly

2007-07-23T21:53:00.000Z

Yes folks, the festival season is upon us again. Not that we're regular festival goers, but with a family size tent from ebay and some grotty Australian lager, we were ready for anything. The pretext for the visit to Eastern Haze was that Dom was fronting "Tribe of Cro." Between downpours, the band gave us reason enough to jump around and stamp our wellies.

As always, these events attract their fair share of loonies. Most memorably, an bald old fat man dressed in a ballerinas tutu and tiara spend the whole festival busily engaged in a phone call on a banana. It was always a conversation starter wherever he went, which I suppose was the whole idea.

Other conversation pieces on show was the MI5 whistle blower who went on record with David Shaller in the 90's. She gave a fascinating talk on false flag terrorism and the world trade centre attack. Find out more at; http://www.911truth.org/

Getting ribbed during the rainstorms were the save water people. Cant imagine they have had a very productive year of spreading the word in the U.K this year. Good costumes though...

Summer Sun

2007-07-23T21:38:00.000Z

I hate to rub it in when half the country is under 3 ft of water, but East Anglia has to be one of the driest places I have ever lived in the U.K.

Don't get me wrong, our high street has become a river more than once in the last month, but overall the weather has been very clement. Relaxing in the fast growing garden has been my weekend passion. Morwenna seems to enjoy the hammock nearly as much as me.

Brothers and Sisters

2007-07-23T12:09:00.000Z

Here comes another baby! The 20 week scan was done today. All fingers and toes were recounted, and all limbs were where they should be. Morwenna seems to understand that there is a baby brother or sister in mummy's tummy, and appears to be very happy about the idea.

We agreed that we wouldn't find out if it will be a boy or girl on this scan. Of course, I wanted to find out, but you don't argue when the missus is pregnant. Fathers to be watch out and learn from my mistakes- in the face of this many hormones, a sensible debate what colour to paint the new bedroom is really never going to happen, so don't even try.

A good day for saddle sores...

2007-06-04T13:58:00.000Z

Well, the deed is done. 100 miles from Norwich, onto the North Norfolk coast and back again in 5hrs 47mins. I have no intention of ever getting on a bike again, but I'm sure that's a natural response to friction burns...

The day started with toad in the hole and a bowl of porridge before driving up to the start at 6.15 a.m. Mist shrouded the city and what was chilly before the race became blissfully cold as we all developed a head of steam. People dropped by the wayside for early pees and punctures as the 2000 strong group of us passed by. Mark, Martin and I were pulled along in a whirlwind of slip streams and enthusiasm up past Acle and toward the coast

We did the first 50 miles in a blistering 2hrs 41 mins. From there things went a little slowly. Anyone who tells you that Norfolk is flat hasn't been up onto the North coast. The mist burned off by 11.00 and it turned uncomfortably hot as the hills rolled on and on. Sean was there in support at the water stops to provide us with a barrage of good natured abuse, which distracted us from the job at hand. Good job too. Somebody had to distract Mark; he was ready to give away his bike and walk home after 3 hours!

An hour after him, I was in the doldrums. Sure as eggs is eggs, that's when Mark perked up. I sat on his rear wheel whilst he shouted encouragement. I like to think I would have done the same.

We limped the last 25 miles back into Norwich. Descending the hill into the centre of town at over 30mph, blew away the cobwebs and the knee pain was forgotten. We were at the finish line in no time, shaking hands and drinking chilled beer. Magazines detailing future organised rides were being distributed by zealous cyclinsts. Needless to say, we weren't interested.

Mercury award winner!

2007-05-28T19:56:00.000Z

I almost forgot, I won the (Diss) Mercury photography award last week. One of the photos I took in Borneo 2 years ago won. The prize was a lovely printed version of the photo on canvas. Cant be bad eh?

Addition number 2

2007-05-28T13:31:00.000Z

Who would have guessed it? Well, quite a few of you so it would seem. Christa's swelling belly, a passion for odd foods and mild memory loss; all sure signs that a change is gonna come. We are, of course, ecstatic.

The house warming went down well, and provided us with the opportunity to tell all and sundry about the important day in December. Lots of folk from work and around the village came to cheer up our rainy day. Special thanks goes out to those who came from afar to turn our weekend inside out. Cheers Toby, Brita, Luna, Will and Nags. Our drinks cabinet overfloweth!

Norwich 100

2007-05-19T19:15:00.000Z

I may have bitten off more than I can chew this time...
As you can see from the previous posts, I try and take part in or organise a charity event every year. This year is no exeption. Whilst here in pankake land, cycling has seemed to be a sensible sport to get involved in.

The gauntlet was thrown last year by my pricipal for this 100 mile event in North Norfolk. Like a fool I said yes, not knowing how saddle sores would affect my everyday life. Sadly, Mandy has had to drop out due to skiing injuries, but William (chiropodist), Mark (patient) and myself have been on an extensive training programme. The routine has involved 60 miles per week and as much fish and chips as you can throw at me. I have always thought nutrition is key. My legs havent stopped aching for 7 weeks now. Not kidding.

Last weekend we were unbeaten in the Beccles cycle for Life. 50 miles in a respectable 2hrs 57mins. Thinking that we would still have another 50 miles to go on the Norwich 100 is a little daunting. Nevertheless, the training has gone well. Training from now on will be fish and chips every day and our house warming next weekend, where protien shakes will be swapped for cocktails. Wish me luck.

Friends and family

2007-05-19T10:25:00.000Z

Lots of people have come across to our place recently; Yens, Freiderika, Hans and Nina after a trip to the fatherland, Kate, Steve, Milo and Ruby for the bank holida weekend, and last but not least, Mum, Dad and uncle Josepeppi on returning from a bereak in italy.

Great to have you all over. Here are some of the photos that are the resuly of these trips. More coming shortly..

Morwenna at her best The Schroeder tribe

Morwenna and Milo sharing a harmonica

Morwenna pretending Nina is a little sister?

A well deserved rest

2007-03-04T15:56:00.000Z

Its good to escape old blighty sometimes, particularly when the days are short and the constant drizzle has somehow worked its way into your soul. Where else than the Canaries to feel the sun on your back and hope that Spring has started by the time you get home?

It has been a hectic year and God knows, we all needed a rest...

Anyone who has taken small children on holiday will know that it doesnt always feel like a holiday. Morwenna was unhappy in new environment, and we were always on the look out for new and inventive ways she could kill, maim or drown herself whilst we soaked up some rays. Thats where the grandparents step in. Mum, dad and Uncle Jossepi were all on hand to distract Morwenna when she was at her most fractious.

There was enough time for surfing some of the powerful point breaks of Feurteventura and some snorkelling in the lagoons of Isla del Lobos. Underwater photos will be posted soon.

The Spanish lessons we have been taking since living in Harleston were great fun to practise on holiday. These family holidays are also a good time to catch up with family that live on the other side of the country. We also bumped into fellow lifeguard turned paramedic Nigel and Holly whilst walking along the beachfront. We spent a couple of nights on the town in

their company watching local gigs with very large gin and tonics whilst Morwenna was keeping the grandparents (and everyone else) entertained at the kids disco. She thought it very funny to stand on stage clapping at the audience and stop the acts getting on with the show.

The island itself has an amazingly arid and mountain covered interior. Sand blown across from the nearby sahara desert is the reminder that Africa is only 60 miles away.

In the years before the island was infested with tourists, Fuerteventura was described as "a desert in a sea of civilisation." Having now been part of the U.K bucket and spade brigade (minus the England t-shirts and stella fuelled sunburn) you cant help but wonder if that old quote still rings true. Nevertheless, we can all imagine return visits to what is really a fascinating little island.

Home sweet home

2007-03-04T15:06:00.000Z

The newbies of Norfolk are setting down roots! we have just bought this beautiful 450 year old town house in Harleston and moved in 2 days before Christmas. Nothing like a deadline to get things happening! Left everything in boxes and went back to Wales for a few days with the family. Will have to put a blog up for xmas just to show you all the look on Morwennas face when it came to unwrapping presents.

There are lots of interesting features in the house, with previous renovation covering a number of period from regency to farm house original. Added to this confused character is the fact that it has only recently returned to residential use, having been the the local G.P surgery for the last 20 years.

The previous owner has done a fine job of undoing much of the damage done over the last decade and the wheelchair wide hallways and semi open-plan ground floor that you can see are all that is left of its use as a surgery.

Now that the paintings are up, the rugs are down and the woodburner's in, we can settle into our new home and see what comes our way...

Tallulah's birthday trip

2007-02-04T15:12:00.000Z

Tallulah's 2nd birthday gave Morwenna and Christa theexcuse to set off on their first girls only road trip. It was great to spend some quality time with the cousins. December was the firsat month that we stopped counting how many stepa Morwenna could take.

Also saw Grandad Pete and Kate with a big bump of a belly.

Pathology 101

2006-11-23T20:31:00.000Z

For all those Chiros out there. A strange thing happened in my office the other day...A patient brought in this specimen.

Fingers on buzzers ladies and gents;

What Spinal pathology is being shown below?
For bonus marks, can anyone tell me the Species. Answers in latin please

The human spine nearby is for size comparison only.

C'mon, its a classic. Post your answers below. A gold star to the 1st correct answer.

Graduation

2006-11-23T19:51:00.000Z

Great to see everyone togged up in ridiculous costumes for our day in the sun. As you can see from the photos below, the graduates families all got to dress up in their Sunday best and outshined those of us suited, booted and robed.

Great ceremony, bad speeches and cheep bubbly were the order of the day. Many of the Norwegians had travelled for days to get to Bournemouth for the occasion. Glad you could make it from the arctic circle Peer!

It was great fun to find out how everyone was enjoying the work (or not). About 10% of our cohort had already quit their jobs in search of nirvana. Makes me feel all the more pleased to be in pancake land with a great job. Good luck to all of you still searching. Keep your chins high guys, everyone needs the skills you have.

Paddling the pointy bit

2006-09-28T12:45:00.000Z

A voyage of discovery round Cornwall by kayak.

"Every year I endeavour to fund raise for local charities by short kayaking trips here in the U.K. This summer was no exception, but with our first child on the way, this may be the last time in the near future that I could take this length of time away from home without filling my hatches with nappy bags and baby clothes! "

To read more, please open the link at the side of the page. All donations Im sure will be greatly received by Naomi's House, the childrens hospice that I was raising money for.

We're jamming

2006-09-24T21:00:00.000Z

Not Mr. Marley, but a whole lot of fruit in buckets at this time of year. A long dry summer with a wet August has led to a bumper crop of fruit all across Norfolk. Long, slow weekends exploring the upper reaches of the Waveney (the river that divides Norfolk and Suffolk) has brought home the fetility of the soil here, in contrast to stark West coasts that Christa and I come from.

Apples, pears, plums, blackberries, sloes and damsens become jam, chutney, great desserts and gin (I couldn't help myself).