Ready for the off again

31.5.17: Back on the Bus

6.30am with the blog in the post, I took myself down to the departure point where a bus was waiting to take 27 of us up to Normandy. Gosh, that was a short night.
The bus stopped every couple of hours which was welcome even though most of us had two seats to ourselves and could stretch our legs. Read and watched a couple of downloads. There was an overnight stay in Niort at the comfortable Hotel Moka http://www.mokahotelniort.com/ where I shared a room with Mme the General.
We had a walk around this pleasant town and had a look in the church. dinner at "Le César" on a pedesrtianised boulevard opposite the park, was included inthe deal.
https://www.tripadvisor.fr/Restaurant_Review-g196667-d1212703-Reviews-Le_Cesar-Niort_Deux_Sevres_Nouvelle_Aquitaine.html
Obviously a well heeled town that gave the impression of being a laid back but animated place to live.
Weather:
Rain en route, overcast

30.5.17: Running out of Time

Michel called around quite early this morning bringing a present for having kept his car while he was away travelling for 3 months. Then JJ came to look over my tax return. It was so good to press the send button on the computer.
Walked once more to Viv and Pepe's for lunch and yippee, it was the right day. Terry and Ann managed to get it right first time. It was a rather longer affair than I'd expected, especially as we'd seen each other last Thursday so I had to leave straight after dessert as I had an appointment at the beautician's.
Caught up with the blog until the end of April so I could get a written copy off to Mum before I go on the twinning trip to Normandy. Of course there were a load of other things to do including packing which meant that it was 1.30am before I got to bed.
Weather:
24°, overcast all day, light rain at the end of the afternoon

TLC from Friends

It was two years ago that Christian died and all changed. Can't believe that I've come through this far but as everyone says "life goes on".
Coffee in the morning with Nicole P but she'd never known Christian. In the evening it was different though. Jean and Françoise organised a get together with Joan and Thérèse, JJ and Marie-Andrée down at Port Argeles. It was such a kind thought and much appreciated.
Weather:
sun and wind

Two Days, Two Markets

28.5.17: Going against the Flow

Nicole S invited me to join her on a trip to Roses market as she wanted to buy some tops. There were long traffic jams going north after the extended holiday weekend. Our route south  was trouble free. Roses was hot and in her quest, Nicole looked at every single stall in the market, humming and haring as she went. One time it was a should I? shouldn't I? purchase for 3€. Needed all my patience but at least she came away with three tops. I bought a nightie.
Lunch overlooking the marina was a bit pricy but it was Sunday and therefore no bargain "menu del día" was available. Going gluten free wasn't easy but I managed and even passed on the yoghurt ice cream in the fruit soup. All washed down with water. It just goes to show though, how much we eat because it's there rather than because we need it. Felt that Nicole was a bit lukewarm even though she didn't pass any comment on either the restaurant or the meal.
It was a long walk back along the sea front to the car and a long drive back along the coast road home At  home there was more tax and more tv.
Weather:
28, sun and strong wind

27.5.17: People, Paintings and Plastic
Went to the market with Barbara but we went our seperate ways until it was time to come back. Bumped into lots of folk and met Hortense by arrangement. We had a coffee and then went to a vernissage together. There 4 different artists  showing in different rooms but we just concentrated on one.
Spent most of the afternoon doing my tax; the pressure is on as I'm going away at the end of the month and it's due in the day after I come back. Otherwise I didn't venture forth again and watched tv when I gave up on the tax.
I did smile to myself at one point in the day when I found that one of the new plastic £5 notes  had been through the washing machine and come out unscathed!
Weather:
28°, sun, wind later

Eating in, Eating out

26.5.17: Still on the Wagon

Oh, - - - - - ! The GP wants me to continue the antibiotics for another 3 months. what's more, I'm no cut out gluten and sugar. Sorry, not humanly possible. The gluten I think I'll manage but I'll no doubt cheat a little on the sugar. Luckily fruit is ok but it's all a bit drastic.
Am still putting off the tax return; this time with doing some tidying in the cave. There's just the pub to do but this heat isn't really conducive to a big clean up.
Went to have my fringe trimmed, walked to the museum to buy a bag made from cork as a present (it's a cork museum) but it was closed, toed and froed to the Mairie trying to arrange replacement rooms for the Spanish workshops. All this and it wasn't even 6pm.
Then there was a vernissage in Christian's room. The exhibition was of some lovely watercolours of seascapes.
There was of course, an apéritif but sadly, not so many people there to enjoy it.
Dropped into the bar when I came out where the village aging rock singer was to perform but I didn't stay long.
Weather:
23°, sun

25.5.17: Cooking for Friends
Today's the Ascension and a public holiday. Had coffee at the bar with Nicole P and Maryvonn and we were later (well, actually just as I was about to leave) joined by Ann and Terry. Stayed a bit longer and then went home to prepare for dinner with Viv and Pepe, Terry and Ann. Jean-Jacques had been coming but had had a better offer and gone off to Bordeaux. Well, who wouldn't?
I prepared some canapés, cooked chicken and chorizo and Ann brought an enormous fruit salad. Was a good evening. Should have taken a photo but didn't!
Weather:
32° sun

24.5.17: 2nd Sitting
Finally decided that it was time to take up the ashes as I don't think that a fire will be on the aganda until next winter. Come to think of it, not even then as I'm planning to put in a pellet burning stove.
Prepared a duck, mango and rice salad to take over to a buffet lunch at Eamon and Liz's. took the bus over but this time, there was no lift.
Weather:
30°, sun

23.5.17: Oops!

Another up and out morning; this time for my monthly blood test to make sure that my liver isn't suffering from the antibiotic I'm taking. Another lift was forthcoming, this time with Patrick. Zoomed around the supermarket, had coffee back in the village with Nicole P and then walked over to Pepe and Viv's for lunch. Oh dear, was my face red and not from the heat. The table was laid for 4 not 5 and there was a couple there whom I didn't know! That's right, I was there on the wrong day. Despite being invited to stay, I left my gift and scuttled home to find what I could in the fridge.
Lazed around this afternoon instead of doing my tax return and did some unimportant sorting out.
In the evening there was one of our regular "apérobio" get - togethers. Barbara was here from UK and wore me out enthusing about absolutely everything that came up in discussion.
Weather:
27°, blue skies

22.5.17: This and That
Association Committee meeting first thing and afterwards I organised replacement rooms for a displaced language workshop. Had coffee with Nicole P; Philippe joined us later and Jean-Jacques later again.
Worked at the computer and chickened out of going to a Council meeting.
Weather:
24° sun and rain in the afternoon

On the Road Again

21.5.17: Chugging and Strutting

Breakfast was another buffet with everything you could possibly imagine on offer but there wasn't time to induge for too long as we were off down to the Ebre Delta, a nature reserve, for a boat trip. It was on the boat that the "update" post photo was taken. The trip was something of a disappointment as there wasn't really anything to see. We just chugged up to where the river meets the sea and then chugged back again. In fact the peacock at one of the café/bars was the most interesting bit of wildlife that I saw. Pity that such a splendid creature has to spend its life in a pen.
Back at the hotel there was a buffet lunch and with the luggage already loaded it was a quick turnaround for the trip home. Luckily, I had two seats to myself as Nicole had found two seats for herself so I wasn't obliged to talk to anyone and could watch a couple of films on my tablet. Arrived home at 18h30. What bliss it was being able to slump on the settee and just relax.
Weather:
28°, sunny

20.5.17: A Fitting Name

It was an 8am start for 45 of us to journey to Barcelona by coach. We visited the Museum of Catalunya and the Palau de Música http://www.palaumusica.cat/en/the-art-nouveau-building_23602 an absolutely fabulous Art Nouveau building. Follow the link to see the photos and you'll know that I'm not enthusing for nothing. In between the two we had lunch at "Quatre Gats" (4 cats) a restaurant that's been in operation for120 years. http://www.4gats.com/en/ Lots of atmosphere with plenty more Art Nouveau touches, including sanitary ware made by Thomas Crapper!
At the end of the afternoon, our bus took us on to Salou on the Costa Dorada where we were booked in to the hotel H10 Vintage for the night. https://www.h10hotels.com/en/salou-hotels/h10-vintage-salou
There was a huge buffet meal as part of the deal and entertainment (Brasilian dancers) laid on. Feeling tired and as my throat was even sorer, I was in bed for 21h; well before Nicole S with whom I was sharing the room.
Weather:
Very warm and sunny

19.5.17: Let Us Eat Cake!

Had a coffee at the bar before Sauveur arrived to sort out the light switch that wouldn't switch off. Left him to it as I went to get the bus to go and have lunch with Eamon and Liz. As often happens, I was given a lift which meant that I could take my time buying dessert and walking up to their holiday rental. Golly, it was hot and there was little shade.
My friends kindly gave me a lift back and once at home, it felt chilly enough to light a fire. What a contrast to the morning.
Weather:
21° sun, rain in evening

18.5.17: Duty Calls
Straight back into routine. Well, having missed several language exchanges recently, it didn't seem fair on Maggie to skive. Of course we all went to the bar afterwards for a drink in the shade. Spent the afternoon in front of the computer while it rained outside. A sore throat is hatching; no doubt the result of the AC on the plane.
Weather:
24°, sun with rain later

Flying South

17.5.17: You can please some of the people .....

Up at 6am to get to the airport in good time and found that the sun was shining. The flight went well and Nicole P was there to meet us at the other end. Gosh, it was hot!
We had lunch at the restaurant looking down on the river at Pont de Molins. Nicole S left half her starter and most of her chicken. She seemed switched off from us but when I asked about it, she said it was because she was tired. Umph!
Yet another meal that hadn't pleased her. I know that she is often dissatisfied but hadn't realised just how much, until I've found myself writing the same thing again and again. In fact yesterday she was very tepid about the light lunch that we'd had.
Nicole P dropped me off at the front door and 30 minutes later we were having a tea on the terrace of the other bar.
Spent a welcome quiet night in.
Weather:
28°, sun

Purchasing Power

16.5.17: Georgian Grandeur

Noel, ever ready to be of service, took Nicole and I up to the Cumnock Outlet centre. We had our shopping fix while Noel waited patiently in the coffee shop. I bought a pale green waterproof jacket with which I was well pleased.
From here, he drove us down to the 18th century Dumfies House, a pet project of Price Charles who mobilised its 11th hour acquisition for £45m when there was a risk of the estate, house and furniture (a large number of original Chippendale chairs) being sold separately. It's not just a preservation project; there's a social element too with the regeneration of the surrounding ex-mining area that was decimated during the time of Maggie Thatcher. https://dumfries-house.org.uk/about/history
We had lunch in the old stables, dodged the showers while looking around the beautiful grounds and visited the house with a charming young guide who made it all so interesting. I'm not big on guided tours but the house was on a human scale and she certainly kept my attention. Even better, the group was small and there was no "clever clogs" with us. At the end of the tour, I got talking to a pleasant Australian couple; (Nicole says that she doesn't know how to get into conversation with people that she doesn't know. I reckon, it's because she's picky about her contacts and is just not interested enough to make the effort.)
Noel came and picked us up by which time, the sun had come out. He then took us on to visit Angus (Ann's brother) and Maureen for a cup of tea and ginger cake (mmm!). With the sun shining, the view from their conservatory over the green fields was lovely and peaceful.
Arriving back at the house, we found that Ann was feeling a lot better but still not readyto eat.
Weather:
Sun, rain showers

Memory Lane

15.5.17: Glasgow Girls
The rain was back for my trip up to Glasgow to meet those friends with whom I'd worked in Glasgow. Funnily enough, Liz couldn't make it, as she was on holiday not far from here in France!
Maureen was at the bus station to meet me. We wandered through the Buchanan shopping centre down to the (still) upmarket Princes' Square where we had a peek in the Vivienne Westwood shop. We took fright at the prices and admired the style of the young sales assistants then went for a leisurely coffee in the "Cranachan", https://www.cranachancafe.co.uk/
Just in case you don't know, Cranachan is a Scottish dessert made from cream, toasted oats, whisky, raspberries, and honey. Time just flew. Well, it does when you've a lot to catch up with and only 2 hours in which to do it!
Once we'd gone our separate ways, I went on to the "La Lanterna", a traditional Italian restaurant, for lunch with June, Marlene and Suzanne. http://www.lalanterna-glasgow.co.uk/content/gallery
Eating "proper" Italian food was a real treat for me as here abouts all I've ever found is the ubiquitous pizza and uninspired pasta. It brought back memories of many an Italian meal I'd had after work with Bob, my colleague from the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. It was with Bob that I discovered the delights of "Mandarine Napoleon"; not Italian I know, but there's only so much Sambuca that a woman can drink!
Managed to squeeze in a bit of shopping and smiled to see that the traffic cone on top of the Duke of Wellington's head is still there., If it's removed by the Council, it's always replaced. Glaswegians have a great sense of humour and are ready to defend the embellishment of the statue with defiance, protests, petitions  and rallies.
Ann had stayed in bed all day and Nicole had stayed in the house all day as she didn't "dare" to say that she wanted to go out for a walk! She's not as timid underneath it all as this might make her sound so I can't understand where she's coming from. I feel so exasperated at times and this was one of them!
Weather:
Wet

Showing Off Burns Countryside

14.5.17: The Two Roberts

A late and lazy start before driving down to Maidens for a very good lunch at "Wildings.
http://www.wildingshotel.com/
Maidens, like many places in Ayrshire, has a Burns connection. He used to drink locally at ‘The Cellars.’ Also known as the oldest house in the village, it had a reputation as a favourite haunt for smugglers working the coast. In addition, the character depicted in Burns famous poem Tam o’Shanter lived on Shanter Farm which lies just north of the village.
Another earlier Robert connected to the village is Robert the Bruce who landed his small army of 300 at the south end of Maidens bay in 1301. He went on to win the Battle of Loudoun Hill eventually conquering Scotland which he ruled for the next 23 years until he died.
We returned home by way of "Souter Johnnie's" where we stopped for tea but the lunch time trade was hanging on, so it wasn't the quiet relaxed experience that I'd hoped for. http://www.soutersinn.com/dining/dining/
Nicole went to church with Ann who came back saying that she felt unwell so had an early night. The rest of us had another quiet night before the telly which didn't displease me in the least.
Weather:
Sunshine and Cloud

Au Revoir Écosse for Some

13.5.17: Finally Off Duty
The last day of the group holiday and what a bonus; a 9h30 start but with all the foutering about loading the baggage, taking photos and saying our goodbyes, we were 20 minutes late hitting the road. After a week of brilliant weather we had rain for the journey down through Glasgow to Prestwick airport where we were going to deposit our luggage rather than leave it unsupervised on a carpark out at the Burns Centre. Nicole S was there waiting patiently for us. What a performance it was checking in the luggage; 17 pieces of luggage, all registered by hand. We were only supposed to go in one at a time; well, that is until they realised that it would be helpful to have an interpreter. Still, the woman was good hearted and unlike her colleague who was scanning the luggage, she wasn't fazed by us all.

The Burns Centre was in turmoil too as there had been a gas cut and there wasn't any hot food. People went off in small groups to find an alternative source of supply and to explore the Burns Cottage, Monument and Gardens, the Auld Kirk and the Brig o' Doon. I ate a panini and wandered down to the river to enjoy the gardens. The lush, green countryside never fails to delight. http://www.burnsmuseum.org.uk/
Back at the airport, we had a repeat performance at the "left luggage" of one in, one out and endless paperwork. Luckily, we were in good time for the flight so people didn't get twitchy about the time it was taking.
And so came the time for Nicole S and I to say "goodbye" to the rest of the group and "hello" to Ann and Noel with whom we were going to stay for the next couple of days.  Oh, what bliss; a quiet night in even if there was only "Eurovision" on the tv.
Weather:
Rain. Sometimes heavy, sometimes drizzle

Caledonia

12.5.17: On the Whisky Trail
First stop this morning was Dunblane to visit the cathedral, stroll through this attractive town which has a gold post box to commemorate Andy Murray's gold medal and to have a coffee. http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/dunblane/dunblane/index.html
Sadly it was here too , that a gunman opened fire in a primary school in 1996 killing 16 children and their teacher.

A week in Scotland and we had yet to visit a distillery. This, however, was rectified today with a guided tour, thankfully in French, of Edradour, the smallest distillery in Scotland still using traditional methods. http://www.edradour.com/ Of course there was a tasting and a chance to spend in the shop. Ray, who has been here with our Scottish friends, Andy and Maureen, and who I haven't seen since, was working today, so we managed to have a 10 minute catch up. So that was a bonus, especially as I'd already done the tour the last time.
Next, it was on to the House of Bruar for lunch, some quality shopping and a walk to the Falls of Bruar for those who wanted to spend their energy rather than their money. http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/blairatholl/fallsofbruar/index.html

The drive back seemed long and we were all beginning to flag a bit. Still we needed to be on form tonight as we were giving dinner to our hosts. There was a bit of a ceilidh, singing, a fair sprinkling of kilts and finally Loli got to dance some flamenco. Cousins Rob and Jean, who live about an hour away, came over and were so much at ease with everyone that Rob sang "Wild Mountain Thyme" as a solo. I had no idea that he had such a lovely voice but there again, his Gran was a music teacher and his Granddad a great singer.
Speeches were made and presents given. I was delighted to receive a really lovely Harris Tweed shoulder bag and glasses' case in autumnal colours.
So the last evening in Scotland for the group came to an end. I'm sure they'll all go back tomorrow with great memories having seen the country at its very best. I just have to leave you with a link to Dougie MacLean singing "Caledonia" especially as it's also the name of one of Edradour's whiskies. If you're an exiled Scot have a hankie ready and everyone "Enjoy" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wP8A9rtg0iI
Weather:
Very warm and sunny

Staying Local

11.5.17: In and around Comrie
This morning we all clambered into the mini bus and Jim's car for a drive out to Killin and the Falls of Dochart. http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/killin/fallsofdochart/index.html

Yet another spot that Christian and I had visited together but at that time, there was a lot more water gushing over the rocks than there were today. You'll see the difference if you follow the link above. Scotland has had an unusually lengthy dry spell and folk are starting to wring their hands and wish for rain!
There was time for a coffee as well as a stroll before we hit the road again to pass through beautiful Perthshire countryside on our way back to visit an old German/Italian POW camp on the edge of Comrie. Camp 21 housed 4,000 category A prisoners, one of whom was tried and executed by a kangaroo court. Those responsible were sent to London for trial followed by their own execution. A former inmate, who died without heirs, recently left the village nearly £400,000 in gratitude for the kindness and generosity shown to him by the people of Comrie. We visited one of the huts, the cell block and little museum. There are plans to turn the listed Nissan huts into holiday accomodation which, looking at the site, promises to be an enormous task. Still, Comrie is a village with a lot of community spirit and resourcefulness, so who knows? http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/comrie/comrie/index.html

We had lunch in the bar of the local hotel which struggled to cope with a gaggle of French folk on an otherwise quiet out of season Thursday.
After lunch, some of us walked for a couple of hours with David while the rest strolled around the village. The afternoon ended with a quiz on Scotland rounded off with tea and scones. Yes, there was cream too and not a crumb was left.
Comrie has its own Pipe Band so we called in to listen to them practise on our way to the wildlife centre where we were having diner. Jacques came away full of enthusiasm and wants to get the band out here.
And we all thought that we could rest on our laurels once this trip was over. Best laid plans and all that .......
Weather:
Still warm and sunny

A Bit of City Buzz

10.5.17: A Capital Day Out

A slightly later start to the day as we didn't need to be at the station in Dunblane for the journey to Edinburgh until 9h30. All went without a hitch and once in the capital, folk went off in small groups to do what interested them. Nicole and I walked up to the Castle, then down the Royal Mile taking a detour into the old town for lunch at the "Greyfriars Bobby" on Candlemaker Row. Bobby was a Skye terrier that was so famed for standing guard over his deceased master's grave that a fountain was erected in 1873 in memory of his loyalty. His story even inspired two films and a number of books. Had a short wait for a table but the lunch was good and I was pleased that Nicole could experience the old world charm of a traditional pub.

Thus fortified, we hiked on in the sunshine down to the Parliament where we were able to access the public areas. While I browsing in the shop in the shop, I was much taken by this poem."Open the Doors!", written by Edwin Morgan for the opening of the new Parliament building in 2004.

"Open the doors! Light of the day, shine in; light of the mind, shine out!" 

The rest of the poem is as inspiring first line; just follow the link to have the full version. Theresa May would do well to distribute it at Westminster. 

http://www.scottishpoetrylibrary.org.uk/poetry/poems/opening-scottish-parliament-9-october-2004

In the meantime Nicole had a quick look at the outside of Holyrood House which is just next door.

Glad to say that all were present and correct for the return journey. In fact they'd all been delighted; so all is still going well.
This evening, David and Laura laid on food for all of us and our hosts; about 35 altogether. It was a mammoth task that she took in her stride. Not only did we eat and drink well but we didn't have to be up at the crack of dawn either. Holidays can be exhausting, n'est-ce pas?
Weather:
Warm and sunny with a slight wind; well, it was Edinburgh

Mystery Tour

9.5.17: Another Well Heeled Town

Departure day meant that our bags had to outside our rooms, ready to be loaded onto the bus for 7am and I was surprised by how good heartedly the group responded. After another hearty breakfast we set off at 8.30am on what was billed as a “surprise” day to wend our way back to Prestwick. It was a surprise day for Christine too as she'd only decided which way to go at breakfast that morning after picking the brains of her colleagues. She was a good driver and very pleasant but it was obvious that she was pretty new to this route as the info she gave us was relatively scant. And there was me worrying that the group wouldn't be able to keep up with her commentary!  
Passing by the naval base and the site of many an anti Trident demo, she took us to Helensburgh. Helensburgh sits on the Clyde and it’s evident that that even though there are some empty shops, it’s another well heeled place. John Logie Baird (one of the pioneers of tv) was born here, there’s a marina and Charles Rennie Macintosh designed Hill House for the publisher William Blackie in 1903. Sadly, Hill House was closed so those of us who took the less cultural option and just strolled and drank coffee were glad that we’d not raced up to see it. 
http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/helensburgh/helensburgh/index.html Jacques my neighbour, who didn’t race anywhere, knew neither where he was, where he’d been or where he was going next. When asked, he replied, “I don’t know, ask Ruth”! 

We continued along the coast to Gourock where we stopped at a garden centre for a lunch break. It was quite an eye opener for the French whose garden centres are just that; no restaurant or café, no shopping experience. Looking at their website, I missed a fair bit of it not that that was a problem. http://cardwellgardencentre.co.uk/attractions/

And so ended the first part of our trip. At this point we said goodbye to Nicole S who'd been to Comrie on the first trip, was not eligible the second time around. As it was, we'd had to draw names out of a hat for the places. She was going instead to Glasgow for the next few days and would meet up with us for the last day.

David and Laura arrived with the village mini bus and their estate car that was towing a trailer for the luggage to pick us up at Prestwick airport not long after we did. Bridge of Allen was our fish 'n' chip stop and I have to say that the young waiter managed very well with the group especially as most didn't know what they wanted. 

Once in Comrie we were dispatched off to various friends and family in the village. Nicole P and I, Hans and Marie-Madeleine, Jim and Mags were all guests of David and Laura and thankful we were not to have to travel far to bed.

Weather:

Warm and sunny

Wealth, W.Cs and Women left Wanting

8.5.17: Spoiling Peaceful Waters

Today we journied farther afield with a visit to the Isle of Bute. First to the small village of Colintraive to take the short ferry ride over to Rothsay. Whilst waiting for the departure, I astounded some of the French women by suggesting that we use the men's loo that wasn't occupied. With only one women's facility and a number of us wanting to "go", they soon got over their misgivings!.
A walk around the town took Nicole P and I to see the outside of 13th century moated castle while Nicole S went off with the more serious sightseers. Loli hit the charity shops (which don't exist in France) and found herself a yellow wool coat and mauve tartan tammy. One satisfied customer and several group members amazed by the pittance that she'd paid.
The coming of steamships on the Clyde, soon made Rothsay a fashionable destination for visitors from Glasgow as is evidenced by its Victorian architecture and winter gardens. There are even some Victorian '"gentlemen's toilets" which are still working today. There was no similar provision for women and I don't think for a minute that Victorian "ladies" would have done as we did this morning!

After a quick lunch of soup and a roll, it was time to clamber back on board for the short journey to Mount Stuart House which was rebuilt after a fire for the 3rd Marquis of Bute, who made his money from South Wales coal (not to mention the toil of Welsh miners), in 1869. It was home to the world's first domestic heated indoor swimming pool and was the first house in Scotland to be lit by electricity.
Impressive as it was, it was the gardens that gave me the most pleasure and I regretted not having more time to just sit and enjoy the rhododendrons that were in full flower and the views over the Clyde.

Our return journey took 35 minutes for the ferry to cross from Rothsay over the Clyde to Weymss Bay. On the way we saw porpoise and in stark contrast, a submarine from the Faslane naval base; presumably not one armed with a nuclear warhead.
On the other side, the bus journey back to the hotel was long and retraced some of the route we'd taken on the first day.
We had thought  that Loli, who is a professional flamenco dancer and teacher, could provide a bit of entertainment after the dreary quiz but Bev the assisstant manager was not keen when I'd broached the subject yesterday because apparently her clients came for a quiet time and if they wanted flamenco, they'd have gone to Spain!! The women that I spoke to later were most disappointed and the next day they said they'd decided that they might as well have an early night as we'd not stayed up to dance. I'm thinking of asking Bev if she'd like to book us for next year's entertainment.
Weather:
Warm and sunny

Happy Tourists

7.5.17: A Castle, a Cruise and Plenty of Good Cheer

It was a glorious if early start to the day and being Sunday, I allowed myself the luxury of a full Scottish breakfast; as of course, did many of the others.
The first visit this morning took us along Loch Fyne bringing back memories of the times that Christian and I took visitors to the "Loch Fyne Oyster Bar". In those days it was a little known, simple affair which quickly became one of the places to say that you'd been to. Nowadays while this restaurant remains independent and supplies seafood and smoked fish all over, the name has been sold to a chain of restaurants throughout the UK.
Our destination was Inverary, a pretty town on the shores of the loch which attracts many a tourist. The main attraction is the 18th century castle that's home to the Duke of Argyll, head of the Clan Campbell, which was used for a Christmas edition of "Downton Abbey".
http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/inveraray/inveraray/index.html
There's also a "double" church originally built (1792 - 1802) to allow one half to  worship in Gaelic while the other half worshipped in Scots. The jail and courthouse were built to replace the existing but inadequate buildings between 1816 and 1820 and shows visitors the harsh reality of the penal system of the time. History aside, there are a number of shops fulfilling every tourist's wish for tartan, whisky and other souvenirs. My "lot" were no exception. They were straight off the bus into the "Edinburgh Wollen Mill" in search of a bargain. Looking at the bags that were taken back on the bus, they were successful.
Nicole S had given the excursion a miss as she didn't feel up to it, so Nicole P and I went up to the castle to enjoy the views, the gardens and a cup of tea. Nicole had her first experience of scones and Tunnocks tea cakes; soft marshmallow on a biscuit base, covered in milk chocolate and wrapped in red and silver foil. Only 106 calories a go!. Mmmmm! They brought back memories of my own initiation into the world of Tunnock's teacakes by breaking and picking off the chocolate, bit by bit to prolong the pleasure. I gleaned from the Tunnock's website that the father of the company founder, who was born in 1865, had been a joiner and coffin maker from Uddingston, Glasgow. Mr Tunnock Snr advertised his wares as follows “Why live a miserable life when for 30 bob you can be buried comfortably”. http://www.tunnock.co.uk/about-us/
I kid you not; have a look see for yourself and for those of you who are too young to remember or are among my non British followers, a "bob" was a "shilling" which was 12 pence before decimalisation.

Still, enough of all that; let's get back on the bus and head back to Loch Lomond for an hour's cruise. The weather unsurprisingly as the day was wearing on, was not quite as sunny as it had been in Inverary but it was as picturesque as you would imagine. The boat chugged up the loch with a live commentary in "English" that was completely lost on the French. The main feature was Tarbet Isle or as it is better known, "Honeymoon Isle", so named as newlyweds were left there for a week. If they were still on good terms at the end of the week, it was deemed that the marriage was a success and would last!
After a good dinner, it was off to the bar for coffee for most and a wee whisky for some. We were all soon singing and even had some requests. No, not to be quiet! Just to be sure, I went into the ballroom next door where a quiz about tv programmes was going on and asked a group of women who were sitting out if we were too noisy. They replied "not at all, it's great to see young folk enjoying themselves!". So, there!
Not to be out done, two Scottish women came through and sang too.
The quiz over, it was time to let our hair down and dance. What's more, we fair livened the place up!
Weather:
Warm and sunny. lots of people out getting very red!. Cloudy later
News:
Emanuel Macron won the French Presidential election ahead of Marine Le Pen. In the village he polled 813 to her 605

A Room with a View

6.5.17: A Room with a View

Had a good continental breakfast while some of the French (ie, of the male variety) indulged in a "full Scottish". Mags came around with bags of "tablet" by way of a welcome gift for one and all. If you've no idea what it is, just follow the link and discover the delights of this lovely, sweet melt in the mouth confectionary. No need to mention the calories! https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/wordofmouth/2014/jan/22/how-to-make-perfect-tablet-recipe
Took taxis for the short ride to get our tour bus at the pick up point opposite the airport. I found out later that the bus had come up from Carlise collecting passengers on the way and we continued to do so all the way to the last stop at Largs where we had time for a walk and a coffee. http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/largs/largs/index.html
Of course most of us ended up at the Art Deco "Nardini's" café and ice cream parlour founded in 1935 by Pietro Nardini of whom the actress Daniela Nardini is a descendant. http://www.nardinis.co.uk/ Service was poor but it is an institution and a "must" for visitors.
Our fellow travellers were more elderly than ourselves but were pleasant and good natured in the face of a rather noisy French onslaught.
Our next stop was at the village of Luss on the banks of Loch Lomond where there was time for a wander in the sunshine and a bite to eat.
http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/luss/luss/index.html
As we were just a little too early to check in to the hotel, our driver, Christine, took us on to the "Rest and be Thankful" mountain pass at 235m above sea level http://www.scotlandinfo.eu/rest-and-be-thankful-on-the-a83/ We stretched  our legs, admired and marvelled at such grandiose scenery.
The approach to our hotel was through woods carpetted with bluebells and according to Christine you can see red squirrels if you're lucky. We weren't. As the hotel came into view there was spontaneous clapping from "my group" and I heaved a huge sigh of relief. The interior of Ardgarten Hotel lived up to the photos on their website. Everyone in the group had a large comfy room with a view over Loch Long, a sea loch. Food was good with plenty of choice, there was evening entertainment, the bar prices were very reasonable and there were two Shetland ponies in the grounds. Just a weenie niggle; with 3 coach parties in, of which we were the youngest I might add, food was served in sittings starting at 6.30pm; a bit too structured but with friendly service, it seems a churlish to mention it especially as this 4 day, 3 night tour included dinner, bed and breakfast, travel, a wee cruise and a visit to Mount Stuart House for £196. Jim who was an accountant with an international firm couldn't believe what we getting for the price and had been worried beforehand that it was too good to be true. It wasn't. https://www.lochsandglens.com/our-hotels/ardgartan-hotel
Weather:
Sunny and warm

Scotland, Here We Come!

5.5.17: All Going Smoothly

Took the bulbs out so at least I wasn't wasting any more electricity. Spent the rest of the morning packing before going down to the recreation ground to prepare the apéritif for the Association's boules players. We all had lunch at the bar which didn't leave a lot of time before our rendez-vous for the bus to Barcelona Airport.
I've been quite anxious on and off these last few weeks. I do so hope that the trip will go well. This first part at least did. Everyone (20 of us) was in good spirits and on time for the bus. The driver was helpful and there weren't any hitches en route. No problems with the flight to Prestwick, nor with passing through passport control just before midnight (local time). Jim and Mags, two Scots who live in Manchester and have a holiday home here were there to meet us complete with welcome banner.
Our taxis soon arrived to take us to the Premier Inn just up the road. There was a bit of hassle registering us all as the computer was down and Craig, the receptionist had to do it by hand. He was such a chatty, pleasant lad, well, he was from Glasgow, that no one moaned or groaned. The room that I shared with Nicole P was comfortable and spacious and most welcome after such a long day.
http://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/hotels/scotland/strathclyde/ayr/ayrprestwick-airport.html
Weather:
Sun, cloud, wind

4.5.17: Last Minute Problem

Did a bit of work on the computer before going to the language exchange which I left early to meet with Françoise over a cup of hot chocolate. Can you believe it? In May! Stayed on to be sociable with the exchangers but didn't linger as there was too much to do before my departure for Scotland tomorrow.
Caught up with the blog as far as the end of April and did some ironing. Wouldn't you know that at this late stage, I found that some of the lights in the kitchen wouldn't switch off. Too tired to do more than leave them blazing
Weather:
18°, low heavy cloud coming in from the sea, rain at the end of the afternoon

3.5.17: Twelve Centuries Later
Took all morning sending off and printing out stuff for those on the Scottish trip without computers; had a fix of "The Vikings" over lunch, updated the website, skivvied in our "new" room ready for this evening's workshop and then went home to watch "Their Finest" https://www.theguardian.com/film/2017/apr/20/their-finest-review-bill-nighy-gemma-arterton-lone-scherfig  which was a good antedote to the blood and gore of rampaging Vikings on their way to Valhalla.
Weather:
17°, cloud, damp with weak sun appearing later

 
2.5.17: Pillaging with the Vikings Beats Doing Chores!
Coffee at the bar. Sorted out rooms for the Spanish workshops as our usual venue is undergoing renovations. There's working going on at home too. Dominique secured the tiles around the edge of the sink that were coming unstuck after several years of me balancing on the edge as I tried to reach the top shelf of the cupboard. So, sad to say, my climbing days are over; prudence prevails.
Went to Spanish in the afternoon which was a real trial.
Am currently hooked on the series "The Vikings" so rather than do anything useful, I binged on series 4 and as JJ was coming for supper, I lit the fire as it really was quite chilly and miserable.
Weather:
18°, cloud, weak sun rain later

1.5.17: El Conejo

Coffee with the two Nicoles and lunch with one on the terrace of the bar. Caught up with phone calls, finished research on Scotland, a bit of tv and translated an article for my Spanish homework about a giant rabbit on a flight. Now do you understand why I'm losing heart? Oh and in case you haven't realised, today was a public holiday.
Weather:
18°, sun with cloud later