Bus Stops, Loos and Overpasses

I have a bit of a history on Qype, for reviewing strange places. These include several loos, walls (OK, those usually have Banksy’s or other art on them), pavement furniture and an overpass. I’m rather glad when I find someone else at it. So thanks to Char-lotte who added her own review of Clissold Park Toilets to mine, and also did this rather fabulous review of a set of bus stops. Actually I know the one’s she means… I feel a review coming on…

Other reviews of note I’ve found with a quick browse: Mornington Cresent, and a cellar. I think I like the off-beat ones the best.

Qype: The Real Greek in London

London - Restaurants - International

I headed down here on Sunday, equipped with a 2 mezedes for 1 voucher. On a very glum afternoon it was empty. But then it is the edge of the city, so I guess it will probably be busier in the week. I didn’t fancy sitting in there on my own, so I went for a takeout and had a good look at the building while I was waiting. It seems to be some kind of old industrial or public building. Floors are a mix of wooden, woodblock and tile. Walls include wooden panels, glazed and painted brick. Colours soft browns, accented with lots of little lights everywhere. Very pleasant. Toilets would not have been out of place in an old school building, but OK.

I was promised my order in about 10-15 minutes, and that’s what it took. Staff were lovely and friendly (and seemed very glad to have a customer!). My dishes came in little plastic tubs and cardboard boxes, all in a rather smart paper bag. I ran home over a mile, but it was getting a little cool by the time I got there!

I can’t comment on how ‘authentic’ it all was. But generally it was tasty, and different to much of the food I usually eat. I had Dolmades (vine leaves stuffed with rice, nuts and sultanas): moist and full of flavour. Tiropitakia (feta and spinach parcels): I was doubtful about the inclusion of leek, and I did think the result was a little gloopy, but would be fine if you like leek. Kalamari (squid): only second time I’ve had it, and was much the better of the two, so I’m not sure if the weird texture is how it’s meant to be! The honey and paprika juices were good though. Loukaniko and Gigandes (giant beans and spicy sausage): wonderful. Real cold weather comfort food. On the whole I did find the food a bit rich and could have done with some plain potatoes, salad, fruit juice or maybe alcohol to cut it.

I was happy paying £9 for that with my voucher. Would I have paid twice as much? Hmmm, certainly not every day… I think I might be tempted back for the beans and sausage though.
Check out my review of The Real Greek - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: Longdan Express in London

London

Vietnamese, Chinese and oriental supermarkets seem to be getting quite common these days. Generally they have a wonderful assortment of stuff, all crammed onto shelves that look like they came second hand from Woolworths after a refurbishment 20 years ago. Pretty they are not.

Longdon is different. It’s posh. All the shop fittings are new and ‘designed’. And at the same time the range seems to be even greater. They have freezers full of frozen fish and sea foods, dried stuff, sweet stuff, pot noodles with labels I can’t read, etc. They also have a very tempting array of hot stuff right by the checkout (I fell for a dumpling with a lotus seed filling: never had one hot before, but it was great). And they have food from other ethnic groups too. One lot I’m pretty sure was Polish. There’s even some English stuff. As I left I spotted some signs advertising ‘bubble’ drinks that looked intriguing. Have to try them next time…

I also sort of like the fact they’ve called this ‘Express’. Competing with Tesco perhaps?

Wonderful shop.
Check out my review of Longdan Express - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: The Pet Shop in London

London

This is the sort of shop that gets me very emotional, as it sells live creatures of many kinds (mice, kittens, birds, reptiles, fish…). I do believe pet shops shouldn’t sell live animals. It can be the cause of too much suffering and impulse buying. (For the danger of impulse buying, just read reviews of pet shops on Qype. For the dangers of suffering read pet rescue websites, such as this one). Especially dangerous is when people buy because they feel sorry for the animal stuck in the cage. Of course by doing so they are paying the shop keeper to get another animal to stick in there. The right action if you are upset by the conditions in a shop is to complain to the local council (who licence pet shops) or RSPCA. On the other hand being an animal lover I can’t help being drawn to a place like this, and it was hard walking out after finding myself drawn to one particular kitten…

So, trying to be objective… On the plus side, this place does has a massive range of stuff you’d need to look after all kinds of animals. Crammed full in every corner. The animals are well looked after, in clean cages. The staff seem to care about them. The shop’s own cat is a little grouchy (good thing if you ask me, as a little reminder of how those cute kittens might grow up!). Kittens are kept in Perspex sided pens, so reducing risk of cross infection. They have bedding and toys as well as the basics in their pens. Kittens are priced at £100-£150 pounds which will hopefully put off some impulse buying.

On the negative side (and please note this is true of any such pet shop really, and not just this one in particular…) kittens are being sold unvaccinated at 8 weeks. Ideally they should be sold at 14/15 when they are fully vaccinated and more ready to leave mum (but of course are beginning to get less cute…). It’s all too easy to imagine the impulse buyer who might just raise the £100 and not have the extra for vaccination, microchipping and neutering… They are also advertising multiple breeds of pedigree cats and dogs. As most responsible breeders of pedigrees handle the selling of their litters privately (and the advice is always to see your puppy/kitten with mum…) this suggests they may be coming from puppy/kitten farms with all the problems that involves (mum and dad may spend their lives in pens). Legitimate breeders are also likely to have checked their breeding animals for viruses (eg FLV and FIV in cats, which are potentially deadly and may not show in kittens), and congenital disorders. These could well be present in the ‘accidental’ moggies etc ending up in pet shops.

I’m sure the majority of kittens etc sold from here do end up with nice people (such as the ‘tempted’ person, you maybe, reading this review right now). Just please remember that owning an animal is more than the price on the cage and the time when it’s a cute baby. You may be taking on an animal that will live many years (20 for a cat, maybe longer than you for a parrot), may have hidden health problems and the costs that goes with them, and you will be paying for another to take it’s place in the pet shop pen. If you are not happy with that then just buy your food and toys here, and resist the live stock.

I’ve given it 3 stars as a compromise between my dislike of places selling pets from cages, and the fact that of its type it is a well above average example.
Check out my review of The Pet Shop - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: Hackney Peace Carnival Mural in London

London

Very cheerful mural, on the north side of Dalston Lane close to the junction with Kingsland High Street, facing towards the High Street. It was painted between 1983 and 85, but in spite of it’s age is still in good condition. I’m not too keen on crowds of people, so a picture of one isn’t my favourite subject. But it certainly looks a friendly, fun crowd! Lots of people enjoying themselves. Lots of characters to look at. You can’t help but be drawn in the more you look.

This page gives a better run down of the subjects and history of the mural, but, in brief… It contains many familiar images of peace and left wing movements of the time: anti-nuclear, multicultural. Historical figures are included, plus representatives of groups such as miners. This is against the background of a time when Maggie Thatcher was in power, and strikes and riots were recent history.

What’s nice is that it’s not all imaginary, iconic images: the mural is based on sketches of a real peace carnival in Dalston in 1983. It does bring back some memories!

It’s close to the area where a lot of stuff is currently being demolished to make way for the development of the new tube line, station and ‘Dalston Square’. I think it’s safe, might even be visible from the new Square! Hope so, as it would be a shame to lose this landmark.
Check out my review of Hackney Peace Carnival Mural - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: Pavement Barrier in London

London

These days they are taking down a load of railings along city streets. They’ve realised that actually keeping cars and pedestrians strictly ‘in place’ is counter productive. It encourages drivers to relax, assume people won’t be walking in front of them, maybe speed up a little… and BAM.

I guess somebody who used to plan the barriers must be getting frustrated. Because where there was a nice wide pavement with plenty of space for all, they’ve now put up a set of 3 staggered barriers, so that everybody passing has to walk back and forth across that width and through a narrow gap.

I suspect the idea is to stop cyclists speeding along the pavement. I don’t think I’ve actually seen a cyclist near it since it went up… but is it really worth inconveniencing every person who passes, just because of the occasional 2-wheeled plonker? Hmmm, maybe it’s part of the redevelopment for Dalston Square. If they have these monstrosities all round that I will not be happy! Anyway, actual result… since it’s right by the crossing I come over from the Supermarket, I tend to walk along the road, and rejoin the pavement after it. Great result that. No speeding bikes. Pedestrians on the road. Brilliant.
Check out my review of Pavement Barrier - I am moonrising - on Qype

Gone But Not Forgotten

Thought I’d share this bit of poster art that appeared briefly (and has already gone) on Curtain Road.

In case you can’t read it, the captions says ‘I’m so glad my money’s in a Banksy’. An interesting take on the recession…

PS: since I mentioned filming the other day… this evening they were filming ‘Ashes to Ashes’ on the canal off Southgate Road. Anyone interested… you are probably too late! But you can still play spot the scene when it comes out…

Filming

Film crews are loose in the East End! Actually I’ve seen them quite a few times. Anyway, tonight they are doing some night filming for a new ITV series called, if I heard right, ‘Fix It’. A drama show apparently. The vans are parked up off the bottom end of De Beavoir Square, though I was told they’d not be filming there. The guy pointed towards Kingsland Road. In which case I’d guess they’ll be doing it very late!

Wish them luck in not getting drenched!

Kitten to Cat Event

As part of my work as an alternative cat burglar I recently got invited to a free cat behaviour evening, arranged by the wonderful Kitten to Cat vets practice. It was something of a trek for me, being way over in Richmond, but I’m keen to learn what I can about cat behaviour.

The evening started with a tour of the vets (see my review), then it was across the road to the hall. It was a nice informal venue, with everything needed. School type chairs, clean toilets in odd corners, PowerPoint presentation to go with the talk and trestle table of goodies at the back.

The expert, Francesca Riccomini, didn’t have her talk brilliantly timed and went well over. But I don’t think anyone minded. I think I need more experience before I decide if I agree with everything she said (for instance she said absolutely never try to discipline a cat, doesn’t work, but I think there maybe some very rare circumstances where a quick calm reprimand is appropriate, though maybe only a stop gap?), but I certainly learnt a lot, and also helped me get some stuff I already know into focus. Useful stuff: cats are naturally active at dusk and dawn (so accept it!), cats like to go up high. Not only do cats not like being fed and having their tray close together, but many prefer not to have their water next to their food either. Cats like vertical texture on their scratching post, not horizontal. And as ‘stropping’ is part of their wake-up routine, it’s best to have a post near where they sleep, as well as on major ‘junctions’ where they may wish to ‘mark’. Cats are desert animals, and prefer litter that is granular and clumps (like dessert sand). Cats don’t have dominance/submission systems, and are basically solitary (though they may have ‘friends’ or close lasting bonds with relatives). There was also stuff on problems like inappropriate soiling and over grooming… too much to go into!

At break I got to chat with a load of interesting people: some from another cat sitting service, and a cat breeder. The food was also lovely: fresh green salad, bread, meats, savoury biscuits, chocolate biscuits (and posh ones too…). Hot drinks were available but I went for juice, of which there were several kinds. At the end our expert got a queue of people asking advice and opinions! And my journey home was quicker than expected… Well done to everyone involved! Everyone was calling for follow-up events!

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October Thoughts

OK, it’s now November, but I’ve been looking back over October, and hasn’t it been a strange month? I can hardly believe only a few weeks ago I was doing the Nationwide Swindon Half Marathon, and chucking water over myself to keep cool. Yesterday I was shivering my way round my catsitting rounds, soaked to the skin, face feeling scalded by the freezing rain. This month I had my first break from the job to head out to relatives in Marlborough and do that half. I had time to explore Wootton Bassett, and revisit Longleat (and nearly managed to use up my passport ticket… only the butterfly garden to go!). Coming back I had a couple of days free from my 7 day a week job. And found I got depressed and bored… 7 days a week is bind sometimes. But I guess it actually suits me…

Everyone is depressed over the credit crunch. Meanwhile I have a better job and more money than I’ve had in years. I don’t want to think it might not last.

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The Original Mountain Marathon

They do say you can’t believe what you see on TV. A case in point has been the coverage of the Original Mountain Marathon this week. According to the TV show 8 Out Of 10 Cats it was the 5th most talked about subject this week, and (if I’ve got this quote right) ‘100 mph gales and horizontal rain made this year’s event the funniest ever’. Strangely that may have been some of the most accurate reporting.

My first contact with the story was late on Saturday night, when I saw a report on BBC news 24 that thousands of runners in a charity run had been stranded by bad weather in the Lake District. As many as 2,000 were unaccounted for, and hundreds were taking shelter in barns, and maybe camping out. I hadn’t heard of the event, but with hundreds of events each year that’s not surprising. I was as horrified as anyone at the idea of runners, maybe dressed in shorts and brief tops, caught out in gales and heavy rain in the mountains in October.

Unlike many folks though, I checked out the OMM website. I soon found out that the event was a 2 day one, with folks expecting to spend the night out on the hills in bad weather. In fact they hold it in October to get bad weather. Entrants were in teams of 2, with at least one in each pair expected to be experienced in mountain conditions. All competitors had a kit list including tent, food for 36 hours, spare dry clothes and a cooking stove. Many competitors were themselves mountain professionals, including members of the mountain rescue service. Those unaccounted for were not lost or in trouble, just not yet reported in. Many competitors were delighted with the challenge of rough conditions, disappointed that the race was called off, and bemused to find people had thought they were in trouble. There were injuries, but probably no more than expected during any running of this very tough event. And no deaths, unlike some ‘safer’ events such as Great North Run… One of the worst injuries, a woman who was stranded on an island for a couple of hours (with tent and hot drinks set up by other competitors…) before being airlifted out, is already planning to enter next year.

Over the weekend a total of 17 people attached to the OMM needed ‘rescuing’, including the woman’s helpers who were airlifted out with her. Meanwhile there were 22 separate incidents of other people needing help that were nothing to do with OMM.

Nobody was ‘forced to take shelter’ in barns, schools etc. They expected to sleep out, and many commented that they’d have happily camped in the intended campsite, in spite of it being flooded, if there hadn’t been alternatives. The barn was at the flooded campsite, and open sided and half built, so only suitable for those well kitted out. No ‘taxpayers money’ was spent ‘searching’ for those ‘lost’. Nobody was lost. Those rescued after injury were picked up exactly where they were expected to be. Mountain Rescue is paid for by donations, not tax. The RAF would have had to make up a training exercise to spend the money on if they hadn’t had the opportunity for a real bit of experience flying their helicopter around.

It would be impossible to summarize the posts I’ve been following on the OMM website… Highlights include ‘balloon beds’ popping in the barn, requests for the return of a map last seen disappearing at 80 miles an hour, and a thread calling for the banning of helicopter commuting (a dig at the slate mine attraction owner who earned gratitude by giving folks shelter, then pissed them off by starting the whole media circus with comments about the Lake District being turned into a morgue).

They’ve also debated what to overprint the official T-shirts with. ‘Unaccounted For’ was a big favourite. The eventual choice was ‘You had to be there’. Having been entranced all this week, I rather wish I had. Maybe one day.

In a society where life is very much about playing safe, finding someone to sue if you get hurt, and never being without your mobile, it’s refreshing to find a gang of folks like this. Testing themselves with great good humour, and ready to sleep in a bog and get themselves out of trouble if that’s what it takes.

Qype: Lidl in London

London - Food & Drink - Supermarkets

Fair sized branch of Lidl. They have a car park out front. Inside it’s definitely more spacious (and therefore less tense!) than the Finsbury Park branch. Usual eclectic selection of European supermarket goods, usually labelled in a range of languages, and specials of all kinds.

Even though this place is quite close to me, it’s sort of off my usual paths. And for me it’s the sort of place to drop in to see what they’ve got, rather than make a regular trip for the weekly shop. I always enjoy a look when I am passing though. First stop is to look at the ‘offers’ board outside. The other day I spotted a fleece scarf, hat and gloves set for a fiver and got all excited, and was disappointed not to be able to locate it inside. Though I was tempted by timer sockets for a couple of quid each…

They also currently have some really tempting Christmas sweeties and biscuits…

Back outside I realised the board was advertising specials for next week… I think I may be back!
Check out my review of Lidl - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: Recycling on Downham Road in London

London

Yep, now I’m reviewing a street corner. And a pretty bleak one at that, at the junction of Downham and Kingsland roads. Though that’s partly due to the building work going on: warehouse apartments overlooking Kingsland Basin which will probably be much in demand!

Meanwhile… recycling facilities are, I’m glad to say, springing up all over the place in Hackney. This lot includes bins for glass, cans, plastic bottles, paper and clothing. It’s notable to me as they’ve also got some brand spanking new bins for ‘beverage cartons’ aka tetra packs. I had a bag full I was intending to take over to Islington. This is still a bit of a trek from home, but nothing like that far!

Now they just need to bring in recycling of cardboard and compostable waste for us none-street level folks. I’ve been told it’s coming…
Check out my review of Recycling on Downham Road - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype Party and Ghost Walk: the photography event

Once again Qype have produced a great little event to entertain us. An evening based at the very pleasant Hop Cellars, and including a potter around London’s riverside with some bloomin good stories. Click on the links for my Qype reviews of the event and the venue. I hope to do a separate review of the walk later…

A great evening, and no real complaints, but for me the amount of photography going on did end up being an annoyance. I don’t really want to come out ‘against’ it, as I know many people enjoy the pictures. Plus, heck, Qype lays on these events, and it’s good for them for there to be loads of pictures. But it did become an annoyance for me, and I can’t help wondering if I was the only one? It would be a shame if some folks ended up keeping away from these events because they don’t want flashes going off in their faces every few minutes.

I’m sort of agnostic about getting my picture taken. I don’t mind the odd one, but when it comes to Qype I do sort of like to be a bit anonymous. That’s why I don’t have my picture on my Qype profile. It reduces the chance a venue is going to recognise me the moment I walk through the door (as if they would! Maybe I just like playing the big reviewer!) Also when taking pictures myself I’m careful about other people. Sometimes you can’t avoid getting them in (I do try…), but if you see someone actually featured in my pictures then I’ve asked if they mind being on a website. I think it’s common courtesy and I sort of expect it of other photographers too.

So on this night out I found myself constantly moving to avoid the lens of one photographer in particular. At times it felt like he was actually trying to catch me out. Maybe just being a little obsessive on my part, but if true then really out of order as far as I’m concerned. I also felt for the guy leading the walk, though he didn’t complain. Every place we stopped he had flashes in his face several times. Then the camera would be turned on the crowd. I mean, did the picture really change that much according to which brick wall folks were standing against? I can understand taking pictures of locations. But nope, this guy just wanted to take pictures of people at every stop. Obsessive, catalogued, recording rather than art if you ask me. OK, I know that the more pictures you take, the more chance of getting that really good one. But sometimes it really is better to get a few pics then relax and enjoy, and actually experience, an event.

Remember too that this is outside at night. Of course with streetlights everywhere it wasn’t too dark. But I still feel that camera flashes are not going to help with any possibility of adjusting to the dark and seeing into dark corners. Low lighting makes the flashes more unpleasant too.

You could fairly argue that any Qype event is a media event and anyone there is fair game for the Qype papparazi. Yep, though it’s a point I think bears discussion. What do the folks attending really want? For or against constant heavy photography? It’s seems to be becoming more and more socially accepted that certain categories of people are fair game for photography, whatever they say. Including all celebrities and attendees at some events. On the other hand I’ve been to quite a few SF conventions with actors attending, and at those it’s not considered polite to blind the guests. The general rule is that during talks flash photography is allowed just for the first few minutes. If you see a guest in the corridors you ask before taking a picture. At autograph sessions pictures may be with the guest only, permission only, or totally banned. Maybe we need some ground rules at Qype events too? Discussion welcome…

Nationwide Swindon Half

Last Sunday was my third time at this event, and I really didn’t know what was going to happen. Recently with my job I’ve been travelling long miles every day (and I do mean 7 days a week), on foot, bus and bike, and suffering with my knees. Except for a little on my rounds I’ve not really been running. So coming into this I was sure I had the endurance, but no idea how my body would react to running. I wasn’t too sure how my knees would hold up. I also felt a little off colour the day before and on the morning.

As per usual it was a fabulous event. I wouldn’t have minded too much if the morning mist had persisted. Instead it largely cleared and the sun beat down. For most of the way I was carrying two bottles: one of the energy drink provided, and another of water to splash myself down with! Last year was also hot, and two people collapsed in the last mile, so I wasn’t taking any chances.

I set out taking it fairly easy. Pushing a little, but not expecting too much. At halfway I was doing OK so I started to push on a little, overtaking several people along the way. And in the end… well, I didn’t get a PB for the half marathon, but I did get it for this event. 3:13:23, which is around 2 minutes off the best I’ve done at Swindon before.

Reasonably happy. As I build more running into my rounds at work I think I could see some definite improvement.

My thighs were extremely sore for several days. Not used to the running motion… especially up and down hills!

Useful

Well I’m back in the East End Outpost in Marlborough again. Just had to post something that creased me up in Sainsbury the other day. I was looking for glucosamine in among the vitamins and minerals. One tub had a very useful label:

“This package contains a security device that is not microwaveable”

So there you go. If you are going to nick glucosamine please don’t microwave it.

Qype: Spitalfields Market in London

London - Shopping - Markets

So the old building has completed it’s makeover, and on the whole I like it… I think other’s have covered the market really. On my most recent visit I only had eyes for the surroundings. To the nice old hall they’ve added brushed metal ligh fittings in the ceiling. And various elements in pastel-lighted glass. It sounds like it would all clash, but actually it works. The glass work is rather lovely, with panels of glowing colour at the gates, a lift shaft with moving images and another building covered in writing in subtle, but glowing tones.

On the downside: one of my memories of this place is having my first Mexican at one of the slightly ramshackle stalls they had in a food court area. That area seems to have been lost, and replaced by new, posh restaurants. I think they have a sushi chain coming in… Nothing against chains, but I’d have liked to have kept those old informal and individual food stalls.
Check out my review of Spitalfields Market - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: De Beauvoir Town in London

London

De Beauvoir Town covers an area, formally an estate owned by the family of that name, stretching from the canal to Ballspond Road. In 1821 William Rhodes acquired a building lease, without stipulations of what was to be built. He planned a layout involving a grid pattern, with a central Octagon and with streets going out to four circular squares around that.

However development was piecemeal and there were legal problems with the De Beauvoir family. As a result only parts of his original plans came to fruition, with some roads visible on the diagonal to the general grid, and De Beauvoir Square, originally intended to the be South East square, being the only one that actually exists. I’ve put the flag on what would have been the octagon. Though many of the streets have lovely old houses of various ages, size and design (a favourite for those that want the prized N1 postcode, while appreciating Hackney rather than Islington prices), to the South are some of the most depressing council estates around.

It’s a lovely area to wander around, as long as you stay North of Downham Road. Northchurch road is closed to through car traffic, but not bikes, so can be full of whizzing commuters at certain times of day! St Peter’s Church, on the corner of De Beauvoir Square, has a café in the crypt. The N1 Garden Centre is definitely a hidden gem.

A much more in depth story and maps can be found at the website given. Another slant on the story is given at http://www.benyonestate.com/page.jsp?ID=2

Only just written, but just had to add… this area was also until recently home to the Mole Man: http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2006/aug/08/communities.uknews and was apparently used in the filming of 28 Weeks Later.
Check out my review of De Beauvoir Town - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: McDonald's Restaurant in London

London - Restaurants - Take Away

Visited recently, though to be honest I can’t remember what I had. Probably a double cheeseburger grabbed on the way to an appointment…

What I did notice was the décor. While this has had a makeover to the new McDonald’s colour scheme, it’s rather noticeable that there’s not a comfy sofa or posh chair in site… Is that a comment on what McDonald’s expects of Hackney central? LOL
Check out my review of McDonald's Restaurant - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: The Plant Room in London

London

Funny the things you discover a road somewhere as you are passing… In this case it’s one of the major roads coming into Old Street, but not a very pedestrian one. I was walking along, when beyond the speeding cars I noticed firstly some rather good graffiti art, and secondly a load of plant pots around the bottom of a billboard hoarding. I nearly passed on, but was just too tempted, and braved the crossing.

On closer inspection I found a little corner of land, enclosed with a high wire fence, and in the shadow of a huge hoarding. Here rows of shelving have been set up, holding row on row of large pots. Those pots contain a massive variety: some are empty, others contain flowers, other vegetables. I wasn’t sure what I was looking at: a garden centre maybe?

A sign on the fence revealed all. It’s actually a clever twist on allotments, with local residents being able to hire a row of pots to grow what they like. What a great idea!
Check out my review of The Plant Room - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: International Cheese Centre in London

London

Fabulous little shop specialising in cheese of course. If you want to get some Stinking Bishop or a genuine Swiss fondue kit this is the place. Or for some bloomin good Cheddar…

They don’t just do cheeses though. They have a mouth watering selection of chutneys and preserves. Loads of pates (including Fois Gras… I’m hoping it’s the ethical version… I don’t want to ask…), port, and even Kendal Mint Cake. If I had to sum up this place I’d say it was a British Deli, if such a thing exists, and allowing for the occasional Swiss and French cheese…

They also do an excellent range of sandwiches. With the exception of a token turkey sandwich they all include cheese. And of course it’s not just cheese, but specified types of cheese, whether cheddar, brie or soft, in ploughman’s, with chutney, with ham… etc. All fresh cut and simply wrapped in clingfilm. Prices start under £3, so very competitive too.
Check out my review of International Cheese Centre - I am moonrising - on Qype

A Brief Diversion On Food

Having discovered a few old favourite ingredients (see review of The Grocery, below), I thought I’d write down a couple of favourite uses for them. I should make clear I am not Gordon Ramsey.

1) Take a mug, half fill it with raw couscous. Crumble in two thirds of a Kallo tomato and herb stock cube. Nearly fill with boiling water. Stir. Add a few chunks of nice rich flavoured cheddar. Stir again. Wait till the couscous absorbs the water then eat with a spoon.

2) Make a sandwich with hearty brown bread (one with bits in is ideal), avocado, miso and raw garlic.

I did say I wasn’t Gordon Ramsey… That first one is the equivalent of a pot noodle (and I wouldn’t be surprised if someone told me it’s no healthier). The second one is a lot better than you might be thinking, though not suitable before a night out of course! (I also got it off someone else).

I also used to make a stew with the stock cubes, though it’s a while… If I remember correctly the ingredients were the stock cubes, potato, plantain and unsweetened crunchy peanut butter…, and probably some garlic? (and yes, I do mean ordinary potatoes not sweet potato or yam! I am English…). Potatoes sautéed off a little before the rest was added, plantain a firm one so it didn’t turn to pulp. Maybe when I have a cooker…

Qype: The Grocery in London

London - Not yet categorized

I’ve several times looked around here, then, being flat broke, gone out empty handed. Being a little richer this month I was at last able to buy… bliss! I came out with three things on the ‘I haven’t had that for ages’ list: Kallo tomato and herb stock cubes, chocolate soya desert and jar of barley miso (complete with instruction not to worry if stuff grew on the top!). Wonderful! Yes, the prices are not exactly cheap, but I’m still not exactly rich, and I found a few things…

The store is also lovely. Old white supporting columns, brick walls and woodblock floor. They have a little café area where apparently you can get a massage several days a week (I think it was £10 for 15 minutes). There was also a cat wandering about. Any place that has a cat gets extra points from me.
Check out my review of The Grocery - I am moonrising - on Qype

Once You’ve Started You Can’t Stop

I’ve been poor for a while. On the whole I think it’s not so bad as people make out. People with the money to buy big cars and houses just end up struggling to find the money to repair them. Maybe it’s better to go around on public transport and live in a council house really.

But being really, seriously poor (well, by our country's standards anyway) does result in a wearing out of pretty important stuff eventually… I’ve been living for a while with the fridge with an ice monster that periodically wedges the door open and melts all over the floor. The loose screw in my glasses is held in with selotape (and when you are basically blind without them, that’s an issue). Then there’s the cold tap in the kitchen that won’t turn on, and the hot tap in the bathroom that won’t turn off, so that I have to keep the water heating turned off unless I actually need it. (OK, that’s not actually a money issue, being in a council flat, but getting them fixed means time off work, when I’m trying to save to sort the rest…). Not to mention the microwave that works, but makes and extremely loud noise crossed between whale song (and remember whale song travels thousands of miles…) and a car being crushed.

After a totally mad August in my new job as an alternative cat burglar, I’ve finally got a little money and a little time. At which point both my cooker and my computer broke down in the same week… New glasses and fridge will have to wait! And I’m wondering how long it is before the neighbours ask why I’m crushing cars in my flat, as the microwave is my only way to cook.

So anyway… I got the hot tap fixed on an emergency evening call. And a new computer is working well and looking good. My new tower, keyboard and mouse are natty black and silver. Unfortunately my old screen and printer are yellowed cream. There’s also the issue of my old speakers… Plug them in the back and play, right? Wrong… After plug in the computer presented me with a nice little menu of options. Definitely not a mic…. But were my speakers side speakers? Tried… no… next hole. This time I tried ‘Centre/Sub Woofer’. Now, personally, in my opinion the only excuse anyone has for having a sound system that makes the ground shake is that they are providing it for deaf people, or are mad enough to want to become deaf themselves. I have no intension of ever deliberately being in possession of a sub-woofer. However with only one cable, maybe ‘centre’ was the appropriate position for my speakers? Nope… still nothing coming out.

So I scratched my head, and thought a little about what has only one cable going to two sound-producing units… tried the option. Embarrassingly it worked.

Yep, I have speakers so crap my computer thinks they are headphones.

And I’ve added a new screen to ‘The List’.

The List will never die.

Qype: Planet Organic in London

London

I had to check out this new shop, just opened on Essex Road. There was a problem though… I had my bike with me. I looked around and the only place to secure it was a lamppost right on the edge of the curb. I’ve seen too many such lampposts with attached bikes that have fallen into the road and been mashed to be happy about that… I looked back at the shop. Nice wide aisles, not too crowded… and decided to take the bike in with me. Something I have done in other shops with mixed results! It’s sort of not done is it? But when have you ever seen a ‘no bikes’ sign?

Anyway I got most of the way round the shop, looking at the veggies, the hot food counter… found myself a jar of miso (so much more practical than sachets) when a woman came up and asked me to take the bike out, as it was a health and safety hazard. I asked her how exactly it was a health and safety hazard, was it going to attack someone maybe? Unable to come up with an answer, she disappeared into the back…

I was feeling sort of devilish, so when a guy appeared I was up for a good argument. I was informed that they just didn’t allow bikes. ‘You wouldn’t take it into the supermarket would you?’ Erm, actually my bike has been in Tesco, and anyway, as far as I could see I was actually in a supermarket right that minute. ‘You wouldn’t take it into a bank!’ Too right I would if there was no-where to park it. ‘It’s a health and safety hazard: if the pedal hit someone’s ankle we’d be liable’. I was being careful, but at last a halfway valid point. I did however point out that pushchairs, in that case, were just as much of a hazard. He shrugged, apparently seeing I also had a half valid point.. ‘You can’t leave a pushchair outside though’. Yes you can, you can take the child out and lock the chair up outside… (maybe I should have asked what he’d do about a bike with an occupied child seat…)

Anyway at that point he decided to stop arguing and just ask me firmly to take the bike out. I wasn’t quite done though, as I asked him how come a store that was supposed to be ethical hadn’t catered for bikes. He claimed they are applying for planning permission for bike racks. Seems a bit strange to me that they left it till after the store was re-built. Anyway, I calmly handed him my jar of miso and left, saying I’d be back when they got the bike racks. And spent quite a while after giggling to myself…

I don’t hate them for banning my bike, and I only argued because I was in the mood for a good debate. But it is a good point I think: what is a store like this doing without provision for bikes? Even the Tesco’s just down the road has loads of bike racks (where my bike has waited for me on several occasions). So one star lost.

What I really hate is stores that won’t let me go in with my cat in her basket…
Check out my review of Planet Organic - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: Newington Green in London

London - Food & Drink - Fruit & Veg

What a fabulous shop! I only went in for a peep, soon found myself buying stuff, and wasn’t unhappy with the bill! Prices were much cheaper than the supermarket.

In many ways it’s a traditional fruit and veg shop. Great mounds and trays of stuff, from which you can choose as much or as little as you want. But the variety is wonderful. All the basics of course, but they also sell bunches of herbs (and trays of herb sprouts), just about any fruit or veg you could come up with, and probably some you hadn’t thought of too. I got some fresh dates, which I’ve never had before. I was able to buy just a few to try (which is good, as I found them OK but not wonderful!)

It’s also environmentally friendly. Very few items are pre-packed, and they encourage you to bring your own bag. They’ll sell you a biodegradable bag if you don’t have one. Of course much of the produce is organic too.

The position on the map is close but no gold star. Start at Newington Green itself , and walk along Newington Green Road on the side with the shops (opposite the flag in fact…) and you’ll find it.
Check out my review of Newington Green - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: Tesco Express in London

London - Food & Drink - Convenience Stores

Updated Below....

This is a small, new branch of Tesco, but with a very well chosen stock and a location which seems a bit in the middle of nowhere but is actually good. It’s on the route for those walking or getting the bus from the city (and even better in a few years when it will be right next to a new tube station… clever…), and in an area which doesn’t have major supermarkets close by. The well chosen stock even includes some things that bigger stores don’t have: e.g. my favourite Tesco mid range yoghurts including a hazelnuts flavour which actually tastes of hazelnuts, not caramel like some do.

All of which is a bit annoying, because it’s a bit of a lottery if you are going to get your shopping out in one piece! All’s fine until you get to the checkout. They are those tiny little things with nowhere to put your own bag and I always seem to get a server who insists on packing for you and hasn’t got a clue. If you’ve got a nice soft loaf of bread or bag of salad that goes in the bag first (I actually asked once, and was told their system is largest thing first, duh). Heavy tins and a carton of juice get dumped on top squashing it nicely and sticking out at angles so the carton threatens to pierce the bag. A lasagne goes in on its side, so all the layers fall down and can’t be smoothed back so when you cook it you end up with a pool of sauce one side and dry leather pasta the other. Then they take those nice yoghurts and literally throw them in, landing on one of the protruding edges of the carton and ending up with a hole in the foil top. I’m not kidding, all this has happened, though admittedly not all at once... Then when I stop at a free checkout to repack they look daggers at me like I’m doing it just to annoy them.

For some reason I try and avoid this place. But it’s just too convenient. Arrrrgggghhhh!

*****UPDATE********

I wasn’t exactly delighted by this place originally. It scraped two points because it was convenient and stocked yoghurts I like. Well they’ve stopped stocking the yoghurts, and I now find it very inconvenient that they are occupying the space a better store could be using. I’ve also narrowly avoided being seriously short changed on 3 occasions. I managed to raise a fuss and got my money on all occasions, but it’s too much.

First time I was given change for a fiver instead of a tenner. Second time involved mis-labelled Pringles. They had two types on the shelf, but only one price label, just over a pound if I remember correctly. So I went for the ‘normal’ ones to be sure of getting the low price. Needless to say at the till I found myself getting charged about £2… I raised hell, thinking I was getting charged for the expensive type, only to be told the label was an old one from a promotion and wrong for both types of Pringles and I’d have been charged even more for the others… LOL! I did end up getting shelf-advertised price. But check out this blog…

Final incident I was expecting to get £6.03 change from £10. I was not happy when I got handed 3p….

I can’t help wondering how many times I’ve been ripped off without realising!

I quite like some Tesco stores… but I never want to enter this one again.

Check out my review of Tesco Express - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: The Offside Bar in London

London - Pubs & Bars - Bars - Sports Bars

I think sports bars are for people who like football. I don’t like football. I once tried very hard to like football because someone I like likes it. I watched two whole half games. One was very boring as it just involved people running backwards and forwards after a ball and not very much happening. Really rolling a ping pong ball around in a tray would have been as much fun. The other had lots of fouls and was much more interesting. I can’t help but think that if a game is more interesting when people cheat, maybe something is lacking from the game.

I have a strong suspicion that for most fans it’s more about the other fans than the game. It’s a group ritual. More specifically, it’s a generally a male ritual.

So there’s me, stopping off to top up my phone on the way to the Qype 1 year birthday party. So while I was there I asked if they knew the Offside Bar. Yes they did… ‘You mean the sports bar?’ in a tone that said very clearly that I did not look like the regular clientele. Having confirmed I was indeed going in the right direction I headed on. I bet they thought I was a kissogram or something.

Anyway, the bar… City Road is pretty bleak. The bar has bright green bits outside. Bright green has a tendency to remind me of the Tommy Knockers (as in Stephen King). Here it also has absolutely nothing, as far as I can see, to do with the Irish. Inside the bar is verging on bleak as well. If it was empty it would be a huge gaping space, with bar at one end and a raised area with comfy seating at the other. I have no idea how full it usually is, but for us it was ideal. That big space was full with lots of tables. Most folks got seated, which is good for a pub if you ask me.

I only actually visited the bar once. I had my doubts when they said they were out of cider… but the staff seemed nice, and did rustle up a can of Diamond White, which was nice. They also put on a massive spread of food. Quite varied too, with stuff for fry fans (e.g. onion rings), via posh (prawns on sticks), sandwiches (ham and pickle) to salad. I think some of it came out of packets, but if so they were good quality packets and very tasty. The ladies loos had seen better days, with one door being minus a lock and loo roll on the top of the cistern rather than in the holder. Clean though.

As to the famous photographs… Yep, very good. I’m not a massive sports photography fan, but some of the photos were interesting. I did have a bit of a laugh over some in the loos. They have mirrors with pictures superimposed. E.g. one with some footballer, sprawled seductively, with his ball resting between his legs. LOL

I’m not exactly qualified to award stars to a sports bar, but I have to try… To be honest coming back here on a normal day to watch football appeals about as much as eating gravel. But on our night the atmosphere was great, the staff was friendly, there was plenty of seating (yes, we ran out, but there was more proportionally than you’d get in many pubs I reckon), and the place has individuality thanks to the photography. So I’m giving it a 4…

Check out my review of The Offside Bar - I am moonrising - on Qype

Back It Up!

Things I have learnt this week:

1. As soon as you get out of the habit of backing up your files, you'll get the dreaded 'master hard drive fail' message. Bye bye files...
2. Libraries are quite useful for emergency internet access.
3. That message doesn't always mean the hard drive has actually failed...

In my case it looks like it may actually be the motherboard, and I may be able to plug my old drive into my new computer, and get the files off. But the message is the same: go back up your important stuff NOW!

Meanwhile, sorry for the silence while I wait for my new computer to arrive...

Perspectives

It’s amazing how a mode of transport can change your perspective. We all create mental maps of environment. Change the way you move, and suddenly the map has to change too.

I’ve always been a walker to a certain extent. I don’t have a car, so for years I’ve been limited to going where I can walk or maybe, just occasionally, get a bus or the tube. A few times as a youngster I did walks across London, probably up to 10 miles, maybe more. But in time my footsteps began to carve regular, shorter, tracks.

Starting running was the first thing to open up my world. For the first time I discovered the local parks and canals which at most I’d walked through or over before. It got even better when I started doing long distance. Travelling 15 miles on foot is an amazing experience. Places that were once isolated dots, connected only by a string of tube line, suddenly become parts of a whole. And you find yourself seeing places you’d never venture otherwise.

Of course, even a long distance runner can ignore these possibilities. I’ve always been, perhaps, a little naughty with my tendency to stop off at a museum or two on a long run, rather than keeping going straight on. I don’t reckon it spoils the impact of that training distance really though.

A whole new perspective has come with the addition of a bike. In many cases I’m going to the same places, but with a whole new way of looking. Looking for green traffic lights instead of red, and the difficulties of turning right. Or the places where a road goes through a dip with the pavement high above. Places that were far away, whether by foot or public transport, brought closer. And looking for railings to lock my bike to… I still get to feel superior to car drivers as I wiz down bike lanes and between bollards set to keep them out. Suddenly even rush hour has a positive. Gridlocked cars are easy to ride past, and actually make turning right easier. I’ve never moved so fast at 5.30 pm in London.

I read some years ago that some massive percentage of people never goes more than 100 feet from their car. When driving up mountains they’ll park, maybe walk a little up a path, take a few pictures and head back. They never go somewhere unless there’s a car park. I’m even more gobsmacked by some runners, who, having done a run, then go out and measure it with their cars. It is possible to measure a run online or get a gps system… Besides rather undoing any ‘good’ from running by going round belching out car fumes, it must make their runs a lot less pleasant than mine. Confining themselves to roads where their car can go? Maybe breathing in the exhaust fumes of some other runner measuring their run? Why, when they have the option of so many more possibilities with the car’s needs left behind?

Whatever form of transport you use, and personal rules you impose, the world takes on a different shape, and even looks different.

Not Left Behind By The Cat

Since I became an alternative cat burglar (I let myself into people’s houses when they are away, and play with their cats), kitties have featured large in my life. I have a feeling in coming months I may be posting on different breeds, different types of litter… but this tale only really features cats as an aside. The punch line has little to do with them. Honest.

Some years ago when they were emptying the then infamous Holly Street estate, with the intention of knocking it down and building it better, I found an abandoned cat, crying outside a row of boarded-up houses. I took him in, thankfully keeping him separate from my own cats, as it turned out he was infected with the rather nasty cat virus FLV (which can be vaccinated against…). He was also elderly and had a failing liver (which in cats can be caused by a few days without food…). After a few weeks I had to take the hard decision to have him put to sleep. On my way home from the vets I found a wooden box, just right for a planter for outside my flat. I carried it home, the red stain on it covering my hands. In my head it will always be Amos’s box.

It did get planted with flowers a few times. But money seems to have got shorter and shorter. So like many people I ended up with a box of empty soil sitting outside. It was not to stay empty… a neighbour’s cat starting using it as a toilet. Cleaning it out was not a nice job, and including throwing out a lot of the soil. After which I covered it with a board and forgot about it once more. A few times I noticed the ‘lid’ knocked half off and cursed other neighbours coming by as I pushed it back on.

Then those neighbours complained about the smell... Actually I suspect their toddler took the top off (she’s into everything…) and they were horrified. Because it’s somehow acquired another load of poo. Maybe the cat got in those times the lid was half off… but I’m not totally sure. Anyway, another round of cleaning up, another layer of soil chucked. And here’s where it gets strange. Because along with those distinctive red rubber bands from the post man (maybe he was the one left it open… don’t you just love it when the postmen leave litter?) there was, buried quite deep, an unopened 3 pack of condoms, expiry date 2006.

I did wonder if it was some subtle insult to myself. But then it would have made more sense to put them through the door. Or did some teenage lad plan a tryst outside my door, hiding the goodies for his girl. Or maybe there’s a pervert around with a thing for leaving condoms in plant pots. We’ll never know. But I think I’m going to throw out all the soil and start with fresh…

Qype: Vancouver in Welt

Welt

I rather wanted to have the first review of places in Vancouver on Qype. I was waiting for it to be added to the database of places… and got beaten by the Germans, who didn’t wait. Sniff. Never mind, here’s the first ENGLISH review for Vancouver. I think I’ll stick to the German convention of placing Vancouver, Canada in Welt, Germany. It’s sort of amusing… Welt is both a real place in Germany and the German word for ‘World’.

First a little questionnaire for you:

1) What environment will you find around Vancouver?
a. Tundra
b. Rainforest
c. Desert
2) What two main languages will you find spoken in Vancouver?
a. English
b. German
c. French
d. Chinese
3) Which of these was filmed in and around Vancouver?
a. Stargate SG1
b. X-Men movies
c. X-Files
d. Smallville

Answers to be found in the following text… Vancouver is the unofficial capitol of British Columbia (the official one being Victoria, which is, quite ironically, on Vancouver Island). It’s built on a river delta, with nearby Richmond (officially a separate town now, but locals aren’t precious about it) and the airport actually being on low-lying flat islands. The climate is not the ice and snow associated with Canada. In fact it rarely snows in Vancouver itself, though rain is frequent. However it’s surrounded by high mountains where the rain gives way to snow, making for good ski-ing very close to town. These mountains are also covered in temperate rainforest. Huge red cedar trees, dripping with moss and ferns.

Vancouver has a large Chinese population. In many areas street signs are in both English and Chinese (Cantonese is the most common dialect apparently). If you like Chinese food you’ll find plenty! The Dr Sun Yat-Sen Garden is also reputed to be the only authentic classical Chinese garden outside China. Diverging a little, food is generally excellent, often superb quality, including local seafoods, and reasonably priced.

Not forgetting the First Nations: this being the largely preferred term to refer to the local native/indigenous peoples. Totem poles greet you at the airport, and their stylised representations of eagles, ravens, orca, salmon etc are common motifs on T-shirts and more.

Another population that’s influenced Vancouver is the influx of American draft-dodgers during the Vietnam war. There’s now quite a few aging hippies live in Vancouver! On the positive side Vancouver is very lively in terms of culture and arts, and has a thriving gay scene. On the negative side there are areas with major drug problems. Avoid the Downtown area if you don’t want to be pestered by beggars supporting drug habits (and possibly worse if you get unlucky or stupid). This area is centred around the junction of Main and Hastings (and is easy to wander into if walking between the tourist areas of Gastown and Chinatown). Some advise avoiding Hastings east of Cambie Street. Pender Street is generally considered a safer route.

These days Vancouver is also popular as a film location for Americans looking for somewhere a bit cheaper to film than LA… Everything listed in (3) was filmed here! (Smallville is nearby Cloverdale) If you wander around downtown you’ll usually find at least one film crew somewhere!

For the tourist Vancouver is a great place to visit. Locals are very friendly and service standards are high. It’s not somewhere for those that want sun, sand and boozing. But if you’d like stunning natural scenery, water sports and winter sports, wildlife (whale watching is a must), good food and culture, (including First Nation culture of course…), then it’s amazing. UK visitors will find exchange levels to their advantage. But look out for tax… prices in shops etc do not include this, and it will be added at the till! You should keep receipts for large purchases and accommodation (not other services unfortunately) and claim back this tax (forms at the airport, allow time to get them and get your receipts stamped when you leave, services that offer to do it for you aren’t really worth it: it’s easy).

Public transport is excellent: I’d recommend you don’t hire a car unless you are driving well out of town.

More reviews of places in Vancouver and the area coming up…

Check out my review of Vancouver - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: Organic and Natural in London

London

Clapton is not always the nicest area. Though it has some very nice houses around, it also has a main street with many run down and in some cases derelict buildings, and some of the local pubs have a very bad reputation. Recently there’s been moves made to bring it up to scratch: the overhaul of Clapton Pond being one.

Organic and Natural is either desperately out of place, or a foretaste of what’s to come. It’s the sort of shop you might expect to find in posh Islington. A very fine wholefoods store, selling not just the basics, but stuff you might also find in an upmarket delicatessen. As well as the dried beans and meat-free stuff they also sell organic meats (including a sausage that’s apparently been voted second best in the world), an incredible range of seasonings, fresh breads and premium chocolate truffles.

They also have a snack bar in the back, selling coffee and baguettes (e.g. one with thick slices of proper brie and grapes. I always think brie looks like what you get on the top of a cup of a milky drink forgotten in a teenager’s bedroom, but those who do like it may want to take note).

Prices are not cheap, but favourably compare to what you’d pay in Islington. I think I may be heading up to this shop for a few presents this Christmas…

Check out my review of Organic and Natural - I am moonrising - on Qype

Qype: Butlins in Bognor Regis

Bognor Regis - Travel & Hotels - Holiday Parks

I visited this camp a couple of years ago for an SF convention. I won’t go into that (it had its own problems), but the venue was a nightmare.

I was sharing with a friend who uses a wheelchair: she can walk short distances, but has chronic severe pain, is sensitive to cold and has sleeping problems. On arrival at the station we found out that the ‘accessible’ taxis could only take folding chairs, not her powered one, so we had to make our own way to the camp. Not too much fun with heavy bags to carry.

We’d been told that the convention goers would have their own area of villas, well away from other groups using the camp that weekend. Our ‘accessible’ chalet was tiny. Getting the chair in and out was like doing one of those puzzles where you slide bricks about and it had to be left, basically, in the way. It was cold (yes, it was winter, but we’d been told the heating would be up to it) and the sliding door to the loo had to be lifted up so my friend couldn’t close it unless I was around to open it again for her. (We also discovered we both snore, and spent the night alternately keeping each other awake, but I guess that’s not the venue’s fault… except we’d had to push the beds together to get the chair in…)

The second day we did get moved to a newly built accessible two bedroom chalet, which was much nicer. 2 bedrooms, HUGE bathroom, (wet room style so the shower could be used with a chair or a fold-down seat), living room with kitchen. Pretty amazing! (Though I did have to pin some towels over the bathroom windows: staff gave me the pins!). Unfortunately it’s there we discovered the other major problem…

The other big group there that weekend was for Butlin’s own ‘adults only’ weekend. Basically stags, hens and others up for mayhem. Don’t get me wrong, SF fans can party. Some of us even drink, and miss the morning talks because we’ve been up all night. And people have been known to get injured while dancing to ‘Star Trekkin’ (I’m serious, someone had to go to hospital at one con I went to, and I’ve had bruises myself). But generally we party in the party area, are fairly quiet on the way back to our rooms, don’t play loud music there and shut up if asked.

Anyway, we basically got kept up every night after by upstair’s loud music and what sounded like acrobatic displays complete with thumping and cheers (though they were too drunk for that), and had to call security several times to shut them up. We didn’t have the energy to ask for another move. And it probably wouldn’t have helped… Back in the SF con’s allocated accommodation area they had people from the other group passing through on their way home. Shouting, screaming and banging on all the doors as they went. Very scary apparently. Some friends came back one night to find a couple banging on their doorstep, and in this case I don’t mean knocking.

If that wasn’t enough, we shared some venues. Our talks hall was used for their disco at night. One day I went to kneel in the aisle to take a picture and felt a wet patch. Though it had been slightly cleaned there was still enough vomit in the carpet to leave a lovely pink patch on my jeans. On the last morning I did actually (not politely) ask someone I saw coming out upstairs if they minded they’d wrecked our weekend, to which the (also not polite) response was that no, he just wanted to get laid (he put it somewhat less delicately). Though they were a load of louts, I have to lay the blame with Butlins. They’d come expecting to be able to ‘live it up’ all weekend, so being told to shut up must have been annoying. They’d also been giving a list of venues available to them, some of which were actually used by us in the evenings, so they’d got short changed on that too.

As for general facilities… the swimming area was open, but only the same hours as con talks were on, so I never got to use it. For food there were some fast food type places, a supermarket, and a canteen where we got some meals included. I thought the canteen wasn’t bad: a bit institutional of course, but a good range of food choices. Some people hated it, but I’ve had a lot worse. The outside attractions were closed. The big fun fair / amusements type area was open, and was often the quickest route to other places. Clever! While Butlins might be cheap to stay at, this was a total money trap, with coin slots everywhere! Parents taking children, beware…

Generally I found the staff absolutely lovely, and it’s thanks to them this place scrapes 2 stars. (Added note: I did write this before seeing the other reviewers were ex-staff!) However I did rather get the feeling that they knew we’d been screwed, and there was nothing they could do about it. Head office didn’t care.

Check out my review of Butlins - I am moonrising - on Qype

Headlines

Like many people I get a lot of spam emails. The ones offering to increase the size of my member, or from cute Russians who saw me online and really want to meet me, have got just boring. Offers of rip-off watches and mails pretending to be from bank accounts I don’t have always were. I have been rather impressed by some headlined with fake news stories this week though. I’ll admit to even checking the BBC just in case on a couple of them… So here’s a selection, with just one genuine story, from the Hackney Gazzette. Can you spot it?

Kidney Stealing Ring Busted
Arnold Says I’m Gay Too!
Monkeys Taught To Handle A Gun
Hospital Handwash Stolen To Make Moonshine
Plucky Pensioner Discovers Hitler In His Local Starbucks
Police Open Fire On Elderly In Iowa
Orgy In Public Park
Scientists Prove Landing In Mars Staged
Flu Outbreak Kills Thousands In Mexico
Girl Attacked By Pirahnas In Georgia
Geek Turns Into Hot Babe

Some funny, some definitely not, but I think they all have that hint of ‘could be…’. I’ve opened a couple (definitely not replied, or clicked on the links inside…) and they contain more stories. The Mexico Flu outbreak contains a link purporting to be to a story on global warming causing cancer. Interested in gay Arnie? Inside is a link to ‘Courtney Love Vows To Wear Clothes’. Are the two stories linked? Anyway, if you want to know… the genuine East End story is the hospital one. Yep, apparently people are stealing the newly-introduced bottles of mediscrub in the corridors… It contains alcohol you know.

A Strange Old Week

It’s been one of those weeks where things happen. I could probably have got a few blog posts out of it if I hadn’t been too busy to write them.

Sunday was a low in one way and a right of passage in another. I’ve recently started working as a cat sitter. On Sunday one of my charges bit me while I was pilling her, hard enough to draw blood. First time I’ve ever had a ‘proper’ cat bite, so I guess it had to happen sometime. Anyway, it’s almost healed now, without infection. And I’ve found that the cat responds well to a bit of Ttouch massage and now purrs during her pilling and massage session. Hmmm, I think I will post on pilling cats at some point.

Sad to report I’ve been having trouble with my knees, due partly to the mileage I’ve been covering for work, and partly the fact the bike is too big and putting strain on them. Tuesday I decided to walk my rounds. Two visits only most of this week, unfortunately near Kings Cross and up in E5. Actually I’m rather glad I choose that day to start walking… It was Ant Day!

As I left my Kings Cross visit I noticed the winged ants gathering around the entrance of every nest in huge numbers. In one place I had to explain to a mystified bloke what was going on (for anybody that doesn’t know, it’s mating flights, co-ordinated by weather conditions). The nest he was looking at was especially impressive: a wooden post by the entrance was totally coated by especially large winged ants, glistening as they moved. As I walked through Angel people were beginning to jump and swat. Along Essex Road they were pelting you constantly: I’ve never seen such numbers. At times it was like a horror film at the point just before someone starts screaming ‘help, they’re eating me!’

Wednesday was my birthday, but still a work day for me. A high point was stopping off at Mucho Mas for a burrito. I will definitely go there again! Thursday I measured my walking mileage, and with the addition of the dog walk I do that day, it made twelve miles. Friday I saw a physio, and confirmed the bike is not helping. I vowed I’d not use it again, then found myself running late and had to. And of course I misjudged squeezing round the back of a lorry, hit the curb and fell over it, adding some lovely bruises to what was the knee that was less painful, as if I wasn’t in enough trouble with them!

Still, I think the aches are decreasing, and the King’s Cross booking has now finished. Lovely cat, but it’s a relief to have less distance to do! A brief respite before the storm, as everyone seems to want a cat sitter in August…

Writing for the Perfect Hazelnut Yoghurt

When I write I tend to do a rough, spelling mistakes and total junk and all, then come back later to polish. Just occasionally there’s something in the original, lost later on, that makes it worth saving for later. Maybe a witty comment that didn’t quite fit in the final version, which I hope to use one day elsewhere. Something like that…

Further down this blog you’ll find a review I just posted on Qype. I was thinking of posting it anyway, even before things got strange. I’m pretty busy at the moment. A few nights ago I was feeling very tired, but decided to do just a bit of writing before I headed off to bed. So I started writing about hazelnut yoghurts. As I typed my eyes closed, and I guess my mind wandered, maybe I even fell asleep and dreamed a little? Then I jerked awake, opened my eyes, read what I’d written and decided I really had to go to bed, right that minute… Here’s what I wrote:

I remember the hazelnut yogurts you usee to get. Cheap, plain
yogurts. Each with a sprinkling of the real nuts. I was told to be
strict with the dog. Who comes out and socializes on a regular bowl.

I can’t help noticing my spelling improved while I was typing nonsense.

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Qype: Tesco Express in London

London - Food & Drink - Supermarkets

Recently I’ve been on the look out for a good hazelnut yoghurt. I guess my model is the old, cheap hazelnut yoghurts I got as a kid. Back in those days quite likely full of junk and definitely not live… but… I used to love the milky, clean flavour with the little bits of real nut. On the whole I love the trend to more ‘luxurious’ flavours in yoghurts. Creamy lemon curd or Greek with honey… yum! But it seems that if you try to improve hazel, what you end up with is something that tastes of caramel, rather than nut. And don’t even get me started on the brazil yoghurts that have replaced them in some places. I love brazils, but put them in a yoghurt and the milkyness of the nut is hidden by the yoghurt itself and all you get is sickly sweetness and the bitterness of gone-off nut. Ik.

My local Tesco used to do a good hazel yoghurt. Milky rather than creamy. Generous with the ‘bits’. I didn’t blame them when they (and the lovely black cherry that was also part of the same line) disappeared, replaced by another line. I believed it was head office’s fault, the line was discontinued, and I mourned.

I was wrong. This branch has them! (And I’ve included a picture should anyone want to try them). I will have to go and take a star off my local branch…

Anyway, as to this branch… It’s largish for one of the smaller Tescos (come on, you know what I mean…). So lots to choose from. Not often visited (though maybe now I will!), but never had a problem. And they did some awesome reductions on Christmas Eve this year: I had oven ready ‘posh’ stuffed pheasant at Christmas for £3 thanks to them.

PS: ironically, in these yoghurts caramel is listed in the ingredients. What can I say? They’ve got the balance right in my opinion.

Check out my review of Tesco Express - I am moonrising - on Qype

When Is A Run Not A Run?

I’m an honest person. I’ve done three marathons and numerous other events, but I don’t like to claim I’ve run them. I’ve run large parts of every one, but whenever possible I explain I’ve used a run/walk strategy, and in some of the longer races it’s been more walk than run. If I don’t have time to explain I’ll say I’ve done a marathon, or run IN a marathon, both of which are true, while saying I’ve run a marathon could be argued not to be. I’m proud of being able to cover marathon distance as a run/walker. Heck, we keep the effort up for twice as long (or more) compared to the fast runners. And since I take longer to cover the distances, I’ve probably trained longer hours than many up the front of the pack. I’ve not been feeling I’m a ‘real’ runner though.

Over the last year I’ve begun to do regular runs without walking. I’ve made a load of running goals, including running various distances, without walking. But, being an honest person, I’ve been careful about my wording. For 5 and 10k my aim was to run the whole way without walking (both of which I have now achieved, Yay!). For half and full marathons though that poses a difficulty. I do like to have the odd toilet stop, and somehow I don’t think jogging on the spot while trying to use a portaloo is going to work. So the goal I’ve made is that I’ll run the whole way. My interpretation of that wording is that I’m allowed to stop and use the loo, or get a stone out of my shoe, but I won’t walk any of the course. If I need to do something that would require walking, then instead I’ll stop dead. If I need to go off the course to the loo I’ll start running again at the exact same point. I will cover every inch of the course at a running pace, but not totally without stopping. Seems fair to me.

Then I did my 10K without running recently… Generally as you pass the water station there’s someone there waiting to hand you a bottle of water. But on my last lap they were clearing up. Jogging on the spot I asked a man if there were any left. He pointed to some on the ground. I realised that picking up something on the ground while jogging on the spot was not possible, and had to ask him to hand it me… I wonder if he thought I was nuts?! Hopefully he understood! (Especially as it turned out I hadn’t spotted the people still holding out bottles further up the track…)

Thinking about it since I’ve realised I’m setting a higher standard for myself than most runners do. Most would have stood still and picked up the bottle themselves. They would have seen it as annoying, but not as cheating on their part. Some experts recommend that even top marathon runners take breaks. Certainly nobody accuses Paula Radcliffe or the like of cheating if they stop to relieve a cramp. Most runners you see out and about will stop at crossings etc. Annoying to be delayed, but not cheating…

I think I still want to do a half and a marathon running all the way, in line with my personal goals. It’s still an aim worth fulfilling. But last weekend I went out on a 5 mile run. I stopped at a crossing and for a loo break. And I’m still calling it a 5 mile run. I’m definitely a real runner now. I don’t need to doubt myself or feel it dishonest if I don’t keep that running motion going 100% of the time.

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East End Round Up, July

Thought it was time for a little round up of a few things I’ve heard of going on…

Firstly the excellent stationary shop, Cards Plus, in Dalston is having a ‘closing down sale’ with everything half price. They told me it was going on for a couple of weeks, but as that was a couple of days ago as I write, I’d guess anyone interested should be getting down there before everything goes. I think I got the last metallic covered notebook… Good news is that they are not closing permanently, just for refurbishment. So you can go and grab some bargains without feeling sad and guilty.

My Create08 booklet is also advertising some gems. Lloyd Park, Walthamstow is hosting the Fellowship Art Challenge Exhibition, with over 1500 exhibitors, including art from a South African township, an Irish farm and an Italian Playgroup. Running on afternoons from 10 to 27th July. Lloyd Park is also the venue for the Green Fair on 20th July, 2-7pm. Both events are free.

If you like carnivals, Newham’s is on Saturday 12th (Start and finish, Central Park, 2-4 pm), and Walthamstow’s is on Sunday 13th (Start Lloyd Park, 1pm). Both have other stuff going on in the streets/park over the whole weekend.

Personally I might be heading down to the Geffrye Museum on Sunday 13th. Their Summer Sundays series (also on 10th August) feature fun, crafts and music for the whole family. The bit that interests me is a sale of unusual herbs and plants. Free…

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Qype: Blasted Heath in London

London

OK, I don’t think this is actually called Blasted Heath, but it’s not named in my A-Z and I have no intention of a return visit to look for signs.

In fact I probably wouldn’t bother reviewing it, but it’s been way too long since I started reviewing and I still don’t have a single star review, and I thought it was about time. And since open spaces are sort of my speciality…

I came across this while visiting Banksy’s Yellow Line Flower Painter just across the road. From a distance it seemed tempting: converging pathways leading up to a towering circle of poplars. Closer up it turns out the pathways are more broken glass than anything else, and the poplars surround a group of sorry looking boulders daubed with graffiti which has been added over and badly cleaned so many times it’s just a mess, with not so much as a word readable, let alone anything of artistic interest. Add a group of surly teenagers glowering at you, and it’s just depressing.

I feel sorry for the trees.

Check out my review of Blasted Heath - I am moonrising - on Qype

Square Dancing

What make a square a square? I’ve been thinking about that question, as I’ve reviewed rather a lot of them for Qype.

I think when most folks talk about squares, they mean the grand, open, paved type like Trafalgar Square. But that’s not really the typical square in London. For me reviewing squares started with the Eastenders archetype, in the shape of Albion Square: a pretty garden with railings, surrounded by houses. Or another similar example: Fassett Square, the square that nearly got used to film Eastenders.

Of course, a square doesn’t have to be square. Those last 2 mentioned are rectangular. And I’d argue you could include circles (Arnold Circus), or ovals (Thornhill Square).

What makes a square then? Is it a meeting place and focal point (It would be hard to beat Arnold Circus with its mound and bandstand)? Or a pretty garden to sit in, or a war memorial (picturesque Thornhill Gardens needs a look-in on both those counts). Or a convenient strip of grass to eat your lunch in the centre of London (Soho and Argyle squares come to mind). Is the best square one that has grass, flower beds, a small hill, a playground and grand houses and a church overlooking it (Thornhill Square). Or is that going too far and becoming a park?

There is certainly more to squares than just being square.

T-Shirt Rant

I was walking through Kingsland Shopping Centre the other day, when I saw a T-shirt. The slogan was ‘If being ugly is a crime, you’re in deep shit’. It’s witty enough as a put-down line, but I couldn’t help wondering who the heck would wear it. You can’t exactly turn the sentiment on and off at will. So that is going to be the first thing anyone that sees you sees. A totally equal opportunities insult, being beamed at every person you meet.

I guess it’s made for someone who prides themselves on attitude, who no doubt sees themselves as the king/queen of wit, always ready with the sharp line, admired for their style. But really, does the wearer really believe they are the only good looking person in the world? Or is it a defensive, hurt before you get hurt, type thing?

Does it only apply to people approaching them, moving in the opposite direction? So their friends, walking alongside, are within the ‘wall’ of the T-shirt’s defence, looking out at the ugly world around, assumed to be gorgeous. Or are they going to carry a little sign around with them, so when they meet someone cute, someone they’d like to get to know a bit, they can raise their little lollipop saying ‘I didn’t mean you, honest!’

I’m going to have to keep my eyes out for folks wearing it…

Plant Watch June

I was standing in the garden the other day, having a chat with the owner of the place. She was saying she’s really impressed, and how loads of things are flowering that have been there years and never flowered before. It’s true it’s looking pretty lush. But personally I put a lot of it down to the weather. A mix of hot and wet weather has really brought lots of plants to their best.

As I pointed out, the story isn’t so good with my share of the plants there… My plantings of coriander, rocket, fennel and spinach have been rather reduced. There’s a fair bunch of rocket, but no coriander, and one plant each of the others (though having survived the seedling stage, they are now looking strong). My single marrow plant, which was kept at home until it really couldn’t be kept on a windowsill any more, is getting well and truly attacked by the snails in spite of beer traps all over the place. The peas are just a memory.

On the other hand, the squash are still surviving being half eaten. They’re actually looking quite lush now, and I spotted the first fruit set. Nasturtiums are flowering. The globe artichokes took their time getting established, and have been mildly nibbled, but are now growing strongly. And the sweet corn is flowering and setting cobs… a bit of a surprise as it’s only about 3 feet tall! Never mind, each stalk is thickening with what looks like it’s going to be 2-3 cobs each. Not complaining! The clouds of pollen that come off the male flowers at the top when you shake it are quite amazing, and the cascades of thread from the top of the cobs, ready to catch it…

Meanwhile back home is all the stuff that was intended for the garden but ended up staying. I’m enjoying meals with side salad of mint, lemon balm, chives, parsley and basil. The tomatoes went a bit yellow, but applications of some Baby Bio I’ve had hanging around for years seem to be helping. There are masses of tomatoes set (I guess the vibrating worked!) and more flowers coming. I’ve had to nip out the tops to stop them outgrowing my windows. Some of the tomatoes have passed cherry size now, and are heading towards golf balls…

Bike Wrestling

As I mentioned a while back, I got given a bike. Rather cool… Though it has taken a bit of getting used to. Years ago I had a lightweight tourer, a fast, easy to handle bike. This one is a bit of a contrast. It’s a mountain bike, and, I’m told, meant for someone about 6 ft 6 tall! I can only just get my feet on the ground when I’m on it and at first it felt like I needed the whole width of the road to turn in. Not something that can be counted on to be available in London… My first experience of getting up to the 2nd floor with no lift was also, well, interesting… I still have the bruises! Wrestling indeed.

Anyway, my first trip out was to a ‘cyclists’ breakfast’ run as part of Hackney Bike Week. Breakfast in the park (croissant, porridge, fruit, coffee and juice), nice folks to talk to and the chance to get the bike checked and registered. My bike passed it’s MOT with flying colours. Though it’s been in a shed for several years, and has a few rust spots on the chrome, it’s basically a new bike. I finished off the trip by riding round the park a few times, get a feel for it. Then rode home, getting off at each junction…

2nd trip out was to join a ride around the Hackney boundary. Bit scared of the idea, but I decided that yes, I was going, with only 15 minutes or so to get to the Town Hall for the meet up. This time I rode across some of those junctions… I arrived with a couple of minutes to spare. But no sign of other bikes. Waited a while, before heading home. Turned out it was on Saturday and I’d gone on Sunday. Duh. At least it gave me another practice. I believe they run regular rides. I think I’ll have to look into going on another some time.

A real solo distance ride had to be put off until I’d got locks. I finally got a set, courtesy of Argos, and I was off! For the first time using my bike to ride to a work appointment over Islington way. I knew late afternoon/early evening (i.e. rush hour…) wouldn’t be considered the best time. But actually it wasn’t too bad. Large parts of my route were along back streets, some of which are bike only. It’s great zooming along in the company of other bikes with the whole width of road to use. On the major roads cars were near gridlock and moving slowly, though I did decide to pass on a right turn off Essex Road and got off and walked that bit! I even met with a few hazards: a kid swerving on front on his skateboard and a driver not giving me my right of way on a junction (I had to do an emergency stop and turn my wheel to let him pass). It was scary, but I also found the ride exhilarating. Back home I lifted the bike on my shoulder and carried it up the stairs…

I think I’m sort of in control now, and rather enjoying having a bike…

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Dandruff Divas

You see them all the time. Maybe made up for the evening. Dressed up, hair teased into some fabulous creation. Or maybe in day gear, still sprayed on tight. Either way wearing attitude like a shield as they strut up the street.

It’s not just the girls, or the young. It could be the boys trying to look mean to impress the girls. Or a middle aged bloke. Slightly paunchy. Looking like a used car salesman and acting like he’s the biggest businessman in the world as he talks on his mobile. Or a couple in a car who probably don’t know what a pavement is.

Whoever it is as they move up the street big white flakes fall from them like dirty snow. They walk, drive or strut along, ignoring the world around them, acting like they are the only thing of importance. All the time casually moulting. Not all the flakes are white. They could be grey, brown, green, red or blue. Small or huge. I’m not, of course, talking about actual dandruff. I’m talking about litter.

They don’t even bother to look around for a bin. There could be one within inches, they wouldn’t know or care. They think whatever they are doing is important. And being important people someone will clear up after them. If they didn’t drop litter, someone would be out of a job wouldn’t they?

Never mind it looks a mess. Never mind it’s a hazard to animals. Never mind the plastic could blow out to sea. Never mind that sharp glass and metal could cut a car’s tyres or a child. Never mind that the council could be letting that street cleaner go and using the money to employ someone on a more constructive job. Someone else will deal with it.

I doubt they’d care if someone told them off for it. So I just laugh at them. It really does look like giant dandruff. No matter how much they’ve teased their hair or how many big deals are going through their phones, it’s not a flattering look to be shedding flakes.

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A Good Day

Sunday was my attempt at running all the way in a 10K. I was pretty worried, having had a rough time of it doing 5 miles (10k = 6.2 miles). It was also bright sunlight in the morning, looking like a scorching day ahead, with the race happening over mid day… Well, it was indeed bright and sunny. However occasional cloud kept the temperature down a bit, so, with the help of throwing water all over myself, I was able to keep cool!

And though it was tough I managed to find my rhythm and keep chuntering along. I had my lap timer on and pressed the button every kilometre, and it’s since confirmed I kept a pretty even pace. As I reached the last kilometre mark I realised I had a chance to reach a second personal target of a PB by 4 seconds per mile. I kicked on hard… finally reached the end and staggered down the finishing chute! Later checking of the saved lap times (I was too dazed to operate it properly at the time!) has confirmed that I’ve well and truly smashed that PB target! And even on the official time, which is slower as I started at the back, I’ve done it! Well pleased! Anyone wants to sponsor me…

I've got my name on the list for a medal to be sent to me, as they ran out. Hoping it will be a proper one, as at the end they were giving out some well manky rusty ones from another race!
In spite of running all the way for the first time, I was feeling reasonably fresh after a good rest, so decided to go home via the garden. In London Fields I noticed a sign up about some free bike events as part of Bike Week, and wished I had a bike... Then found some metal mesh stuff I can use to protect seedlings in the garden. Result! Wouldn't have found it if I hadn't decided to go straight to the garden, as it was down a road I wouldn't normally be on.

Then on my way home from there I had a chat with someone I often say hello to as I pass. Telling him about my new job, how I'm going to be doing a lot of walking until I can afford a bike. So he gave me a mountain bike he happened to have hanging around... I'm going to those bike events after all! How's that for a lucky day?