Heart Felt's O.E 2002

Dolgoch Falls ~ 2 Nov 2002

2010-05-08T15:24:00.003+12:00

Today was parked the car at Dolgoch Falls station (the Talyllyn Railway) and walked up to the beautiful Dolgoch waterfalls. Because of all the rain in the past week the falls were at full blast. This area has a lot of old mine shafts ~ why the railway was built. The autumn colours are just magnificent.

Centre for Alternative Technology ~ 1 Nov 2002

2010-05-08T15:16:00.002+12:00

I visited the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) today. Extremely overpriced at 7 pounds. The village was established in 1975 and aims to inspire, inform and enable people to live an alternative lifestyle in an environmentally friendly manner. I felt the displays were a bit run down and outdated. The inspiration was there and I did enjoy the ride in the water powered cliff railway.

Powis Castle ~ 31 Oct 2002

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One of the things that has made our journey so much nicer has been our New Zealand Historic Places membership card. With this card we've been able to get into many National Trust properties free of charge.

Today we visited Powis Castle near Welshpool. The castle held an impressive display of Indian works of art and treasures collected by Clive of India. The castle was built ca 1200 and perched romantically on a rocky outcrop. Inside held a collection of interesting furniture and paintings, but because of the lighting or should I say 'lack of lighting' everything felt very dark, gloomy and a bit oppressive.

The garden made up for the interior gloominess by it's beautiful terraced Italian and French style garden overhung by enormous clipped yew trees. Once again the autumn colours were breathtaking.

Happy ~ 30 Oct 2002

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This afternoon we drove into a near by village called Machynlleth. This town houses many artists, potters, organic and alternative lifestylers.

We had afternoon tea in a pleasant organic cafe. We are feeling very relaxed and happy to be away from our previous situation in Cornwall.

Harlech Castle ~ 29 Oct 2002

2010-05-08T14:33:00.005+12:00

Today we explored. Driving along the B4405 was just lovely. Tay-y-Llyn Lake, then onto an interested town called Dolgellau, Barmoth ~ all just so beautiful. Every thing is golden in colour, gold, yellow, amber, orange. Our destination is Harlech Castle.

Harlech is one of the most magnificently sited of all the Weslh castles, views of Cardigan Bay, the Lleyn Peninsula and inland the mountains of Snowdona and the Cader Idris range. Harlech is a castle of Edward I. Building started in 1283 and completed only seven years later. It was thought impregnable, but was taken in 1404 by the army of Owain Glyndower who established his court here until his family was taken prisoner four years later.

On the way home we stopped at Castell y Bere. This is an ancient Welsh castle ruins ~ a mountain fortress of Prince Llewelyn. Wales is such a glorious country, very proud of it's culture, history, people and natural beauty.

Tywyn ~ 28 Oct 2002

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Tywyn is a the base of Snowdonia National Park. It's a very quiet town but the people are very friendly. The Welsh language is a normal part of daily life along with big round smiling faces. The holiday home we are staying in is very modest, but contains everything we need to have a very comfortable stay here. We feel very lucky.

Driving to Wales ~ 27 Oct 2002

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We stayed over night in a B&B in Bideford, Devon. I really enjoy staying in B&Bs. They are always so comfortable and it feels like you are staying at someones home for the night.

We drove through Exmoor National Park. Very beautiful. We nearly looked at a job in Minehead when we first arrived. It would have been a nice place to explore.

Heading for Bristol, driving over the Severn Bridge into Wales, driving past Cardiff and Swansea on the motorway, it was very exciting. Getting off the motorway we experiences the beautiful Welsh countryside in full autumn colours. It was glorious.

Good-bye Cornwall ~ 26 Oct 2002

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We have packed all our belongings and are now heading for Wales. Not sad to leave the cafe work and the flat behind. We have a big trip ahead of us so we have taken the top off by leaving today at 4.30 and travelling as far as we can before it gets dark. We are feeling very excited.

Camel Trail ~ 22 Oct 2002

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I gave up work two weeks a go, I was over working long hours and Ian and I decided it was better for me to finish up earlier than planned. To keep myself occupied while Ian has been at work I've been walking and exploring in and around St Merryn. It's been a very pleasant place during the 'off season'.

With our time coming to an end in Cornwall I thought I had better explore the locally famous Camel Trail. The Camel Trail is a path from Padstow to Wadebridge a 5 1/4 mile trip one way. This walking/cycling track has been converted from a disused railway track. It runs for 17 miles from Padstow to Bodmin. Incomparable with the Rimutaka Incline and not quite as interesting, there isn't a lot of rail remains left of a once busy railway. The line was opened in 1899 and closed in 1967.

The river Camel derives it's name from the old Cornish language. Cam = Crooked, Hayle = Estuary "The Crooked River".

It was a very beautiful trip, a birdwatchers paradise. Being autumn there were many herons, little egret, oyster catchers and gulls. The leaves were turning and the wild blackberries were at their peak. A time to relax and embrace this beautiful countryside.

Launceston ~ 1 October 2002

2009-10-17T15:36:00.004+13:00

Having one more day off before we went back to work we decided to go to Launceston. Only to visit the castle, use the internet and because it has been mentioned a lot in my book I am reading "Jamaica Inn" by Daphne Du Maurier. It was a miserable day, over cast and misty.

Launceston Castle is a fine ruin overlooking the town. It was the chief seat of Robert of Mortain, brother of William I. The view over the town is nothing but impressive. Even on a cloudy misty day like we experienced today. A cylindrical keep and ruined curtain walls are all that remain but it was well worth the visit.

We have enjoyed the for days off very much. Not long now until we finish work and enjoy the rest of our time here.

St. Michael's Mount and Minack Theatre ~ 30 September 2002

2009-10-17T14:59:00.008+13:00

I was looking forward in visiting St. Michael's Mount. Because of the high tide we had to take the ferry across to the island. Described as Cornwall's jewel in it's crown we were not disappointed. Filled with 'giant' myth and legend, it's history is fascinating and rich. The view from the mount was breathtaking. Ian experienced the old 'sweaty' palms and feet {he has a fear of heights}.

The armoury room contained an impressive display of sporting weapons and military trophies bought back by the family from various wars. My favorite being the beautiful collection of swords and cross bows.

The south terrace gave us splendid views of Mount's Bay and the fabulous terrace gardens way way way below. On the north terrace Mr St Aubyn was entertaining a guest, giving a long winded speech about his in family.

The weather changed very quickly and we had to change our plans slightly. Rain or snow I had to visit the Minack Theatre. Ian stayed in the car writing postcards with his thermos of coffee, I put on all the warm clothes on that I could find.

Minack in Cornish means 'A rocky place'. From 1931 until she died in 1983 the Minack Theatre was planned, built and financed by one amazing woman ~ Rowena Cade. Joseph Wright was Rownea Cade's great great grandfather. She appeared to be everything I wish I could be, artistic, imaginative, contented, self reliable, genteel and strong.

It didn't feel right to visit the "minack' when there wasn't a play being performed. It seemed so empty ~ unreal. The view was simply magnificent. My dream play would be to watch the "Tempest "being performed here. Watching the sight of the moon rising over the black cloth of ocean would be a never to be forgotten experience.

We carried on our journey to Land's End and up the west coast heading for St Ives. This drive was spectacular ~ the remote Cornish landscape dotted with relics of the tin mine industry, picturesque fishing villages and pre historic remains. I could understand how this beauty combined with the clarity of light has attracted artists since the late 19th century.

We decided to stop and visit the Geevor Tin Mine, since Ian's ancestors were from that background. We went on an underground tour into the Wheal Mexico. This was an abandoned mine concealed from the world until it was rediscovered in 1992.

Following the guide into a very narrow small claustrophobic 18th century tunnel, it was very exciting. The guide related to us stories of the hard life of the old tin miners. They were lucky to live to the age of 27, never got paid unless tin was produced, sometimes going days even weeks without a mineral lead. Stories of the traditional pasty and of the 'knockers' were fascinating.

Stopping afterwards for something to eat in the "Count House" cafe and enjoyed the magnificent view of Cornwall's' coastline ~what an amazing day!

Having a quick tour around St Ive's we decided to leave it for another day. We headed home.

Penzance ~ 29 September 2002

2009-10-17T14:30:00.010+13:00

Last night we stayed in a lovely B.B in Penzance. We both feel very relaxed and happy. It was run by a very nice couple and we had a lovely full English breakfast to start the day.

Penzance is a lovely town with a typical English seaside resort feeling. We were intrigued with the pool/sea bath on the sea front. We could imagine men and women swimming in their bloomers and swimming caps ~ 1930s style.

Somehow we ended up in a church service at the parish of St Mary's with St Paul. An interesting but unusual experience of monk style chanting, burning of incense and repetitive prayers. We quickly made an exit stage left when they all started going up the front to take part in communion ~ but if was quite an experience.

Later that afternoon we drove out to Lizard Point. The best part of this trip so far has been the lack of tourists. Everywhere has a much more relaxed and laid back feel to it. We strolled though the village down to the Lizard, a beautiful afternoon and just like the rest of the Cornish coast absolutely beautiful!

On the way back to Penzance we made a detour to the Chysauster Ancient Village. This iron age village is made up of a series of eight stone houses, each containing a number of rooms, around an open court. Some rooms had stones where herbs or flour had been grounded. One room had a fire place. It was surrounded by a surviving stone wall, still in very good condition. The houses appeared to be laid out in a 'street' style.

That evening we went to Mousehole (pronounced 'Mouzel') It is a very pretty fishing village with clusters of cottages hugging the harbour. Very narrow streets ~ a nightmare during the holiday season I would imagine.

Tired but happy we retired to our lovely room at the B.B, bellies filled with a traditional Sunday carvery.

South Cornwall ~ 28 Septmeber 2002

2009-10-17T14:08:00.006+13:00

We have four days off from work ~ what bliss! We work all week just to look forward to having some days off to explore this amazing country. Our plans this time is to stay local and head down south Cornwall. Our first stop being an investigation of Ian's family history.

Ian's great, great grandfather ~ Thomas Vincent was born in a small village called Illogan, just out of Redruth. He was a copper tin miner and married Ann Carthew in the local parish church. Our mission was to find their gravestones in the parish cemetery. We found the church without any problems, luckily there was a working bee in progress so the easiest way was to ask. The 'morning tea lady' couldn't do more to help us. While making coffee and offering us biscuits one of the men looked in the burial records for us. Unfortunately without success. The early records were kept in Truro, but he gave us a general area where they may be buried. Time was ticking ~ we had made arrangements to meet great uncle Peter at 12.00 and we had to leave it for another day. We carried onto Hayle to meet my relatives ~ Peter and Fran Searle.

Peter and Fran live in a lovely two storied bungalow with a beautiful garden. I was met by Fran, a very friendly relaxed lady. Peter was more of a reserved character. He didn't remind me much of Granddad Ted in anyway in looks or in sound. But he did have the famous 'Searle hands', big and strong. We had a beautiful lunch with the relatives. Steve and his wife Liz and two children. Theresa and her two children, all very well behaved and pleasant.

After lunch we went for a walk along the coast to Godrevy Island where there was a lighthouse. Across the bay we could see St Ives in the distance. Peter and Fran were interested in bird watching while Steve and the rest of the family enjoyed the walk. After a cup of tea we left them for Penzance. We enjoyed our visit very much, meeting family I never know I had.

Bath ~ 10 September 2002

2009-09-19T15:10:00.006+12:00

We left London at 10 am. We were pleased with ourselves in our ability to leave the city without too much hassle. We drove on the main highway for an hour or so before we got bored of the scenery. We took a left and ended up in Wiltshire. We passed Silbury Hill. It took us by great surprise. It's so obviously man made ~ it rises abruptly from the surrounding fields. Being one of the largest artificial hills in Europe, constructed in around 2500 BC ~ it's purpose being a mystery.

Carrying on until we reached Bath. Bath is a very beautiful city. Very cultured with many artistic and theatrical events happening around you. When you are in Bath the 'must' is of course the "Roman Baths". We were quite taken with it all. The baths give off a very cleansing, relaxed atmosphere, holding hands with history and tradition. A very spiritual place. The displays and models gave you the feeling of the splendor this place once held for the people. Very interesting and enjoyable. once again you could spend a few days here exploring all the sites.

We had to carry on home ~ driving through Glastonbury. We were intrigued with the Glastonbury Abbey and the tor, things yet to explored on another day.

British Museum ~ 9 September 2002

2009-09-19T14:57:00.007+12:00

We spent the night back at the George IV pub with Antony, same old faces. Ant wasn't motivated to do any site seeing with us, so we decided to got to the British Museum.

The museum contains a vast collection of antiquities from all around the world. We only had the stamina to explore the ancient Egypt, Roman and Greek section of the museum. There was just so much to take in. There was a splendid collection of Egyptian mummies, statues and sculptures. Beautiful Greek statues, the Rosetta Stone....just too much....we exhausted ourselves! We will have to go back to the the Celtic/Roman displays and the famous "Reading Room" another day.

The weather was terrible ~ down pours of rain and very cold. We warmed ourselves up with our favorite Thai Green curry at the "Old Pack Horse" pub back in Chiswick.

Dartmoor ~ 8 September 2002

2009-09-19T14:35:00.006+12:00

We have taken three days off work to go up to London to see Antony [Ian's brother] who is flying to New York on September 11th for a pilgrimage. Wanting to take the scenic route we drove through Dartmoor.

Dartmoor is a wild beautiful place with bleak daunting tors, very relaxed sheep and lovely wild ponies who are very friendly. The ponies are mostly interested in food than anything else, but would put up with a scratch behind the ears for a nibble. The day we visited was a lovely warm sunny autumn day with the pink heather in full bloom, but I can imagine this place wild, mist sodden, bleak, and isolated on an aerie winters day. I would love to spend a few days here one day.

Arthur Conan Doyle's thriller "The hound of the Baskervilles" was set here on Dartmoor. A lot of history makes it's presence known ~ prehistoric remains, sites where bronze age huts can be found, a fascinating place.

We then carried onto Salisbury. Salisbury Cathedral was an awe inspiring site as we drove into the city. It was built in 1220-1258. I love looking at the Constable painting compared with he modern photograph.

Being a Sunday, services were being held. We were treated by the organ playing ~ we wanted to clap and shout an encore as it finished, it was just amazing.

Stonehenge will have to wait another day. You could spend days around this area, but we were expected in London by tonight.

Bodmin & Wenford Railway ~ Lanhydrock ~ 28 August 2002

2009-09-19T14:14:00.007+12:00

We returned to Bodmin today to visit the Bodmin Railway. Mum and Dad had mentioned how they had seen a TV programme back home set in Bodmin and a scene which stood out was the Bodmin Station. They said they could imagine me standing on the platform, so I had to see it for myself.

They have tried to keep the station in period by displaying piles of old suitcases stacked on trolleys and hanging baskets of flowers. It was rather pretty.

We took a ride on the steam train which took us to Bodmin Parkway. We sat in a 1930s style coach with personal compartments that could sit 4-6 people. We got off at Bodmin Parkway and walked to Lanhydrock house.

Lanhydrock has a magnificent entrance and grounds. The formal gardens were lovely and peaceful. We feel very special when we present our New Zealand Historic Places Trust card to the National Trust. The staff are always so pleasant and pleased to see us.

The house was huge. Unlike previous estates we have visited, we were free to walk around on our own rather than taking a guided tour which can become rather boring at times.

The best thing inside the house was the many kitchens, pantries and food preparation areas. The kitchen had a huge spit which was used to cook large joints of meat.

The National Trust houses stand out from the privately owned homes. The displays are very

professional and interesting. A wonderful visit!

Bodmin Jail ~ 27 August 2002

2009-09-19T14:04:00.005+12:00

Today we visited Bodmin Jail. Our first encounter was driving up towards the menacing stone building and entrance way. A huge, mainly empty and decaying shell of a once hell for many prisoners.

We stood on the site where many prisoners were hung for insignificant crimes. We could even see where the rope had made a groove in the wooden beam up above.

Inside it was dark, damp and smelly. You could feel what an awful and terrifying place it once would have been.

King Arthur's Stone ~ 21 August 2002

2009-09-19T13:55:00.004+12:00

Today we visited "King Arthur's Stone" at Camlann ~ Slaughter Bridge, Camelford. This is a 6th century inscribed stone that marks the legendary site where Arthur and Mordred met for the battle which ended both lives and the end of the fellowship of the round table in Ad 537.

There also was a Saxon battle here. Tennyson visited here in 1848 and was inspired to write the "Idylls of the King".

Boscastle ~ 14 August 2002

2009-09-19T13:37:00.006+12:00

Today we drove up to Boscastle. We arrived early before many of the tourists arrived. We enjoyed a cup of coffee in the village before we set off on a six mile walk which took us along the coastal path ~ giving us fantastic views of Boscastle Harbour and Pentargon inlet.

We crossed inland along farms until we got to St Juliot's Church. It was here where Thomas Hardy met his first wife, Emma Gifford while supervising the restoration of the church. Here, he was inspired to write "A pair of blue eyes". Emma encouraged Hardy to leave his profession as an architect and turn to writing full time.

We had our picnic lunch here before travelling back to Boscastle through Valency Valley. This was an unspoilt valley owned by the National Trust. We returned to Boscastle tired but very full filled. Cornwall is very beautiful.

Screech Owl Sanctuary ~ 6th August 2002

2009-09-19T13:27:00.006+12:00

This afternoon we went to the "Screech" Owl Sanctuary. "Screech" being the owners sir name! It was a wonderful visit. We saw owls small as kittens and as big as dogs. Such amazing and fascinating creatures. Very intelligent with a 'knowing' look about them ~ powerful and rather magical!

We were allowed to stroke their breast feathers and every now and then one would try to escape, displaying their long powerful wing span. You could feel the force of their wings on your face. One of the owls reminded me of Toad grumpy face [my cat I left back home in New Zealand] with huge round yellow/orange eyes glaring at me.

Historic Bodmin Moor ~ 31 July 2002

2009-08-07T13:19:00.009+12:00

We had a fantastic time today. The weather was cold, raining, misty and magical. We visited the Bodmin Moor and the weather was just perfect!

This place is a world of granite tors and windswept open moors. We walked to the "Hurlers", three large pre-historic stone circles and burial chambers - built over 4000 years ago.

The "Cheesewring" is a natural occurring granite rock pile precariously on top of each - absolutely fascinating.

We then carried on up to the A30 which took us down through Bodmin Moor. We stopped at Dozmary Pool where legend has it Excalibur was returned to the Lady of the Lake. There we were entertained by a beautiful brown horse which made our visit so much more special.

Cold and tired we had to stop at the Jamaica Inn for a beer. It was exciting - being the scene for Daphne Du Maurier's famous book. I'm totally inspired to read the book now, I will source a copy from the local 2nd hand book shop in town.

Carnglaze Slate Caverns ~ 30 July 2002

2009-08-06T12:32:00.006+12:00

Ever since we have been in Cornwall we have been fascinated by the beauty of the slate buildings and walls. We now had the chance to see where it all came from. Carnglaze consists of three underground caverns set in a beautiful wooded hillside near Liskeard. We had a 45 minute tour which took us through the caverns, one being of Cathedral proportions. We also saw a subterranean lake with crystal clear blue/green water. It's absolutely amazing to think that this had been hand created by local slate minors over centuries.

The only dampener on the day was locking our car keys inside the car. Thankfully we met some very nice people who went well out of their way to help us. Kim and her three children and the R.C.A. man couldn't have done more for us. After two hours we finally drove home with our tail between our legs. Could been worse, but thank goodness for kind and good people.

Eden Project ~ 23 July 2002

2009-08-06T12:08:00.007+12:00

Today we visited the Eden Project. We weren't too sure what to expect but we did expect a lot of tourists, long lines and an expense. I wasn't quite that bad - it covered such a huge area the crowds didn't really make an impact.

Eden was rather impressive, beautiful garden art and sculpture, educational displays, we discovered plants that we had never seen before and it had a strange futuristic feel about it. It's all about understanding our place in nature and the opportunities on offer.

The Eden Project, near St Austell, is designed not only to display plants from around the world, but to protect endangered species and demonstrate the relationship between plants and man. Opened in 2001, it covers 125 acres and houses 4000 species of plants in giant domes. The largest conservatory is 200 metres long by 55 metres in height and is constructed from 800 huge steel hexagons.

It was a precious, impressive and an amazing visit.

Pencarrow ~ 17 July 2002

2009-07-17T10:23:00.003+12:00

Unfortunately the managing job at Wilmington job didn't come through for us. The owners wanted a long term manager to run his pub and we are only planning to stay in the country for six months. We will probably stick it out in Padstow, it's long hours but it's central to many places we want to visit.

Today we went into Wadebridge to catch up with emails from home. Wadebridge is a nice little town, laid back with interesting shops and friendly people.

Afterwards we visited Pencarrow House and gardens. This is a Georgian house belonging to the Molesworth - St Aubyn family. It is a grand museum dedicated to the family's history. The family has strong connections to Wellington in New Zealand, ie - Pencarrow Head and Molesworth Street in New Zealand. We recognised instantly an old map of Wellington Harbor displayed on the wall, all very fascinating.

Clovelly ~ 9 July 2002

2009-07-17T10:07:00.006+12:00

After Tintagel we drove up to Clovelly, a small fishing village in Devon which has also given into the tourist trade. We paid three pounds each and we entered into a village lost in time. Small and narrow cobbled roads, white washed cottages, sweet little harbour with a very old stone quay.

We met two lovely donkeys named "Noah" and "Kiwi". Being such a lovely place it was spoilt by the tourist industry. It had a slight feeling of a theme park which was a little sad, but I suppose without it places like Tintagel and Clovelly could not exist.

We then carried on to Crediton. It was lovely to see Bett and Arthur again. We stayed the night and drove on to Wilmington to see about a job. I'm happy to be back in Devon again.

Tintagel ~ 9 July 2002

2009-07-17T09:45:00.007+12:00

This week we decided to go back to Devon to visit Aunt Bett and Arthur in Crediton and also look at a job in Wilmington at an old pub.

We took the long way round and stopped at Tintagel Castle and the old Tintagel Post Office. We were able to use our New Zealand Historic Places Trust card at the old post office [a thoughtful farewell gift from Ian's parents]

The old post office was a fourteenth century manor house and was used as a post office in the Victorian times. The wood reeked of history complimented by beautiful gardens.

We then walked down to Tintagel Castle. I wasn't totally sure what to expect. Not a lot of the castle was left and unfortunately it's a losing battle. The sea and weather is slowly chewing away at the castle bit by bit. There was enough castle left to get some idea of this fortress on this magnificent site. This part of the coast is so breath taking.

We stood on the banks which are covered in beautiful wild flowers watching the wild sea crashing against the cliffs. It reminded us a little of the West Coast in New Zealand, except you were against a back drop of an ancient castle.

The village of Tintagel have surrendered itself to tourism and has turned itself into the famed birthplace of King Arthur. The beauty of the coastline was more special to me than this connection.

Newquay ~ 5 July 2002

2009-07-17T09:30:00.006+12:00

Our job is so mundane, we seem to just live for our two days off. Today we travelled down to a surfing town called Newquay. It is about a half hour drive from St Merryn. What was once a small fishing town is now a colourful fair ground for surfers, swimmers and tourists.

It's a good feeling having a day off and with hard earned cash in your pocket to spend on what you wish. We found an Internet cafe, it's a good relief to hear from home and write back. Kasey had written a wonderful poem and I wasn't too surprised to hear of Buster's adoption to the "donkey lady" down the road. [Buster was an unruly Terrier dog of my parents - my mother found it hard to cope with his energy]

Newquay has golden sand and interesting little coves. We wandered along the beach to see the "Island" There was a house converted into a cafe on the Island with a wonderful bridge crossing over from the mainland. It was a great little spot.

Padstow ~ 3 July 2002

2009-07-03T13:02:00.006+12:00

Ian and I have been in Padstow for a week now. Padstow is a beautiful Cornish fishing village, filled will the British touris. Rick Stein has four restaurants here and also has his cooking school based here.

We are flatting in a smaller village down the road called St Merryn. The house is very nice and quiet with all we need. Our flat mates - Ed, a dope smoking chef, part time DJ who doesn't have a lot to say and John, who has too much to say and has an over sized chip on his shoulder and gets very excitable about the smallest things. He is a type of person who when you meet him you would say "A real nice guy, a lot of fun, but I wouldn't want to live with him." Well we are and he is going to be hard work.

Our job is at a restaurant called "Walkers" where we will be working with both Ed and John. The work is very mundane, I'm not sure if I can see myself doing this job until October.

We haven't had a chance to have a good look around Cornwall yet. The Cornish coast is very wild and moody - very beautiful. It's very different from Devon, not many trees and the houses are made from stone and slate, very charming.

Between us we have made enough money this week to buy a small car off a person at work. This means we will hopefully save money on public transport and be much more independent to do some sight seeing on our days off.

It's our day off today and I wanted to do something a bit touristy. We visited Prideaux Place, a historic home of the Prideaux family. A lovely home with interesting paintings and stunning pieces of furniture. A few films have been made here. The gardens were quaint with a pleasant view across to Padstow, it is a lovely place.

Crediton ~ 25 June 2002

2009-06-26T13:38:00.008+12:00

Explored Crediton today. We discovered by accident "Searle Street" [my family name]. Crediton is quite a nice town. Small narrow streets, houses close to the road. Considering how small Crediton is, it has a beautiful church. I'm not sure at what stage we will get tired of looking at churches. Ian observed how small the churches appear from the outside until you walk inside and this whole new world opens up before you. It felt very peaceful inside, most of the time we were the only ones there.

It is now official. We are leaving for Padstow on Thursday. - a small fishing village on the Cornish coats. We have both found work and accommodation there.

Exeter ~ 24 June 2002

2009-06-26T13:24:00.008+12:00

Today we ventured into Exeter. Main reason - to look for work and to visit the Exeter Cathedral. My Grandmother [who died before I was born] use to sing in the choir at this beautiful Cathedral. It's very impressive from the outside with intricate designs and stonework. It's amazing how the Cathedral was speared in the Blitz of 1942. Many buildings were destroyed and only a small part of the Cathedral was damaged. I lit a candle inside for the memory of my Grandmother, Gwendoline Harry.

Another interesting thing about Exeter is that it's surrounded by a Roman wall. Exeter is one of England's oldest cities and was founded over 2000 years ago by the Romans.

We have a job lead - I'm feeling quite nervous and scared. I suppose once again it 's just the unknown that is frightening.

British Sunday ~ 23 June 2002

2009-06-26T13:11:00.003+12:00

Sunday - A nice peaceful sleep in. Bett and Arthur took us out a traditional Sunday lunch at the "Waie Inn". Afterwards we had a little walk through the woods near Eggesford. The forest is a popular walking track with wild Foxgloves and little streams running through.

After a cup of tea at a near by garden centre Arthur gave us a tour of his area where he grew up - Coldridge. Arthur has a wide knowledge of the area which makes our trip much more interesting. Lovely narrow country lanes, with fields, hedges and white washed thatched cottages.

I rang home later that evening. Dad spoke to Aunty Bett and commented on how she sounded just like his own mother. Bett and Arthur are such a wonderful couple!

Aunt Bett in Devon ~ 22 June 2002

2009-06-22T19:35:00.007+12:00

It was never our intention to stay and work in London. Both Ian and I had a desire to work in Devon, Cornwall or maybe the Lake District. Today we decided to take the bus to my Aunt's home in Devon and from there we will organize somewhere to live and work.

We caught the coach at Victoria Station 10 am this morning. It was a bit of rush and we ended up running with all our luggage just in time to catch the coach before it left. The reason we were late....The All Blacks were playing Ireland this morning!

We are on our way to Exeter, Devon where Aunt Bett and Uncle Arthur is meeting us. It's a good feeling leaving the busy city. It doesn't take long until you can see green pastures, cows and horses. The coach trip was going to take the 'scenic' route until they decided against it. Yesterday was the summer solstice and many would be coming back from Stonehenge. That was a bit of a disappointment. Even though the scenery was just as beautiful. We past Winsor Castle in the distance. It is a huge building, impressive even from a distance. It was a 4 1/2 hour trip from London to Exeter and we arrived at 2.15 pm.

It was lovely to finally meet Aunt Bett after all this time. [I had been writing to Aunt Bett from New Zealand since I was a child] She and Arthur are very hospitable. They live just out of Exeter in a small town called Crediton. We went for a small walk with Arthur to pick something up for tea. I have a lot of family history here. We walked past the house where my Great Grandparents use to live, I'm sure I will discover more family history as we stay a little longer. The Crediton Church dominates the town where Black Crows or Rooks play on the headstones. It's a very pretty and quaint little place.

After dinner Arthur took us out for a drive to see the beautiful surrounding countryside. It's the classic English country scenes you see in the movies or in books. Coleford is a small village with thatched white washed cottages, small narrow lanes boarded with hedges, rabbits and crows - absolutely beautiful and so quiet! I really like it here.

The Tate ~ 20 June 2002

2009-06-20T21:06:00.006+12:00

Ventured out by myself this afternoon. I was desperate to visit the Tate Britain. Outside was a sculpture of Millais. I only had a limited time because I had to meet Ian at the National Gallery late that afternoon, so I went straight to the Pre-Raphaelites. [I have a deep passion for the art of the Pre-Raphaelites, especially Rossetti] The first painting I saw as I walked in was Rossetti's 'Proserpine'. It was just stunning. Rossetti, Millais, Burne-Jones, Waterhouse, all my heroes. In a way I was glad I was by myself because I know Ian wouldn't have felt the same appreciation as did I. Millais 'Ophelia' was stunning, but I felt Waterhouses' 'Lady of the Shallot' was hung to high to appreciate properly.

There was a great collection of William Blake. There was a drawing of the spirit that taught Blake to paint in his dreams - it put shivers down my spine.

Just to prove how small the world really is, I was on my way to meet Ian at the National Gallery and not only had he caught the exact same train as me, we both found each other in the same carriage!

Westminster Abbey ~ 19 June 2002

2009-06-20T20:41:00.010+12:00

Finally spoke to Mum and Dad this morning. It was good to hear their voices.

This morning we visited Westminster Abbey. Here, past Kings and Queens are laid to rest, the Coronation chair, Queen Elizabeth I, Queen Mary, Mary Queen of Scots are all here. It was quite a strange experience. Considering it's a place of religion and worship it was full of political vibes - more political than religious in a way.

In one corner of the Abbey there is a corner honoring many writers, poets, actors and musicians. Shakespeare, Chaucer and Handel, just to name a few. Handel's memorial was very life like, you could nearly feel the texture of his cloak and his eyes looking straight at you.

Walking along the cloister was extremely peaceful and calm. Ian felt the outside architecture of the Abbey was more impressive than inside. It cost us 6 pounds each as an entry fee, well worth the visit.

We then ventured to Oxford Street to look at some shops. I don't know if it was just the time we were there or if it's like that all the time, but it was a sea of bobbing heads. We then had a battle in the tube trying to get home, so many people, I had a little panic attack. When we got back to Turnham Green we had a little walk in the park, the smell of freshly mowed grass, seeing dogs being walked calmed the nerves. A few pints and a Thai meal in a corner pub was just what we needed.

The Natural History Museum ~ 18 June 2002

2009-06-19T22:50:00.005+12:00

We had to do grown up things today. Easily we set up our own bank account. We now belong to Lloyd's of London. All we have to do now is make some money to put into our bank accounts.

We had an hour in the Natural History Museum, where we saw real dinosaur skeletons. We were welcomed by a huge Diplodocus in the entrance as we arrived. We had to battle a lot of children and families, like the National Gallery, this museum is also free of charge.

It was a very Victorian style museum with a lot of stuffed animals, which I didn't enjoy so much. We would of loved to seen Kasey's face when the T.Rex model moved and roared, it scared me! [Kasey is my nephew who would of been five years old at the time]

After our meeting with the banker we ventured into Camden Town. London's version of Cuba Street in Wellington, New Zealand. We came out of the underground and was hit with a collection of very colorful and interesting people. Camden is a market of interesting clothes, music, food and people.

I'm feeling a bit anxious tonight. I'm desperate to talk to Mum and Dad, especially Kasey.

National Gallery ~ 17 June 2002

2009-06-19T16:40:00.007+12:00

Today we dedicated time to the National Gallery. Once again we were over whelmed. As soon as we walked in, Van Gogh's 'Sunflowers' was the first painting that greeted us. As expected it was absolutely beautiful. Photographs and postcards can't do this image justice. The color, texture and depth is just beautiful.

Carrying on we saw Gainsborough, Turner, Constable, Goya, Monet, Renoir, Cezanne, Degas. By the end of this visual feast we realised we weren't going to be mentally capable to take in the whole gallery.

We decided to cut straight to the Sainsbury Wing which included masters such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Uccello, Van Eyck, Botticelli, Raphael, Giotto and Durer. Ian's highlight was Leonardo's "The virgin of the rocks". He tried to explain how it made him feel, but he felt a bit speechless - I know I'm going to experience the same feelings when I see my first Rossetti.

We are going to come back to see the rest of the masterpieces another day. It was incredible that there was no entry fee to the gallery.

London sites ~ 16 June 2002

2009-06-16T12:27:00.007+12:00

Today just blew us away! I didn't realise how close the major sights were together. The old and ancient architecture is stunning. Our first stop was Buckingham Palace. The flag was flying so I presume the Queen was home. The gates outside were just beautiful.

Piccadilly Circus was so much smaller than I imagined. Trafalgar Square with the National Gallery looking over the large lion statues and fountains is just so iconic. We then walked past Downing Street guarded by large gates and police wearing bullet proof jackets.

Around the corner Big Ben stuck us, absolutely fantastic. The Houses of Parliament are just amazing. Gothic style architecture looming over the Thames River was just so beautiful. And just as you thought you couldn't be amazed anymore we saw Westminster Abbey. We couldn't go inside being Sunday, but the outside just amazed us both.

Tomorrow we plan to visit the National Gallery and Westminster Abbey.

Jumping back onto the tube Antony then took us to the famous "Abbey Road". Both being avid Beatles fans it was a 'must do' on our things to see list. It looked just like the album cover and of course we had to do the photo. Outside Abbey Road Studios fans had written inscriptions all over the white concrete fence. I suppose every now and then they paint over the graffiti so all the fans can start all over again.

I think we have sorted our jet lag out now except we want to go to bed early which means we wake up early. Tomorrow we need to do grown up things and organise our bank accounts and find some work. I think I could play the tourist much much longer, but we had better get into reality as soon as possible. I'm quite anxious to ring Mum and Dad soon, just to let them know that everything is fine.

Ian's journal entry ~ 15 June 2002

2009-06-15T13:39:00.003+12:00

Reluctantly we left our hotel at midday. We caught the tube back to Turnham Green station. Good transport service - quick and cheap and we have mostly got the hang of it already.

We arrived at George IV during the England vs Denmark football match [we arrived in the UK during the football world cup]. The pub was full of fanatical fans who cheer loudly when England scores (3-0 win).

Afterward we watch from Antony's upstairs room drunken revelry including a fight. British bobbies arrive in mass to break it up and restore order.

The Tower of London and Tower Bridge ~ 14 June 2002

2009-06-14T13:03:00.007+12:00

Our first 'London Experience' was having a typical English breakfast at a cafe called the "Cat and Cucumber". Bacon, egg, chips, beans and bubble. I was amused to receive a ready poured mug of tea rather than our own teapot, but later found this was typical of 'greasy spoon' cafes.

We then made our way across the Tower Bridge. It is a beautiful structure, built in 1894, one of the many London icons. The Thames looked a bit murky and I couldn't help but wonder how many dead bodies had been pulled out of it.

Looking across the Thames I point out a lovely castle to Ian. He seems to think it is a replica of an old castle. Getting closer we realize the replica castle is actually the Tower of London. It is so old, beautiful, interesting, ghostly and grim I can't believe it has taken me so long to see this amazing place!

The arrival ~ 13th June 2002

2009-06-13T13:52:00.002+12:00

We were half expecting to see Antony's face to meet us at the airport, but wasn't surprised when he wasn't there. [Antony is Ian's younger brother who had been living in the UK for about five years at the time] So we took on the challenge of the tube and passed very well. Antony met us at the other end and took us 'home'. Home for the next week is George IV pub in Chiswick where Antony works.

So far Ant has been the perfect host, showing us around his playground, feeding us and giving us some advice. Jet lag is a very strange feeling. A feeling beyond feeling tired. It hasn't taken us long to work the tube and we made our way to the "London Tower Bridge Hotel" in Tower Bridge Road. Two nights in a hotel, compliments of Nan and Da [my Grandparents]. Only one thing on my mind - sleep.

Leaving New Zealand ~ 12th June 2002

2009-06-13T13:25:00.001+12:00

I have been waiting, dreading, expecting and dreaming of this day. This is the day Ian and I leave New Zealand for England. [At this stage in our life's we've been together for 6 years and have been engaged for 6 months]

We left Wellington Airport 11.30am, leaving mum, dad, Donald, Connor, Jillian and Andrew [Ian's family who live in Wellington] wishing us farewell. I feel strange emotions - no sadness or excitement. It is something I have to do, a duty to myself.

It was a smooth trip to Auckland then to Singapore. I think Ian tried to distract himself by playing in a very 'cheesy' game show at Singapore Airport.

After battling a woman with her inclining chair we arrived at Heathrow Airport at 6.00 am.