Blogs from Taunton, Somerset, England, United Kingdom, Europe

Farewell to old England, but not forever. Sandy and Francis have been such good hosts that we're planning our return visit already (don't tell them, let them get over this visit first!). Although we both eagerly look forward to the next 5 weeks as we wheel around the place we were a bit sad to say 'see ya later' to Rose Cottage and its resident. Both Lee and I had a great time doing just what we wanted. Sometimes nothing, sometimes walking, sometimes nothing, sometimes cooking, sometimes nothing, sometimes 'strimming' or whatever we did enjoy our time there. The place is great, the company is terrific, the cider delightful and the weather terrible (well 3 out of 4 ain't bad!). Last night was spent dining at Kentsbury Grange, the Michelin starred restaurant of Michael Caines. Bit ... read more

Back in England now. Not a relaxing holiday but a great experience. Felt as though I have been away for a lot longer that 47 days. Found out that I really enjoyed the cities. Tried to see what some hostels were like, which may have been similar to those stayed in by my children. It would have been much easier with a companion, but I was able to do what I wanted without consulting anyonw. I cannot say what the best bit was as there was so much to remember and things were memorable for different reasons. My backpack only weighed 18 kilos, but seemed a lot heavier some of the time! I enjoyed all of the walking and swimming. Added bonus? I came back 7k lighter......... read more

So, my big trip is almost here. I have been saying my goodbyes in London and Southampton, the last one being with a dear friend over lunch yesterday. She gave me a zippo with 'loving your work' engraved upon it. Was such a sweet thing to do and I must admit a small tear in my eye. I shall miss her. last do tonight in the Plough, Taunton. Pie and mash and the quiz night with some new friends and of course my lovely Molly. A true romantic me. So,....... I am flying with Iberia. A reliable airline I was informed. Bearing in mind that my motto for my walkabouts or holiday is; 'If it's going to happen it then will happen to me', the Iberian airline pilots have decided to strike on the day I ... read more

Apologies for not being able to update for the last couple of days...... I have enjoyed cycling with John over the last 2 days....and indulging in coffee stops and fish and chips for lunch....... We left Tewkesbury fairly early this morning and John rode with me until Bristol where he then got the train back to London. I was keen to get a bit further along the route than I had originally planned and managed another 40 miles along the A38 to Taunton. Getting to this point will give me a bit of a head start tomorrow for the leg to Okehampton..... I was sorry not to have been able to meet up with my friend Brian today who started the LEJOG last friday and was in Cheddar today-However this would have taken me away from ... read more

Things are progressing nicely in the garden. The Main Bed The sunny side (nearest the house) has seen the most activitiy. The flowers (including sunflowers!), mixed lettuce and spinach have all popped up to say hello. I've also (finally) got the potatoes into the ground after their chitting phase. Possibly a little late but fingers crossed they will grow and we can harvest them! Jens Portable Garden The two trays I've planted up (as a mobile garden) are coming on very well. Similar to the main bed I have flowers, mixed lettuce, rocket and spinach germinating. BUT to my suprise I have some beans (french hunter) coming out. Interestingly they have popped up here, but not in the main bed, just yet! Very exciting! New Additions I've recently planted some additional bits and pieces in pots ... read more