text:
Doors Open review: Stephen Fry & Lenora Crichlow shine in this heist caper that is perfect for Boxing Day
Boxing Day is a very odd occasion and nobody quite knows what its about as it's the day after you've opened all your presents but you've still got half tins of chocolate lying around and uneaten turkey to devour. It's also an odd day in terms of TV as the big Christmas specials have been on the day before but at the same time it's still too early to be airing new series so instead films and one-off dramas fill the majority of the airtime. One such drama is Doors Open, based on a novel by Ian Rankin, which is produced by Stephen Fry's Sprout Pictures and stars the man himself as art historian Professor Robert Gissing.
Robert has been given the job of curating and caring for a group of famous paintings and he later befriends billionaire art fan Mike MacKenzie who uses his money to snap up various works at auction. It helps that Mike is in a relationship with auctioneer Laura and in the first scene he purchases a piece of art that the pair can share when she moves in with him. The action then shifts five years into the future where Mike and Laura have separated and he is in the process of selling his business as he has lost his passion for it. Robert meanwhile is thrown when the bank want to take the paintings away from Scotland and send Laura back to help him make an inventory of the artwork which is being kept in the gallery's warehouse. When Mike goes to seek an explanation from Laura to why she is helping the bank he discovers that she is in a relationship with and getting engaged to the bank's representative Bruce Cameron. Robert's reaction to the paintings leaving Scotland is simple as he plans to steal, or in his words remove, a few paintings that are close to his heart. After initially ridiculing the idea, Mike later agrees to join Robert if only to get one back on the bank that have stolen his true love away and also to get back the painting he bought five years ago. Mike and Robert are joined in their quest by Mike's friend Allan who has recently been sacked by the same bank who is taking the paintings and wishes to both secure some artwork to get some money for his family and get revenge against his former employees.
The trio's plan is simple as they plot to swap the original paintings in the gallery for forgeries created by one of Robert's former students Westie. They agree their best bet is to enter the warehouse on Doors Open Day, an event which sees some of Scotland's most closed-off venues open for the public, and set off a fire alarm which will send everybody out for twenty minutes. While casing the warehouse they attract the attention of local crime boss and Mike's old acquaintance Calloway who owes some money to a Geordie gangster who is constantly threatening him. Realising they need each other Mike brings Calloway and his crew in on the mission and with a hardened criminal on board their plans soon become full-proof. Calloway provides them with the disguises, technology and extra manpower they need to carry out the job and in return he asks them to steal another painting that the Geordie has requested as collateral for the money he owes. Though their plan starts well eventually Allan's sloppiness combined with the fact that Laura turns up at the warehouse means that nothing runs smoothly and after the robbery events start to unravel.
It's always hard to judge a drama based on a book, especially one I haven't read, as I'm never sure how many of the plot points are vital to the story's success. Personally I most enjoyed the scenes with the three men plotting their heist in the pub as some of Allan's reactions to Mike and Robert's ideas are truly priceless. The plot on the whole is uncomplicated fare as the motives for all three men committing the robbery are established early on while the later involvement of the criminal element is also well explained. The problem I had was with some of the characters namely Calloway's mob who come across as stereotypical gangsters that you would find in any British crime film and for me they remained two-dimensional throughout the course of Doors Open. I also found the character of Laura was underdeveloped as she essentially existed as a love interest for Mike and also was there to provide a reason why he would want to rob the warehouse in the first place. For someone who was an assured auctioneer and art fan I didn't think she came across as a particularly strong presence and instead she was presented as a woman who needed a man to define her. I also found that the story started to sag after the heist itself with the various twists and turns not being particularly believable while the final scene was a little bit of an anticlimax considering what had come before.
I felt the saving grace of Doors Open came from the performances namely that of Stephen Fry who, in play a knowledgeable art fan, was in essence portraying a version of himself. Thankfully that isn't a problem when Fry is such a warm presence whether he is acting or simply hosting a show he has a commanding aura which lends itself well to the role he plays. Douglas Henshall is also well-cast as the bored billionaire whose sense of calm makes him a natural leader of the group and you can also believe why these two men would agree with what he had to say. For me though the show was stolen by Kenneth Collard who as Allan became the comic foil of the piece and whose scene in the warehouse involving a photocopier was one of the highlights of the entire piece. The only piece of casting I didn't agree with was Lenora Crichlow who in my eyes was far too young to play this accomplished auctioneer especially considering that we're meant to buy that she's been in the job for over five years while I also felt that she and Henshall didn't particularly share a believable chemistry on screen which is a shame seeing as their romance anchors the final part of the drama.
Despite some problems with the plotting and casting I can't say I didn't enjoy Doors Open as it had three likeable performances, an easy-to-follow story and lots of lovely shots of the Scottish coastline. Stephen Fry in particular shines throughout and his company has produced an untaxing drama to watch on Boxing Day as you become increasingly bored with your new presents and are still trying to eat yet another turkey sandwich.
Did you enjoy Doors Open? What did you think to Stephen Fry? Leave Your Comments Below.
2 Responses to "Doors Open review: Stephen Fry & Lenora Crichlow shine in this heist caper that is perfect for Boxing Day"
This was a a gentle Boxing Day caper film which moved at a good pace. The story line was not over-complicated but on the other hand did have its twists and nuances. I cannot agree about the casting as the point that "Calloways mob" were rent-a-thief was well made. In fact all the "professional" criminals (even the atrocious Hate!) were excellent/amusing but gave the film an ever so slight but necessary edge. A slightly Ealing Comedy-type film that fitted the bill perfectly!
Why oh why are films made in Edinburgh populated with actors clearly not from Edinbugh. And what happened to Westie and his girlfriend? The film eventually turned into a farce and ruined the darker side of the story, turning an excellent book into a parody. Once again, what has Ian Rankin done to deserve this? Two tries at Rebus books was more than enough! Well done Mr Fry. You recognised a good novel, then you allowed it to deficate on screen. Oh, and please tell the casting person that Edinburgh people find west coast accents anathema when the film maker tries to pretend the actors are native Edinburghers. I could name a good few films where this has happened before. It just shows the ignorance of the casting people who probably think all Scots speak the same. NO WE DON'T. And forget it if you think Sean Connery sounds as though he was born and brought up in Edinburgh. He does not.


text:
Mon, May 30, 11 at 8:48
I'm experimenting with these sort of chemicals, and I"m finding them to be pretty much a gimmick (which I thought).
Anyone else with the same experience, or am I just picking the wrong brands? |
Follow-Up Postings:
How about some examples of what you are talking about. Some people use the wrong chemical for a certain weed. Many people try to kill clover or chickweed with Weed B Gone, when in fact there is another product specifically designed for those weeds. Nutsedge is untouched by most chemicals as well, unless you use the appropriate one. |
not a gimmick, you probably are using it on wrong types of weeds or not applying correctly. weed b gone takes about 7-10 days to see results. |
- Posted by nearandwest 7 (My Page) on Sat, Jun 4, 11 at 8:11
When used correctly, weed b gon is highly effective for its purpose. |
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Lawn Care Forum
Information about Posting
- You must be logged in to post a message. Once you are logged in, a posting window will appear at the bottom of the messages. If you are not a member, please register for an account.
- Please review our Rules of Play before posting.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review your post, make changes and upload photos.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- Before posting copyrighted material, please read about Copyright and Fair Use.
- We have a strict no-advertising policy!
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.
Learn more about in-text links on this page here

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Carpet Cleaning Bakersfield, CA - Bakersfield Chem-Dry
Welcome to Bakersfield Chem-Dry in Bakersfield, Rosedale, & Wible - Superior Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
For thirty years, Chem-Dry has been at the forefront of the carpet and upholstery cleaning industry with innovative equipment and powerful cleaning solutions. Prolong the life of your carpets and upholstery with routine cleaning by Bakersfield Chem-Dry's professional technicians who are trained to deliver top-quality service at an excellent value.
Ask today about the benefits of Hot Carbonating Extraction, available only from Chem-Dry.
Enjoy the many advantages of choosing Bakersfield Chem-Dry:
Chem-Dry is the world's largest carpet cleaning company, with more than 4,000 locations across the globe. Trust your carpets and upholstery to Chem-Dry.
Call Bakersfield Chem-Dry Now to Schedule an Appointment!


text:
Sat, May 19, 07 at 14:36
OK people, I'm trying to downsize my nursery..lol...if any of you would like some free plants for the taking, please come get them. Or if you know someone who would like some.
I have lots of different Rose Of Sharons, dozens of Japanese Maples, red crepe myrtles, hybrid beauty berry bushes, daylilies, cannas, chaste trees, glory bower trees, Old Blush climbing roses, Japanese Iris, Oakleaf Hydrangea, gardenia, and some others that I can't remember right now!! These plants are all potted and just need a good home! lol First come, first serve. I live approximately 8 miles north of Wetumpka, AL on Hyw. 9 in Santuck. So if you're in the area please come get some nice plants. I will be going on vacation June 1st and have no one to water for me. You know that plants in pots have to be watered daily. I can' hold anything for anyone, it will strictly be on a first come, first serve basis. If anyone has any questions about anything just drop me an email from my member page. Also, if you are coming, let me know what day so I can make sure to be home. Most any day prior to June 1st will be fine except May 25th. They all need to find good homes before June 1st!!! Please, please come get them....;o)...(yep, I'm begging now) LOL
Follow-Up Postings:
I meant to say I can't hold anything for anyone. Sorry about that. :) That's what I get for not proofing my post. Jan |
- Posted by butterflyer1966 z7 , AL (My Page) on Sun, May 20, 07 at 0:36
Hey there, I just sent you an email, please tell me if you got it. TIA Susanne(SUE) |
i sent you an email too! |
I did get an email from each of you. Thanks for your interest in my plants, and I hope you can come get some of them. Jan |
- Posted by tsmith2579 Z7B/8A-Alabama (My Page) on Sun, May 20, 07 at 13:53
Jan, please email instructions on how to get to your place (and phone number) or give me an address and I'll do a AOL Driving Directions map. Sylvia and I would like to drive down one afternoon in the next 2 weeks to take a look. We can't come between Thursday, May 24 and Saturday, May 26 because of our granddaughter's wedding festivities. Can come early this week and Sunday, May 27 and week of Memorial Day. Thanks, Terry |
I have tried to contact you by phone, e-mail and a wild goose chase trip all to no avail. please give directions or means of contact, Fred |
stopped by today, but don't think anyone was home cause no one ever came to the door. tried to call, but couldn't get thru. hope nothings wrong. |
Sorry Mokey, I was at church this morning, but I've been home all afternoon, just been outside. Didn't hear the phone. What time did you come? I was home by 12:30. Jan |
Gave away lots of my plants this afternoon. Here's what I still have, Japanese Maples, Japanese Iris, Beauty Berries, Red Crepe Myrtles, several varieties of Rose of Sharon, Glory Bowers, Weeping Willows, Cannas, one red bud. Everything else is pretty much gone. If anyone is still interested please feel free to come get some. Jan |
- Posted by roseyp8255 z8 - SC AL (My Page) on Sun, May 20, 07 at 22:55
okay Jan - i just sent u an email - i want some!!! do you want me to come water the besd? Are you gonna do timers? |
Thanks so much to all of you who came and got my plants. For those of you who didn't get any I apologize but they went very fast! Now I won' have to worry about watering every day or while I'm on vacation. Jan |
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Alabama Gardening Forum
Information about Posting
- You must be logged in to post a message. Once you are logged in, a posting window will appear at the bottom of the messages. If you are not a member, please register for an account.
- Please review our Rules of Play before posting.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review your post, make changes and upload photos.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- Before posting copyrighted material, please read about Copyright and Fair Use.
- We have a strict no-advertising policy!
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.
Learn more about in-text links on this page here


text:
Free Entry - Entry Information
Spring-fed Nogoa River and Louisa Creek wind through a picturesque broad valley beneath craggy sandstone outcrops in the Salvator Rosa section of Carnarvon National Park.
At the western edge of Central Queensland#039;s sandstone belt, Salvator Rosa contains deeply eroded and spectacular rock formations, such as Spyglass Peak and the Sentinel, which dominate the skyline. See the vivid orange-barked yellow-jacket trees as you walk 500 metres to the base of Spyglass Peak.
... moreAlong the path you pass through a remarkable sandstone wall that looks like the ramparts of an ancient fort. On a fine day as you stand and admire this impressive landmark, you can see blue sky through the spyglass-shaped rock formation, which is well worth a photograph.
... lessBe careful when walking near edges, the sandstone crumbles easily.
Wear a hat and sunscreen and take plenty of water. If walking along the the four wheel drive track from the campground, beware of vehicles.
Between April and September is the best time to visit as summers can be very hot.
* Please note: These rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available costs of listed products and services. To obtain a firm price from the provider, please use the contact the operator . All prices are quoted in Australian dollars.


text:
Blog | Comments |
Autoblog Archive | 1 Comment |
WoW | 11 Comments |
Recent Comments:
Cataclysm launches in Europe, servers currently down [Updated] {WoW}
Dec 6th 2010 6:58PM Surprise!
WoW 5th Anniversary Giveaway: 3 Tiny mount loot codes {WoW}
Nov 25th 2009 9:05AM These are sick! hopefully one day I'll win!
Enter to win one of six loot card codes from WoW Insider and WoWTCGLoot {WoW}
May 13th 2009 5:24PM Reins of the Swift Spectral Tiger, im a totally obsessed with it, like all mounts really. I miss my frost saber :( Good luck guys!
Enter to win one of six loot card codes from WoW Insider and WoWTCGLoot {WoW}
May 13th 2009 5:23PM My favorite loot has to be Reins of the Swift Spectral Tiger, only because I'm a loot addict, and I miss my frost tiger :( Good luck everyone!!!
Zombies are bad for the economy {WoW}
Oct 27th 2008 11:00PM 500g a day at the AH? Fucking hell mate, I hope she took the few days off to chisel the fucking cheeto residue out of her belly button and crotch.
You and your wife need to get off the computers, adopt a kid, Please for the fucking love of christ do no reproduce. wow=srsbznss
Will Wrath really be ready by November 13? {WoW}
Sep 25th 2008 8:54PM Really? This is a post here? ...
eBay Find of the Day: Batmobile from Tim Burton's first bat film {Autoblog Archive}
May 6th 2008 12:34PM "the flat-black exotic"
WoW up your iPhone {WoW}
Apr 16th 2008 10:31AM Update. Theme is now available on the Installer app of the iPhone. Hosted on BigBoss' repo!
WoW up your iPhone {WoW}
Apr 15th 2008 10:55AM You'll need summerboard. I'm working hard right now to get this included into the Installer app rep for easy download. The response to this theme has been a little bit more than I was expecting.
WoW up your iPhone {WoW}
Apr 15th 2008 10:38AM The name is Nasum :P I'll have this ready to download this afternoon. Installer community is taking forever to release it so I will be forced to do an ZIP release.


text:
- May 31:
- Willits bypass court case coming down to the wire
- Letter:Wake Up Willits! about the bypass
- Letter: Protecting pot growers while raising highway stink (bypass)
- Letter: Little Lake Wick Drilling Model.
- May 24:
- City holds course on Willits bypass relinquishment efforts
- May 22:
- Piles, wick drains and protests
- May 17:
- Letter: Bypass Scam
- Willits bypass route remains an area of conflict
- May 9:
- Brooktrails to reconsider bypass support on Tuesday
- May 8:
- CalTrans poised to begin major bypass work
- May 3:
- Last two Willits tree-sitters slip away
- May 1:
- CalTrans violated bypass construction permits, Water Board charges
- Willits bypass construction update
- Willits protesters off to Sacramento and LA
- Apr 25:
- Farm Bureau, CalTrans issue statements on bypass settlement
- Two arrests as bypass protesters stage sit-in
- Apr 23:
- Farm Bureau settles bypass lawsuit
- Apr 18:
- Willits bypass update: On the use of wick drains; Why they are being used
- Violent tree sitter pleads guilty to felony; sentencing scheduled May 31
- Apr 11:
- Large crowd objects to Brooktrails' bypass support
- Apr 9:
- Willits bypass progress report
- Apr 4:
- Willits: All five tree-sit protesters removed from CalTrans' Willits bypass right of way
- Apr 2:
- Updated at 5 p.m. Tree sitters blocking Willits bypass route pulled from trees
- Mar 29:
- Tree-sitter declares hunger strike
- BOS remains committed to Willits bypass
- Mar 28:
- Tree-sitter declares hunger strike
- Mar 26:
- Willits bypass construction continues
- Mar 21:
- CHP arrives in force to clear bypass protesters
- Union members call for end to bypass delay
- Mar 19:
- Showdown likely between protesters and CalTrans
- Mar 16:
- Showdown likely between protestors and CalTrans
- Mar 14:
- Rally supports Willits bypass, while protestors shut down worksite
- Mar 12:
- Commentary: Phase 1 of the Willits bypass is unsafe, destructive and wasteful
- Commentary: Local first or Interregional?
- Commentary: CalTrans' bypass; who's costing the taxpayers what?
- LETTER: Hearing from the whole community
- LETTER: Consider consquences
- CalTrans bypass: The waiting game continues
- Mar 8:
- LETTER: Bypass-- 'Un'occupy the highway
- LETTER: Bypass--There are 'better ways'
- LETTER: Bypass plan is 'unsafe'
- LETTER: The public should know more on the bypass boondoggle
- LETTER: Out on a limb on the bypass
- Mar 5:
- Bypass protests and counter 'statements'
- Feb 28:
- Bypass project halted by the birds and Department of Fish and Wildlife
- Feb 26:
- Commentary: Bypass means a safer, healthier Little Lake Valley
- Bypass construction starts, then stops
- Letter: The bypass--Is there 'a better way'?
- Feb 19:
- Commentary: Why is there a tree sit in Willits to protest the CalTrans bypass?
- Letter: Supports the bypass
- Letter: Near catastrophe by CalTrans save only by luck
- CalTrans gives bypass contractor a green light
- Feb 5:
- Bypass lawsuit rolls on as Warbler sits
Rain, wind and frosty conditions during the past week have not dampened Warbler's spirits as she continues her tree-sit to stop the Highway 101 bypass around Willits.
The contractor has yet to begin work on the bypass. "We are waiting for feedback from the Army Corps of Engineers on a couple of permit questions," says CalTrans spokesman Phil Frisbie, "and when that is resolved we will authorize the contractor to mobilize. We hope to begin construction later this month."
"I'm doing pretty good," says 24-year-old Warbler as she perches about 50 feet above the ground in a pine tree along the bypass route. She is staying warm with two sleeping bags, and so far her tarp is keeping rain off and there hasn't been any snow.
At her height Warbler can really feel the wind, causing her pine tree to sway. She has been tree-sitting since January 28.
One of her main surprises has been that it isn't the wind and rain that has interrupted her sleep, it's the incessant sound of cars and trucks driving on Highway 101 located about 100 yards from her perch.
"The constant noise from 101 is very distracting; it reverberates through the valley," says Warbler. "It makes me even more aware of how the bypass will affect the sounds of the valley."
So far there has been few signs of the contractor gearing up for work on the new highway, except for CalTrans' vehicles driving back and forth on the access road located beside her tree.
Law enforcement from the California Highway Patrol and the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office has maintained a watchful but respectful presence. CalTrans personnel have stopped and photographed the protest scene, but there have been no confrontations.
Warbler is bolstered by both the emotional and the material support she continues to receive. Supporters on the ground have brought her hot meals for breakfast and dinner as well as supplies and other sundries. Groups have come to sing and entertain her as well.
"This has become the epicenter for the community's gathering protest against the bypass," says Warbler. She has been encouraged as well by the growing number of area residents taking the organized tours of the bypass footprint. "The last class had 35 participants; it is a good way to understand the true impact this bypass will have. I really want people to get involved and spread the word."
Warbler has done a lot of camping and backpacking prior to this new adventure. "It is a whole new experience living in a tree."
The toughest part of the experience for Warbler has been, "I really miss my goats." Before her tree sitting experience she tended a herd of 13 goats, milking twice daily. For someone who is used to farm life getting enough exercise has also been a challenge.


text:
01 March 2012
By Laural Kubat, Human Resources Director
Filled positions:
- College Lab Assistant I (Computer Integrated Machining) – Faribault – hired Christine Myers
- General Maintenance Worker Lead – North Mankato – promoted Tim Miller, current GMW
Vacancies in Progress:
- Child Development Instructor (75%) – Faribault/North Mankato – closed December 12, 2011
- Computer Integrated Machining Instructor – Faribault – open until filled
- College Readiness English Instructor – North Mankato – replacing Mary Heminover – closed December 30, 2011
- College Readiness Mathematics Instructor – Faribault – closed December 30, 2011
- College Readiness Mathematics Instructor – North Mankato – replacing Norma Malterer –closed December 30, 2011
- Nursing Instructor (60%) – North Mankato – open until filled
- Psychology Instructor – North Mankato – replacing Patricia Linehan – closed December 30, 2011
- Sociology Instructor – Faribault/North Mankato – replacing Raj Sethuraju – closed December 30, 2011
Employees leaving us:
- Jeff Fischer – retirement
- Lu Jaycox – retirement
- Justin Martin – resignation
April 6 All-College In-Service
April 6 is the All-college Spring In-Service Day. This is a duty/work day. The college will be closed for outside business and students. You will be receiving information via e-mail soon regarding sign-up for the lunch menu, attendance, and transportation from Faribault campus.
Since April 6 is Good Friday and many may want to abstain from meat, we will be offering a couple different lunch options. Famous Dave's will be catering so Becky and her crew are able to attend the in-service. The menu will include your choice of pulled pork, cod, vegetarian or gluten free entrée. The sides will be baked beans, coleslaw, and spiced apples. Cookies for dessert.
The agenda for the day:
7:15 a.m. Bus/van leaves Faribault campus
8:30 a.m. President Stover welcome and comments
9:00 a.m. FERPA – Donna Marzolf
9:30 a.m. Retention Activities – Student Affairs Team and Retention Committee
11:30 a.m. Lunch
12:30 p.m. Years of Service and special awards and recognition
1:45 – 3:15 Common read groups
(If you haven't read the book yet, you still have time As you know, the Common Read for this year is The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie. There are copies to be checked out in the libraries, and it is available as an e-book for the Kindle ($19.95) and the Nook ($10.99). The bookstores have books for sale and if you would like to return the book after it is read, the bookstores will take the books back as in a typical book return. Please contact the bookstores for questions on the process. You may still also order it from Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble.
(Times subject to change!)


text:
Does anyone actually get packed and organized days before they are due to leave on a trip? Somehow each time I vow I will plan more efficiently and then I find myself scrambling at the last minute to get everyhting finished.
I think in the days when travel agents did all the bookings and presented you with a neat itinerary, bundles of tickets, and all you had to do was be where they told you to be at the right time, life was simpler.
This time I booked most of this trip for myself through a number of different internet sites, itinerary chaos....
I am writing this from my compact, and mercifully cool, hotel room in Soho.
The high in London today is 28 C and I have done a lot of moving around dragging my "light" luggage. Since my natural habitat is probably somewhere close to Antarctica or maybe Siberia, I find the air conditioning most welcome.
There has been a lot of moaning in Vancouver about the new line from the Airport to downtown but if it works anything as efficiently as the Heathrow Express, it will be a great help to travelers.
Our flight touched down early. I whizzed through customs ( minimal lineup and friendly agent) waited barely any time for my little suitcase to appear on the carousel and then within less than fifteen minutes I, backpack, suitcase and raincoat, were comfortably ensconced in the Heathrow Express train to Paddington.
At Paddington Station another brief wait in a queue for a taxi, and off to my hotel. Actually the taxi ride was probably the most uncomfortable because the twists and turns though little side streets caused my stomach to moved vertically upward to the vicinity of my throat.
Despite seemingly endless procrastination about getting organized for the trip and despite many welcome phone interruptions, here I am in the Air Canada Lounge more than two and a half hours before the flight. And in answer to those who habitually have to grab the tail of the plane as it is lifting off and who tease me about getting to the airport days before the flight crew, I say "well guess who has time to make a real head start on her travelogue (or travelblog, if you will)."
Now for those of who don't know me as well as my family this is probably as good a time as any to add some new words to my profile. Literal and honest …"to the point of stupidity" as my friend pointed out some years ago on a trip to Australia, after I declared my candy to the nice man at customs. Well they did ask if I had any food and at that time of my life, I included those hard candies, lemon and grapefruit flavour as one of the essential food groups. Great for preventing car sickness on long drives, by the way.
In that strange unpredictable mix of physiological traits that our genes produce for everyone there are positives and negatives. In my case my hair resolutely refuses to do the usual ageing thing and go grey or white. Instead it sends out tiny silver threads every now and again so in certain lighting it looks as though I have very subtle highlights. Saved me a fortune in hairdresser bills. That's a positive. On the other hand, I need only to look at a croissant or a pizza and I can feel myself expanding like the Pillsbury doughboy (oops-dough girl). That's a negative. I have a sense of smell that can recognise one molecule in a billion. That's a mixed blessing - particularly in an elevator full of wet dog. Or an airplane cabin!
. "Eetsa awfully beeg bed you got der, madame", he said.
I pass bookstore after bookstore and theatre after theatre as I roam around the West End. My kind of place. I restrain myself from getting carried away buying books. I have one small suitcase for checked luggage and my back pack for my lap top. This is not a trip for acquiring things - except new experiences. At the Crime and Mystery Bookstore on Charing Cross Road however, discipline breaks down and I leave the store with a signed copy of the latest Dick Francis novel. Not even in paperback – poor bulging suitcase.
Some random observations from today's walk follow, I noticed an unusual number of young people with spiked black hair, chains and black leather clothing, rings through many visible body parts and I suspect many not visible toot, and the heavy black makeup ringing the eyes like pandas. I thought Gothic was so not in, anymore. I wonder if there is a sci-fi convention on in town or something.
The first English class I took when I went back to do my BA at UBC five years ago was a six-credit evening course on Shakespeare. So naturally one of the to-dos on my list for London was to see the recreated Globe Theatre. I decided to catch a Wednesday matinee of Antony and Cleopatra, one of the twelve plays and numerous poems I actually studied for my class.
The Globe is situated south of the Thames in Southwark. "Too far to walk to", said the concierge. "And it's across the river. You'll have to take a cab." I looked dubiously at the map. It did not seem too far to walk but hey, I was asking his advice. Maybe I should take it. So I headed off to Oxford Street from where a shocking-pink London taxi driven by yet another friendly cabbie whisked me down to Southwark.
With nothing special planned till this evening when I go to see "A Voyage round my Father at the Wyndham's Theatre, some more sightseeing was in order. With a limited amount of time, I thought I would take a tour and see where I wanted to spend my last free day in London tomorrow.
The ever helpful concierge showed me a brochure for the "Hop-on, hop-off" sightseeing tour of London and I thought "this is perfect" so voucher in hand I set off to Leicester Square to "hop-on".
Although during the course of the 2 and a half hour tour we passed several other tour buses that looked fairly packed for some reason there were only about ten people on the one I took. I sat on the open upper deck with a cool breeze blowing thorough my freshly washed hair. Fortunately, thanks to a quick visit the day before I left, to Emma who has been cutting my hair for about twenty years now, I can just run my hands through my short haircut and it looks kind of ok. As long as I remember to do the running hands bit!
Actually speaking about the weather, which today is mercifully a little cooler than the last few days, I think the Weather Network is playing with my mind. I go on line, make sure I am looking at London, UK not London, Ontario or the other three Londons that are shown, and check out the prediction for the day. For three days in a row it has shown the little icon with rain pouring down, and for there days in a row I have carefully packed my rain jacket in my purse – and not a drop has fallen. Interesting. I find they are much more accurate at home.
Just to clarify. This column is not about rabble rousing, greenhouse gases or salacious sex but I will get to the hot beds later. The column is however about something that has perplexed me since I last stayed in an English hotel, in Hull more than eight years ago. The question goes something like this
We know that the history of inns and traveler hospitality is not even four hundred years old for travelers in America while the history of inns in Britain must date back a couple of thousand years. So how come American hoteliers have figured out all the little things that make a traveler comfortable while so many English hoteliers have not?
Take plumbing for instance. The last time I endured weeks of cold showers was as a twelve year old away at a six week youth club camp in the African bush. The showers were outdoors, only cold water available, but it was so hot that it did not matter too much to a bunch of kids. Not that we showered all that much anyway. The ground where the camp was located was basically red clay. My mother used to delight in telling my kids that when I returned from that camp it took three hot baths before she managed to get all the clay dust out of my hair and skin.
Of the major English Romantic poets I generally prefer the work of John Keats to that of Percy Shelley- but not when it comes to hairdryers. Think about it. When you are impatiently trying to brush and comb your wet hair into some semblance of dryness and order, what would you prefer? "Thy hair soft-lifted by the winnowing wind", all gentle warmth but little strength so your hair does not dry at all or to be "Vaulted with all thy congregated might of vapours from whose solid atmosphere black rain, and fire, and hail will burst" – a strong hot wind that will dry your hair in minutes.
This burst of bizarre inner dialogue was prompted by yet another frustrating experience with the wall mounted hairdryer system thoughtfully installed in the bathroom so you won't electrocute yourself by immersing your own hairdryer in water while you attempt to dry your hair. It is rather like one of my favorite Shakespearean quotes all "sound and fury, signifying nothing". It's meant to be foolproof – or perhaps for fools. You do not even have to switch it or figure how to extract it from its plastic base. You just pull it out and it begins to hum furiously expelling warm air that has no force at all. My hair isn't even "soft-lifted" like autumn. So after a vigorous rub with a towel, a quick combing with the fingers and another thank-you to Emma of the clever scissor-work, I am off to the British Museum.
Of course, just as I have begun to feel comfortable moving around in my "hood", it is time to leave. Some thoughts on departing from London today.
Soho and the West End, the small part of London where I have spent the past 5 days, is a bustling area full of young people. On every street there are pubs and cafes with sidewalk seating and patios. And they are always full. I began to wonder if people ever work around here, or perhaps a lot of business is conducted over beers or lattes. Oh yes, Starbucks is here as well with the usual intimidating list of possibilities for coffee, tea and iced versions of the same. I still haven't mastered the art of ordering when all I want is a freshly made cup of coffee. That's why I have my Cuisinart grind and brew on my kitchen counter at home, and here in London I am drinking a lot of water. It is sooo hot.
As for the reputation of English folk as taciturn and reserved, I have found the opposite. Most people have been friendly and happy to chat. At first I thought perhaps some of the smiles I was getting was because I looked lost, sort of "deer in the spotlight" at the intersections and traffic lights, clutching my London map. But when I knew exactly where I was going and relegated the map to the side pocket of my purse I still got smiles and friendly greetings. Maybe it's just because I just look happy to be here. Who knows?
The rain has held off despite the warnings of the Weather Network. Have not checked what to expect in France since it has been quite misleading so far. It is already mid-September so I expect things will start cooling down soon.
I am heading off shortly to Victoria Station to catch the Gatwick Express to the airport. Although the travel agent said to reconfirm the flight the BA phone lines said not to. Hmmm…..…
Enter your email address:
Delivered by FeedBurner


text:
Quoted from JJR So what say you all about vaseline? Bad?
Quoted from JJR Not real close. That's the problem. We'll have to see. There's one somewhat near but it's by where we never go and we'd have to go out of our way. For some reason there isn't one in the normal routes we drive. Grrrrrrr....
Quoted from Victoria I haven't bought dish soap in a decade. My favorite is Dr. Bronner's, diluted 1/2 and 1/2 with water in a pump bottle on the sink.
Quoted from yaeli Soon after I read this, I bought a new Bronner's 944 ml. liquid soap bottle - lavender is my favourite - and my life has changed! Absolutely upgraded! It's much much better and friendlier than the friendly Ecover dish liquid I've been using for years, eradicates easily the most obstinate food smells (= sardines, lamb fat). I use it for dishes and hands and I am happy. The kitchen is upgraded, nice and cozy. Thanks!
Quoted from Marc121 Try to buy gloves. Washing gloves
Quoted Text And my son is highly allergic to nuts, and if I'm cooking for him, that would not be good.
Quoted from PrincessMia Mine would crack to the point of bleeding till I discovered a natural remedy. I spray my hands with rose water then apply glycerine and a pair of cotton gloves before bed. Good luck.
Quoted from JJR yvonne, I think you have it backwards with the humidity. Right now in winter the humidity has been around 30-35% in our house.


text:
Somatic Psychology Resource
Nancy Eichhorn (Somatic Psychology) is the publisher of a new magazine devoted to the field of Somatic Psychotherapy. It features both national and international writers. The journal is entitled, Somatic Psychotherapy Today, under the auspices of The United States Association for Body Psychotherapy and the European Association for Body Psychotherapy.
Here is a link to the journal: