... from our afternoon walk down the usual lane, but today the girls decided to sniff every single blade of grass, so what normally takes us about 40 minutes has taken about twice that!
We've just got in and they are fast asleep, having just paused long enough to down a huge bowl of water each.
In fact I've noticed two things this week:
1) They are drinking lots more water which is probably due to the dried food and the fact that the weather is warmer.
2) If they're not out being exercised they are sleeping, which is most unusual. They seem to be tired out most of the time and are certainly much calmer generally. This is a good thing!
LILY & ROSE
Here are some photos of Lily & Rose. There are a few from the first time we saw them when they were just 4 weeks old. They would fit on your hand at this age and didn't look much like westies!
Friday, 30 April 2010
HAVE JUST THOUGHT...
... of something else that CHARLES needs to do this weekend!
HE NEEDS TO CLEAR HIS WARDROBE OUT!
We must be the only couple on this earth where the husband has more clothes than the wife! It's got to the point where his (much larger than mine) wardrobe will no longer close and that's WITHOUT all the gear he bought in NY.
I honestly think the sales assistant in Macy's thought all her birthday commission had come at once when he turned up at the Ralph Lauren concession and practically wiped it out. It got to the point during the enforced bit of our stay, where James and I were having to drag him away from clothes shops and remind him that we had no more room for any more stuff!
So, that's gardening and wardrobe rationalisation then. Wonder what else we need to do?
HE NEEDS TO CLEAR HIS WARDROBE OUT!
We must be the only couple on this earth where the husband has more clothes than the wife! It's got to the point where his (much larger than mine) wardrobe will no longer close and that's WITHOUT all the gear he bought in NY.
I honestly think the sales assistant in Macy's thought all her birthday commission had come at once when he turned up at the Ralph Lauren concession and practically wiped it out. It got to the point during the enforced bit of our stay, where James and I were having to drag him away from clothes shops and remind him that we had no more room for any more stuff!
So, that's gardening and wardrobe rationalisation then. Wonder what else we need to do?
BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND...
.... coming up and the weather is about to take a change for the worse, which is just about typical. I actually can't remember a decent May Bank Holiday - it always seems to be really cold and miserable.
Charles has taken the girls for their early walk before leaving for work and I was planning to take them out again shortly, but looking at the black clouds that are gathering over the Cheviots I may leave it for a while!
Most of our weekend plans revolve around getting the garden tidied up and that will be okay as long as it stays dry, although would clearly have been more pleasant if it had been a bit warmer.
The girls are off to the groomers at 9.30 tomorrow morning. I've no idea how long they'll be there, but imagine it could take a while to get them sorted. They're both quite good about being washed and brushed, so I hope they'll give her a relatively easy time. Once they've had their new dos I'll make sure we post some pics so you can see how smart they are!
Forgot to mention that we brought back tee-shirts from the States for them! One is NYPD and the other is FDNY. They haven't worn them yet, but may well need to if they're going to be shorn AND the weather is going to turn nasty!!
We are having some success with the dried food, although Lily has started turning her nose up initially and needs a bit of persuasion to get started. I'm giving them the suggested amount, which actually seems quite a lot and takes them AGES to eat. In the past they have managed to wolf down their meals within seconds! The thing with the girls is that they seem to think that if they don't eat it all in one go, it will disappear, and the idea of grazing, like Dannymatt's girls, is somewhat alien to them. However, this morning, I noticed that they DID leave some food at breakfast time and have returned to their bowls occasionally for an extra little nibble, so maybe they'll begin to relax a bit about their meals once they get used to the change.
(As I write, Rose has returned to the bowl and is rolling a dried pea around the floor making a great game out of it. Stop playing with your food Rose!!)
Charles has taken the girls for their early walk before leaving for work and I was planning to take them out again shortly, but looking at the black clouds that are gathering over the Cheviots I may leave it for a while!
Most of our weekend plans revolve around getting the garden tidied up and that will be okay as long as it stays dry, although would clearly have been more pleasant if it had been a bit warmer.
The girls are off to the groomers at 9.30 tomorrow morning. I've no idea how long they'll be there, but imagine it could take a while to get them sorted. They're both quite good about being washed and brushed, so I hope they'll give her a relatively easy time. Once they've had their new dos I'll make sure we post some pics so you can see how smart they are!
Forgot to mention that we brought back tee-shirts from the States for them! One is NYPD and the other is FDNY. They haven't worn them yet, but may well need to if they're going to be shorn AND the weather is going to turn nasty!!
We are having some success with the dried food, although Lily has started turning her nose up initially and needs a bit of persuasion to get started. I'm giving them the suggested amount, which actually seems quite a lot and takes them AGES to eat. In the past they have managed to wolf down their meals within seconds! The thing with the girls is that they seem to think that if they don't eat it all in one go, it will disappear, and the idea of grazing, like Dannymatt's girls, is somewhat alien to them. However, this morning, I noticed that they DID leave some food at breakfast time and have returned to their bowls occasionally for an extra little nibble, so maybe they'll begin to relax a bit about their meals once they get used to the change.
(As I write, Rose has returned to the bowl and is rolling a dried pea around the floor making a great game out of it. Stop playing with your food Rose!!)
DISASTER STRIKES!
As you will recall, yesterday there was a major problem with the TV. In fact it was more a problem with the Sky box apparently, as Charles discovered, and despite turning it off overnight to give it a rest (!) it was clearly very sick this morning and the whole thing was overheating so much that the card nearly melted!!
Anyway, after a quick call to the engineers the problem is now rectified and Sky is working once again - hooray!
BUT - and this is the disaster bit - ALL THE PROGRAMMES AND SERIES we recorded while we were away have now been wiped off. So, James, we won't be having our planned Pacific-fest any more and will presumably have to wait for the boxed set to come out. Neither will I be benefiting from Cesar Milan's words of wisdom. All very disappointing.
Anyway, after a quick call to the engineers the problem is now rectified and Sky is working once again - hooray!
BUT - and this is the disaster bit - ALL THE PROGRAMMES AND SERIES we recorded while we were away have now been wiped off. So, James, we won't be having our planned Pacific-fest any more and will presumably have to wait for the boxed set to come out. Neither will I be benefiting from Cesar Milan's words of wisdom. All very disappointing.
Thursday, 29 April 2010
I'M TRYING TO...
... get rid of as many of the remaining tats in Rose's coat as I can before she goes to the groomers. This may sound a bit silly as one would expect that to be part of the service, but when I explained that she was quite matted in places the woman from 'Woofcuts' suggested that she may need to be cut right back and I don't really want her to be shorn completely.
We keep doing it in short stints and she is really very patient, but it's going to take a while as Dannymatt knows all too well! Poor Rose - I keep telling her you have to suffer to be beautiful, but she doesn't look convinced!
We keep doing it in short stints and she is really very patient, but it's going to take a while as Dannymatt knows all too well! Poor Rose - I keep telling her you have to suffer to be beautiful, but she doesn't look convinced!
GREAT!
Thought I'd have a coffee while catching up with some of the Dog Whisperer episodes that we missed while we were away...
...AND THE TELLY WON'T WORK!
It comes on, but then says there's no signal and won't do anything. I know it was playing up a bit last night and Charles had to do something with...something, but I don't know what he did and clearly it DIDN'T WORK ANYWAY.
Oh well - looks like I'm reading the rest of the Harlen Coben novel I started on the plane.
...AND THE TELLY WON'T WORK!
It comes on, but then says there's no signal and won't do anything. I know it was playing up a bit last night and Charles had to do something with...something, but I don't know what he did and clearly it DIDN'T WORK ANYWAY.
Oh well - looks like I'm reading the rest of the Harlen Coben novel I started on the plane.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!
So, I went to Morpeth ON MY OWN, and when I got back the pups hadn't destroyed the house, or become jibbering wrecks, or fought each other to the death - in fact they gave every impression of having had a nice sleep in my absence!
How much easier will my life be now!
Got chatting to one of the cashiers in the supermarket who had also been stuck in America and had also returned on Tuesday. I wonder how many people are still stranded? I know there were people that we met who had been told it would be the beginning of May before they could get a flight out!
Since I got back we've had a long walk down the lane where we met the four Samoyeds who were taking their owner for a walk. Unfortunately my girls had to go and greet them (does NOTHING intimidate you two?) which caused great excitement in the Sammy camp and when I finally persuaded Lily and Rose to move on I had a little glimpse of what looked like a failed attempt at maypole dancing as the Sammy owner tried to extricate himself from four very tangled leads. We hurried away, muttering apologies!
Last night we took the girls to the dog park where they had a good run around and met up with some other dogs. They really are very sociable little things, but no doubt one day they're going to come across a dog that isn't so keen to be greeted with their boundless enthusiasm!
How much easier will my life be now!
Got chatting to one of the cashiers in the supermarket who had also been stuck in America and had also returned on Tuesday. I wonder how many people are still stranded? I know there were people that we met who had been told it would be the beginning of May before they could get a flight out!
Since I got back we've had a long walk down the lane where we met the four Samoyeds who were taking their owner for a walk. Unfortunately my girls had to go and greet them (does NOTHING intimidate you two?) which caused great excitement in the Sammy camp and when I finally persuaded Lily and Rose to move on I had a little glimpse of what looked like a failed attempt at maypole dancing as the Sammy owner tried to extricate himself from four very tangled leads. We hurried away, muttering apologies!
Last night we took the girls to the dog park where they had a good run around and met up with some other dogs. They really are very sociable little things, but no doubt one day they're going to come across a dog that isn't so keen to be greeted with their boundless enthusiasm!
EARLY START TODAY
Don't know what disturbed them, but the pups were up for the day at 5.50 this morning. This is not good. Of course, Charles with his selective deafness, swears he never heard a thing!
Anyway, as a result, all cleaning is done, plants watered, washing on, pups walked - and now I'm ready for a lie down, which is unfortunately not going to happen because I have to go shopping - and I will be leaving the girls at home Dannymatt!!
Anyway, as a result, all cleaning is done, plants watered, washing on, pups walked - and now I'm ready for a lie down, which is unfortunately not going to happen because I have to go shopping - and I will be leaving the girls at home Dannymatt!!
Wednesday, 28 April 2010
ONE THING THAT FASCINATED ME...
... while in New York was GRAVITY DEFYING JEANS.
How do these work?
You know the type I mean. Usually seen on young men who are wanting to look cool, they sit well below the hips exposing as much of the wearer's boxers as possible. In some cases the jeans actually sit BELOW the bum - and that is what got me really intrigued.
I know that if I went out with my jeans below my bottom a) I'd probably be arrested, b) they quite simply wouldn't stay up and c) I'd have to spend all my time hitching them up.
However, none of those things happened to any of the 'cool' young men we saw. They happily walked around ALMOST wearing these amazing jeans that defy all known laws of physics and never once did they have to pull them up, or even miss a step by tripping over them.
But I genuinely don't understand how they work. Are there cunningly disguised little braces hidden away holding everything in place or have the jeans been starched to within an inch of their lives so that they to stay rigid and therefore don't slip.
And, another thought - what would the wearer do if, heaven forbid, the worst happened and his jeans did end up round his ankles? His street cred would be out the window if he had to pull them up, or would he just casually step out of them and carry on?
And another thing - well two actually - WHY do they wear their jeans like this and are they comfortable?
How do these work?
You know the type I mean. Usually seen on young men who are wanting to look cool, they sit well below the hips exposing as much of the wearer's boxers as possible. In some cases the jeans actually sit BELOW the bum - and that is what got me really intrigued.
I know that if I went out with my jeans below my bottom a) I'd probably be arrested, b) they quite simply wouldn't stay up and c) I'd have to spend all my time hitching them up.
However, none of those things happened to any of the 'cool' young men we saw. They happily walked around ALMOST wearing these amazing jeans that defy all known laws of physics and never once did they have to pull them up, or even miss a step by tripping over them.
But I genuinely don't understand how they work. Are there cunningly disguised little braces hidden away holding everything in place or have the jeans been starched to within an inch of their lives so that they to stay rigid and therefore don't slip.
And, another thought - what would the wearer do if, heaven forbid, the worst happened and his jeans did end up round his ankles? His street cred would be out the window if he had to pull them up, or would he just casually step out of them and carry on?
And another thing - well two actually - WHY do they wear their jeans like this and are they comfortable?
DANNYMATT
Just thought you'd like to know that the girls have had a bowl of dried food for breakfast this morning, in fact they are crunching away as I write - and have thoroughly enjoyed it!! Lily has completely cleaned out HER bowl and is now looking hopefully at Rose's just in case there is any left over.
Oh no there isn't. Bad luck Lily!
This looks like the way forward.
Oh no there isn't. Bad luck Lily!
This looks like the way forward.
JAMES WILL LIKE THIS!
Christina came round last night to catch up with us after our absence.
Once my case turned up I was able to give her the presents we'd brought back. These included a very nice bag and bracelet from a fabulous shop by the name of Desigual AND a pair of the very latest and pretty funky Raybans. James had said if she didn't like the Raybans she deserved a slap!!!
Well, just so you know Jim - she's been well and truly slapped and I now have a pair of very nice sunglasses!!!
Once my case turned up I was able to give her the presents we'd brought back. These included a very nice bag and bracelet from a fabulous shop by the name of Desigual AND a pair of the very latest and pretty funky Raybans. James had said if she didn't like the Raybans she deserved a slap!!!
Well, just so you know Jim - she's been well and truly slapped and I now have a pair of very nice sunglasses!!!
I DON'T WANT TO GET UP!
It's too soon!
I think the last few days are catching up.
By the time we went to bed last night I think we'd only managed an hours sleep during the past thirty six hours - this is not good. The pups took a while to really settle as well last night. They were quite happy and didn't make a fuss, but I was all too aware of them (well it was Lily mostly) moving around in their big crate, so it was about half past midnight by the time we finally settled for the night, then given the fact that we were up for the day at 7.00 for Charles to get ready for work meant that I still feel as though I could do with a few more hours.
Anyway - we're up, Charles has gone off to school and the girls are getting used to being back home again.
In a little while we'll go for a walk down Villa Lane. I'm really pleased that we managed to fit in so much walking while we were away and certainly feel better for it. The walks around Central Park in particular were a real delight - I don't think you really understand how vast it is until you've experienced it. We've spent hours in there and only scratched the surface. The other benefit of walking of course is that it helped to burn up SOME of the extra calories we were all consuming. I very tentatively got on the scales this morning and to my amazement discovered that I hadn't actually put on any weight (cue smug, self satisfied grin!) so was extremely pleased about that!!
I think the last few days are catching up.
By the time we went to bed last night I think we'd only managed an hours sleep during the past thirty six hours - this is not good. The pups took a while to really settle as well last night. They were quite happy and didn't make a fuss, but I was all too aware of them (well it was Lily mostly) moving around in their big crate, so it was about half past midnight by the time we finally settled for the night, then given the fact that we were up for the day at 7.00 for Charles to get ready for work meant that I still feel as though I could do with a few more hours.
Anyway - we're up, Charles has gone off to school and the girls are getting used to being back home again.
In a little while we'll go for a walk down Villa Lane. I'm really pleased that we managed to fit in so much walking while we were away and certainly feel better for it. The walks around Central Park in particular were a real delight - I don't think you really understand how vast it is until you've experienced it. We've spent hours in there and only scratched the surface. The other benefit of walking of course is that it helped to burn up SOME of the extra calories we were all consuming. I very tentatively got on the scales this morning and to my amazement discovered that I hadn't actually put on any weight (cue smug, self satisfied grin!) so was extremely pleased about that!!
Tuesday, 27 April 2010
WE'RE BACK HOME!
We left Newark Airport (the most uninspiring airport I've ever been, with one tiny little duty free shop about the size of our garden shed and a magazine stand and that's your lot - great if you're going to be hanging around for a few hours then) at 9pm (2am in real time) attempted to eat the usual unappetising meal then tried to catch a few zzzzs, only to fail miserably, racking up a total sleep time of about an hour between us.
Got to Heathrow on time BUT then circled round for half an hour until there was a space meaning that we had 20 minutes to get off the plane (we were right at the back and they DIDN'T open the rear door) and leg it across T5 to the Newcastle plane. Fortunately some of the staff took pity on us and rushed us through, although one of them did comment that we might be lucky if our bags managed to accompany us.
This turned out to be quite prophetic as MY bag decided to stay on in London for another quick whizz round so didn't turn up with the others. Not impressed, close to tears, but resigned to the fact that this was just another inconvenience in a whole chapter of inconveniences.
Grabbed a LARGE taxi, although James got a lift with his mate, Ed, and arrived back in Fram where Chris was waiting at the front of the house WITH THE GIRLS!
We may have had a stressful time, but all that faded away when they greeted us with licks and jumps and nibbles. They look fabulous, admittedly in need of a good trim, but clearly they have been happy and well looked after during our extended absence. When Chris left, we just enjoyed gatting to know them all over again and were really surprised at how much they seem to have grown up. Clearly Maggie Mae and Isla have been superb role models!
From about 1pm until 10.00 I have been doing the holiday washing and ironing - lovely! My sister said I was barmy to try to do it all in one go, but then acknowledged my OCD and realised that I just HAD to get it out of the way.
The pups have had their usual telly time with Charles and have settled back in their own bed quite happily. And that is exactly what I intend to do now! (not the pups bed though!)
Got to Heathrow on time BUT then circled round for half an hour until there was a space meaning that we had 20 minutes to get off the plane (we were right at the back and they DIDN'T open the rear door) and leg it across T5 to the Newcastle plane. Fortunately some of the staff took pity on us and rushed us through, although one of them did comment that we might be lucky if our bags managed to accompany us.
This turned out to be quite prophetic as MY bag decided to stay on in London for another quick whizz round so didn't turn up with the others. Not impressed, close to tears, but resigned to the fact that this was just another inconvenience in a whole chapter of inconveniences.
Grabbed a LARGE taxi, although James got a lift with his mate, Ed, and arrived back in Fram where Chris was waiting at the front of the house WITH THE GIRLS!
We may have had a stressful time, but all that faded away when they greeted us with licks and jumps and nibbles. They look fabulous, admittedly in need of a good trim, but clearly they have been happy and well looked after during our extended absence. When Chris left, we just enjoyed gatting to know them all over again and were really surprised at how much they seem to have grown up. Clearly Maggie Mae and Isla have been superb role models!
From about 1pm until 10.00 I have been doing the holiday washing and ironing - lovely! My sister said I was barmy to try to do it all in one go, but then acknowledged my OCD and realised that I just HAD to get it out of the way.
The pups have had their usual telly time with Charles and have settled back in their own bed quite happily. And that is exactly what I intend to do now! (not the pups bed though!)
Monday, 26 April 2010
THIS IS IT!!!
THE LAST DAY - HOORAY!
Had a bit of a restless night. I think it was all the nervous tension (combined with wrestling with the Chinese meal and cocktails!)
We've got a bit of hanging about to do today. We have to vacate the room at 2pm, but won't actually be leaving the hotel until 5ish for our trip to Newark. The actual flight doesn't leave until 8.50 and I don't think any of us will be really happy until we are in the air after the last fiasco that saw us leaving JFK despite being checked in.
We had another tense moment last night as BA's online check in wasn't working so we had another half hour wait to get through on the phone, but eventually managed to get checked into reasonable seats.
Still, by this time tomorrow we should be home. We'll be letting Dannymatt know our ETA shortly.
I honestly cannot remember ever being so relieved to be coming home - but then I've never had two little Westie girls waiting for me before!
Charles has finally agreed to buy a big case and this should help reduce the likelihood of having to pay for excess baggage, so after our last breakfast that is one thing we need to sort out.
We've taken plenty of photos (James has insisted that I cull mine a bit and I've now got them down to about 250) which we're putting into a slideshow and will publish when we get back home.
BFN
Had a bit of a restless night. I think it was all the nervous tension (combined with wrestling with the Chinese meal and cocktails!)
We've got a bit of hanging about to do today. We have to vacate the room at 2pm, but won't actually be leaving the hotel until 5ish for our trip to Newark. The actual flight doesn't leave until 8.50 and I don't think any of us will be really happy until we are in the air after the last fiasco that saw us leaving JFK despite being checked in.
We had another tense moment last night as BA's online check in wasn't working so we had another half hour wait to get through on the phone, but eventually managed to get checked into reasonable seats.
Still, by this time tomorrow we should be home. We'll be letting Dannymatt know our ETA shortly.
I honestly cannot remember ever being so relieved to be coming home - but then I've never had two little Westie girls waiting for me before!
Charles has finally agreed to buy a big case and this should help reduce the likelihood of having to pay for excess baggage, so after our last breakfast that is one thing we need to sort out.
We've taken plenty of photos (James has insisted that I cull mine a bit and I've now got them down to about 250) which we're putting into a slideshow and will publish when we get back home.
BFN
RASPBERRY BURST...
... COCKTAILS ARE BRILL!
I've never been one for cocktails, but have discovered this wonderful concoction called a raspberry burst which is basically raspberry vodka, peach schnapps and cranberry juice and is absolutely gorgeous. It's only seven o'clock and I have downed two of these fabulous treats and am planning on another one or two before we turn in for the night - bearing in mind this is OUR LAST NIGHT IN NEW YORK - YEAH!!!!
Where is my sister? The next time we go out we are going to a cocktail bar! It's a new and undiscovered world for us to enjoy!
We're going to check in online at 8.50 this evening - exactly 24 hours before we are due to depart and are adding an extra bag at a cost of £28 plus the cost of the bag (which we haven't actually bought yet, but will do in the morning) so as to avoid the probability of paying 50 dollars excess on both James's and my bags (a total of 100 dollars - aaaaargh!). This is only necessary because Charles, in his infinite wisdom, brought a tiny little bag with him and then proceeded to buy a whole new wardrobe which clearly WON'T FIT into the existing bags. I, on the other hand, have bought very little and cannot be held accountable for this unfortunate situation!
We're just back from the best Chinese restaurant in New York, the boys are watching Armageddon for a while before doing the check in and then going down to Nile's Bar for more cocktails!!
(By the way, we discovered that there are ants all over the floor in the apartment and they have got into James's case, so Charles is going to ask for all his laundry to be done!!!!)
I've never been one for cocktails, but have discovered this wonderful concoction called a raspberry burst which is basically raspberry vodka, peach schnapps and cranberry juice and is absolutely gorgeous. It's only seven o'clock and I have downed two of these fabulous treats and am planning on another one or two before we turn in for the night - bearing in mind this is OUR LAST NIGHT IN NEW YORK - YEAH!!!!
Where is my sister? The next time we go out we are going to a cocktail bar! It's a new and undiscovered world for us to enjoy!
We're going to check in online at 8.50 this evening - exactly 24 hours before we are due to depart and are adding an extra bag at a cost of £28 plus the cost of the bag (which we haven't actually bought yet, but will do in the morning) so as to avoid the probability of paying 50 dollars excess on both James's and my bags (a total of 100 dollars - aaaaargh!). This is only necessary because Charles, in his infinite wisdom, brought a tiny little bag with him and then proceeded to buy a whole new wardrobe which clearly WON'T FIT into the existing bags. I, on the other hand, have bought very little and cannot be held accountable for this unfortunate situation!
We're just back from the best Chinese restaurant in New York, the boys are watching Armageddon for a while before doing the check in and then going down to Nile's Bar for more cocktails!!
(By the way, we discovered that there are ants all over the floor in the apartment and they have got into James's case, so Charles is going to ask for all his laundry to be done!!!!)
Sunday, 25 April 2010
LIKE A CAT ON HOT BRICKS!!
THAT'S ME TODAY!!
Can't settle to anything, unlike Charles and James who are both engrossed in their books. I am prowling around the apartment with a feeling of nervous anticipation in my stomach that is all to do with hoping beyond hope that we get away tomorrow.
We all agree that the last few days have been somewhat trying, but are determined not to let it spoil our otherwise fantastic time in New York. We may not come back for a good while - but then we don't need to - we've covered practically every square inch!
One thing that I will not miss one bit is the NOISE. Even though we are 24 stories up we can constantly hear car horns and sirens - it never ever seems to stop. If a car doesn't move instantly away at the light there is such a barrage of beeping horns even if the way ahead is blocked and it's obvious that no one can move anyway.
We also decided that the concept of going out for a quiet drink would be completely alien to Americans, who seem to have to deliver everything they say at a thousand decibels to the whole of the room and the building next door.
Longfram is going to be blissfully quiet after all this!
Dannymatt: Charles and I have both tried to send replies to your comments this morning, but they keep disappearing. Mine went along the lines of: we can absolutely identify with your description of Rose - I have always said she's more like a teddy bear than a dog. She DOES get matted and tangled very quickly because of the downy softness of her coat. Lily's coat on the other hand is much more wiry and easy to manage. However, we have found that of the two, Rose is the more patient when it comes to grooming and will usually let us tackle even the worst knots with stalwart resignation.
We are very grateful for what you and your family have done for the girls and hope to be able to repay you somehow for all your kindness.
Can't settle to anything, unlike Charles and James who are both engrossed in their books. I am prowling around the apartment with a feeling of nervous anticipation in my stomach that is all to do with hoping beyond hope that we get away tomorrow.
We all agree that the last few days have been somewhat trying, but are determined not to let it spoil our otherwise fantastic time in New York. We may not come back for a good while - but then we don't need to - we've covered practically every square inch!
One thing that I will not miss one bit is the NOISE. Even though we are 24 stories up we can constantly hear car horns and sirens - it never ever seems to stop. If a car doesn't move instantly away at the light there is such a barrage of beeping horns even if the way ahead is blocked and it's obvious that no one can move anyway.
We also decided that the concept of going out for a quiet drink would be completely alien to Americans, who seem to have to deliver everything they say at a thousand decibels to the whole of the room and the building next door.
Longfram is going to be blissfully quiet after all this!
Dannymatt: Charles and I have both tried to send replies to your comments this morning, but they keep disappearing. Mine went along the lines of: we can absolutely identify with your description of Rose - I have always said she's more like a teddy bear than a dog. She DOES get matted and tangled very quickly because of the downy softness of her coat. Lily's coat on the other hand is much more wiry and easy to manage. However, we have found that of the two, Rose is the more patient when it comes to grooming and will usually let us tackle even the worst knots with stalwart resignation.
We are very grateful for what you and your family have done for the girls and hope to be able to repay you somehow for all your kindness.
Is that a light at the end of the tunnel?
Well, We're sitting in our apartment again this morning reflecting on our time in New York. We've seen and done lots but in reality we'd planned to squeeze as much as we could into the 'planned' part of our trip. The last 10 days or so of the 'enforced' stay have not seen us racing around as much as we did at first.
We're eternally grateful to Dannymatt for taking over 'pupwatch' once Paul and Annie had to depart back to Brackley and hope that all of the people involved in caring for Lily & Rose will still speak to us after our repatriation on Tuesday morning!
The blog has been a fun way for us to keep everyone interested up to date with happenings 'Stateside' and for us to know how L&R are doing. SKYPE has been a good find for us and it has allowed us to have a daily video call with Richard & Sarah over in Preston. We even had a video call with my mum yesterday. She seemed delighted to see us as much as we were delighted to see her.
The blog posting system must be playing up again today. I wrote a reply to Dannymatt earlier but that seems to have been lost in hyperspace somewhere.
So what are the highs and lows of our time here?
The Highs
The whole of the first week!
It's been raining since the early hours of the morning but is starting to clear up now. it was so bad earlier that we couldn't see the top of the Empire state from our balcony!
We're heading over to the local cinema later this afternoon to watch Alice in Wonderland in 3D. Jim has seen it before, Sue isn't sure IF she wants to see it EVEN THOUGH her beloved Johnny Depp stars as the Mad Hatter! Sue's just shouted out that ESB is emerging from the clouds again!
After that we're off to Chef Yu again! We've had 2 final night meals at BECCO that have ended up NOT being the last night - so don't want to tempt fate again cos we really are getting stir crazy! Don't worry, after our last meal we'll be ordering MUCH less food this time round! Sue wanted to make sure we got there in time for the whole of Happy 2 Hours to enjoy as many cocktails as she can swill down!
We'll need to cull our book stock and make sure we take most down to our new best friend barman down in Niles! He sounded genuinely enthusiastic when we asked if he'd like us to leave him some!
Hopefully a good night sleep - NO COUGHING SUE OK? Packing and a final day mooching before we set off to the airport - Newark departure this time. The Earliest JFK flight was even later in the week!
BFN
Charles
xxx
We're eternally grateful to Dannymatt for taking over 'pupwatch' once Paul and Annie had to depart back to Brackley and hope that all of the people involved in caring for Lily & Rose will still speak to us after our repatriation on Tuesday morning!
The blog has been a fun way for us to keep everyone interested up to date with happenings 'Stateside' and for us to know how L&R are doing. SKYPE has been a good find for us and it has allowed us to have a daily video call with Richard & Sarah over in Preston. We even had a video call with my mum yesterday. She seemed delighted to see us as much as we were delighted to see her.
The blog posting system must be playing up again today. I wrote a reply to Dannymatt earlier but that seems to have been lost in hyperspace somewhere.
So what are the highs and lows of our time here?
The Highs
The whole of the first week!
- The shows - Had amazing seats. Enjoyed the experience but have to say the West End were more polished. It may be that the Broadway theatres tailor their production to suit US audiences as both suffered a little with 'razzle-dazzle' staging techniques.
- The whole experience of The Knicks final home game of the season. It is certainly bizarre! Sue loved the live organ player and the chanting - 'Defence! Defence! Defence!' To be honest the Knicks could'nt defend to save their lives and I to this day don't know how they turned around a 12 point deficit going into the final quarter to win the game!
- Central Park softball; especially the 50-70yr old guys who were letting rip with a special ball that flies a good distance. One of them came and chatted with us for a while to tell us they played for an hour or two every day in fine weather. He was in his early 70's, didn't have an ounce of fat on him, could hit a ball for over 200 yds and was still working as a real estate business owner. Told me he learned 30 years ago that he didn't need to go into the office in order to manage his business! Smart guy!
- Statue of Liberty
- Top of the Rock
- Ellis Island
- Times Square
- Maceys
- Walking Brooklyn Bridge
- Breakfasts
- Chef Yu, Becco, Il Campenello, Shake Shack
- Central Park Zoo
- Our hotel - Affinia Manhattan
- British Airways!
- Being in limbo for days and hanging on telephone lines that that often remained unanswered
- Getting to the departure gate last Friday (16th) on standby - only for the plane to be stood down!
It's been raining since the early hours of the morning but is starting to clear up now. it was so bad earlier that we couldn't see the top of the Empire state from our balcony!
We're heading over to the local cinema later this afternoon to watch Alice in Wonderland in 3D. Jim has seen it before, Sue isn't sure IF she wants to see it EVEN THOUGH her beloved Johnny Depp stars as the Mad Hatter! Sue's just shouted out that ESB is emerging from the clouds again!
After that we're off to Chef Yu again! We've had 2 final night meals at BECCO that have ended up NOT being the last night - so don't want to tempt fate again cos we really are getting stir crazy! Don't worry, after our last meal we'll be ordering MUCH less food this time round! Sue wanted to make sure we got there in time for the whole of Happy 2 Hours to enjoy as many cocktails as she can swill down!
We'll need to cull our book stock and make sure we take most down to our new best friend barman down in Niles! He sounded genuinely enthusiastic when we asked if he'd like us to leave him some!
Hopefully a good night sleep - NO COUGHING SUE OK? Packing and a final day mooching before we set off to the airport - Newark departure this time. The Earliest JFK flight was even later in the week!
BFN
Charles
xxx
HAVE JUST HAD...
... a really bad thought.
Before we came away I said I wanted to lose 5lb so that I could put on one lb a day without ending up looking too gross.
But that was before we knew we'd be staying here for 16 days!
OMG! How many lbs are there in a stone again?
Before we came away I said I wanted to lose 5lb so that I could put on one lb a day without ending up looking too gross.
But that was before we knew we'd be staying here for 16 days!
OMG! How many lbs are there in a stone again?
Saturday, 24 April 2010
THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW...
...WE'LL BE ON OUR WAY HOME!
Admittedly, we won't get back to Heathrow until early Tuesday and not into Newcastle until 11.30ish - but it will be such a relief to get on our way.
At the moment we're watching the Man Utd/Spurs match (it's just gone 9.30am so it feels a bit strange. James is watching from his pit!) and have been trying to find any coverage of our game, but with little success. We've got a radio link, which is better than nothing I suppose. However, we are at SJP in spirit and hope that all those who are able to get there today have a brilliant afternoon.
Admittedly, we won't get back to Heathrow until early Tuesday and not into Newcastle until 11.30ish - but it will be such a relief to get on our way.
At the moment we're watching the Man Utd/Spurs match (it's just gone 9.30am so it feels a bit strange. James is watching from his pit!) and have been trying to find any coverage of our game, but with little success. We've got a radio link, which is better than nothing I suppose. However, we are at SJP in spirit and hope that all those who are able to get there today have a brilliant afternoon.
Friday, 23 April 2010
AMAZING!
James and I have just got back from Borders as I needed to replenish the book supplies in order to survive the next few days and the long flight home (Hooray!).
We went to get a coffee to go and while we were waiting the guy behind the counter said, 'Hey Sue!'
As he has only served me once and some days ago at that, I thought this was pretty amazing really. The place is always heaving and I can't imagine how anyone could possibly be remembered. You do have to give your name so they can match drinks to customers, but with the numbers that pass through each day I'm sure the names just become a blur.
Admittedly, he had helped me to sort out some change on that previous occasion, telling me that the pennies were the 'little brown buddies!' but even so, I still thought it was incredible that he remembered my name.
I confess that the US coins are a little confusing and I tend to use notes or my card in the shops. As a result I had a purse full of change which Charles kindly took off my hands, counting out about ten dollars!
We haven't done anything at all today (Borders is right next to Maddison Square Garden and Penn Station so literally across the road from our hotel). Charles has finally sorted out the mix up with the room charges and has managed to get a free breakfast for us all and one night's accommodation free of charge and have dropped the daily rate in an attempt to mollify him. James and I are quite happily lounging around and reading and this is great so long as Charles isn't on the internet scouring it for any NUFC news and then proceeding to read it aloud when he does. I thought James was going to throw his book at him when he insisted on reading an article about Greggs Geordie pasties to us.
However, the article WAS quite interesting in a sort of surreal way. Apparently Greggs were overwhelmed by seeing so many Toon fans wearing their bags on their heads at the Plymouth match that they have had special 'Congratulations Toon' bags printed for tomorrow's game!
We went to get a coffee to go and while we were waiting the guy behind the counter said, 'Hey Sue!'
As he has only served me once and some days ago at that, I thought this was pretty amazing really. The place is always heaving and I can't imagine how anyone could possibly be remembered. You do have to give your name so they can match drinks to customers, but with the numbers that pass through each day I'm sure the names just become a blur.
Admittedly, he had helped me to sort out some change on that previous occasion, telling me that the pennies were the 'little brown buddies!' but even so, I still thought it was incredible that he remembered my name.
I confess that the US coins are a little confusing and I tend to use notes or my card in the shops. As a result I had a purse full of change which Charles kindly took off my hands, counting out about ten dollars!
We haven't done anything at all today (Borders is right next to Maddison Square Garden and Penn Station so literally across the road from our hotel). Charles has finally sorted out the mix up with the room charges and has managed to get a free breakfast for us all and one night's accommodation free of charge and have dropped the daily rate in an attempt to mollify him. James and I are quite happily lounging around and reading and this is great so long as Charles isn't on the internet scouring it for any NUFC news and then proceeding to read it aloud when he does. I thought James was going to throw his book at him when he insisted on reading an article about Greggs Geordie pasties to us.
However, the article WAS quite interesting in a sort of surreal way. Apparently Greggs were overwhelmed by seeing so many Toon fans wearing their bags on their heads at the Plymouth match that they have had special 'Congratulations Toon' bags printed for tomorrow's game!
AND TODAY'S NEWS IS...
... that Charles is on the warpath with the hotel staff, who have deducted massive amounts of money from the account HE TOLD THEM NOT TO TAKE ANYTHING FROM!
It's the second time this has happened. Every time we change rooms we get a bill and he has already had to remind them of the account they CAN draw on. So now that it has happened again he really is furious. He managed however to get a free breakfast out of them in the very nice bar downstairs...
...oh here he is. Quote, as he walked through the door, 'Cor, what a faff!' Clearly things are NOT yet sorted out, so he will be on tenterhooks until they are.
We haven't got a clue what we're doing today. I'm loaded with cold and have made a number of visits to Duane Reade to try to find something that will keep the symptoms at bay. Nothing has worked so far and we all ended up having a sleepless night as I coughed, sneezed and spluttered my way through the early hours, although I HAVE just returned from my now daily visit with a pack of heavy duty Sudafed which might dry me up a bit.
It's a beautiful day here; a little cooler than recently, but clear blue skies, so ideal for another of our long walks - probably back up to the park again. We spent a couple of happy hours there yesterday watching the teams from each of the Broadway shows playing softball. This is a regular league and is clearly taken very seriously. Unfortunately we missed the cast of the Lion King and Billy Elliot and the game we watched appeared to be comprised of stage crew - but maybe that saved us from the worst of the 'lovey' stuff!
One thing that has been fascinating, although we don't understand it at all, is the 'NFL draft' which began last night. This is the equivalent of our football transfer window, except that it only lasts for two days and all the prospective candidates have been identified through the college league. We haven't got a clue how the 'pick' works, but clearly all the players are waiting to be selected by a team and once this happens the TV cameras are there capturing their reaction and that of their tearfully proud parents and extended families who all seem to need to outshriek each other when the pick comes in.
To be honest it seems a really effective way of doing business - get everyone who is up for transfer identified, get your bids in within an extremely limited time frame and away you go. All the guys that were picked last night appeared delighted with the outcome regardless of where in the country they ended up going. Such a system could really benefit the likes of NUFC and even other less fashionable clubs, like dare I say Sunderland, who appear to have difficulty attracting players. Just put them all in a pot and tell them they're going to whoever bids for them - done, no argument.
Talking of NUFC, we are of course going to end up missing the last home game of the season, the one at which we are crowned champions and at which we expect the new kit to be revealed. We are, as you might imagine, a little ****** off by this, although Charles has made the most of the situation by selling our tickets back to the club! If anyone manages to get any footage of the events of the day - please record it for us, so we can t least say we've witnessed something of the celebrations.
And finally, for this post, how are my girls, my babies, my little cherubs? Charles found a video he had made the morning we left for New York and has just played it for me. It shows little `Lily tugging at his leg to get him to play in her 'Come on Dad, it's playtime' sort of way. I could have wept!
Oh and REALLY finally - you'll be thrilled to know that the Sudafed is working and I am now able to breath again. (It's always good to be able to breathe!)
It's the second time this has happened. Every time we change rooms we get a bill and he has already had to remind them of the account they CAN draw on. So now that it has happened again he really is furious. He managed however to get a free breakfast out of them in the very nice bar downstairs...
...oh here he is. Quote, as he walked through the door, 'Cor, what a faff!' Clearly things are NOT yet sorted out, so he will be on tenterhooks until they are.
We haven't got a clue what we're doing today. I'm loaded with cold and have made a number of visits to Duane Reade to try to find something that will keep the symptoms at bay. Nothing has worked so far and we all ended up having a sleepless night as I coughed, sneezed and spluttered my way through the early hours, although I HAVE just returned from my now daily visit with a pack of heavy duty Sudafed which might dry me up a bit.
It's a beautiful day here; a little cooler than recently, but clear blue skies, so ideal for another of our long walks - probably back up to the park again. We spent a couple of happy hours there yesterday watching the teams from each of the Broadway shows playing softball. This is a regular league and is clearly taken very seriously. Unfortunately we missed the cast of the Lion King and Billy Elliot and the game we watched appeared to be comprised of stage crew - but maybe that saved us from the worst of the 'lovey' stuff!
One thing that has been fascinating, although we don't understand it at all, is the 'NFL draft' which began last night. This is the equivalent of our football transfer window, except that it only lasts for two days and all the prospective candidates have been identified through the college league. We haven't got a clue how the 'pick' works, but clearly all the players are waiting to be selected by a team and once this happens the TV cameras are there capturing their reaction and that of their tearfully proud parents and extended families who all seem to need to outshriek each other when the pick comes in.
To be honest it seems a really effective way of doing business - get everyone who is up for transfer identified, get your bids in within an extremely limited time frame and away you go. All the guys that were picked last night appeared delighted with the outcome regardless of where in the country they ended up going. Such a system could really benefit the likes of NUFC and even other less fashionable clubs, like dare I say Sunderland, who appear to have difficulty attracting players. Just put them all in a pot and tell them they're going to whoever bids for them - done, no argument.
Talking of NUFC, we are of course going to end up missing the last home game of the season, the one at which we are crowned champions and at which we expect the new kit to be revealed. We are, as you might imagine, a little ****** off by this, although Charles has made the most of the situation by selling our tickets back to the club! If anyone manages to get any footage of the events of the day - please record it for us, so we can t least say we've witnessed something of the celebrations.
And finally, for this post, how are my girls, my babies, my little cherubs? Charles found a video he had made the morning we left for New York and has just played it for me. It shows little `Lily tugging at his leg to get him to play in her 'Come on Dad, it's playtime' sort of way. I could have wept!
Oh and REALLY finally - you'll be thrilled to know that the Sudafed is working and I am now able to breath again. (It's always good to be able to breathe!)
Thursday, 22 April 2010
An Englishman in New York (part three)
Just had to have a quick read to remind myself where I'd got to in this 'Brian Rix farce'!
By the time I get back to 'Beth Israel Medical Group' on on 7th Ave & 23rd Street, I'm fuming and getting very tired as well.
I walk right past the useless receptionist and through to the medical staff. The nurse who originally took all my details looks at me with a look of surprise as do a medical clerk and another doctor sitting behind a counter in front of me.
I explain why I'm there and tell them that their treatment of me as a patient is unacceptable and that I will be lodging a formal complaint.
Everyone suddenly jumps to attention!
The doctor behind the counter asks to take a look at the prescription that Dr Useless had issued and promptly rolls his eyes to the ceiling as he shows the shocking script to the nurse and medical clerk. The Clerk then says she's speaking to the pharmacist I'd been to for the prescription.
'Pity you couldn't have done that when she first rang you 20 minutes ago!' is my stinging response.
Dr Worried begins to read my notes file, asks to see my UK prescription and begins to re-write a prescription PROPERLY AND IN A WAY THAT SOMEONE ELSE COULD ACTUALLY READ!
He then promptly rips up the original and throws it away.
I chose not to tell him that I have a photocopy of the originals!
I tell them a few more home truths about the way they run their 'clinic' and what I think of their general customer service techniques. I remind them that I am making a formal complaint against them for the way I have been treated and depart.
I then high tail it back up to Duane Reade further up on 7th. The pharmacist smiles from behind the counter as I approach. I hand over the script. Of course. it's now past pharmacy closing time isn't it...
'DO you really need it now sir?' she asks.
'Well it's not essential. I'll need the tablets in the morning though. What time do you open?'
'7 o'clock sir.' comes the reply.
'OK as long as it's ready first thing for me to pick up then that's OK with me.'
'I'm at another pharmacy but I've already alerted to my colleague who is working here tomorrow to explain that you may be coming in!' she explains excitedly.
When I get up to our room on the 18th floor, I find my key card is not in my pocket, so I knock on the door. No reply. I then remember that we'd arranged to meet up at the Hotel bar - Niles - for some food and a drink some 3 hours earlier! Back in the lift and down 18 floors then!
The bar staff say they've not seen them and promise me that IF they come in they will tell them that I've gone back to the room.
I pick up a new key card from reception and go back up to the room, where I find a message from Sue and Jim saying they'd been worried about me and had walked back down to the medical centre where the staff had got really abrupt with them! I wonder why that was? I'll be adding that to the formal complaint!
The two of them arrived about 15 minutes later. I'd probably been in at the pharmacy when they were walking in that part of town or something.
They nearly fall about when I tell them what's been going on!
BFN
Charles
xxx
By the time I get back to 'Beth Israel Medical Group' on on 7th Ave & 23rd Street, I'm fuming and getting very tired as well.
I walk right past the useless receptionist and through to the medical staff. The nurse who originally took all my details looks at me with a look of surprise as do a medical clerk and another doctor sitting behind a counter in front of me.
I explain why I'm there and tell them that their treatment of me as a patient is unacceptable and that I will be lodging a formal complaint.
Everyone suddenly jumps to attention!
The doctor behind the counter asks to take a look at the prescription that Dr Useless had issued and promptly rolls his eyes to the ceiling as he shows the shocking script to the nurse and medical clerk. The Clerk then says she's speaking to the pharmacist I'd been to for the prescription.
'Pity you couldn't have done that when she first rang you 20 minutes ago!' is my stinging response.
Dr Worried begins to read my notes file, asks to see my UK prescription and begins to re-write a prescription PROPERLY AND IN A WAY THAT SOMEONE ELSE COULD ACTUALLY READ!
He then promptly rips up the original and throws it away.
I chose not to tell him that I have a photocopy of the originals!
I tell them a few more home truths about the way they run their 'clinic' and what I think of their general customer service techniques. I remind them that I am making a formal complaint against them for the way I have been treated and depart.
I then high tail it back up to Duane Reade further up on 7th. The pharmacist smiles from behind the counter as I approach. I hand over the script. Of course. it's now past pharmacy closing time isn't it...
'DO you really need it now sir?' she asks.
'Well it's not essential. I'll need the tablets in the morning though. What time do you open?'
'7 o'clock sir.' comes the reply.
'OK as long as it's ready first thing for me to pick up then that's OK with me.'
'I'm at another pharmacy but I've already alerted to my colleague who is working here tomorrow to explain that you may be coming in!' she explains excitedly.
When I get up to our room on the 18th floor, I find my key card is not in my pocket, so I knock on the door. No reply. I then remember that we'd arranged to meet up at the Hotel bar - Niles - for some food and a drink some 3 hours earlier! Back in the lift and down 18 floors then!
The bar staff say they've not seen them and promise me that IF they come in they will tell them that I've gone back to the room.
I pick up a new key card from reception and go back up to the room, where I find a message from Sue and Jim saying they'd been worried about me and had walked back down to the medical centre where the staff had got really abrupt with them! I wonder why that was? I'll be adding that to the formal complaint!
The two of them arrived about 15 minutes later. I'd probably been in at the pharmacy when they were walking in that part of town or something.
They nearly fall about when I tell them what's been going on!
BFN
Charles
xxx
An Englishman in New York (follow up)
I notice that the doctor hasn't signed one of the prescriptions and ask him to sign it. He does, looks through the form and scribbles some other bits in.
I go to pay for the 5 minute exercise, notice various doctors business cards and make a point of picking one up for the doctor who saw me.
The receptionist who took the $125 off me smiled, gave me the receipt and bill so that I can re-claim it from our travel insurance when we get home and tells me that she hopes we get home soon!
I asked her how long my doctor has worked there and if he is part time or full time. She tells me that he started as a 'night doctor' and had been a full time member of the team for a few years now!!! I suspect that my facial reaction was a picture as I responded with 'Really?'
I race back uptown towards the hotel and the pharmacy that had earlier turned me away.
The pharmacist smiles forlornly at me as she sees me approach the desk. I hand over the script from the doctor I've just paid $125 for!
'What's this?' she asks.
'The prescription for the medication I require' I respond.
'I can't read what it says'
'Well I can give you the original from the UK that you told me you couldn't use?' I suggest.
'OK let me take a look at it. We don't stock those meds. i'll have to ring the doctor you saw to find out what medication you require' she tells me.
'Might I suggest you type the UK medication names into google and see what the equivalent is in the USA?' I suggest again...
'Well this one does have a USA alternative but this other one doesn't exist over here. There is something similar but not exactly the same.' she tells me after googling them.
'OK, can you give me those then?' I ask.
'No sir. They are not on the prescriptions you have, he's written the UK names of your medication here and we don't stock them. Anyway he's not written your name at the top of the prescription either. He's written something else that I can't really read. I'll have to call the doctor to find out what he means.'
Now at this point my blood pressure is several points higher than it was after seeing Dr Useless. I can see what's coming next. The surgery doesn't answer for over 10 minutes and they tell the pharmacist that the doctor is with another patient and nobody else is prepared to open my file!
The pharmacist asks me if I want her to make a copy of the original prescription. I tell her yes and that I'm going back to the surgery and causing a 'scene' about this fiasco!
I write the final instalment later today after we've moved rooms for the 2nd time!
BFN
Charles
xxx
I go to pay for the 5 minute exercise, notice various doctors business cards and make a point of picking one up for the doctor who saw me.
The receptionist who took the $125 off me smiled, gave me the receipt and bill so that I can re-claim it from our travel insurance when we get home and tells me that she hopes we get home soon!
I asked her how long my doctor has worked there and if he is part time or full time. She tells me that he started as a 'night doctor' and had been a full time member of the team for a few years now!!! I suspect that my facial reaction was a picture as I responded with 'Really?'
I race back uptown towards the hotel and the pharmacy that had earlier turned me away.
The pharmacist smiles forlornly at me as she sees me approach the desk. I hand over the script from the doctor I've just paid $125 for!
'What's this?' she asks.
'The prescription for the medication I require' I respond.
'I can't read what it says'
'Well I can give you the original from the UK that you told me you couldn't use?' I suggest.
'OK let me take a look at it. We don't stock those meds. i'll have to ring the doctor you saw to find out what medication you require' she tells me.
'Might I suggest you type the UK medication names into google and see what the equivalent is in the USA?' I suggest again...
'Well this one does have a USA alternative but this other one doesn't exist over here. There is something similar but not exactly the same.' she tells me after googling them.
'OK, can you give me those then?' I ask.
'No sir. They are not on the prescriptions you have, he's written the UK names of your medication here and we don't stock them. Anyway he's not written your name at the top of the prescription either. He's written something else that I can't really read. I'll have to call the doctor to find out what he means.'
Now at this point my blood pressure is several points higher than it was after seeing Dr Useless. I can see what's coming next. The surgery doesn't answer for over 10 minutes and they tell the pharmacist that the doctor is with another patient and nobody else is prepared to open my file!
The pharmacist asks me if I want her to make a copy of the original prescription. I tell her yes and that I'm going back to the surgery and causing a 'scene' about this fiasco!
I write the final instalment later today after we've moved rooms for the 2nd time!
BFN
Charles
xxx
A (poorly) Englishman in New York
Two tips I have for visitors to the USA: -
Don't get sick whilst you're over here!
Bring all your medication over form the UK with at least two weeks to spare!
Those of you that already know me will realise that I suffer from hypertension and I take daily medication to help keep the effects at bay. I take two types of prescription medication for this. I've had to change the medication over the several years that I've been affected by this illness.
I don't like having to take medication but since the fateful day our local surgery nurse took my blood pressure (on three different machines before calling the doctor away from the patient he was dealing with to see me) and immediately attached me to an ECG; I've learned to accept that, for now, I need to live with daily meds to keep me going right!
I brought my meds with me to the USA there was enough for the planned trip and a few days extra BUT not enough for the length of time we;ve been delayed over here in 'The Big Apple'!
Talking of the BIG APPLE I must recount my visit to the Apple store on 5th Avenue a few days ago. That one is for later!
I started to reduce the daily dosage of my meds as soon as I knew we were going to be stuck here into next week. I actually ran out this morning. I sent an e-mail to our surgery in Rothbury; asking them to FAX over a prescription for my medication. They did - speedily! Thank you NHS Rothbury Practice - You continue to be brilliant! 5 stars from me EVERY time!
I took the prescription to a pharmacy 4 blocks downtown on 7th from the hotel. the pharmacy is part of the Duane Reade chain over here in the USA and they seem to have the same sort of monopoly that Boots have built up in the UK.
Now I don't like monopolies. I think that competition is a good thing for consumers. It keeps businesses on their toes. I'm digressing again! Whilst on this alternate path I should mention that Jim thinks I should start up my own blog to rival Sue's westie blog - but I'm not so sure about that to be honest with you.
The pharmacist at DR took one look at the prescription, turned her nose up and said 'We can't use that sir. It's against regulation! You need to get a prescription from a doctor over here.'
She helpfully directed me to a medical practice some 10 blocks south, on the other side of 7th Avenue.
Sue and I trotted off.
I WISH I HADN'T BOTHERED!
The receptionist was 'the receptionist from hell' and didn't even get off her ar** to help a blind patient who was struggling to get in through the door. I did that job for her!
The RFH immediately informed me that the consultation would be a minimum $125 and that I must pay immediately I'd been seen. I explained my story and told her that the doctor didn't need to see me he just needed to sanction the prescription from my own doctor over n the UK. 'Can't do that sir' was the immediate reply.
'Fill this form in and return it to me.'
I sat down and filled in the form that was asking me every conceivable question about my medical history from birth to now; including what my sex life was like and what my preferences were in that department!
I then waited almost 2 hours to see a doctor. I first had to see a nurse. Nice lady. Asked me all the questions I'd just answered on the sheet the receptionist had asked me to answer on her blessed form.
Showed her my prescription. She then asked me a few questions about the volcanic ash situation, took my blood pressure; that was naturally higher than it normally is - partly from eeking out the meds but largely from the way I'd been treated in this place!
Then she left the room after telling me a doctor would be along shortly!
I got off the bed she'd made me sit on and sat on the chair in the corner of the minuscule consulting room.
Doc came along some 10 minutes later.
He must have been well into his late 60's or early 70's!
He than started to ask me the the same questions that I'd filled in on the blessed sheet AND repeated to the nurse! He looked bemused at the prescription from the UK that showed him.
'We don't have those meds here,' he promptly told me 'Have you had your blood pressure taken?'
To be honest as soon as I saw him walk into the room I lost all faith, but that question I found ridiculous! He was looking at my notes - the ones the nurse had just handed him!
My thought was 'Can the man read?'
He scribbled out two prescriptions, handed them to me and asked if there was anything else that he could help me with...
'No thanks. I just need to be able to get my meds and I'm annoyed that I've had to pay $125 for you to write down what is already there typed by my doctor in the UK!'
Now IF you think this is bad. Wait until I tell you what happened next!
BFN
Charles
xxx
P.S. We're coming home on Monday night now! Yipee!
Don't get sick whilst you're over here!
Bring all your medication over form the UK with at least two weeks to spare!
Those of you that already know me will realise that I suffer from hypertension and I take daily medication to help keep the effects at bay. I take two types of prescription medication for this. I've had to change the medication over the several years that I've been affected by this illness.
I don't like having to take medication but since the fateful day our local surgery nurse took my blood pressure (on three different machines before calling the doctor away from the patient he was dealing with to see me) and immediately attached me to an ECG; I've learned to accept that, for now, I need to live with daily meds to keep me going right!
I brought my meds with me to the USA there was enough for the planned trip and a few days extra BUT not enough for the length of time we;ve been delayed over here in 'The Big Apple'!
Talking of the BIG APPLE I must recount my visit to the Apple store on 5th Avenue a few days ago. That one is for later!
I started to reduce the daily dosage of my meds as soon as I knew we were going to be stuck here into next week. I actually ran out this morning. I sent an e-mail to our surgery in Rothbury; asking them to FAX over a prescription for my medication. They did - speedily! Thank you NHS Rothbury Practice - You continue to be brilliant! 5 stars from me EVERY time!
I took the prescription to a pharmacy 4 blocks downtown on 7th from the hotel. the pharmacy is part of the Duane Reade chain over here in the USA and they seem to have the same sort of monopoly that Boots have built up in the UK.
Now I don't like monopolies. I think that competition is a good thing for consumers. It keeps businesses on their toes. I'm digressing again! Whilst on this alternate path I should mention that Jim thinks I should start up my own blog to rival Sue's westie blog - but I'm not so sure about that to be honest with you.
The pharmacist at DR took one look at the prescription, turned her nose up and said 'We can't use that sir. It's against regulation! You need to get a prescription from a doctor over here.'
She helpfully directed me to a medical practice some 10 blocks south, on the other side of 7th Avenue.
Sue and I trotted off.
I WISH I HADN'T BOTHERED!
The receptionist was 'the receptionist from hell' and didn't even get off her ar** to help a blind patient who was struggling to get in through the door. I did that job for her!
The RFH immediately informed me that the consultation would be a minimum $125 and that I must pay immediately I'd been seen. I explained my story and told her that the doctor didn't need to see me he just needed to sanction the prescription from my own doctor over n the UK. 'Can't do that sir' was the immediate reply.
'Fill this form in and return it to me.'
I sat down and filled in the form that was asking me every conceivable question about my medical history from birth to now; including what my sex life was like and what my preferences were in that department!
I then waited almost 2 hours to see a doctor. I first had to see a nurse. Nice lady. Asked me all the questions I'd just answered on the sheet the receptionist had asked me to answer on her blessed form.
Showed her my prescription. She then asked me a few questions about the volcanic ash situation, took my blood pressure; that was naturally higher than it normally is - partly from eeking out the meds but largely from the way I'd been treated in this place!
Then she left the room after telling me a doctor would be along shortly!
I got off the bed she'd made me sit on and sat on the chair in the corner of the minuscule consulting room.
Doc came along some 10 minutes later.
He must have been well into his late 60's or early 70's!
He than started to ask me the the same questions that I'd filled in on the blessed sheet AND repeated to the nurse! He looked bemused at the prescription from the UK that showed him.
'We don't have those meds here,' he promptly told me 'Have you had your blood pressure taken?'
To be honest as soon as I saw him walk into the room I lost all faith, but that question I found ridiculous! He was looking at my notes - the ones the nurse had just handed him!
My thought was 'Can the man read?'
He scribbled out two prescriptions, handed them to me and asked if there was anything else that he could help me with...
'No thanks. I just need to be able to get my meds and I'm annoyed that I've had to pay $125 for you to write down what is already there typed by my doctor in the UK!'
Now IF you think this is bad. Wait until I tell you what happened next!
BFN
Charles
xxx
P.S. We're coming home on Monday night now! Yipee!
RIGHT...
.... just to let you know that Charles will certainly be relating his experience at the hands of the doc to you shortly.
AND THE BEST NEWS IS...
...WE'VE MANAGED TO GET A FLIGHT OUT OF HERE ON MONDAY - AND IF WE RING EACH DAY WE MAY EVEN GET ONE BEFORE THAT!!!!
AND THE BEST NEWS IS...
...WE'VE MANAGED TO GET A FLIGHT OUT OF HERE ON MONDAY - AND IF WE RING EACH DAY WE MAY EVEN GET ONE BEFORE THAT!!!!
Wednesday, 21 April 2010
MR GRUMPY...
... will no doubt be blogging like crazy in a little while!
Although when that might be is anyone's guess as he is currently ensconced at the BethIsrael medical centre where he is attempting to see a doctor who will prescribe his blood pressure medication.
By the time he gets to see the doc I think he should be asking for an extra strong dosage because he is somewhat less than impressed that the pharmacy over here refused to accept the prescription that was very kindly faxed by the Rothbury Surgery, 'because its the laaaa' and told him he would need to see a doctor, whose receptionist then informed him that he could do so at a cost of AT LEAST 125 dollars and in whose surgery he is still sitting having already waited for an hour and a half.
Be warned, his next post may well make for uncomfortable reading!
Although when that might be is anyone's guess as he is currently ensconced at the BethIsrael medical centre where he is attempting to see a doctor who will prescribe his blood pressure medication.
By the time he gets to see the doc I think he should be asking for an extra strong dosage because he is somewhat less than impressed that the pharmacy over here refused to accept the prescription that was very kindly faxed by the Rothbury Surgery, 'because its the laaaa' and told him he would need to see a doctor, whose receptionist then informed him that he could do so at a cost of AT LEAST 125 dollars and in whose surgery he is still sitting having already waited for an hour and a half.
Be warned, his next post may well make for uncomfortable reading!
YOU MAY ASK...
... why did I need to buy a hat?
Well think about it! I have been away from Andrea in SAKs for the best part of a fortnight now - and as a result have hair that looks like straw and resembles a bird's nest, so I have taken to hiding it under my very nice Nine West baker's boy hat. I shall no doubt wear it until we come home. This doesn't mean that I'm not washing my hair - that would be gross with all the dust and grime from the New York streets - just that I am totally incapable of getting it to look right, so disguise seems to solve the problem.
We've walked a lot today. In fact we are trying to have a really good brisk walk most days - at least we feel as though we've had a bit of a workout. Today's walk took us up to Central Park and we had a really good mooch around there, talking in a bit of a softball practice and chatting to the guys who were playing whilst sitting on the bleachers. Then we walked back to the hotel opposite Penn Station - probably three or four miles in total.
We're back at the hotel now, waiting for Richard, Charles' brother, to contact us from back home. We hope he has some news! As James has just pointed out, this time last week we were ready to come home - it seems an age since then.
I think we're going up to Chinatown this evening as we haven't been there yet. Each evening we try to walk to a part of Manhattan that we haven't already visited and by the time we leave we should know the island pretty well!
Tomorrow, we're off to the Guggenheim and Friday should see us at the United Nations. We're trying to find one major thing to do each day. James reckons once we get to the weekend we'll have broken the back of the waiting and should be able to look forward to our return journey.
I still haven't spotted any Westies here, although we must have come across every other breed during our walks in the park. This may be a good thing as I think I would probably go to pieces if we did meet any. Do have a look at the youtube video that Dannymatt posted yesterday - the girls are clearly having a great adventure with him. I just hope they'll be as happy when they get back home!
Well think about it! I have been away from Andrea in SAKs for the best part of a fortnight now - and as a result have hair that looks like straw and resembles a bird's nest, so I have taken to hiding it under my very nice Nine West baker's boy hat. I shall no doubt wear it until we come home. This doesn't mean that I'm not washing my hair - that would be gross with all the dust and grime from the New York streets - just that I am totally incapable of getting it to look right, so disguise seems to solve the problem.
We've walked a lot today. In fact we are trying to have a really good brisk walk most days - at least we feel as though we've had a bit of a workout. Today's walk took us up to Central Park and we had a really good mooch around there, talking in a bit of a softball practice and chatting to the guys who were playing whilst sitting on the bleachers. Then we walked back to the hotel opposite Penn Station - probably three or four miles in total.
We're back at the hotel now, waiting for Richard, Charles' brother, to contact us from back home. We hope he has some news! As James has just pointed out, this time last week we were ready to come home - it seems an age since then.
I think we're going up to Chinatown this evening as we haven't been there yet. Each evening we try to walk to a part of Manhattan that we haven't already visited and by the time we leave we should know the island pretty well!
Tomorrow, we're off to the Guggenheim and Friday should see us at the United Nations. We're trying to find one major thing to do each day. James reckons once we get to the weekend we'll have broken the back of the waiting and should be able to look forward to our return journey.
I still haven't spotted any Westies here, although we must have come across every other breed during our walks in the park. This may be a good thing as I think I would probably go to pieces if we did meet any. Do have a look at the youtube video that Dannymatt posted yesterday - the girls are clearly having a great adventure with him. I just hope they'll be as happy when they get back home!
REPLY TO RICHARD
I'm doing this as a post because I've left a reply to your comment Richard and it has disappeared again. Even Charles couldn't find it!
In effect I was saying that we are finding it very hard to relax and enjoy the extra time here, mainly because both Charles and James are actually feeling guilty about not being at work and therefore don't feel that we can have too much fun. having said that, following the decision by NCC to dock the pay of stranded staff Charles is not feeling quite the same this morning. I suggested that if this is the appraoch they are adopting then we should fly down to Florida and REALLY enjoy the next week - but I was only joking of course.
We literally spend our time glued to the BA site and to Charles's email - hoping and praying that there will be news about additional flights or standbys. Oh, but we are moving to another room tomorrow - so there's something to look forward to!
Go to go - Christina wants to talk...
In effect I was saying that we are finding it very hard to relax and enjoy the extra time here, mainly because both Charles and James are actually feeling guilty about not being at work and therefore don't feel that we can have too much fun. having said that, following the decision by NCC to dock the pay of stranded staff Charles is not feeling quite the same this morning. I suggested that if this is the appraoch they are adopting then we should fly down to Florida and REALLY enjoy the next week - but I was only joking of course.
We literally spend our time glued to the BA site and to Charles's email - hoping and praying that there will be news about additional flights or standbys. Oh, but we are moving to another room tomorrow - so there's something to look forward to!
Go to go - Christina wants to talk...
Interesting News to wake up to!
Just being consistent here then...
Northumberland in their infinitely consistent wisdom are giving 3 options for ALL staff who are caught up in this volcanic ash situation:-
IF on flexitime them can make up lost hours over next 3 months.
IF holiday entitlement is due then UP TO 5 days can be used.
ALL OTHER staff - including me - UNPAID LEAVE...
I might argue that I've built up an enormous amount of flexi time over the 25 years and a bit that I've worked for Northumberland. My 'working week' has varied from 40 to 70+ hours per week for over 25 years now. Of course I recognise that I didn't 'legally' need to work those hours BUT it is what it takes to run a school. Legally the hours of the working week for teachers is about 32.5 hours per week and then there are the hours more that nearly every teacher does at home on top of that. The 40-70 I mention are actually spent at school! I've not added the homeworking hours NOR have I added the time spent in school during HOLIDAYS either!
Nice for my employers to take the opportunity to give some 'payback'. I suppose it is times like these when an employer really shows their employees how much they mean to them. Clearly in the case of Northumberland we are all purely numbers!
My loyalty to them is going to disappear now. It is treatment like this that can turn people into 'jobsworths'!
I suppose that's another 'unexpected expense' I'll have to try to claim back from either insurers or BA!
Now just considering the 'fairness' of this decision...
Each person affected is going to be affected in a different way for a time that is NOT determined by them! Ummm.
OK rant over. I'll pick this little one up again in a BIG way once I return. I can see the unions having a field day with it!
BFN
Charles
xxx
Northumberland in their infinitely consistent wisdom are giving 3 options for ALL staff who are caught up in this volcanic ash situation:-
IF on flexitime them can make up lost hours over next 3 months.
IF holiday entitlement is due then UP TO 5 days can be used.
ALL OTHER staff - including me - UNPAID LEAVE...
I might argue that I've built up an enormous amount of flexi time over the 25 years and a bit that I've worked for Northumberland. My 'working week' has varied from 40 to 70+ hours per week for over 25 years now. Of course I recognise that I didn't 'legally' need to work those hours BUT it is what it takes to run a school. Legally the hours of the working week for teachers is about 32.5 hours per week and then there are the hours more that nearly every teacher does at home on top of that. The 40-70 I mention are actually spent at school! I've not added the homeworking hours NOR have I added the time spent in school during HOLIDAYS either!
Nice for my employers to take the opportunity to give some 'payback'. I suppose it is times like these when an employer really shows their employees how much they mean to them. Clearly in the case of Northumberland we are all purely numbers!
My loyalty to them is going to disappear now. It is treatment like this that can turn people into 'jobsworths'!
I suppose that's another 'unexpected expense' I'll have to try to claim back from either insurers or BA!
Now just considering the 'fairness' of this decision...
Each person affected is going to be affected in a different way for a time that is NOT determined by them! Ummm.
OK rant over. I'll pick this little one up again in a BIG way once I return. I can see the unions having a field day with it!
BFN
Charles
xxx
YOU TUBE
Dannymatt - how much do we love the video?
It's brilliant and shows how relaxed the girls are. They seem to be having so much fun and your garden looks like a fabulous playground for them.
I am missing them so much - even more now I've seen them on film - but I'm relieved to see them looking so happy.
I don't know how we can thank you for doing this for us (and for them). If we had left them in kennels I would have been frantic by now. You have certainly made a difficult situation much easier to bear.
It's brilliant and shows how relaxed the girls are. They seem to be having so much fun and your garden looks like a fabulous playground for them.
I am missing them so much - even more now I've seen them on film - but I'm relieved to see them looking so happy.
I don't know how we can thank you for doing this for us (and for them). If we had left them in kennels I would have been frantic by now. You have certainly made a difficult situation much easier to bear.
POIGNANT THOUGHT!
We were out for an evening stroll a little while ago., when we came across the little deli that we'd been to on our first night. I'd forgotten all about it as it now seems so long ago, but James reminded me that we'd been stung 8 dollars for a small box of English breakfast teabags. We've never used these, largely because we are all drinking copious amounts of cawfee, but also because for all that this is a very nice hotel room it doesn't actually have a kettle (just a coffee maker).
Anyway, I asked James if he would like me to boil water in a saucepan for a cup of tea when we got back, to which he replied, 'yes please, it would be like a little mug of home!'
Aaaaaaaah
Anyway, I asked James if he would like me to boil water in a saucepan for a cup of tea when we got back, to which he replied, 'yes please, it would be like a little mug of home!'
Aaaaaaaah
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
Were YOU visitor 10,000?
She's somehow lost a comment from Dannymatt (sob, sob) and she was woried because the webcounter had seemingly been interfered with.
I still haven't managed to track down Dannymatt's comment but I have worked out what happened with the webcounter! You've had over 10,000 visitors Sue! The counter only goes up to 9,999!
Considering Sue only started the blog back in September when the pups first came home to Longfram with us I think 10,000 visitors is a wonderful achievement.
Sue would love it if some of the regular, and for that matter casual, visitors interacted with some of the posts. She knows that there are far more readers than commenters and maybe this will change.
For instance I know that AMA is a regular reader. You know who you are! It's about time you jumped off the fence and joined in! Having a bit of feedback is always good and as you can see, Sue always responds to every poster!
I'm going to have to visit a doctor over here tomorrow because my blood pressure medication has run out. I've been on 'half measure' since Saturday in the hope that we'd have been away from here by now but there you go. More expenditure to eventually reclaim once this mess is all over and we can return to our lives in God's county.
I sure hope BA and HSBC are quick to pay us back as well because the 'black hole' is getting bigger by the day!
If anyone reading this is contemplating a visit to New York then I'd highly recommend you check out hotels in the Affinia group. We're at the Affinia Manhattan. It's an apartment block that has been converted into a hotel and the rooms are amazingly large by New York standards.
Tripadvisor has some very mixed reviews of this hotel but I don't have any complaints about the place.
Anyway back to the webcounter...
IF you noticed the webcounter reading 0001 earlier today then YOU were visitor 10,000!
Shout up and maybe we'll bring you something back from New York!
Must tell you a little secret...
Sue bought herself a hat this afternoon. I'll let her explain why later on and I promise that I'll grab a picture of her wearing it as well!
Jim's been a little stir-crazy lately. I think it's withdrawal symptoms. He plays footie at least 3 times a week back at home and is only fully complete with a ball at his feet. I suspect tomorrow will see him buy a ball before we head back uptown to Central Park because it's going to be a fine, fine, fine, sunshiny day!
I'll try to put a New York slideshow together with some suitable backing music to add to the blog as well! Meanwhile; I hope you like these pictures CB!
BFN
Charles
xxx
VERY STRANGE
The post counter appears to have gone back to zero and the comment from Dannymatt that I published appears to have disappeared.
Don't understand.
Don't understand.
DECISION MADE!
Following intense discussion , we have decided to remain at the Affinia in Manhattan for the duration of our enforced stay.
This means that should there be a miraculous change in the travel situation, we are well placed for a quick getaway. We've looked at excursions we could make out of the city and Boston, Washington and Philadelphia are all achievable within a couple of hours or so.
I'm glad we've made this decision, even though the NY sounds are beginning to grate a little. Being sandwiched between NYPD and NYFD means that it can get pretty noisy at times. James has a theory that at 6am the shifts change and all sirens have to be tested! It certainly sounds that way.
So, we're off to get some lunch at the bar downstairs where we are hoping to catch the Inter/Barca game.
Be back soon.
Hugs to Lily and Rose XX
This means that should there be a miraculous change in the travel situation, we are well placed for a quick getaway. We've looked at excursions we could make out of the city and Boston, Washington and Philadelphia are all achievable within a couple of hours or so.
I'm glad we've made this decision, even though the NY sounds are beginning to grate a little. Being sandwiched between NYPD and NYFD means that it can get pretty noisy at times. James has a theory that at 6am the shifts change and all sirens have to be tested! It certainly sounds that way.
So, we're off to get some lunch at the bar downstairs where we are hoping to catch the Inter/Barca game.
Be back soon.
Hugs to Lily and Rose XX
STILL UNDECIDED...
... about what to do for the next week.
Obviously our priority is to try to get back BEFORE our scheduled flight next Wednesday, but we were given no hope of getting a standby flight which is what we had been hoping for.
We can't afford to stay here much longer and would like to find somewhere cheaper, but the predicament is...
... where can we go and yet still be within easy distance of JFK SHOULD the improbable happen and we get an email telling us we're good to go? We've been to a travel agent where we were advised to take the opportunity to do a drive holiday heading north towards Boston. Under normal circumstances we would have loved to do this, but it just seems wrong when we should be back home and working. (Well Charles and James should anyway)
Please don't imagine that we are seeing this as an extension of our original holiday, because it really isn't like that. Maybe it was initially, but the appeal of the Big Apple is waning with each extra day we spend here. Our priority is to get home and we literally spend all our time looking for possible ways out of here. Trying to get to Spain was one real possibility, but we can't get a flight there either.
James thinks we should try to sail back, but the next available boat doesn't leave until the 29th and then takes a week to get to Southampton, so that isn't being given serious consideration yet.
So we still don't know what to do. We are totally in limbo and getting more frustrated with each day that passes. It is actually a gorgeous day today and yet we are stuck in our room watching news updates and trying to make some sort of decision about what to do. It's a good job we all get along together, otherwise we would probably have come to blows by now.
Obviously our priority is to try to get back BEFORE our scheduled flight next Wednesday, but we were given no hope of getting a standby flight which is what we had been hoping for.
We can't afford to stay here much longer and would like to find somewhere cheaper, but the predicament is...
... where can we go and yet still be within easy distance of JFK SHOULD the improbable happen and we get an email telling us we're good to go? We've been to a travel agent where we were advised to take the opportunity to do a drive holiday heading north towards Boston. Under normal circumstances we would have loved to do this, but it just seems wrong when we should be back home and working. (Well Charles and James should anyway)
Please don't imagine that we are seeing this as an extension of our original holiday, because it really isn't like that. Maybe it was initially, but the appeal of the Big Apple is waning with each extra day we spend here. Our priority is to get home and we literally spend all our time looking for possible ways out of here. Trying to get to Spain was one real possibility, but we can't get a flight there either.
James thinks we should try to sail back, but the next available boat doesn't leave until the 29th and then takes a week to get to Southampton, so that isn't being given serious consideration yet.
So we still don't know what to do. We are totally in limbo and getting more frustrated with each day that passes. It is actually a gorgeous day today and yet we are stuck in our room watching news updates and trying to make some sort of decision about what to do. It's a good job we all get along together, otherwise we would probably have come to blows by now.
TUESDAY MORNING (20TH APRIL)
At last we've managed to speak to someone at BA, but only to be told that there is no hope of getting an earlier flight than the one we have booked for next Wednesday.
We are considering moving out of Manhattan for a few days now that there is no point staying close to JFK - just in case. The hotel rates and general cost of living are pretty astronomical, and although we will eventually be reimbursed for some of our expenses, we can't keep forking out at the rate we are at the moment.
So we are going to look at Connecticut to see if we can find somewhere a bit more affordable for the next few days.
We are all totally fed up now - and this is made even worse by the fact that there is no chance that we will get to the last home game of the season.
How are my girls, Dannymatt? The photos are really great and we can see that the pups are happy and settled!! I just can't wait to be driven to distraction by them again!
We are considering moving out of Manhattan for a few days now that there is no point staying close to JFK - just in case. The hotel rates and general cost of living are pretty astronomical, and although we will eventually be reimbursed for some of our expenses, we can't keep forking out at the rate we are at the moment.
So we are going to look at Connecticut to see if we can find somewhere a bit more affordable for the next few days.
We are all totally fed up now - and this is made even worse by the fact that there is no chance that we will get to the last home game of the season.
How are my girls, Dannymatt? The photos are really great and we can see that the pups are happy and settled!! I just can't wait to be driven to distraction by them again!
Monday, 19 April 2010
An Englishman in New York...
One poor female member of consulate staff on duty in corridor! It took her an hour to deal with the people ahead of us. We knew MORE about 'the situation' than she did. All they did was make a note of names, passport numbers and contact telephone numbers!
She gave us a web address to register at BUT the website constantly CRASHES...
I did manage to get her e-mail address though - so it will be easier to keep in contact rather than trekking 25 blocks across town and waiting in a HUGE queue. By the time we were dealt with, the queue of people was at least 30 people @ 10 per hour work that one out!
Current news is starting to sound more positive. We ARE booked on the first available flight out - Wed 28th April BUT we are expecting some prioritised 'standby' flights before that date as it would seem that 'education' staff are being prioritised...
The meal @ Becco last night was truly amazing.
Sue and Jim are both a little 'down' today. I suspect in Sue's case this could be mild 'hangover' due to the two bottles of fruity Italian white wine we shared with our meal last night. You should have seen the size of the steak she put away! Needed a bit of washing down!
We managed to pick up a second 'hand luggage' sized case this morning a couple of blocks from the hotel to make sure we don't have another farce at JFK 'check-in' when we eventually get out of here! Last Friday's abortive 'standby' escape found us face to face with a real 'jobsworth' of a check-in girl (well old lady really)! Made us take stuff out of Sue's overweight bag. Easily managed by removing a handbag and several shoes/boots and a couple of books. I though Sue was going to 'deck' her at one point!
Anyway that's me for now. Jim wants a turn - facebooking his mates etc...!
BFN
Charles
XXX
MORE BAD NEWS
It would appear that the earliest we can now get a flight home is a week on Wednesday.
You will appreciate that we are all now totally despondent.
Can't even get a flight to Spain until then.
First stop this morning is the embassy - although I have no idea how they will be able to help us.
Feel very down today.
You will appreciate that we are all now totally despondent.
Can't even get a flight to Spain until then.
First stop this morning is the embassy - although I have no idea how they will be able to help us.
Feel very down today.
BECCO'S
Just back from our second visit to this amazing Italian restaurant.
The food is quite incredible, the service is fab and the atmosphere is buzzing!
Of course I have eaten FAR TOO MUCH and even though we walked back to the hotel, still feel as if I could have rolled quite happily.
(I'm having to correct practically every other word due to the amount of wine consumed this evening!)
When this crisis is over, if you decide to have a break in NY you absolutely MUST eat here.
We are still reeling however, from the news that we won't be flying home tomorrow and our plan for the morning is to visit the British Embassy first thing, followed by a trip to JFK to attempt to speak to someone at British Airways (After that we've managed to find a bar that is showing the NUFC/Plymouth game!)
So, we'll let you know how we get on.
In the meantime, Dannymatt, please give the girls a hug from all of us and let them know that we miss them and are doing our utmost to get back to them.
The food is quite incredible, the service is fab and the atmosphere is buzzing!
Of course I have eaten FAR TOO MUCH and even though we walked back to the hotel, still feel as if I could have rolled quite happily.
(I'm having to correct practically every other word due to the amount of wine consumed this evening!)
When this crisis is over, if you decide to have a break in NY you absolutely MUST eat here.
We are still reeling however, from the news that we won't be flying home tomorrow and our plan for the morning is to visit the British Embassy first thing, followed by a trip to JFK to attempt to speak to someone at British Airways (After that we've managed to find a bar that is showing the NUFC/Plymouth game!)
So, we'll let you know how we get on.
In the meantime, Dannymatt, please give the girls a hug from all of us and let them know that we miss them and are doing our utmost to get back to them.
All You Need is LOVE!
It's good to know Cathy is helping out Chris with pup sitting duties. It sounds as if L&R are actually causing mayhem and I expect we'll be spending at least the next six months making things right!
Anyway, I digress! New York + 3 days...
We've had better weather and enjoyed ourselves today. had to sleep off jet-lag (or de-stress sleep) yesterday and felt the benefit today.
Here's a picture to keep you going. We're off back to Becco for what we hoped was a farewell dinner. Sadly it's not going to be as our flight is delayed AGAIN!
Anyway, I digress! New York + 3 days...
We've had better weather and enjoyed ourselves today. had to sleep off jet-lag (or de-stress sleep) yesterday and felt the benefit today.
Here's a picture to keep you going. We're off back to Becco for what we hoped was a farewell dinner. Sadly it's not going to be as our flight is delayed AGAIN!
Sunday, 18 April 2010
JUST WANT TO GO HOME
Sunday morning. Blue skies. Probably going to Central Park and Fifth Ave - but really just want to be going home.
There doesn't appear to be any news and our flight for tomorrow is still showing as scheduled, although that could well change.
How are my girls today? Are they driving you nuts Dannymatt? You'll no doubt be getting fed up of the early mornings! I really can't wait to get back to them and have found myself scouring the dog parks for any westies, just to get my fix - but so far, not a westie in sight.
Will write again when (if) we know more.
There doesn't appear to be any news and our flight for tomorrow is still showing as scheduled, although that could well change.
How are my girls today? Are they driving you nuts Dannymatt? You'll no doubt be getting fed up of the early mornings! I really can't wait to get back to them and have found myself scouring the dog parks for any westies, just to get my fix - but so far, not a westie in sight.
Will write again when (if) we know more.
Saturday, 17 April 2010
TIRED AND FED UP
I think the events of the last couple of days are beginning to catch up with us as all three of us are feeling pretty tired today. Also, I suppose the fact that the first six days were crammed full of activity means that as soon as we relaxed a little we were bound to feel the effects.
We are getting desperate for news and are starting to worry that the flight we have booked for Monday evening may not get away. We're even considering flying to Dublin and getting a ferry from there - that's if Dublin is open of course.
I really hope that all this doesn't take the edge off what has been a wonderful holiday. We've done so much and had so many fabulous experiences that it would be a shame if we remembered it mostly as the holiday we got stranded.
We haven't done much at all today, in fact walking up to Madison Park and having lunch at the acclaimed 'Shake Shack' has pretty much been the highlight. It's quite cold today, but dry now after a showery start. If it warms up tomorrow we're going to take our books up to Central Park and if it doesn't we're going to hit Fifth Avenue!!! Not that we can buy anything else at all as we discovered when our bags were checked in last night!
If anyone hears anything or has any news to share with us please keep us posted.
We are getting desperate for news and are starting to worry that the flight we have booked for Monday evening may not get away. We're even considering flying to Dublin and getting a ferry from there - that's if Dublin is open of course.
I really hope that all this doesn't take the edge off what has been a wonderful holiday. We've done so much and had so many fabulous experiences that it would be a shame if we remembered it mostly as the holiday we got stranded.
We haven't done much at all today, in fact walking up to Madison Park and having lunch at the acclaimed 'Shake Shack' has pretty much been the highlight. It's quite cold today, but dry now after a showery start. If it warms up tomorrow we're going to take our books up to Central Park and if it doesn't we're going to hit Fifth Avenue!!! Not that we can buy anything else at all as we discovered when our bags were checked in last night!
If anyone hears anything or has any news to share with us please keep us posted.
DEAR DANNYMATT
By now you will have had the girls for a full day and no doubt are getting to know their personalities and habits. I really hope they are not causing too much trouble and that they will in fact learn from your two as role models. Watch Lily - she is the one most likely to have an accident and she can get a bit grumpy at times - so if there's any growling feel free to flatten her!
Seeing your photos was wonderfully reassuring - both girls look fine! They actually look so alike that we've argued about who is who. And they certainly look like big grown up Westies.
You cannot possibly imagine how grateful we are. I miss them more than I ever thought possible, but am totally reassured by the thought that they are with you and your girls.
It's hard to believe that we have only been away from them for a week. (Yesterday I was talking to a guy in the hotel about our predicament and found myself telling him that I couldn't wait to get back to my two little 'dawgs'! James nearly disowned me and told me to pull myself together sharpish.
The fiasco last night is still preying on our minds. Initially, when the flight came up, I had huge concerns. How could that flight get away when all others were cancelled? The hanging around at JFK was mind numbing and infuriating because of the appalling communication and falling at the very final hurdle was just the icing on the cake. But we DID try and now we can do no more than hope that the flight we have booked for Monday gets away.
We're now left wondering what to do for the next couple of days. This may sound strange but we've crammed so many things into the time we've had that we have pretty much exhausted all that we wanted to do. Added to that, after a week of fabulous weather there has been a change for the worse and it certainly isn't conducive to sightseeing today. As I type Charles and James are scoffing breakfast coffee and doughnuts, lying on the bed watching the Man Utd / Man City match so they're okay for a while!
I'm going to Borders, which is just over the road, to buy a copy of a book entitled 'The Mole People' about New York's thousands of homeless.
We were talking to the bartender last night and he told me about it, explaining that there are so many thousands living beneath Penn station (as well as many other locations too of course).
On Tuesday morning I went outside the hotel and came face to face with a line of hundreds waiting for the church soup kitchen to open. It was a stark reminder of the reality of life for so many people and contrasted hugely with the perfectly coiffed and manicured women we saw later that day going for their appointments in the 5th Avenue designer boutiques.
Okay - I'm going to get my 'cawfee' now. Will write again later - and please give the girls big, big hugs from their real mummy!!
Seeing your photos was wonderfully reassuring - both girls look fine! They actually look so alike that we've argued about who is who. And they certainly look like big grown up Westies.
You cannot possibly imagine how grateful we are. I miss them more than I ever thought possible, but am totally reassured by the thought that they are with you and your girls.
It's hard to believe that we have only been away from them for a week. (Yesterday I was talking to a guy in the hotel about our predicament and found myself telling him that I couldn't wait to get back to my two little 'dawgs'! James nearly disowned me and told me to pull myself together sharpish.
The fiasco last night is still preying on our minds. Initially, when the flight came up, I had huge concerns. How could that flight get away when all others were cancelled? The hanging around at JFK was mind numbing and infuriating because of the appalling communication and falling at the very final hurdle was just the icing on the cake. But we DID try and now we can do no more than hope that the flight we have booked for Monday gets away.
We're now left wondering what to do for the next couple of days. This may sound strange but we've crammed so many things into the time we've had that we have pretty much exhausted all that we wanted to do. Added to that, after a week of fabulous weather there has been a change for the worse and it certainly isn't conducive to sightseeing today. As I type Charles and James are scoffing breakfast coffee and doughnuts, lying on the bed watching the Man Utd / Man City match so they're okay for a while!
We were talking to the bartender last night and he told me about it, explaining that there are so many thousands living beneath Penn station (as well as many other locations too of course).
On Tuesday morning I went outside the hotel and came face to face with a line of hundreds waiting for the church soup kitchen to open. It was a stark reminder of the reality of life for so many people and contrasted hugely with the perfectly coiffed and manicured women we saw later that day going for their appointments in the 5th Avenue designer boutiques.
Okay - I'm going to get my 'cawfee' now. Will write again later - and please give the girls big, big hugs from their real mummy!!
So near yet so far!
Well we're back in our hotel - The Affinia Manhattan!
After waiting around on 'standby' until 30 minutes before the flight to Glasgow was due for take off and clearing passport control and security at the airport and getting right to the departure gate; the flight got cancelled!
The passing on of information by BA was PATHETIC! It was done almost by word of mouth. Nobody took control of the situation quickly enough and when they did - they didn't give everyone ALL of the information they really needed! They even gave out incorrect information regarding where to get our bags back from!
Anyway, we're safely back at our amazing hotel opposite PENN station in the new room that we moved into yesterday, we're up and we're getting ready to watch the City v United match on ESPN2. They're just going through the pre-match build up now!
After waiting around on 'standby' until 30 minutes before the flight to Glasgow was due for take off and clearing passport control and security at the airport and getting right to the departure gate; the flight got cancelled!
The passing on of information by BA was PATHETIC! It was done almost by word of mouth. Nobody took control of the situation quickly enough and when they did - they didn't give everyone ALL of the information they really needed! They even gave out incorrect information regarding where to get our bags back from!
Anyway, we're safely back at our amazing hotel opposite PENN station in the new room that we moved into yesterday, we're up and we're getting ready to watch the City v United match on ESPN2. They're just going through the pre-match build up now!
On STANDBY @ JFK!
I think we spotted them all but one was impossible to photograph because of the light conditions. Sue refused to take my picture whist nonchalantly hiding one of the 'grounded' statues' modesty with my hand!
I'm trying to work out why Sue is smiling in the photo with 'Iron man' here...
I guess some things just bring a smile to a girls face?
A bit more shopping followed for us all - these sales have been too hard to resist!
Then it was across town to a multiplex cinema to catch the first day showing of 'Kick Ass'! James and Charles enjoyed it and Sue tolerated it...
Oh! Forgot to mention that we had to pack up and move to another room today as well. Dropped just 8 floors to the 18th (from 26th out of 28). Nice room. Smaller bedroom with the biggest bed I've ever seen, bigger lounge, smaller kitchen and only one bathroom (en-suite to bedroom).
We settled in and unpacked - well, truth be told, Charles unpacked and Sue and Jim said they'd live out of their suitcase for the rest of the trip! I settled down to checking e-mails etc. only to find info on the BA site saying our flight was leaving tonight and going to Glasgow!
Packed, explained all to hotel staff, jumped into a limo and arrived over an hour later at JFK to be told we were not booked onto the flight BUT would be placed on STANDBY!!!!
So here we all sit, waiting to find out IF we are going to fly! If we do - great! We'll hire a car and drive from Glasgow back home. If we're bumped off - OK! We'll jump in a cab back to the hotel!
At least we tried...
BFN
Charles
xxx
Friday, 16 April 2010
WE ARE STRANDED!
I honestly thought Charles and James were joking this morning when they told me that we wouldn't be leaving NY today because all UK airports are closed due to a cloud of volcanic ash stuff from Iceland. But then the sickening realisation set in. We really were not going anywhere today, or indeed for the next few days as we were unable to book another flight until Monday evening.
I should point out that this has only been achieved at considerable cost, which added to the additional nights in the hotel, mean that out finances are now sorely stretched.
It took a while for us to get out heads round the implications of this delay and our primary concern was THE GIRLS. Paul and Annie have to leave Longfram tomorrow to return to Brackley, so we have asked dannymatt to take them to his place for a few days and he has very kindly agreed. He will understand that despite the fact that I know they will be well cared for and will certainly enjoy the company of Isla and Maggie Mae (although they will undoubtedly be jealous of their new haircuts) I am still beside myself with anxiety. How will they settle? Will they be stressed and nervous? Will they remember to go out for pees and poops? Will they sleep through the night? Will dannymatt still be our friend when this is over? Will they ever trust us again?
I am honestly frantic with worry and, if there is any further delay, will be rowing across the Atlantic to get back to them.
We've tried very hard to make the most of the extra time - and will continue to do so for the next few days. This morning we visited the Top of the Rock and Grand Central Station after a late breakfast at the Bread factory.
We shopped a bit this afternoon, taking full advantage of 40% discount at Kenneth Cole, then had a tour of NBC before grabbing pizza to scoff in the hotel.
We're probably going to have an early night and haven't really decided what we're doing tomorrow. We keep hoping that BA may actually make contact and and that they will let us know that we can return earlier than Monday, but that looks like a slim hope really. What we don't want is for this to take the edge off what has been a truly fabulous holiday, and to be honest, if it wasn't for the girls I wouldn't be too bothered about the extra days.
Dannymatt - we can't thank you enough. I just want you to remember that they may well be quite stressed. They are really good little things usually, but I honestly cannot predict how they will be with you. TELL THEM I LOVE THEM!
I should point out that this has only been achieved at considerable cost, which added to the additional nights in the hotel, mean that out finances are now sorely stretched.
It took a while for us to get out heads round the implications of this delay and our primary concern was THE GIRLS. Paul and Annie have to leave Longfram tomorrow to return to Brackley, so we have asked dannymatt to take them to his place for a few days and he has very kindly agreed. He will understand that despite the fact that I know they will be well cared for and will certainly enjoy the company of Isla and Maggie Mae (although they will undoubtedly be jealous of their new haircuts) I am still beside myself with anxiety. How will they settle? Will they be stressed and nervous? Will they remember to go out for pees and poops? Will they sleep through the night? Will dannymatt still be our friend when this is over? Will they ever trust us again?
I am honestly frantic with worry and, if there is any further delay, will be rowing across the Atlantic to get back to them.
We've tried very hard to make the most of the extra time - and will continue to do so for the next few days. This morning we visited the Top of the Rock and Grand Central Station after a late breakfast at the Bread factory.
We shopped a bit this afternoon, taking full advantage of 40% discount at Kenneth Cole, then had a tour of NBC before grabbing pizza to scoff in the hotel.
We're probably going to have an early night and haven't really decided what we're doing tomorrow. We keep hoping that BA may actually make contact and and that they will let us know that we can return earlier than Monday, but that looks like a slim hope really. What we don't want is for this to take the edge off what has been a truly fabulous holiday, and to be honest, if it wasn't for the girls I wouldn't be too bothered about the extra days.
Dannymatt - we can't thank you enough. I just want you to remember that they may well be quite stressed. They are really good little things usually, but I honestly cannot predict how they will be with you. TELL THEM I LOVE THEM!
Wednesday, 14 April 2010
HI Y'ALL!!!
IT'S ME!
I haven't written on the blog since we've been in NY, but Charles has added a few bits to keep you up to date on our activities.
We are really having the most amazing time. The weather has been perfect and we've mixed up the itinerary to give plenty of variety and something for everyone.
Yesterday we did the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, followed by a visit to Ground Zero where work is still very much in the early stages and then a trip to Brooklyn, walking back to Manhattan across the bridge. We collapsed in our hotel room just long enough to listen to the NUFC match and then headed up to Times Square for dinner at Planet Hollywood.
WE HAVE WALKED A LOT! This has been hugely beneficial to getting rid of the extra calories added by pancakes and the like!
Today has been Natural History Museum, long walks in Central Park, Bloomingdales, back to the hotel to start packing ready for tomorrow and later off out again for an Italian meal and The Lion King.
We have loved every minute, but I have to say that I have thought about my girls all the time and have had to agree to only mentioning them ONCE a day! Can't wait to get back to them.
Tomorrow will be mooching around the shops and packing up ready to vacate the room by 1pm. Then we just put the bags in store until we leave for the airport at about 7pm (midnight GMT). Hopefully we'll get some sleep on the flight home, otherwise we'll be pretty knackered by the time we get back. We should be back in Fram be lunchtime on Friday and once we've greeted the girls and sorted out the holday washing and boring stuff like that, I'll get back to blogging properly.
by the way, the girls are going for their haircuts on Saturday, so we'll get pictures of them posted ASAP.
Take care for now
Sue xxx
I haven't written on the blog since we've been in NY, but Charles has added a few bits to keep you up to date on our activities.
We are really having the most amazing time. The weather has been perfect and we've mixed up the itinerary to give plenty of variety and something for everyone.
Yesterday we did the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, followed by a visit to Ground Zero where work is still very much in the early stages and then a trip to Brooklyn, walking back to Manhattan across the bridge. We collapsed in our hotel room just long enough to listen to the NUFC match and then headed up to Times Square for dinner at Planet Hollywood.
WE HAVE WALKED A LOT! This has been hugely beneficial to getting rid of the extra calories added by pancakes and the like!
Today has been Natural History Museum, long walks in Central Park, Bloomingdales, back to the hotel to start packing ready for tomorrow and later off out again for an Italian meal and The Lion King.
We have loved every minute, but I have to say that I have thought about my girls all the time and have had to agree to only mentioning them ONCE a day! Can't wait to get back to them.
Tomorrow will be mooching around the shops and packing up ready to vacate the room by 1pm. Then we just put the bags in store until we leave for the airport at about 7pm (midnight GMT). Hopefully we'll get some sleep on the flight home, otherwise we'll be pretty knackered by the time we get back. We should be back in Fram be lunchtime on Friday and once we've greeted the girls and sorted out the holday washing and boring stuff like that, I'll get back to blogging properly.
by the way, the girls are going for their haircuts on Saturday, so we'll get pictures of them posted ASAP.
Take care for now
Sue xxx
Long Fram Latest!
I have been writing on Facebook so I thought I would also add a note here. All is well here although the girls like to chew anything they can; this includes the top of my wellies! One or two little accidents but no problems. I thought about feeding them alphabeti sphaghetti so they could leave little messages eveywhere! Took them to the beach today as the sun was shining again. Having a great at time visiting places and the girls have been really good when they have been left although we have kept this to a minimum. Hope all having a great time across the pond.
Paul and Annie.
Paul and Annie.
Tuesday, 13 April 2010
I DO LIKE MONDAYS!
Monday was another great, action packed day for us. It started in a good way just along 31st street from the hotel at a small sidewalk café for breakfast. Cosmic Café is one of the typical neighbourhood diners that is largely frequented by locals and workers on their way, naturally enough, to work!
We quickly settled into a booth and put in our breakfast order. We all went for French Toast! Sue and I took the option of bacon and Jim chose sausage with his! Nicely filled for the day and ready to explore, we walked down to SOHO (South Of Houston) via Chelsea, Grenwich Village and Washington Square.
The main mission for us today was to purchase some UGG boots for Jen. Jen is engaged to Ed and Ed is one of Jim’s best mates. Ed and Jen are getting married in the summer and Jim is ‘best man’ (a job he’s sharing with his flatmate Duncan). Well we did eventually track down the UGG shop in SOHO. It’s quite small by New York standards and tucked away in a side street BUT we did track it down and Jim got the requested UGGs for Jen! It’s a good job our cases were only lightly packed!
We headed back ‘uptown’ to the hotel by yellow cab, freshened up, grabbed a coffee at Starbucks over 7th Ave from the hotel and set off again to Macy’s. I needed to replenish my wardrobe a little and managed to track down some good reductions. It’s a mission of mine. I can’t remember the last time I actually paid full price for anything. Sue hates it because she knows whatever it is we’re considering purchasing; it won’t be bought (by me) until I know it’s at the lowest price I can find!
Anyway. Pair of ‘no iron’ Dockers, pair of Calvin Kline trousers, CK sleeveless cardigan and a couple of RL polo shirts were quickly acquired for about the price of the CK trousers back in the UK!
Monday night saw us in Maddison Square Garden for the final home game for The new York Knicks! NBA games are NOTHING like basketball games in the UK! Live sport is like watching commercial TV! Americans must have a very short attention span. I don’t think there is any way they’d ever cope with cricket.
Sue and James had identified a place for a pre-game bite to eat. Lindy’s. Burgers all round and washed down with Pepsi (Sue & Jim) and Bud for me.
Four 12 minute quarters – 48 minutes of actual play took THREE HOURS! There are so many ‘time outs’ and breaks that the players rarely break into a sweat! The Knicks have not had a good season, to tell the truth, they’ve not had a good season for many, many years! It took until the final quarter before the stadium was anywhere near full. Our seats were in a section set aside for wheelchair bound fans. There was a great view of the court and just one level up.
A guy in a wheelchair came and drove his electric chair into the space beside me. He had an interesting story. Before his accident he’d been a basketball coach in a New York College. It was interesting that he was getting as frustrated as I was with the appalling standard of attacking and defensive play by the Knicks and their opponents – Washington Wizzards!
I couldn’t see any way that the Knicks were going to pull the game out of the bag because for first ¾ of the game the ‘Wizzards’ were well ahead.
Pull it out they did though. They managed to get a victory and send the home fans away happy. They’d already softened them up with half price kit, drinks and popcorn AND given away free tee shirts to the first 10,000 who turned up for the game. The mention of something ‘free’ had got us into the stadium as soon as the doors opened. Mind you, Sue has to be inside St James’ Park at least an hour before kick off!
After the game we headed back to the hotel via a food market next door where we picked up some drinks, chips (crisps) and some ‘Lucky Charms’ for supper.
BFN
Charles
xxx
BILLY NO MATES!
I think the Billy Elliott cast need to get a Geordie vocal coach over asap! Now don’t get me wrong; the show was very enjoyable and there were some magic moments in it too but the range of ‘put on accents’ from the largely American cast just made me smile most of the time!
Anyway, I’m getting a bit ahead of myself here…
After James and Sue returned to Border Books, Sue complete with a Macy’s shopping bag containing a pair of purple ‘Timberland’ boots that she’d seen earlier that morning, we set off for an afternoon ‘mooch’ in the streets downtown (south) from our hotel.
The street system in New York in the most part is organised in a grid of numbered streets (east to west) and avenues (north to south). To the logical brain; this organisation is a complete treat as you can instantly picture where about in the city you are and work out what route you could take to get to any particular destination.
(Interjection by Sue here: I must have the LEAST logical brain as I NEVER know where I am and would be completely lost without Charles and James!)
North is ‘uptown’ and south is ‘downtown’. Down town itself, south of 14th street sees the grid organisation crumble a little, especially on the west side of town and it’s inevitable really given the physical geography of Manhattan! The grids exist but end up in dome triangular and trapezoidal sections.
It is the formal grid created by the streets and avenues that gives rise to ‘blocks’. Each block is rectangular with the width of each block (east – west) forming the greatest distance (almost twice the distance of the shorter edge north – south).
We ate at an interesting Thai restaurant called Yum Yum 3 and yes there are two other places very close that form part of this expanding family empire! The food was fresh, quickly prepared and reasonably priced. For the cost conscious there is a 5 course evening meal for under $16! A starter and main course is all we could manage and the mains beat both James and Sue!
A short, block and a half, walk got us to the theatre in plenty of time for the doors opening. I’m sure you’ll be pleased to know I went dressed in my Newcastle home shirt – keeping it Geordie!
I think James wanted to keep shouting out the correct Geordie pronunciation throughout the performance but I’m glad to report that he managed to ‘curb the urge’!
Now the miners strike is something very dear to our hearts; not only because of the political ravaging and pummelling that Maggie Thatcher inflicted upon the mining industry but more because we moved to Northumberland in the middle of the strike and the effects of the annihilation were stark to live with.
The stage play is much more heavily political than the film and the language more representational of the emotionally ravaged times.
The young American actor who played the part of young Billy did well enough but his comedy sidekick and cross dressing, individual oddball, Michael just couldn’t cope with the accent one little bit!One of the most heart-wrenching scenes SHOULD be in the final act when Billy jumps off stage to make his way down to London and as he's slowly walking up the aisle of the auditorium; gets called to stop by his mate Michael....
It was more a case of Billy no mates! Come on Michael! Get your act together man!
My only other criticism of the show was the lengthy gaps between the lines delivered by the principal characters. At first I though they were forgetting their lines and needed prompting but I don’t think this was the case. The cast MUST have been directed that way. I think they could have trimmed 20 minutes out of the show just by speeding up the dialogue to normal levels.
Once the curtain was down, we quickly made our way back to the hotel; managing to grab a cab quickly and save our feet from another pounding!
Needless to say we were all asleep within moments of us hitting the pillows!
Sunday has been an amazingly enjoyable first day!
Monday morning saw us rise from our slumbers – or rather should I say ‘blasted’ from our slumbers by a fire truck hitting its hooter! Now, we’re 26 floors up but we were woken by it! The fire station is right next to the hotel and the police precinct is on the other side!
BFN
CHARLES
xxx
Sunday, 11 April 2010
The New Yorkers - Part One!
We managed to get tickets for the final 'Knicks' home game of the season! They're playing Washington @ MSG tomorrow evening. Just one level back from the court SO they SHOULD be good seats! At $149 a pop they'd better be!
Flight over was OK. But anyone over 'hobbit' size is going to struggle being comfortable on a transatlantic flight! Immigration at JFK is a total nightmare! The new electronic online greencard system still ISN'T being used SO if you're coming over anytime soon - don't be fooled! You'll STILL need to fill out a greencard and customs form and wait at least an hour in a queue to be allowed into the USA!
We were up at 6.30 local time (11.30 UK time) after a decent night sleep. Had breakfast at Europa Cafe and took a stroll around uptown. Dipped into Bryant Park. The last time we were here it was set up as a skating rink!
I managed to replenish my limited wardrobe this morning at Macey's Easter sale! Timberland shoes, Ralph Lauren trousers and shirts and a rather lovely original 'Banksie' tee-shirt!
I love this city!
CHARLES
xxx
Friday, 9 April 2010
FEELING A BIT BETTER NOW...
... that Paul and Annie are here.
The pups have been lovely with them so far, and I'm hoping this bodes well for the next few days.
We're setting off at about 11.30. Paul is giving us a lift to the airport and then going to the match. He's under strict instructions to make sure the pups are wearing their NUFC tops tomorrow afternoon!!
I think we've got a couple of hours at T5 before we get on the plane for JFK, so I'm sure we'll have a good mooch around.
James has been up this evening. He's got quite a beard at the moment, which he is going to get rid of before we go because and I quote, 'I don't want to be mistaken for an international terrorist!' I don't want him to be mistaken for an international terrorist either! In fact I'm still worried about him having to go into that little room to be interviewed because of his Algeria stamps.
Anyway, I'll let you know how we get on. Paul has agreed to write the blog from time to time and I'm taking the laptop so should be able to post most days.
So - take care - and let's hope we win tomorrow!
The pups have been lovely with them so far, and I'm hoping this bodes well for the next few days.
We're setting off at about 11.30. Paul is giving us a lift to the airport and then going to the match. He's under strict instructions to make sure the pups are wearing their NUFC tops tomorrow afternoon!!
I think we've got a couple of hours at T5 before we get on the plane for JFK, so I'm sure we'll have a good mooch around.
James has been up this evening. He's got quite a beard at the moment, which he is going to get rid of before we go because and I quote, 'I don't want to be mistaken for an international terrorist!' I don't want him to be mistaken for an international terrorist either! In fact I'm still worried about him having to go into that little room to be interviewed because of his Algeria stamps.
Anyway, I'll let you know how we get on. Paul has agreed to write the blog from time to time and I'm taking the laptop so should be able to post most days.
So - take care - and let's hope we win tomorrow!
JAMES IS TAKING...
... SHORTS TO NY!
Apparently the forecast is pretty good!
Mind you, considering he turned up here a few weeks ago when it can't have been more than 10 degrees in shorts and a tee shirt, I'm not honestly surprised.
Charles has been scoping the Macy's website like crazy, cos he's intending to buy practically a new wardrobe in their sale. Must be confident because he really IS only taking stuff for two days!
I on the other hand am not taking such a risk and have enough clothes for a month.
Apparently the forecast is pretty good!
Mind you, considering he turned up here a few weeks ago when it can't have been more than 10 degrees in shorts and a tee shirt, I'm not honestly surprised.
Charles has been scoping the Macy's website like crazy, cos he's intending to buy practically a new wardrobe in their sale. Must be confident because he really IS only taking stuff for two days!
I on the other hand am not taking such a risk and have enough clothes for a month.
FORGOT TO SAY...
... that Rose had sore paws yesterday after her long walk.
When james came round she was limping quite badly, although she didn't complain when I had a good feel round her legs and paws.
Charles had a good look and noticed that her pads are quite dry and a bit cracked, so I've bought some Aloe Vera gel this morning which should soothe and heal any sore bits.
I really hope Paul doesn't have any problems with them while he's in charge. He's got a lengthy reference book outlining their needs and I've made sure that he knows where the vet is should anything awful happen - heaven forbid.
When james came round she was limping quite badly, although she didn't complain when I had a good feel round her legs and paws.
Charles had a good look and noticed that her pads are quite dry and a bit cracked, so I've bought some Aloe Vera gel this morning which should soothe and heal any sore bits.
I really hope Paul doesn't have any problems with them while he's in charge. He's got a lengthy reference book outlining their needs and I've made sure that he knows where the vet is should anything awful happen - heaven forbid.
NOT LONG NOW!!
Hair done - check
Packing done - check
House cleaned for puppysitters - check
Passports and Billy Elliott tickets in handbag - check
Just got to get my head round saying goodbye to the girls now!
Packing done - check
House cleaned for puppysitters - check
Passports and Billy Elliott tickets in handbag - check
Just got to get my head round saying goodbye to the girls now!
Thursday, 8 April 2010
LILY AND ROSE GO TO SCHOOL!
It's true!
They've been to Croftway this afternoon - to a family fun day - and I think they have indeed had fun!
According to Charles, they've been fussed over by lots of kids and grown ups and they've coped really well with all the attention.
While they were all out I got on with the chores (just like Cinderella!) in an extremely quiet house. I'd forgotten what it used to be like!
Anyway, they've been back for a little while now, so I've taken them out for a quick walk and now they're demolishing their Kongs as a little treat for being such good-natured girls!
They've been to Croftway this afternoon - to a family fun day - and I think they have indeed had fun!
According to Charles, they've been fussed over by lots of kids and grown ups and they've coped really well with all the attention.
While they were all out I got on with the chores (just like Cinderella!) in an extremely quiet house. I'd forgotten what it used to be like!
Anyway, they've been back for a little while now, so I've taken them out for a quick walk and now they're demolishing their Kongs as a little treat for being such good-natured girls!
THIS TIME NEXT WEEK...
... we'll be getting ready to come home!
I can't imagine how excited I'll be about seeing the girls.
Usually when you come to the end of a holiday, you really wish it could go on for a bit longer (especially if you have to go back to work straight afterwards!) - but this time will be very different for me.
I'm going to do my utmost to put the pups out of my thoughts while we are away, but I know for certain that I'll be absolutely desperate to get back to them, shoving everyone out of the way at baggage reclaim and doing a veritable sprint to the car to get back to them as fast as possible.
I can't imagine how excited I'll be about seeing the girls.
Usually when you come to the end of a holiday, you really wish it could go on for a bit longer (especially if you have to go back to work straight afterwards!) - but this time will be very different for me.
I'm going to do my utmost to put the pups out of my thoughts while we are away, but I know for certain that I'll be absolutely desperate to get back to them, shoving everyone out of the way at baggage reclaim and doing a veritable sprint to the car to get back to them as fast as possible.
Wednesday, 7 April 2010
JUST WATCHED...
... the Masterchef final. How brave are those contestants? I LOVE cooking, but could never cope with the pressure they have to go through. However, their food was inspirational and the presentation - fabulous.
Think I'll have a reasonably early night tonight. (I'm counting the nights till we go away and leave the girls - I really am HATING this.) I've got my holiday reading all sorted out and feel very frustrated that I'm having to wait until Saturday before I can get stuck in! I'm reckoning on a book each way and another during our time there, with a spare just in case. Also, I have to factor in the fact that James and Charles may want to 'borrow' some of my little stock - and they don't read at the same pace as I do - so perhaps I'd better take another just to be on the safe side!
My camera arrived and seems really simple to operate - which is just as well because I can't be coping with anything complicated. I'll have to put some of the pics on the blog when we get back, so you can see what we've been up to.
The girls have had a lovely day today. They've had three good walks, and by the time it came to the third one, they really couldn't be bothered and we had to give them lot of encouragement to keep them moving. They've been asleep for ages, having nodded off in front of the Man Utd match.
Right - I shall take a leaf out of their book and turn in now.
Night night!
Think I'll have a reasonably early night tonight. (I'm counting the nights till we go away and leave the girls - I really am HATING this.) I've got my holiday reading all sorted out and feel very frustrated that I'm having to wait until Saturday before I can get stuck in! I'm reckoning on a book each way and another during our time there, with a spare just in case. Also, I have to factor in the fact that James and Charles may want to 'borrow' some of my little stock - and they don't read at the same pace as I do - so perhaps I'd better take another just to be on the safe side!
My camera arrived and seems really simple to operate - which is just as well because I can't be coping with anything complicated. I'll have to put some of the pics on the blog when we get back, so you can see what we've been up to.
The girls have had a lovely day today. They've had three good walks, and by the time it came to the third one, they really couldn't be bothered and we had to give them lot of encouragement to keep them moving. They've been asleep for ages, having nodded off in front of the Man Utd match.
Right - I shall take a leaf out of their book and turn in now.
Night night!
JUST WAITING FOR...
... my new digital camera to arrive.
It occurred to me yesterday that I didn't have a decent camera to take away with us...
... but by the end of play today, I will have.
Oh - just had a delivery - but it was for James, not me! Wonder what Jim's been ordering?
Charles is out with the girls. He seems to be really enjoying walking them. We've bought one of those double lead attachments so that we can walk them both from one main lead. This certainly makes things easier and they actually walk better when they are so close to each other. No more tugging and pulling - they really are a pleasure to take out now.
I've been into Morpeth this morning - on my own! Quite a treat really. Just wanted to get new nix, socks and PJs for the hols - as you do.
Charles is spending a lot of time checking out eating places in the area around our hotel - aaaaaargh! I HAVE managed to lose the five pounds I'm going to put straight back on, but I still don't really want to think about it!
It occurred to me yesterday that I didn't have a decent camera to take away with us...
... but by the end of play today, I will have.
Oh - just had a delivery - but it was for James, not me! Wonder what Jim's been ordering?
Charles is out with the girls. He seems to be really enjoying walking them. We've bought one of those double lead attachments so that we can walk them both from one main lead. This certainly makes things easier and they actually walk better when they are so close to each other. No more tugging and pulling - they really are a pleasure to take out now.
I've been into Morpeth this morning - on my own! Quite a treat really. Just wanted to get new nix, socks and PJs for the hols - as you do.
Charles is spending a lot of time checking out eating places in the area around our hotel - aaaaaargh! I HAVE managed to lose the five pounds I'm going to put straight back on, but I still don't really want to think about it!
SHOULD STILL BE ABLE...
... TO WRITE THE BLOG WHEN WE'RE IN NY.
It may be quite interesting to do a sort of diary of our holiday.
I'm hoping also to persuade Paul to keep up the Lily and Rose side of things on the blog if he is willing.
Not long to go now...
...feeling really guilty and can't look the girls in the eye(s)!
It may be quite interesting to do a sort of diary of our holiday.
I'm hoping also to persuade Paul to keep up the Lily and Rose side of things on the blog if he is willing.
Not long to go now...
...feeling really guilty and can't look the girls in the eye(s)!
Tuesday, 6 April 2010
WE'RE UP!!
But not quite in the manner I'd hoped.
Call me picky, but I have to assume that the fact the players KNEW they'd been promoted before kick off was the reason for a pretty sloppy performance. I would have loved to see them battling it out on the pitch instead of pratting about, which is what some of them appeared to be doing at times.
Not that anything should detract from their success. I thought it was really reassuring that everyone who was interviewed made the point that there was still the Championship to win. Hopefully Chris Hughton will bring them down to earth a bit before the next game.
Still - great night, great atmosphere.
Well done boys!
Call me picky, but I have to assume that the fact the players KNEW they'd been promoted before kick off was the reason for a pretty sloppy performance. I would have loved to see them battling it out on the pitch instead of pratting about, which is what some of them appeared to be doing at times.
Not that anything should detract from their success. I thought it was really reassuring that everyone who was interviewed made the point that there was still the Championship to win. Hopefully Chris Hughton will bring them down to earth a bit before the next game.
Still - great night, great atmosphere.
Well done boys!
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