This is one of my favourite photos of my lovely Wife Sarah, and it shows what happens when she smiles! π
More βiReminisce“
Tag Archives: Blind Photographer
iReminisce: Pisa, Italy
My lovely Wife Sarah said that i should post a photo daily. Iβve taken so many over the years we often forget the memories these pictures evoke. So iβd like to share them with you too.
Please enjoy as βiReminisceβ.
I will start with(probably not the most exciting photo in my archive) but to be stood in Pisa, and in front of the fantastic leaning bell tower was incredible! πΒ
Please read my full blog post for this day HERE
Weekly Photo Challenge: Evanescent
Wow, another “Photo Challengeβ where i could post thousands of photos! π€£Β
Here’s a few βEvanescentβ moments of my(& Sarahβs) travels.
Β On a severely rocky train journey through “St Kittsβ, i managed somehow to take this photo of one of my fave church buildings! ~ Read about our fantastic journey here!Β
Β Now a little about this birdβ¦..π€£ Taken from my older post βIn Flight”Β
“This photo brings back memories of patience for me. This is the longest i’d taken getting one shot. I spent 3 days going down to the local lake and sat patiently on a bench taking about 150 shots per day until finally got this one. I learnt that when you canβt see whatβs in your viewfinder, donβt take photos of birds! lol” πΒ
Β Sarah had just a few seconds to take this photo whilst doing a 2 day course at the “Institute of Legacy Management” building. She wanted to show me a cityscape of London as she wouldnβt get this chance again! πΒ
And of course i canβt do many photo challenges without a photo(or photos) of “Bruce THE Boxerβ. Our lovely Boxer dog which we still miss loads! But i felt this period in time(14th July 2000 – 3rd Dec 2011) felt like it only lasted a short time and would suit this challenge. πΒ
Weekly Photo Challenge: Heritage
This weeks βPhoto Challengeβ left me with so many options i didnβt know where to start!Β
The photo above is one of Sarah & iβs favourites and is on our side-board. I thoughtβ¦..βHeritageβ – It has the church building which was built way before our time. βHeritageβ – The guitar iβm playing(and not worthy of holding, never mind owning) was built by a fantastic Luthier. βHeritageβ – And more important than all of this is the Holy Covenant of Marriage that glues Sarah and i together in the power of His promises!Β
I could go on & onβ¦..But iβll stop here and go and check out your posts on the challenge! πΒ
Weekly Photo Challenge: Reflecting
For this weeks challenge(Reflectiong), i used an old photo from our “Tuscany Tourβ(please click to begin this fantastic trip), although itβs not really about reflectingβ¦β¦I think Sarahβs smile reflects enough of how much fun we were having on this holiday! πΒ
The Ineffable Mysteries Of A Surprise Visit!
Day 1: Wowβ¦..What a fantastic surprise 3 day visit by my Brother Paul! π
The Intricate Planβ¦..
I really had no idea that Ben(Brother in Christ) and Sarah(my lovely Wife) had planned this visit by my Brother Paul since November!!Β
“Paul had bariatric surgery(Sleeve gastrectomy) a year ago after spending 4 weeks in hospital and has progressed so much, he spent most of the past 5 years housebound and is starting to rebuild his life. iβm really proud of him. He has lost around 24 stone(150kg) since the start of this gruelling fight. And for his first trip out of Derby, he wanted to come and see Epsom. Iβm so pleased he did as i can only imagine how much of a big deal this is for him!”
The Almost Upsetβ¦..
Ben had organised to meet me at my fave restaurant βSicilyβ at 2pm, and as i got into town early i decided to take a detour and get more steps towards my Fitbit daily step goal. Little did i know my Brother was standing outside the train station waiting for Ben to pick him up to surprise me at Sicily. πΒ
Paul said βI was standing outside the station just looking around, and suddenly he saw me walking up the other side of the roadβ βNo way, whatβs he doing here?β¦.Heβs not going to cross over as he is on his way to Sicilyβ Then just as he said it i was crossing the road towards him. He knows i canβt see enough to recognise anyone even if they are stood next to me. But he panicked and hid behind the nearest object and took a photo as he thought iβd figured out his plan, lol. πΒ
β¬ Me on the phone to Sarah, crossing the road while Paul takes a stealth photo! β¬Β
The Surprise Meetβ¦..
As i arrived at Sicily i received the usual warm welcome from Grace and was seated at the table. I was thinking through some Bible verses as i expected a deep theological discussion on doctrines etcβ¦..But as Ben arrived he was with his Wife Rosie and son Raffy. I was just getting up to move to a larger table when a FaceTime call came in from my brother Paul!
I usually switch to the back camera(as i canβt see the screen anyway) and try and show Paul around my current location and as i was in Sicily i thought heβd like to have a look. I first pointed it at Raffy and he was giggling into the camera. Then i wanted him to meet Grace and as i was about to point my phone at herβ¦..βey up broβ I heard in my right ear, i turned and there was my brother Paul standing right next to me!! πΒ
After what seemed like minutes, my mind was just racing βHow did he get here? Derby is over 150 miles away! I thought trains were too much for him right now? Did Ben pick him up? Β How is this possible?β i finally gave up and gave him a huge hug, i was stunned! Mission Accomplished Bro! π
We had a great time catching up on his adventure over a fantastic meal. π
Day 2: Epsom, Boyce Avenue & Celebration BBQ @ βBensβ Burgers”β¦..
Epsomβ¦..
We first met Paul in town as we wanted to show him around Epsom, we knew this wouldnβt take long as itβs only a small town, lol. Paul bought a souvenir in the shape of a Raiders cap and we had a great time exploring Epsom.
Boyce Avenueβ¦..
Boyce Avenue are Paulβs favourite band. Their music has helped him through a lot of dark times. So when he said heβd love to see them in concert and mentioned they were playing at the Royal Albert Hall in November 2017, i just had to book tickets for Paul, Me & Sarah! πΒ
Since i knew he like them, and he loves singingβ¦..iβd learnt a few songs on guitar so that if i was ever in the same room as Paul with my guitar, it would be fantastic to play together. And since weβd finished in town and was back homeβ¦..That time was now. lol And after this very special moment which iβll always remember, it was time for Ben to pick us up
Celebration BBQβ¦..
Ben not only prepared the food, cooked the foodβ¦..He even picked us up and drove us to his home! Thank you so much Ben! π
Ben went all out for this celebration and cooked Steak, Chicken burger, Lamb Kofte & a lovely salad. Wow Thanks again Ben! π
β¬ Paul & Vini β¬ Β
β¬ Vini & Raffy playing football with ice-creams. β¬ Β
β¬ Luzia showing her skills and having lots of fun with Raffy! β¬Β
Β 
Β β¬ Bens Wife Rosie with son Raffy β¬ Β
After filling up on all the amazing food, football and chasing Raffy we all headed inside for a rest! π€£Β
β¬ From Left: Vini, Me, Raffy & Paul β¬ Β
From Left: Luzia, Rosie & Sarah β¬ Β
Football on Epsom Downsβ¦..
Now it was time for Ben to try out his new 7 seater, he had never filled all 7 seats before so here goes!!!!Β
Yay! We are all in! π€£ Β
β¬ From Left: Ben, Rosie, Vini, Sarah, Raffy(hidden), Me, Luzia & Paul β¬ Β
As it was an open field, i had lots of room and could move around with a little more confidence knowing i wouldnβt hit anything, lol.
β¬ Raffy, Me, Paul & Ben β¬ Β Β
β¬ Raffy showing Vini some skills β¬ Β Β
β¬ Me, Raffy & Paul β¬ Β Β
β¬ Me & Raffy β¬Β
Β β¬ Raffy with a crunching challenge! β¬Β
Paul was loving the view right across London and could see Wembley Stadium all lit up too! We had a great evening and we were all tired from running around!Β
Day 3: The Cricketersβ¦..
For a nice farewell, we treated Paul to aΒ beautiful roast dinner at the fantastic Cricketers Inn. What a lovely view for a nice warm roast dinner, and of course it has to have a homemade Yorkshire Pudding! πΒ
β¬ The Cricketers(one of my older photos) it wasnβt snowing, lol. β¬ Β
Β 
β¬ Me & Paul outside Epsom Train Station β¬Β
Wowβ¦..It was a fantastic few days and iβm so proud of how well Paul is doing. I still canβt believe iβd see him down here so soon! His surprise was overwhelming at timesβ¦.. And since he arrived home safelyβ¦..heβs told me that heβs planned to visit agin in August! Yay! πΒ
I hope you enjoyed Pauls visit too? And iβm pleased you got to meet my fantastic Brother!Β
Weekly Photo Challenge: Face
Fitbit, Footsteps & Photography
After reading this post on Nancy Loderickβs blog,Β about Nancy buying Mr Ken(her Husband) a Fitbit for his birthdayβ¦i got inspired!! I thought maybe i could do this as iβm good at walking, just not so good at seeing where iβm going, lol.Β
Firstβ¦
See if the app is accessible with Voiceover(screenreader) on my iPhone? Yes it is, fantasticβ¦now for a little more research. As i take beta-blocker medication having a heart rate monitor was top on my list, and i found the Fitbit Charge HR(on sale too). When i showed Sarah she saidβExcellent, letβs buy each other one as an early wedding anniversary presentβ.
Secondβ¦finding a walking route!
As iβm blind, i have to stick to routes like a racing car on a track, and If i veer of course i may crash! Thankfully Sarah & i live on the edges of a local nature reserve which has lots of walking paths. Once iβm shown a route i can normally remember, but i hadnβt walked along any of the paths for a long timeβ¦but here goes!! πΒ
The Walk…
When i said Sarah & i lived on the edge of the local nature reserveβ¦it starts straight opposite our drive! This helps a lot. Β
I didnβt want to try the path directly through the woods onto the stew ponds, as i didnβt want to get lost on my first try. lol. So i decided to walk around the outside on the path i could still remember! πΒ
β§ I had no idea an Audi was in my photo when taking this!! π β§ Β
I had to keep stopping as i couldnβt make out the path from the road, so i thought while i stopped i could take a photo! π It was further than i remembered(i really need to walk more) but finally i felt the bumps on the path indicating a road crossing. Yes iβve made it this far, now to find the ponds!Β
After nearly walking into the first stew pondβ¦i planted myself on the path! π Itβs now starting to look familiar so i can enjoy the ponds.Β
Β I have no idea where this path leads but didnβt want to risk killing myself on my first outing! Maybe iβll check it out next timeβ¦what do you think?
Afterr spending a little quiet time at the ponds, i decided to try heading back through the woods.Β
I found this path and i could hear the cars from the road on my left. I knew as long as i could hear the carsβ¦i was going in the right direction. After i veered of track a few times and navigating some treesβ¦i finally made it out! πΒ
Coffee…
I now could walk in the other direction from home and go to church for a coffee, which is another 2 miles towards my daily goal! πΒ
Finally…
I walked over 8 miles in total and feel great, i like how i can track my now daily walk while monitoring my health. I think a lot more about eating alreadyβ¦as i know i have to walk for ages to burn it off! π Iβve been encouraged by reading posts by Ellie at New Creation Ministries, her posts convict me every time! πΒ
I often spend hours indoors daily studying the Bible and listening to sermons and teachings, but now i can be a lot more healthy whilst listening to the Bible on route! πΒ
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 New King James Version (NKJV)
19 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are Godβs.
Mayan Treasures: Day 1&2 π³ London & Jamaica
Β Yay!!!! Were off to the Caribbean!! πΒ
I canβt believe weβre getting another chance to see some of Godβs glorious creation! We were so blessed with our last cruise βTransatlantic Sunset Tourβ even though we had a roller coaster of a ride! πΒ
We were up around 4:30am, packing the final items into our cases. I found out the hard way last year on how impossible it was to find my black suitcase on the carousel among hundreds of other black suitcases!! π¦ So this year iβve treated myself to a dark purple one. Letβs see if this one is better to find?!
Kate, from the local taxis that Sarah uses for work, arrived and we set off for Gatwick. βNow we can relaxβ i said βAs itβs too late to go back if weβve forgotten anythingβ.Β
The Airport…
Kate was fantastic, and drove us right to the entrance and pointed us in the right direction βJust keep walking that way and youβll be fineβ. We checked in our cases and were given the fantastic airport assistance who guided us through customs and sat us in departures ready to catch the fun train.Β
The people at the desk said there was a 1 hour delayβ¦βOh yes!!” Sarah & i said at the same time βWe have time to go shopping and have a coffeeβ. I think this was a new response for them as they looked a little bemused! πΒ
After finding the same italian coffee place from last year(itβs becoming another local), we found our way around a few shops and headed back to the pick up point. It wasnβt long before the handheld thing they give me started flashing and vibrating which meant it is our turn to get on-board the train! Β
After our fun ride on the train, we boarded the plane and i even got a window seat. The 787 Dreamliner didnβt disapoint as it gave it the beans down the runway!Β
During the 10Β½ hour flight, Sarah watched about 5 films(well 10 minutes of each, as she said they were horiffic, and saw firsthand why we didnβt have a TV lisence anymore). We enjoyed the in-flight meals though, and it made up for the poor entertainment.Β
As i canβt even see who is sat next to me(although i know itβs Sarah), i spent the time listening to the people around me. It helps me understand who is around, where they are, and i get to learn a little about the person by their words and characterβ¦as “what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heartβ. πΒ
Yay,we’re back in Jamaica! π Β Β
The airport assistance escorted us through customs and to the queue for the coach transfer to the ship. As soon as they realised we couldnβt see, they took us and skipped straight passed the queue and onto the coach where we were shown to the 2 front seats! One advantage of being blind, lol.
Arriving at the ship, the coach driver said there were further delays and the queue for the ship check-in was long and itβs seriously hot out there! But when we left the coach, we met the assistance and again, they led us past the large queue straight to the check-in and onto the ship! I always feel a little guilty when this happens, but itβs a fantastic service for us. π
Boarding the Thomson Dream again this year felt like we were coming home. It took us about a week to figure out where everything is, but this time we remembered and it made life a lot easier! πΒ
The Emergency Drill…
We were now almost experts at the life jackets(well Sarah was) and we needed no help this time putting them on. It was really hot and humid out on deck for the drill, but i handled the heat much better this time. πΒ
Finding our way back to the cabin with our life jackets on, we wanted to try and take a selfie to keep as a memory, as we probably wouldnβt have chance if we ever needed to use them again. Itβs really hard to take a selfie when you canβt see the phone screen, but we took loads and managed to find one.
Β The Coffee Port…
After a full on day, Sarah & i were in need of a proper coffeeβ¦and guess what greeting we heard as we walked in??!! Yes it was Cecily! βNo wayβ we both said βItβs so good to see you againβ. Cecily then sat us down and said β2 espresso macchiatos?ββ¦.No way, she remembered! π This was really starting to feel like home.
We finished our coffees and headed back to our cabin. Our cases had arrived and we started unpacking as the ship set sail for Trujillo, Hondurasβ¦Wow what a day! πΒ
Day 2β¦..
We spent day 2 exploring and seeing if anything had changed since weβd been gone. There were a few changes but nothing that tripped us up. Now it was time to check out the shore excursions for the next 4 islands!Β
Last year we didnt realise how quickly they sold out, so we got in early Β and booked an excursion for each of the 4 days, we were excited to have booked a few varied tours, but i was a little worried as weβd booked Kayaking on one tour and River tubing on another. Can blind people really do this without crippling themselves?? πΒ
Either wayβ¦back to the Coffee Port to celebrate with a latte! πΒ
Β Thanks for joining us, itβs great to see you on-board! πΒ Β
Our Route:
this evening Thomson Dream sails to Trujillo, Honduras. Weβll arrive on Thursday morning after the leisurely day at sea having travelled 515 nautical miles at an average speed of 15 knots.Β
Transatlantic Sunset Tour: Day 17 ~ Gibralter
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β§ Sarah welcomes you to Gibraltar! β§
After 2 days at sea, and finding out(by our new friends who met us for evening meals at Orion Restaurant) Β that on the excursion to the “Rock of Gibraltarβ requires that we get a cable car to the top on the cliff! Wowβ¦i love cable cars! It reminded me of the cable cars Sarah & i travelled on at βThe Heights of Abrahamβ day trip.a couple of years ago! πΒ
So leaving the ship i was extra excited to travel on cable cars in Gibraltar! We found the coach that would take us to the beginning of the rock and got on-board.Β
The excursion guides so far have been amazing, and really proud of their country! So happy to share everything and anything about the local history and culture, always creating laughter and a friendly relaxed atmosphere. So when this guide stepped on-board complaining Β and quite angry we were quite taken aback! After complaint about everything she showed us, we pulled up at the bottom of the rock and waited for the cable cars.
Just a quick side noteβ¦As iβm registered blind(i know most of you will know this already) and donβt see people, just hear them. Whenever iβm out sat in a cafe, restaurant, at church or just around town, i often like to play one of my fave games using my ATS(accent targeting system). I love accents, and i like to try and locate their original area?! π Also its my only way of knowing whoβs around me, and iβve now trained myself so i can listen to 3 conversations at once! lol This can be good and bad depending. π Anyway enough rambling!Β
When i got near the guide i asked her where she was from originally? βDerbyβ she said! βNo way, a Derby bird, iβm from Derby too. Itβs crazy that weβd meet here in Gibraltarβ. It makes sense now. lol. Itβs sometimes hard to pin down a accent thatβs the same as your own, but iβm getting better.
After fantastic views from the cable cars, we finally reached the top of The Rock of Gibraltar! π Β
After taking shots of my beautiful wife Sarah(which i could do all day) the guide warned us about the monkeys Β that would steal anything and everything that wasnβt in your bag or not in the right place. By this i mean sunglasses on your head instead of over your eyes. The guide told us of one woman who had put her brand new Β£200 Rayban sunglasses on her head to take a photo, had them quickly snatched by a monkey and were never seen again! π¦
A kind person asked if Sarah & i would like a photo together? I said that would be lovely, thank you. But i think my face is wondering if the man was going to run off with my Big Nikon! lol. π Β
The guide said we had about an hour free time before we all have to meet back together, so Sarah got her iPhone out ready to take one of her amazing Panoramas!Β
Not 1β¦but 2 of Sarahβs Breathtaking Panoramas!!! πΒ
It had been a fantastic day already and the views were simply stunning from up here. We now had to find one Β of those monkeys to try and get a photo before we go. Β
β§ Sarah videoing one of the monkeys β§ Β
After nipping into the gift shop to get a couple of presents we started heading back towards the cable cars.
We were just near the steps(walking 2 by 2 when we heard a loud βOi!!β by the woman behind us, followed by a quiet couple of seconds, then lots of laughter??! We stopped and turned round to find out one of the monkeys had touched/stroked the ladies leg near her bum, and she thought it was the man behind her. But after the mix up they all started laughing! π
Travelling back to the ship after more complaining by the excursion guide (mainly about her many ex husbands) we had time to take a few photos from the deck before Thomson Dream sailed overnight to Alicanteβ¦our last port before we head to Palma, Majorca for our flight home π¦
Sarah & i had a fantastic time in Gibraltar and it was great to have a guide from my home town to share her great accent with us.
Creating these blog posts documenting each day of our trip has been such a blessing for Sarah & i, especially knowing that youβve been right here with us along the way! π Β They leave us with such lovely memories every time we read back through them.
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Transatlantic Sunset Tour: Day 13 ~ Horta, Azores
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welcome to Horta!!! πΒ
β§ Sarah welcoming you all to Horta! β§
Wowβ¦what an adventurous Atlantic crossing! Both Sarah and i didnβt expect that roller coaster journey. But it was great to be off the ship and once we mastered walking on land that doesnβt move constantly, we headed out to see what we could find. πΒ
We couldnβt book an excursion in Horta as they were all sold out, but we were first taken aback with the stunning bay, and the beautiful sea front with itβs incredibly ornate pavement.
After following the pavement around the sea front we came to what we thought was the end of the bayβ¦but as we were going to turn back Sarah saw a steep alleyway Β between some buildings which really didnβt look inviting, but she was determined not to miss anything while we were here. And after what sheβs just been through the last 5 days i wasnβt going to say no! πΒ
Β The narrow path became really steep but we finally reached the top. There were high buildings either side of s and i could hear what i thought were Portuguese gangsters. I said βDo you think we should turn back and head back?β Sarah said βNo weβve made it this far and itβs downhill from here, i think i can see the end of the path and it looks like it opens out againβ βOkβ i said nervously and we pushed on.
As usual Sarah was dead right! The path ended and we were treated with a stunning view of the bay on the other side of the island! πΒ
We both were silenced and stood in awe as we tried to take in more of Godβs beautiful creation. No matter how bad the last few days were Sarah said “Wow, this was worth the wait!” God never fails to show up and when he does we are always left speechless. π Β
Warningβ¦one of Sarahβs breathtaking panoramas…
Β We were stood for around 10 minutes when 2 people approached us from our left, the woman said βWeβve been all around here and there is nothing worth seeing here! So were going over the other side to see if we can find anything worth seeing over there!β They walked on past us before we could even say hello. I was stunned, then said to Sarah βI canβt see that much but i still know how beautiful this place is!! They must be in a different dimention to usβ. Sarah chuckled and quickly ran over to check out all of the amazing black sand! π
We stayed here for about 20 minutes and went over to our left to explore the green hills!Β
Getting towards the top of the first hill, we stopped to take in the bay from a different viewing point! πΒ
Sarah says a big hello to all of you who are still with us on our adventure!! π
On the other side of the green hills another bay opened out for usβ¦Wow this place is beautiful and just keeps giving! πΒ
We thought if we stayed with the sea on our right we would eventually find our way back to the shipβ¦we did but before we headed back on board we stopped to look in the local shops, and stop for a well deserved drink.
Also on the way back we found these interesting photos and paintings along the sea front, by this time it was getting late in the afternoon so we didnβt have much time left in this lovely place.
Sarah had just enough time for one more pose! lol πΒ
Weβve had a lovely day in Horta and we hope youβve enjoyed it too?
Iβm just sorry itβs took me almost a year to continue our crazy adventure on this Transatlantic Cruse. Iβm going to finish it this week, as weβve just got back from another cruise i want to share with you βMayan Treasuresβ. But i knew i had to finish this one first! Sorry once again but iβm back now, and thanks for being so patient with me!! πΒ
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Transatlantic Sunset Tour: Day 10,11 & 12 ~ Relaxin, Reflectin & Coffin!!
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Sarah & i were feeling really run down, tired and a little concerned about what the rest of our dream holiday had in store for us. But now we had a few days at sea, so we decided to get out there and enjoy the time we had left. πΒ
β§ Sarah relaxing and reflecting β§
During our time at sea, Sarah & i loved standing and looking out over the vast ocean. It seemed to put perspective on how majestic and awesome our God is. Also how small we were in comparison and yet he loves each one of us…amazing! πΒ
Shopping…Β
Thereβs nothing like being surrounded by handbags to put a smile on Sarahβs face! πΒ
Of all the placesβ¦i never thought iβd be in a handbag store, on a ship in the middle of the Atlantic ocean. But Sarah seems to find these shops wherever we go… and if it helps her relax, iβll be right there with her! πΒ
Another fave spot…
Each day weβd find our way up to this spot and just look out over the pool deck and take in the full panoramic view of blue. There was always a live band playing, giving a great atmosphere and a hot-plate thingy where i could get a fresh burger! Mmmm πΒ
Hair salon…
After Sarahs last trip to the hair salon she was really pleased with the way the stylist had cut and styled her hair around her eyeβ¦. but the hospital adventure had kind of ruined it. So i thought she might like to relax and get it done again. Whilst waiting in the waiting room i took this shot through the window β¦.Thatβs the best view iβve ever seen from a hair salon! πΒ
The evening restaurants…
So far i havnβt said much about our evening meals. For the first few days we really struggled with the buffet restaurants, as the food was placed in big trays under a glass cover with really long fork/tongs to pick up the food. Sarah had no idea what she was picking up as it was just too far away for her to focus and the waiters didnβt understand we couldnβt see properly, which caused a few problems!
At home we try to stay away from self service/buffet style places …not because we are too snooty, lol …but because we simply canβt find anything e.g plates, food, cutlery, where to pay, which causes too much stress and makes us wish we hadnβt gone out at all!Β
After a few days we decided to try the βOrion Restaurantβ which was waiter service. On entrance the waiter asked if weβd like to share a table or sit by yourselves. Sarah said βSharing is fine with usβ (I thought is it really… π¦ The waiter then escorted us to an empty 8 seater table. After he passed us our menus (which we had no chance of reading) our table soon filled up with people. After friendly helloβs Sarah said to the lady next to her βI donβt want to be a nuisanceβ¦but we are both registered blind and so canβt read the menus. Would you be able to read it to us?β After the confused look on all of their faces (my imagination from the body language) the lady said βOf course, but iβd never have guessed that either of you had sight problemsβ. (My thought was βYou need to be on this side of my eyes to understand the problem :(β) After weβd heard the menu, Sarah whispered βThis works perfectly for usβ¦we get the menu read out, and we get to meet lots of different lovely people” πΒ
Shortly afterβ¦we heard the people sitting opposite us say βDid you hear the βCode Alphaβ last night?β The others replied βYes we did, it woke us upβ¦it was after 1am!!β βYeah i know and there was no need to call it around the whole shipβ.
I said βSorryβ¦that was us.” Β βIt was you two! what happened?β Sarah showed her bruised and bandaged wrists (from where the drips had been attached) and explained everything that happened. We heard this same complaint for the next few eveningsβ¦. and even some different, elaborate explanations of what had happened (even one story where Sarah was said to have died and been taken off the boat by helicopter in a silver bullet coffin????.) Β
We also heard that quite a few people had complained to reception about the 1am code alpha (because they thought it was a call to abandon ship) and how they felt they shouldn’t have been disturbed in the middle of the night!!
The Cough…
If you can rememberβ¦on Day 8 there were a couple of people in the hospital waiting room with deep growly coughs. Well todayβ¦Sarah’s got it too !! π¦ This deep booming growly cough (reminds me of the Rockford Fosgate subs in the boot of my old custom Nova) is giving Sarah lots of Β chest pain, a sore throat and a pounding head. Weβve noticed the unique sound of this cough around the ship as weβve been exploring! β¦.As if Sarah didnβt have enough on her plate with no sleep, uncontrollable blood sugar, one eye closed and exhaustionβ¦she now has this nasty cough π¦
Keep smilingβ¦ πΒ
I have no idea how she does it. But no matter whatβs going onβ¦Sarah has Β a lovely beaming/contagiousΒ smile on her face that blesses all who see her π Β
Β The Azores…
After about 4 (or is it 5?) sleepless nights (iβve lost count) we were looking forwards to arriving at the Azores. Sarah was especially looking forwards to getting off the ship and onto solid ground and having the freedom to explore another fantastic island! π Β
Yippee land ahoy!!!
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Weekly Photo Challenge: Vivid
Β For this weeks photo challenge βVivid“, i decided to use a photo of lovely Ella(my friend Robβs daughter) with Vivid flowers.Β
Also i thought the Vivid hairs around “Bruce THE Boxerβs” mouth would be a great contribution too! πΒ
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Weekly Photo Challenge: On the Way
β§βOn The Wayβ home from our βTransatlantic Sunset Tourβ. π β§Β
β§ Bruce THE Boxer ~ βOn The Wayβ, to running straight into me! β) β§Β
My other “Weekly Photo Challenges“
Weekly Photo Challenge: Broken
FOR This weeks photo challenge βBROKENβ, i just had to post a few photos from my βTuscany Tourβ holiday.Β
known worldwide for its unintended tilt to one side. It is situated behind the Cathedral and is the third oldest structure in Pisa’s Cathedral Square (Piazza del Duomo) after the Cathedral and the Baptistry. The tower’s tilt began during construction, caused by an inadequate foundation on ground too soft on one side to properly support the structure’s weight. Β
Β More of my Weekly Photo ChallengesΒ
Transatlantic Sunset Tour: Day 7 ~ St Johns, Antigua
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After another early start(and youβve guessed it) a bacon roll, we headed off the ship. The shore excursion lady was at the bottom of the gangway steps, and she showed us where to join the queue. Well i say queue, there were only about 8 of us in total. I thought βI think we may have over reached on this one. Maybe itβs going to be too difficult, and really not suited for the blindβ.Β
We were then led towards the minibus. We were told theyβd saved us the 2 seats in the front next to the driver, i said βSweetβ, and climbed aboard. I really didnβt expect what happened nextβ¦the driver turned on his CD player which started playing Ed Sheeran βThinking out loudβ and he started singing as i tapped away on my legs to the beat. His voice was incredible, it was like we were having our own concert in the front of the minibus, whilst driving around paradise. Β Quite a surreal moment. After more fantastic singing toΒ Tarrus Rileyβs Β “She’s Royalβ, he pulled up at Fort James Beach where we were to start our horseback trek.
Welcome to Paradise…
We left the minibus and were instantly greeted with a stunning view of porcelain palm fringed sands, and stilted turquoise waters of Fort James beach, also we received a further warm welcome by the βHorseman(sorry, i forgot his name)β. πΒ
Β β§ The horseman strolling along the beautiful beach β§ Β
β§ Horses being led to the sea to cool off β§ Β
The Horse Ride…
Once everyone was fitted with a protective hat, it was time to line up and meet the horses. He asked for experienced riders first, then one at a time they mounted the horses. It was about this time i started to get a little nervous. I was saying to Sarah βHow do we get up there? Are there steps? Which foot do i put forward first? Are the horses big enough to carry me?β
The horseman was out of earshot, but i think he could see my face, he said βDonβt worry, i have a couple of special horses for you twoβ. This put my mind a little more at ease. Sarah mounted first on the horse named βSunshineβ, what a perfect horse for her! π Then i mounted easily with the excellent help from horseman onto the horse named βLittle Manβ,Β
After a short tutorial on how to hold(and use) the reins, it was time to move on out! We had only walked along next to a road for about a minute, and iβd just got used to the weird motion of rocking side to side whilst not being able to see the ground or the horse in front. When…a huge commotionβ¦Lots of shouting from horseman, and the horses. I thought(at first) it sounded like a car had hit one of the horses. I pulled back on the reins as i saw Sarah(who was in front of me) appear at my side, Yay my horse stopped! π We found out at the end, that a car got too close and spooked a few of the horses, so no one(or horses) were hurt.
My plan was to take my Samsung WB550 compact camera with me to take photos & video whilst on the horse, but that was soon foiled when i got onto the horse, and my shorts were pulled tight around my pocket, so it had seal it shut. I didnβt want to try and move, as i thought the horse might mistaken my movements and start galloping off!. I did eventually get an opportunity when my foot suddenly got smacked out of the stirrup by an aloe vera plant(it got a few of us), and as my leg was free i quickly grabbed my camera! π Note to self, next time take my other camera with a neck strap! πΒ
The horseman who was overseeing us said βWelcome to Sandhaven Beachβ…
β§ βLittle Manβ taking me on a beautiful journey π β§Β
β§ Sarah on βSunshineβ & in sunshine, along Sandhaven beach β§Β
β§ Sarah ensconced in Sunshine! π β§Β
Words completely fail me when i try and describe the feeling of riding in paradise. The sound of the waves, the feel of the hot sun with the cool breeze, the movement(and sound) of the horse, topped off with the amazing panorama. We really didnβt want to leave our new fave place on earth!! πΒ
We left Sandhaven beach and headed back to Fort James beach. Weβd been riding for around 1Β½ hours, and just before we finished, the man asked for my cameras so he could take a photo of us on our horses.
My horse βlittle Manβ was busy eating grass, i think he had my appetite! πΒ
Β β§ βLittle Man & βSunshineβ β§Β
Once off the horses, we were given a bottle of water each as they prepared for stage 2. Stage 2 gave the chance for the experienced riders to ride faster(or gallop as iβm told), and the chance to ride bareback into the water. Sarah and another lady paired up together to do this.Β
Sarah said βI was sat trying to balance without a saddle, when suddenly i was thrown back as one of my legs was pulled up. I looked down to see that the horse had taken a liking to one of my bright yellow laces, and was pulling on it as though it was spaghetti! πΒ
Once stage 2 was over, we had about 45 minutes before the singing taxi arrived. βNo way, does this mean you get to swim in paradise again?!β i said as Sarah was already half way down the beach!! πΒ
The Swim…
β§ Sarah excited to be the only one in the beautiful sea β§ Β
β§ What a way to relax! π β§ Β
Β β§ I think Sarah enjoyed her swim! π β§Β
The taxi ride was just as fun. The drivers stunning voice carried us all the way back to the ship.
Β Back on the ship…
We now had to say goodbye to the Caribbean. π¦ We took our usual sofaβs in the coffee port, and with coffeeβs in hand, we watched the island slowly disappear.Β We both agreed that this was our fave place of the trip, and the horse ride was our best experience so far!!
Our new friend…
On returning to our cabin, the steward had created a folded towel turtle, and used my hat as the shell, fantastic!! Β πΒ
Our Route 4 2day…
This afternoon Thomson Dream sails to Horta, Portugal, weβll arrive on Sunday late morning, after 5 leisurely days at sea. having travelled 2,173 nautical miles, at an average speed of 16 knots.
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Weekly Photo Challenge: Enveloped
Transatlantic Sunset Tour: Day 5 ~ Philipsburg, St Maarten
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After a quick bacon roll from Lidoβs on Deck 9, Sarah & i found our way off the ship, and to the shore excursion point.Β
St Maarten Island Tourβ¦(excursion details)
Flying under two flags, St Maarten has got something of a split personality. But despite being one half Dutch and the other French, its whole is as Caribbean as it gets. And on this trip youβll get to see both sides of this two-faced island, with your guide giving you snippets of history as you go
Youβll travel from Philipsburg(Dutch capital) to Marigot(French capital) passing through dinky villages hardly touched by time. Once you reach Marigot, you have some free time to explore this four street-wide city. All patisseries, pavement cafΓ©s and designer boutiques, itβs easy to see why itβs known as the French Riviera of the Caribbean.
The Dutch Side…
Our tour started with a drive around the beautiful Dutch side of the island, the air conditioned bus was perfect on this hot day. The guide pretty much told us that this was the place for the profligates. Casinos, night clubs, fast food outlets etc. Β I instantly thought of Β Mathew 23 βYou are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything uncleanβ. Not quite in context, but you get the idea! π
I know i keep going on about the vivid colours, i still canβt put into words how stunning they are, i couldnβt get my camera to do them justice! The Colours will be the main thing i remember about the caribbean! π Β
Lookout Point, Simpson Bay Lagoon…
The driver/tour guide said heβd stop the bus for about 5 minutes so we could take some photos of the bay. βExcellent”, i thought as Sarah & i followed a man with a DSLR who was leaving in a hurry off the bus. I thought “if he is so keen to get off, then it must be a beautiful bay”. But as soon as he had moved to the edge of the cliff, he started saying βWhy did he stop here? This is horrible, and a building site! There were much nicer places where he shouldβve stoppedβ.
I ignored his complaining and started taking photos of the scenery i couldnβt see anyway, as i wanted to see what he was talking about when i zoomed in at home after the holiday. I still canβt make out the detail, but what i can see looks beautiful!, and well worth stopping for! π
β§ Lookout Point – Simpson Bay Lagoon β§
The French Side…
Moving seamlessly from the Dutch side of the island to the French side, Sarah started to feel a little more at home as the guide said βYou wonβt find any Burger King, KFC, casinoβs etc. Youβll find cafe’s, restaurants, small independent market stores etc”.
After more fascinating history of the island, we pulled into Marigot(French capital), and now had 45 minutes to have a look around!Β
Marigotβ¦
Β After leaving the bus, we headed straight for the open space where we found another lovely bayΒ
β§ Marigot bay β§Β
After standing a moment to absorb the beauty, it was over to the market to see what we could find.
The smell of the locals cooking on the market was amazing, but Sarah had found a sweet little craft stall. The lady created items from the coral found off the shores St Maarten. βOooooh, i could have a necklace made from St Maartenβ. I knew that to mean “iβm getting one, i just donβt know which one yet?!” πΒ
β§ Sarahβs St Maartens Coral Necklace β§ Β
Sarah really was starting to feel at home here, Β but we had to get back to the bus! We enjoyed our stop in Marigot, and we said weβd love to spend a week here to investigate more! π
Back On The Ship…
After finishing the island tour, we went back to the ship to get some lunch. We had a few hours before the ship sails away, so we decided to see if we could find a beach!
Sarah always says βThe holiday hasnβt properly started until our feet are standing on the sand!!” πΒ
After a frustrating hour walking from one end of the dock to the other, trying to find transport to take us to a beach. We started heading back to the ship defeated. When.. suddenly a βWater Taxiβ sign appeared! Fantastic, lets go! Eventually we got on-board a very busy(yet cool) boat that took us a short distance across the bay.Β
After just stepping out of the boat, i heard βHi Steve and Sarahβ. It was Martin, a kind man i sat next too on the plane over to Jamaica. Weβd got chatting on the plane about sight loss and coping etc, and he has a Nephew who is suffering at the moment, so i was giving him some resources that may help etc. We Sadi βHi Martin, are we anywhere near a beach?β He chuckled a little and said βYeah itβs right here, just walk down this short pier and you wonβt miss itβ βFantastic!β βDonβt be long though, you donβt want to miss the shipβ Martin said, as he boarded the water taxi.Β
Great Bay Beach…
β§ View of the cruise ships from Great Bay Beach β§Β
The afternoon sun was getting hot now, which must have been why most of the people were inside the bars. But we had been in air conditioning all morning so didnβt mind a bit of sun.Β
It also meant that, not only did we get to walk on the powder white sands, but Sarah got to swim in the turquoise waters with hardly anyone around! An amazing experience! π Β
Sarah couldnβt believe she was swimming in paradise, and couldnβt stop smiling for the rest of the day! πΒ
β§ Sarah relaxing in paradise β§ Β Β
β§ Beautiful! β§Β
It really was getting hot now, so we nipped into a small bar for a cold soothing drink. I thought iβd try a Rum & Coke(though i didnβt taste much coke), and Sarah had her fave Mojito.Β
We had a last walk up and down the beach before boarding the water taxi back to the ship. What an amazing day! This whole holiday has been simply breathtaking for us, and Sarah still canβt believe she got to swim in the beautiful, warm Caribbean sea! π
Towel Folding & Beyond…
Youβve already seen the fantastic towel folded Elephant on Day 1, and each night the cabin steward folded our bed in amazingly straight lines, but he went one step further. We found Sarahβs nightie folded in this fantastic pattern.
β§ Folded nightie and bed, with chocolate mints on pillows β§ Β Β
Our Route 4 2day…
This evening Thomson Dream sails to Basseterre, St Kitts. Weβll arrive tomorrow morning having travelled 59 nautical miles at an average of 4 knots.
β Previous Day – Next Day βΒ
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Transatlantic Sunset Tour: Day 3 ~ La Romana, Dominican Republic
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Sarah & i were excited to arrive at La Romana, Dominican Republic, and we were really looking forwards to our shore excursion. After applying strong suntan lotion, deet bands to our wrists and ankles and finishing off with our hats, we went to see if we could find where the excursion actually starts!Β
Using my knees as suspention, i slowly navigated down the treacherous gangway steps until i reached land. yay! The hot sun was shining, I could hear a local band playing, and then i heard Joβs voice, she is part of the excursion team. We homed in on her voice and she said that she was coming on the same excursion so we could wait for her and sheβll take us to the coach. Fantastic, we can now relax! π
β§ Sarahβs lovely Caribbean outfit! π β§Β
After a short coach trip, and hearing about the history of the island by the tour guide, we arrived atΒ Casa de Campo,
Roman-styled 5,000-seat amphitheater…
β§ Sarah relaxing in the sun, sat on the amazing steps. β§Β
β§ My new hat kept my head nice and cool, thanks SuzanneΒ β§
Β After briefly taking in this fantasticΒ amphitheater, it was a short walk to the lovely fountain.
I had no idea that Sarah had stopped sitting down and was now walking towards me, but itβs made a lovely photo! lol. πΒ
Β Another short walk around this beautiful place until we reached the church and river.
St. Stanislaus Church…Β
β§ Me walking around wondering what to shoot next! β§ Β
Whilst looking at the stunning church, at my 6 oβ clock was the stunningΒ ChavΓ³n River. What a beautiful place, and such a blessing to be able to be here.
Β The ChavΓ³n River…Β
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Just as i finished taking this photo, Sarah said βquick, take a photo of those ladies wearing the beautiful red dressesβ. I span round and said βWhere are they?β They were about 10 feet directly in front of me(i told you i was blind! lol). But just then they stood either side of Sarah and posed for the photo…
Some of you more experienced travellers will probably know what iβm about to say?!!
After the photo the ladies said βTipβ¦tipβ, i was about to say βNo, itβs ok you donβt need to tip me for the photo, iβm not that good!β. But then as we realised it was they who wanted a tip for posing for the shot, Jo(our Thomson excursion leader) quickly gave them a tip as we had no change at all. That was a lesson learned for Sarah & i, and we will be a little more discerning next time! I still think it was worth the mix up as the photos are lovely. πΒ
At the bottom left of the photo aboveβ¦you can just make out the paddle boat. Thatβs where we are heading next! πΒ
Β Paddle Boats & Palm Trees…
Β β§ Me reflecting on Godβs beautiful creation β§Β
Β β§ Sarah feeling relaxed in the sun β§Β
The whole excursion was amazing. Iβve never seen such vibrant colours, breathtaking scenery and a chance to travel along the βRambo Riverβ.Β
Back on-board the ship…
We went straight to the ice cold water machine, and then out on deck to get some last shots before we sailed away.Β
Β Wow,what a day! The south east corner of the Dominican Republic. was labelled βThe fairest land under heaven” by Columbus. I don’t disasociate myself from his opinion!! πΒ
Β Our Route 4 2day…
This afternoon the Thomson Dream sails to Road Town, Tortola. Weβll arrive tomorrow afternoon having travelled 277 nautical miles, at an average speed of 14 knots.Β
Β β Previous DayΒ – Next Day β
π΄Β Day NavigatorΒ π΄
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Wow…What A Rollercoaster Of A Trip!!
β§ Sarah & i at St Kitts β§Β
From stunning, breathtaking views, horse riding in paradise, dancing with dolphins, River paddle boat trip, various island bus tours, 4×4 volcano ride, cable cars,Β OHβ¦. and Sarah’s medical emergancy in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, itβs been an unbelievable few weeks on our cruise holiday to the Caribbean, Azores & Spain.Β
Sarah & i arrived back on Saturday, but after going to our local A&E on Monday, we both have been suffering with respiratory tract infections for a couple of weeks now.
So please be patient with me as iβm trying to import all of my photos and sort them out ready for posting here for a daily tour of our trip. But the computer is burning my eyes at the moment so is slowing me down a little, also the headaches, coughing and loss of energy is not helping, but that wonβt stop me! lol.Β
Iβm not sure how long each post will take, and still not sure whever to post on Rebus Photography & iChristian or just on Rebus Photographyβ¦I donβt want to duplicate, but i know i have different friends on each blog, so also donβt want anyone to miss the posts. WhatΒ do you think??
Please join Sarah & i on this incredible journey:
Weekly Photo Challenge: Fresh
As Sarah & i were walking around Hampton Court Palace gardens, i stopped to take this photo of what i call βThe pathway to paradiseβ. I could feel the warmth of spring while the βFreshβ scent of the flowersΒ ensconcedΒ us. π
Tuscany Tour: Day 8
Up bright and early, packed and ready to go (well weβd like to stay another week) we found the right bus to Pisa (phew) and got our favourite seats right at the front, Yes! π
Arriving at Pisa airport, Francesca (our assistance person) was great. She sorted everything out, then kindly took this photo of Sarah & i in front of the plane as we were first on-board again! π
The takeoff was stupendous! I love the acceleration, and i was just as excited throughout the whole journey! The Captain said βWe are at 28,000ft, doing 480mph and its -52degrees outside” Fantastic! π
I think God just smiled at me! π
Tuscany Tour: Day 7
Sarah & i started our final full day with the legendary amazing breakfast, then headed out to make the most of our last full day in this beautiful city.
Our plan today was to head East, then travel anti-clockwise until we reach our favourite place (South, by the river Arno) to try and take photos of things we may have missed so far, or from angles different from the norm. Right letβs Go!
East…
Wow, another bell tower, how did i miss this!Β
North…
Heading North of our hotel, we stopped once again to gaze upon the stunning architecture of the Florence Cathedral and the Palazzo Medici Ricardi…
West…
As we were heading west, i found another statue, but thought iβd take it from a random angle! π
Sarah found a shop with sunflowers (her favourite flowers)…
South…
Gold anyone!! π
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After spending a while around the river, we headed to probably the most famous and popular square (Piazza della Signoria) to capture some more statues! π
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I wasnβt one of the statues, lol. But i was being very still!Β
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Now for probably the most famous statue of allβ¦Michelangeloβs David. Everyone was crowding round and getting the obvious and boring shot of David. So i decided to get a different angle! π
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Both Sarah and i had our own favourite statues. Iβll start with Sarahβs.
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Sarahβs favourite is “Perseus with the Head of Medusaβ.
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My favourite is of Cosimo Medici on his horse…
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Do you have a favourite statue??
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For the final evening we had booked one of only 7 tables at the amazing “Santa Elisabettaβ restaurant in the old 6th century tower at our hotel.
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I didnβt take anymore photos as i was too excited, and i forgot! π
The experience was sublime. Everything was fantastic and itβll be a meal weβll never forget! Β
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We then had a final walk out to see the Florence Cathedral at night, it really stood out against the dark night.
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Hope you’ve enjoyed being on our little tour today around Florence?!
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We have been so blessed this week, not only to be here in this stunning city thatβs so rich in history. But being part of an exhibition in the Medici palace still leaves me speechless.Β
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Whoβd of thought that after being registered blind 14 years ago, iβd be here in a photography exhibition?!! Thank you Lord for always surprising me, and giving me a gift i just canβt explain!Β
Tuscany Tour: Day 6 – The Exhibition 2
Oh did i mentionβ¦. iβm actually in Italy,Yay!!Β
Well iβm not actually in Italy as i write this, iβm at home on my iMac! But Sarah kept on catching me opening the maps app and taking a screenshot of our location!
Today we thought weβd head south towards the river, then curl round and end up North of the hotel at the Palazzo Medici Riccardi to see if last night really was a dream.
The Vasari Corridorβ¦.
Sarah & i really liked theΒ “Vasari Corridorβ, but now Sarah wonβt let me through as i am a commoner, lol. Eventually i managed to negotiate a deal, but it meant looking round more shops! π
Sarah looking fluent in Florin! (Italian gold coin) Β
Sarah at Tiffanyβs! π
After a while we decided to rest a little and get refreshed ready for more exciting touring. Mmmmmm coffee and cake! πΒ
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Wow, now that was fantastic! Anyway better get back to it! πΒ
It wasnβt long before Sarah found another friend, in the form of a statue.Β
As we walked past the amazing Florence Cathedral, Sarah noticed and got excited that there was now a Christmas tree & nativity scene.
After being wowed, we took lots of photos to try and get one good enough to possibly make Christmas cards for loved ones.
Now on to the Palazzo Medici Riccardi…
We arrived at the palace (left in photo above) and found the exhibition, yay i didnβt dream it! π
As the majority of the artwork displayed was created by blind & partially sighted people, it was really tactile so we got to touch the creations. Iβm so used to going to museums etc and not being able to see or touch the art. Thanks artists! π
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As i mentioned yesterday (see Day 5) i was 1 of 3 artists (still not used to being called that)Β from the UK who exhibited, so iβd like to introduce to youβ¦Ann and her paintings…
And Christinaβs photos…
After a long walk around looking and touching the art, we went out of the back exit where i found an archway, and a huge ring that we kept finding on the outside of buildings, i think for the horses.
Weβd had another fantastic day in Florence, and if you remembered on Day 4, i’d topped the evening off with an amazing cherry topped cakeβ¦Well this evening it got better stillβ¦..
Bistecca alla fiorentinaβ¦..
Just when you thought the evening couldnβt get any betterβ¦Sarah & i shared the amazing Florentine steak! We had been told by Grace from our favourite restaurant in the world (Sicily Restaurant) that we couldnβt leave without trying one. Wow, she was right. It was truly magnificent and everything weβd hoped for, although i think Sarah got arm ache from sawing the never ending extra thick meat!! π
Weβve had such a memorable and unbelievable time in Italy, and as this was Thursday, we still had a full day Friday, before we headed home on Saturday.Β
Hope to see you on Day 7, where we take more considered time to get photos of things we might of missed!!
Tuscany Tour: Day 5 – The Exhibition
Well this is it, the actual reason we came, lol! I know i mentioned i only had my iPhone 5s & Sarahβs iPhone 6 Plus to take photos, the main reason (apart from weight, lenses & tiny viewfinders) was the GPS map pins, i love them! π
It was now Wednesday and it was time for the sun to make way for the rain. The hotel room even had itβs own umbrella with βBrunelleschiβ as the logo, i like this hotel! The exhibition didnβt start until 4pm, so we decided to explore (now we knew where we were going after our fantastic walking tour) for a couple of hours with our new umbrella! π
It turned out that the streets were much quieter which is great for us, so we could relax a little more too after a couple of hectic days. OOoooo another coffee shop! π
Β The Exhibitionβ¦..
We left the hotel with posh clothes on and fancy umbrella in hand and headed to the Palazzo Medici Riccardi hoping there actually was an exhibition even though we had still seen no signs at all, not even a hint that thereβd be one.
Then we turned into the main entranceβ¦..
Sarah said βWow, now this is a lot of people, the posters are up all around us and look great, and itβs in the beautiful, main part of the palaceβ. I started to feel a little out of my depth all of a sudden.
Sarah then found Ann, who has also travelled from England, UK (thats β of the UK representatives, lol) so i had a chat with her as iβd never met her before, sheβs an enormously talented artist and has a few paintings in the exhibition.Β
We hadnβt noticed, but the crowd had started making their way to the large area in the centre where the president of the blind union was talking (in Italian)Β through a PA system. By the time we had arrived we were at the back wondering what was going on, and none of us were able to see anything (even the sighted ones) as we were just too far away.Β
Thenβ¦..
Costanza, who organised the whole thing (with her husband) cut through the crowd, took my had and led me right to the front next to the president and a few of the other artists.
Then after about 5 minutes, she put the microphone into my hand and said βSpeak one wordβ.Β
The place went silent, i could feel there were lots of people around, i had no idea if any of them spoke english. So i Β said “ciao a tutti (Hello everyone), iβm Steve Rebus from Londonβ. It seemed to go across well, but i was so terrified i didnβt have a clue what to say next. Constanza gently took the mic and passed it along, aaaghhh i could now relax a little. π
After a few more people spoke we were given a glass of Prosecco and Costanza took me to see what theyβd done with my photos. I had only sent the prints and they had mounted, framed and hung them beautifully, i canβt thank them enough, they looked great and very professional!
It wasnβt long before people started crowding round as they viewed each of our works.
Everyone kept telling me how fantastic the photos were and that i was a βProvider of Β inspirationβ (now thatβs a title, lol. , all i could say is thanks. I was completely overwhelmed by the whole evening. I never knew it was going to be this big, professionally done and not held in a dark attic somewhere! Iβm not good at playing the artist game and kept thinking that i better start taking some better photos, lol. π
After a couple of hours walking round the exhibition, i was amazed at the level of talent. I enjoyed the paintings (a lot were tactile too), sculptures and other photography, simply brilliant!
Iβll post more photos tomorrow when we returned to see if we were just dreaming!Β
Sarah got me to stand next to one of the Art Senses posters while holding the amazingly professional catalogue/book of all the works and artists bio etc. Costanza really worked hard to put everything together, and i thank God that she found Sarah to ask for blind artists from the UK.
I heard Art Senses are holding a similar exhibition next year in Rome!! I better get taking some photos, if i want to be invited as an artist again. Wow to do all this in Rome, unbelievable! πΒ
Tuscany Tour: Day 4
During another sublime breakfast, Sarah & i wondered if there was a walking tour around Firenze?! We now have a love of walking tours after our hugely successful one yesterday (see Day 3). Itβs much easier for us to just follow a group instead of getting lost and wondering around aimlessly, and itβs a great way to learn the history and culture of the area.
They did do a tour and it started just after lunch. We booked on it and then decided to go for a walk to see if we could find the starting point by ourselves. It was in an area we hadnβt covered yet so we knew it was going to be a challengeβ¦..We failed, but we found a lovely cafe! We sat outside with the sun blazing down, it was fantastic! π
The image below shows me staring at the sun. Since being registered blind and having no central vision at all, i can now stare at the sun without squinting or blinking. Didnβt know it made me look this weird though, lol. π
We then spent a couple of hours enjoying finding new and wonderful shops, before heading back to the hotel. The reception had arranged for someone to walk us to the walking tour meeting point, fantastic! π
Firenze Walking Tourβ¦
The group met up in a different square than the one we found earlier, and gave us another one of those radio thingyβs, Yay! As the guide was talking about the square, i captured some shots!
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Moving from the square and through some little side streets, we stopped at the “Basilica of Santa Croceβ founded byΒ Saint Francis. Sarah said βWow, it looks like someone has iced it like a cake! It doesnβt look realβ.Β
Walking through the streets we were told of a local artist whoβs adding figures to road signs.Β
Β Continuing with more fantastic Medici family history we found ourselves in a familiar square (Piazza della Signoria).
As we didnβt have lots of time to walk around and take photos, Sarah & i revisited on Day 7 to get some more interesting shots. Now itβs onwards to the river. π
When we accidentally found the river Arno during the Firenze marathon, Sarah had said that the river looks dirty, like brown sludge. But today with the sun shining bright, it glowed gold like nothing iβd seen before! π
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We continued our tour by walking through the “Piazza della Repubblicaβ ahh, the place with the sparkling building (see Day 1).
Then finishing our tour at the Florence Cathedral (Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore). Yay another amazing bell tower! π
Β Iβve heard of βKnockingβ on Heavenβs doorβ but now i was stood at βThe Gates of Paradiseβ.
Β Sarah then said βGo and stand in front of the doors of the Cathedral, we need more photos with you in them so people will know you were hereβ. I really donβt like this side of the lens, but this is for you guys! π
Wow! Were these doors made for theΒ Nephilim?!! π
After this amazing tour, we felt that we could now spend a few days exploring with a little more confidence, starting with a trip to our fave coffee (and cake) place which is right next to our hotel. The cherry on top of the cake below really sums up our day. Itβs been another unbelievable day that always leaves me saying βHow am i here? This is like a dream! I still canβt believe iβm here?!βΒ
Β Youβll be very pleased to know that my next post (Day 5) is the opening day of the exhibition!
Iβm so blessed that youβve stuck with me on this incredible journey. God bless you. π
Tuscany Tour: Day 3 – San Gimignano
The dark cloak of night consumed us, light had escaped the dungeon of darkness but had vanished..β¦Sorry, just trying to set the mood for the final destination on our amazing Tuscany in a day tour.
Chiara had been telling us of the year 1348 when the black death had wiped out over β of the walled medieval town of San Gimignano, the majority of the people who survived the terror had left. Continuing on this theme, and the fact that it was totally dark outside (due to this time of year) set the scene for what we were about to experience!
Welcome to San Gimignano…
After a short walk uphill, the group arrived at the main entrance of the walled town. We then had about 45 minutes free time to explore, then meet back here. Afterr the group dispersed, Sarah & i entered…Β
No amount of photos could ever get across the feeling of this place! The black windows towering over you from each side, the silence and the shadows following you everywhere, generated a smothering atmosphere that had flavours of Fear, Death, Sorrow for the people of old, AweΒ and a weird taste of Joy and amazement. You really can only experience San Gimignano by physically being here!Β
As Sarah was checking out the few little shops on the main walkway, iβd stay outside and just stand, soaking up the atmosphere that my words canβt describe. Sarah says βThey only sell pottery or Knivesβ.
As i was stood (see above) it was completely silent. Then all of a sudden i heard heavy footsteps from behind sounding like they were headed straight for me. I expected to see a blade sticking out of the front of my chest as an assassin wearing a monks tunic (from the video game (assassins creed) shot out of the shadows sending me to paradise.
As i turned though it was just a person leaving the church behind me, although i’m still not sure how they managed the booming footstep thing. My imagination really doesnβt help my heart at times like these! π
As we met back up with the group having felt weβd been to probably the most special place of the trip. We were so grateful we hadnβt decided to stay in the coach as it was just too dark to risk having accidents.Β
I really hope youβve enjoyed joining us on the βTuscany in a dayβ tour?!
Which city was your favourite?
The Siena Cathedral with its humbug bell tower, is my favourite church building of all time (so far).
What is your favourite church building? And why?
Tuscany Tour: Day 3 – Siena
While approaching Sienna, we were given a fantastic little radio thingy that you put around your neck. It has a single earphone so you can still hear the tour guide within a large radius,or if it gets noisy. We then met the new Siena tour guide who would guide the group and share interesting stories and history of this stunning place.
Welcome to Siena…
We were very happy to meet in a little square around a huge Christmas tree (see above). I am now only wearing a thin shirt as it is like a summers day and itβs December!! Β π
Walking through the narrow streets and hearing more about how the Medici family slaughtered and captured Siena, we arrived at the famous medieval square (Piazza del Campo). Yay another tower! πΒ
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After a walk around the banked curves of the square (feeling like an Indy 500 car), the group then left the square and headed towards (what has now become my favourite bell tower of all time) Siena Cathedral!
Siena Cathedral…
Walking under a narrow archway, the group made a collective sound, it went something like (wooaaahhhhooww), Sarah said βWow! A humbug tower!β I said understatedly βOh rightβ as i could only look at the ground to try and navigate, and i canβt see the tower or any of itβs detail anyway. But when i got back, and was able to zoom into my photos to see what i was pointing my camera atβ¦..”Wow, Wow Wowβ.Β
Β Sarah was very happy when we went inside and found more humbugs! π
Β The group then sat down to hear the final part of the tour guides history. Just after i said to Sarah βWow, isnβt it amazing to think that all of this unbelievable place was done for Jesus?! It all points to Him!β. The tour guide said βAnd this was all done for Mary!β. I was not amused at all!Β
We then had some free time and was told to meet back at the medieval square, now which way was that??Β
We did eventually find it, and we met back up with the group. to then return back to the coach, but on the way we passed the Christmas tree where we had first started and it looked beautiful! It finished Siena off nicely! π
After quite a scare of nearly getting lost and left behind as the group disappeared into the darkness, Sarah and i boarded what we hoped was our coach (it was). Β Now itβs off towards our final destination. π
Tuscany Tour: Day 3 – Vinci & Chianti
As we left the amazing Pisa, Chiara (our tour guide) gave us some more interesting yet gruesome Tuscany history about the Medici family killing everyone again and taking over more villages and cities. She also mentioned a man called Leonardo Da Vinci, “no wayβ i said to Sarah βI thought he was a ninja turtle, not a real man!β She gave me a swift elbow in the ribs, and Chiara continued.
Welcome to Vinci…
The image below is of the landscape that greeted us from the coach. Β
After taking in the amazing scenery, we headed off on foot to the Museum of Leonardo Da Vinci.
I really like bell towers!! π
Sarah & i found inside the museum much too dark, so we struggled to see any of the fantastic creations on display. Sarah was using her iPhone 6 Plus with itβs wide aperture of f2.2 to view each design as it showed much brighter on her screen, rather than the dark blob in front of her (sheβs a genius).
We did find a cool bike though!!
Now it was back outside to have a wonder around and see what we can find. It wasnβt long before we found a familiar object!Β
Sarah wasnβt happy with the “Vitruvian Manβ and thought Leonardo had missed something out. So we added something extraβ¦β¦TheΒ Vitruvian Man & Woman! π
Now for Chianti…
After another trip on the coach through amazing rolling hills, olive grows and vinyards, the coach parked right up at the top in Chianti where we were to do a little wine & local Tuscan food tasting.
I didnβt have time to take any photos as we were guided straight to our table and greeted with a lovely plate of local baked bread, olive oil, cheese and spicy meat.
The lady first pour a little Chianti Simple (table wine) into the huge glass and as she was going into great detail of how to hold the glass etc, i continued on the food (i couldnβt see anything she was doing, so her over complicated directions were wasted on me, lol). As i donβt really drink alcohol except a very full bodied glass of red wine on special occasions (normally 1 bottle a year and thatβs usually ChΓ’teauneuf-du-Pape i receive as a Christmas gift). My thought is that if iβm only going to have one glass on rare occasions, then i would like one that i enjoy! π
I really know nothing about wines, only that some are red and some are white, and some are watery and some are thick (like coffee, lol) and i only like the thick ones, which now i know are called full bodied! π
Then she poured a little of the Chianti Classico (full bodied..Yay!) and that was much better!Β
But probably my favourite taste of the day was the 30 year old Balsamic Vinegar we got to taste! Wow, now thatβs amazing, but expensive so didnβt get any to bring home! π¦
As we finished there was a mad rush to the little shop area. I stayed at the table as Sarah went to have a look and take a few photos for us!
I hope youβve enjoyed the trip so far?! Next stop Siena!! π
Tuscany Tour: Day 3 – Pisa
I forgot to mention in my older 2 posts in this Tuscany Tour series, that i didnβt take any of my DSLRβs with me to Italy (youβve probably already noticed, lol). All of the photos taken were using my iPhone 5s or Sarahβs iPhone 6 Plus.Β
Iβd like to split Day 3 into 4 separate posts, as i donβt want them to get too long, and dare i say boring! If youβre just joining the “Tuscany Tourβ for the first time then you can click here to start from Day 1.
Sarah & i were up bright and early, excited yet anxious for todayβs big adventure. As we were in the reception area admiring the beautiful Christmas tree (see image above), the entrance doors opened as our taxi driver entered and escorted us to his taxi. It was still very dark (especially down the narrow side street) and already raining, and when i noticed the black minivan with blacked out windows (which only appear on episodes of 24) and the voice of the driver say βGet inβ, i had a funny feeling that this could be anyone and we were in some kind of movie (this didnβt do my slight anxiety any good at all, lol).Β
The driver was very friendly and nothing like the man i was imagining, he dropped us off at the exact collection point for the ‘My Tour’ coach stop where we were met by Chiara, the tour guide. She already knew we were blind & partially sighted and said it would be easier for us if we sat on the front 2 seats of the coach. βYes!β i said as theyβre our fave seats too, good start! π
It took about an hour until we arrived at Pisa, Chiara was telling us lots of interesting facts and history of the Tuscany regions we were passing through, this (and my excitement) made the journey seem really quick. The coach parked right near theΒ Cathedral Square (Piazza del Duomo) and after a short walk in the group Chiara said βNow you have one hour free time, then meet back hereβ. This was just perfect for Sarah & i as we now have a point of reference to go from and to return.
Welcome to Pisa!
First for my tourist pose! π
And now itβs Sarahβs turn! π
Everyone was rushing straight for the tower, so we hung back and got a few photos of the Baptistry and the Cathedral.
Sarah sneakily snapped me tower gazing and trying to soak up the atmosphere, and the fact that i was actually in Pisa, looking at probably the most famous bell tower in the world! π
There was only one small cafe opposite the tower, so Sarah & i went to check it out. We ordered 2 Cappachinoβs and to my delight, a slice of pizza. I know you might laugh, but i just had to try the Pizza at Pisa! π
The image above is the view from the open windows at our table, it was just amazing being sat with the leaning tower of Pisa as the backdrop. π
After this final panoramic photo, we met up with the group and headed back to the coach.Β
This visit already made my day and iβd of been happy if that was the end, but this was only the beginning!!
Oh by the wayβ¦..The pizza was fantastic!! π
Hope youβve enjoyed the first stop of this βTuscany in a day tourβ. Please take your seats and see whatβs coming next! π
β Previous DayΒ β Next Day β
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Tuscany Tour: Day 2
As Sarah & i were about to leave the room to try our first breakfast, we suddenly heard a faint sound of bells. We quickly rushed to the window and opened the inner windows and the outer shutters, and the sound was immense! I wanted to record the sound but the video below doesnβt do it justice.
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The Breakfast…
Breakfast, i can only describe as an amazing taste sensation. The chef must have only had one knife though, as everything was sliced about an inch thick! What seemed like a block of cheese to us, was a slice to them. lol, but i didnβt want to seem rude and waste any! π
The search for the Palace…
After filling up with breakfast, we started out on our primary objective for the dayβ¦to find the Palazzo Medici Riccardi where my photos will be exhibited in a few days time.Β
Once out on the main street, i stood facing north (towards the Cathedral) and opened the Blindsquare app on my iPhone. I had save 2 locations to the favourites – the hotel and the palace, so they would b read out instantly and hopefully tell me (if the cellular network is good) where the locations are using a clock face description. It said βPalazzo Medici Riccardi is at 11βo clock at 350 yardsβ. Right letβs go! After passing the Florence Cathedral it was just a straight road until the Palace was on our left. Now to find the entrance which was another mammoth task for usΒ …
We started walking around the outside of the whole building finding everything including a cash machine (very useful, clothes store & even a McDonalds (the poshest one weβve ever seen). Finally we found it but we couldnβt see any sign of the Art Senses posters anywhere. We went inside anyway to have a look around where we’d maybe stumble across a tiny room being set up for the exhibition.
Inside the Palace…
As we were walking around, we both kept saying βI think weβre in the wrong building, there is no way the exhibition will be in here somewhere. But this place is amazing so weβll keep lookingβ.
β§ We totally need to get door frames like these!! π β§Β
Then a few minutes later i found a ceiling design for our home too!! lol.
As we entered the next couple of rooms, Sarah was oooing quite a lot, and now as i’m looking back over the photos to see what i was actually looking at, i shouldβve known there were shoes!
After being amazed for a while longer, we decided to double check outside to see if this really was the Palazzo Medici Riccardiβ¦.It was!Β
I said βThere is no way my photos are being exhibited in there, just no wayβ.Β
Then as we turned to find our way back to the hotel, we suddenly realised there was a marathon going on!!
Yes a marathon, actually the 31st annual βFlorence Marathon (Maratona di Firenze)β. Now the streets were not only packed, but worse still for us, blocked off so we couldnβt get back the way we came.
After a few hours of getting lost, trying different coffee shops and of course the clothes and shoe shops, we found ourselves by the river. Sarah said βoh, this is the river!!β I said βBut isnβt the river south, way past the hotel in the other direction?β
We both realised we had no idea which way to go and we were both really tired from dodging people and with all of the noise, so we just decided to pick a street and walk up it. Then to our complete surprise as we were getting really fed up, Sarah said βThatβs the sign to our hotelβ, βNo way, i had no idea we were here, now letβs get a takeaway coffee from our new local and rest for a whileβ.
After an eventful and tiring day, we decided to try heading east but only down one street as itβs dark now and we really donβt want to get lost again. The hanging street lights were beautiful and we found lots of clothes shops and a nice little sandwich/coffee bar to relax in for a while.Β
As we returned to the hotel we booked a βTuscany in a dayβ tour for the morning. We knew it was a lot in one day but it will be ideal for us. Now we were getting even more excited. I could be stood next to the leaning tower of Pisa!! No way!! πΒ
Please join us on day 3 to see how we got on!!
Tuscany Tour: Day 1
Wow, wow, wow!! What a fantastic and surreal experience!!Β
After spending 1 week in Italy pretending to be a photographer, and being blown away by the beauty and simply magnificent sculptures, architecture & History of this amazing part of the world. Iβll try and bore you to death with my day to day experiences. π
Iβm trying to create a post for each day we were there (maybe extra ones too!) as we did a few tours which included Pisa, Vinci, Chianti, Siena, San Gimignano & of course Firenze.Β
First iβd like to give a big thanks to our brother Ben who kindly managed to wake up at 4:15am and drive us to the airport, guide us into the airport, check in our case and take us to the assistance desk, thanks Ben, we’d still be wondering round the airport now! if it wasnβt for you! π
β§ Airplane Mode β§
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The airport assistance was fantastic and couldnβt of made it any easier for us. We even got to ride on the buggy that takes us all the way to the gate! I was the first to board the plane, and i couldnβt wait to finally enable βAirplane Modeβ on my iPhone whilst sat on the plane! This may seem like a small thing, but remember this is my first time out of the country! π
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I think my wide eyes and silly grin throughout the whole plane journey was getting tiresome for Sarah (she has been on planes lots of times). But it was fantastic! The best part is when the pilot βGives it the beansβ and accelerates down the runway when taking off, iβve felt acceleration simular to this in different cars, but when you think just how big and heavy this plane is, itβs just amazing! π
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Once we landed at Pisa airport, the assistance were already there and waiting to escort us from the plane. They also sorted out our passports and picked up our suitcase. Now it was time to get our first Italian coffee while we wait for the bus to Florence.Β
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Sarah described the beautiful panoramic landscapes from the bus (i couldnβt see them until i got back home to zoom in on my large screen) as it took about an hour to get to Firenze. We then got a taxi to our hotel, as i read on trip advisor that although itβs only about half a mile, itβs tucked away in a small courtyard.
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Wow, the hotel was fantastic, and the staff were unbelievably helpful. Β Once we were settled in to our amazing room, and logged onto their WiFi. We decided to venture out a little and try and figure out where we were in relation to the duomo and the palace where my photos were being exhibited. We knew we were close but as Sarah & i canβt see enough to read a map, we could easily get lost and never find anything! π
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Shortly after leaving the hotel and finding the main street, we heard the thunderous sound of the bells from the north (i think) coming from the Cathedral of Florence (Il Duomo di Firenze), The bells would make our navigation much easier for the rest of our holiday as the Cathedral was only about 300 yards away from our hotel, thank you bells! π We then headed back to our starting point and headed west, where we found an ever better point of reference!! (see below)
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The twinkling lights on this department store were simply amazing to just stand and look at, but it was dark now and we didnβt want to get lost on our first day! All of the streets were decorated beautifully with illuminated stars, borbals & bells so after one more photo (see below), we headed back to the hotel. What an amazing, exciting and tiring first day. π
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I hope youβve enjoyed being with Sarah & i on my first trip abroad? Hope to see you on Day 2 as weΒ explore a little more…!!!
Youβll Never Believe Thisβ¦. (Part 4)
Wow, the time has comeβ¦Iβm off to Florence, Italy to visit the exhibition where some of my photos will be exhibited! The exhibition is being held at The Prestigious PALAZZO MEDICI RICCARDI, Florence, Italy.Β I still canβt believe this! It is my first time abroad and iβm really excited!! π
Iβll be away from my blogs for a week or so, but iβll be taking hundreds of photos to share with you all on my return!! π
See also: Youβll Never Believe Thisβ¦. (Part 1), (Part 2) & (Part 3)
Ceeβs Black & White Challenge: Lines and Angles
β§ The Lines & Angles of Hampton Court Palace β§Β
β§ I love all the tiny Lines & Angles that make up this amazing creature β§Β
β§ The beautiful Lines & Angles of my Hawaiian Koa wood guitar β§Β
Weekly Photo Challenge: Minimalist
I really struggled with this weeks Photo Challenge, so i thought iβd use a minimalist photo of this little gadget that completely transformed my life shortly after losing my sight. I couldnβt even make myself a warm drink without burning myself several times! So instead i just drank Vodka as it was much easier, but this really didnβt help my dark depression (see my testimony).
Then my social worker brought me round this liquid level indicator, and it changed everything! I could finally make myself a cup of tea, and was quickly making anyone who came round drinks again, what a feeling! π
Description of a liquid level indicator taken from RNIB online storeβ¦
Fill your cup with greater confidence, using RNIB’s audible and vibratory Liquid Level Indicator. Simply place it on the side of a cup and a series of audible beeps and vibrations will let you know when the liquid nears the top.
The Liquid Level Indicator will give off an intermittent beep and a series of vibrations when your cup is nearly full, followed by a faster beep and continuous vibration when it has reached its limit. There are also magnets built in, to allow easy storage on your fridge door.
My Fireworks Photos For Bonfire Night! :)
Travel theme: Bountiful
Β This weekend Sarah & i didnβt have to travel far (in our back garden) before we were amazed to find a Bountiful 32 little bunches of grapes on our vine. I managed to take a quick photo above before Sarah picked them! π
Are you ready to get bountiful, abundant, ample, plentiful and rich? If you would like to join in this weekβs travel theme challenge with your own interpretation (everyoneβs welcome!) Click Here
Weekly Photo Challenge: Signs
The Challenge…Β “This week, publish an image of a sign β from the signs you encounter on the street to more personal, less obvious signs that hold meaning for you.”
Β On a walk in London, alongside the river Thames, Sarah & i stumbled across a surprising Sign inviting us to βWalk on the waterβ.
My Photo Galleries: Travel & Landscapes
β§Β βStormy Bayβ – Ilfracombe, Devon, England β§
Hi all! I think my βTravel & Landscapesβ page is ready, although iβm still searching for more photos to add (maybe iβve missed one or two, i have quite a few to look through lol).
Thought you might like to check it out, let me know what you think?! π
You can find the page by clicking the image above or clicking here. Iβll keep you updated as i go along!! Thanks once again for you amazing support and encouragements!Β
Thank you for being so patient! π
