Greetings All,
Once again we awake to another amazing sunny day. After breakfast we head out over the water (across the River Mersey) to explore the sea side towns. New Brighton was our first destination and the place was jammed. A drive along the promenade reveals a lot of very white Brits turning a very brilliant red wherever you look. The tide is out so there is sand for miles with all space being taken up by sun worshipers.
From here we head down to Hoylake which is somewhat quieter but more of the same. There will be a lot of sore people tonight with some major sunburns. We then meander our way along B class roads to Heswall. I am enjoying the ride and am not so intense on the narrow winding roads but I still have a way to go. After leaving Heswall we arrive in the village of Thingwall and stop at a pub called The Basset Hound for a pint of cider for me and Old Speckled Hen (beer) for Fred. The pub is surrounded by farm fields with horses. After a nice rest in the sun, we visited Wycliffe Street were Fred and John lived at number 34 until 1956. Wycliffe Street is also where Grandpa Parkins (number 24) and his Stepdad Ralph (number 36) lived. The garage that used to be at the end of the street has now been demolished. From there we headed back to Liverpool. Dinner was at Nandos a Portuguese Chicken restaurant, the chicken was tasty but the music was Cuban, I can't figure that one out.
Hope everyone had a great weekend and we are sorry to hear that Ontario was so cold especially up north (North Bay) where they had snow, our weather was sunny and with temps in the mid 20'sC.
Ta ra for now.
Sandy & Fred
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
May 30, 2009 - Speke Hall, Liverpool
Greetings All,
Well not much has happened over the last few days since our last post. We have been calling the agent twice daily trying to get some answers on when we can get into the flat as they never return your call when they say they will. On Friday at 5:30pm we finally get a call from them. Unbelievable, we finally get a response. Fred is told all being well we can move in on Tuesday as there are now just some minor things that need to be done in the renos. Fred asks about a repair person for the washing machine at the flat where we are currently staying as it is not working and they were advised of it in the morning when Fred made his daily morning call. We are running out of clothes and I hate hand washing stuff out but have been as we can't find a laundramat and the building manager does not know of one anywhere around. On Friday we take a late night walk to see how crazy it is going to be with the start of the weekend partying. It is rather tame compared to last weekend and the police are highly visible everywhere. Well we get a good nights sleep and I have a nice lie in. Saturday morning we head out for a late breakfast and Fred has the phone in case they call about the washing machine. What a dreamer:),like they are taking forever to get us the flat I don't think the repairing of the machine will happen any time soon.
In the afternoon we head out to Speke Hall. The hall dates back to 1530 when building began and was finished in 1598. The gardens date from the 1850's. This is a Tudor style home. The Watt family purchased the estate in 1795 for 73,500.00 pounds; the house with 2400 acres of land. Adelaide Watt was was the last person to live in the house. Her parents had died when she was 8 and she lived with relatives in Scotland for schooling. She took over managing the estate in 1878 when she reached aged 21. While she was being schooled in Scotland, Frederick Leyland managed the estate and hoped to purchase the property from Adelaide as he basically did what he wanted while she was absent. Adelaide was what I think was the first women liberated in Liverpool. She not only got rid of Leyland but managed the estate as a single women until her death at 64 years of age in 1921. The estate fell in disrepair and in 1943 the National Trust took over the property, managing it to this date. The property now has only 27 acres and the hall. The rest was sold off for development over the years.
Ta ra for now,
Sandy & Fred
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
May 26 & 27, 2009- A Farewell & Still Homeless
Greetings All,
On the 26th we wake to a bright sunny but very cool day after a lovely long weekend. Breakfast is at a 50's type diner and fairly reasonable. Tracey and Geoff want to check out the local stores so we head off to Liverpool One which is now the hub of all the stores. Kinda like Yonge Street in Toronto but no cars as it is all pedestrian
walkways. Fred has called the estate agent to find out what is going on with our flat as the shipper here has advised us the boxes are ready to be delivered. It is getting very frustrating and we are getting very tired of eating out all the time.
Quite by accident we meet Keith in Liverpool One, while we know that he was arriving in Liverpool today, we did not expect to see him until later in the day. Unfortunately I am not very hospitable as Fred has told me what the agent has said so I am peeved to say the least.
This is the day we say our final farewell to Amy, Fred's mom. The ashes are laid to rest with Ralph in the flower bed at Landican Cemetery. While we are waiting for the man to come and collect her ashes Joyce, Fred's cousin asks if I got a housewarming gift and from who. Unfortunately she did not realize I was holding onto Amy ashes. Aghast that she does have a quick comeback, she replies "I guess there is a reason I am blonde". No harm done and served as a good chuckle for those who heard. The strewing itself was really disappointing as the gentleman just took the ashes from the box and dumped them on the ground out of the plastic bag that held everything. Fred's Dad's ashes were done with a special strewing urn and was much more professional.
Keith recited a lovely poem about Mom and Remembrance while the ashes were being strewn. We ended the day with the four son's taking everyone out to dinner at Gusto's, an Italian Restaurant on the docks, sharing tales of Amy, Ralph and the boys family holidays over the past years with Fred and John being the brunt of a lot of the stories as they are the oldest of the four and lived more time in England than in Canada as youngsters.
May 27
We are up early as Geoff and Tracey are returning to London with John and Adrienne to finish off their time over here. Fred drives them off to the hotel were they have stayed overnight. We had Portia overnight as the hotel did not allow dogs, so goodbyes are said at the flat. It is a miserable rainy day and when Fred returns we grab breakfast and march down to the estate agent to see if we can get a handle on what is going on with the flat. We have yet again explained to the agent we need to get in and he of course sympathizes. So the ultimatum is dished out. Friday is the deadline as we have boxes we need to take delivery of or we look elsewhere. So we wait to see what happens.
Ta ra for now,
Not quite Vagrants on the Street,
Sandy & Fred
On the 26th we wake to a bright sunny but very cool day after a lovely long weekend. Breakfast is at a 50's type diner and fairly reasonable. Tracey and Geoff want to check out the local stores so we head off to Liverpool One which is now the hub of all the stores. Kinda like Yonge Street in Toronto but no cars as it is all pedestrian
walkways. Fred has called the estate agent to find out what is going on with our flat as the shipper here has advised us the boxes are ready to be delivered. It is getting very frustrating and we are getting very tired of eating out all the time.
Quite by accident we meet Keith in Liverpool One, while we know that he was arriving in Liverpool today, we did not expect to see him until later in the day. Unfortunately I am not very hospitable as Fred has told me what the agent has said so I am peeved to say the least.
This is the day we say our final farewell to Amy, Fred's mom. The ashes are laid to rest with Ralph in the flower bed at Landican Cemetery. While we are waiting for the man to come and collect her ashes Joyce, Fred's cousin asks if I got a housewarming gift and from who. Unfortunately she did not realize I was holding onto Amy ashes. Aghast that she does have a quick comeback, she replies "I guess there is a reason I am blonde". No harm done and served as a good chuckle for those who heard. The strewing itself was really disappointing as the gentleman just took the ashes from the box and dumped them on the ground out of the plastic bag that held everything. Fred's Dad's ashes were done with a special strewing urn and was much more professional.
Keith recited a lovely poem about Mom and Remembrance while the ashes were being strewn. We ended the day with the four son's taking everyone out to dinner at Gusto's, an Italian Restaurant on the docks, sharing tales of Amy, Ralph and the boys family holidays over the past years with Fred and John being the brunt of a lot of the stories as they are the oldest of the four and lived more time in England than in Canada as youngsters.
May 27
We are up early as Geoff and Tracey are returning to London with John and Adrienne to finish off their time over here. Fred drives them off to the hotel were they have stayed overnight. We had Portia overnight as the hotel did not allow dogs, so goodbyes are said at the flat. It is a miserable rainy day and when Fred returns we grab breakfast and march down to the estate agent to see if we can get a handle on what is going on with the flat. We have yet again explained to the agent we need to get in and he of course sympathizes. So the ultimatum is dished out. Friday is the deadline as we have boxes we need to take delivery of or we look elsewhere. So we wait to see what happens.
Ta ra for now,
Not quite Vagrants on the Street,
Sandy & Fred
Monday, May 25, 2009
May 23, 2009 - Off to Cymru (Wales)
Greetings All,
Another bright sunny day greeted us this morning so after breakfast we head out to Wales to do some castle exploring. Our first stop is Conway which is home to a very well preserved castle ruin. The castle was originally built in 1283 by Edward l and housed the main government of the time as well as protection from the raiders from the sea. The countryside is beautiful with large pastures of sheep and hill raising in the north.
After lunch in a local pub The George and Dragon, sitting outside in the back garden we head off to Castell Bodelwyddan Castle. This was a family home at one time rather than a castle though fashioned on the outside with all the appearances of a small fortress. Here there is Rhywbeth i Bawb (Welsh) means something for everyone. It is a museum that houses 19th Century furniture, art and sculptures. There are gardens, a maze made of trees, WWI Practice Trenches, Woodland walks, orchards, aviary, as well you can enjoy plays during the different seasons.
Our trip back was done by way of A Class roads. Back roads away from the major motorway that took us through many small towns thanks to the expert navigational skills of Tracey. A full day out and great weather with a different country all ready visited on our short stay here.
Ta ra for now,
Sandy & Fred
Another bright sunny day greeted us this morning so after breakfast we head out to Wales to do some castle exploring. Our first stop is Conway which is home to a very well preserved castle ruin. The castle was originally built in 1283 by Edward l and housed the main government of the time as well as protection from the raiders from the sea. The countryside is beautiful with large pastures of sheep and hill raising in the north.
After lunch in a local pub The George and Dragon, sitting outside in the back garden we head off to Castell Bodelwyddan Castle. This was a family home at one time rather than a castle though fashioned on the outside with all the appearances of a small fortress. Here there is Rhywbeth i Bawb (Welsh) means something for everyone. It is a museum that houses 19th Century furniture, art and sculptures. There are gardens, a maze made of trees, WWI Practice Trenches, Woodland walks, orchards, aviary, as well you can enjoy plays during the different seasons.
Our trip back was done by way of A Class roads. Back roads away from the major motorway that took us through many small towns thanks to the expert navigational skills of Tracey. A full day out and great weather with a different country all ready visited on our short stay here.
Ta ra for now,
Sandy & Fred
Sunday, May 24, 2009
May 24, 2009 - Still Homeless
Greetings All,
As the title says we are still homeless. The flat the agent has given us is very sparse.
We had to go out and buy bedding , towels,and some cleaning stuff as it needed some cleaning up. We have no dishes so we have to eat out for everything. Geoff and Tracey are being real good about it and we have gotten out to do some site seeing.
Saturday we went out to Chester which is well know for its Tudor Style architecture.
We did a tour of the cathedral where I had a nice chat with the minister , and wondered around the streets taking in the sites. We had a great lunch in a little pub call the Victoria.
Upon leaving Chester we took the back roads through some lovely countryside and did manage to do a complete circle a couple of times. Unfortunately we had to go back on the motorway as it is called here in order to get back to Liverpool.
Saturday night we headed out around 11:00 P.M to Matthew Street which is home to wear the Beatles started out to check out the night life. Well we were certainly entertained and did see some sites. People in costumes of all sorts. Hen Parties are a big thing here and stags the guys all dress up in very outrageous costumes. You cannot get near a pub / bar for love or money and according to the police we asked it was a calm night . At our end of town the scene was more of the same except a very young group and they were rocking till 5:00 A.M. They are one crazy lot these Scouser's from grandma's to young one's all dressed up like Halloween and pub crawling.
Today Sunday we went down to the docklands to wonder around and bask in the wonderful sun, before heading off the the Footie Match. Last game of the season. Great crowds and Liverpool won 3-1 over Tottenham. Supper at the Mersey Pride and then home for a game of cards. We are tied so far.Girls verses Guys.
Ta Ra for now. We only have limited access at this place and hope to be out on Tuesday so not sure when we will have another report.
Sandy & Fred
As the title says we are still homeless. The flat the agent has given us is very sparse.
We had to go out and buy bedding , towels,and some cleaning stuff as it needed some cleaning up. We have no dishes so we have to eat out for everything. Geoff and Tracey are being real good about it and we have gotten out to do some site seeing.
Saturday we went out to Chester which is well know for its Tudor Style architecture.
We did a tour of the cathedral where I had a nice chat with the minister , and wondered around the streets taking in the sites. We had a great lunch in a little pub call the Victoria.
Upon leaving Chester we took the back roads through some lovely countryside and did manage to do a complete circle a couple of times. Unfortunately we had to go back on the motorway as it is called here in order to get back to Liverpool.
Saturday night we headed out around 11:00 P.M to Matthew Street which is home to wear the Beatles started out to check out the night life. Well we were certainly entertained and did see some sites. People in costumes of all sorts. Hen Parties are a big thing here and stags the guys all dress up in very outrageous costumes. You cannot get near a pub / bar for love or money and according to the police we asked it was a calm night . At our end of town the scene was more of the same except a very young group and they were rocking till 5:00 A.M. They are one crazy lot these Scouser's from grandma's to young one's all dressed up like Halloween and pub crawling.
Today Sunday we went down to the docklands to wonder around and bask in the wonderful sun, before heading off the the Footie Match. Last game of the season. Great crowds and Liverpool won 3-1 over Tottenham. Supper at the Mersey Pride and then home for a game of cards. We are tied so far.Girls verses Guys.
Ta Ra for now. We only have limited access at this place and hope to be out on Tuesday so not sure when we will have another report.
Sandy & Fred
Thursday, May 21, 2009
May 20-21, 2009 , - Finally Some Results!
Greetings All,
Well it appears the weather has finally broken and the sun is out just in time for a long weekend here in the UK. Yesterday we headed out for a visit to Fred's Aunt Peggy and Uncle Pat in the afternoon after Fred picked up the car in the morning. A dreary overcast day but we had a nice visit and Fred's Uncle loaded him down with beer as he is no longer drinking. We have yet to hear from the agent concerning the flat after another promise to call us. Customer service I guess is not in their vocabulary or they don't know what it means.
May 21 - Right after breakfast we head up in the rain to Andrew Louis to find out what is going on and see if their phones work. We are promised that we will get a call by noon today. You guessed it no call. We finally get a call back and the landlord has arranged temporary accommodations for us at another flat he owns right in the city. So we are free of hotel bills and have a place to stay for free until our place is ready which they hope will be Tuesday. Thank God as Geoff and Tracey arrive tomorrow morning.
We went for a walk to see if we could locate our new digs. It is located in a older part of town but with a lot of trendy bars and clubs. So maybe in for some noisy nights. Will have to wait and see. We continued our walk and came upon St. Lukes church that was bombed on May 5, 1941 at 3:30 A.M. Today the shell still stands as a testimony to the people of Liverpool, their courage and bravery during WWII. There will be pictures on Flickr at sometime in the future.
We will be out of contact now until sometime next week, we hope no longer but who can say for sure as they do not move or do things as quickly as we do in Canada concerning the phone, TV and internet service.
Take care all and bye for now. More of our saga of getting a place to follow I am sure.
Sandy & Fred
Well it appears the weather has finally broken and the sun is out just in time for a long weekend here in the UK. Yesterday we headed out for a visit to Fred's Aunt Peggy and Uncle Pat in the afternoon after Fred picked up the car in the morning. A dreary overcast day but we had a nice visit and Fred's Uncle loaded him down with beer as he is no longer drinking. We have yet to hear from the agent concerning the flat after another promise to call us. Customer service I guess is not in their vocabulary or they don't know what it means.
May 21 - Right after breakfast we head up in the rain to Andrew Louis to find out what is going on and see if their phones work. We are promised that we will get a call by noon today. You guessed it no call. We finally get a call back and the landlord has arranged temporary accommodations for us at another flat he owns right in the city. So we are free of hotel bills and have a place to stay for free until our place is ready which they hope will be Tuesday. Thank God as Geoff and Tracey arrive tomorrow morning.
We went for a walk to see if we could locate our new digs. It is located in a older part of town but with a lot of trendy bars and clubs. So maybe in for some noisy nights. Will have to wait and see. We continued our walk and came upon St. Lukes church that was bombed on May 5, 1941 at 3:30 A.M. Today the shell still stands as a testimony to the people of Liverpool, their courage and bravery during WWII. There will be pictures on Flickr at sometime in the future.
We will be out of contact now until sometime next week, we hope no longer but who can say for sure as they do not move or do things as quickly as we do in Canada concerning the phone, TV and internet service.
Take care all and bye for now. More of our saga of getting a place to follow I am sure.
Sandy & Fred
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
May 19, 2009 - A Flustering Day
Greetings All,
After a crappy night of sleep for me we head off to the Bank after breakfast in hope of collecting our bank cards only to find that they have been sent to the branch in London. Jocelyn who is our contact at HSBC in Liverpool has tried her hardest to satisfy our banking needs. A new application was required to open a new account and we go through the whole process again. The account is approved but because we are taking out a large sum for car and 8 months rent we no longer met the dollar requirement for the account she had in mind. The whole world of finance seems to revolve around having a utility bill here.
We did receive the paper work for customs and the contact here will do the custom's clearance on our behalf and deliver our boxes for what is a very reasonable fee. Crunch time, however, is the flat is not available until Friday. So overall a very bad day for me.
We did experience the UK post office. The post office in the UK does everything you can possibly think of, not like the post office in Canada. Open accounts, exchange foreign currency, sells insurance, sells phone cards and who knows what else as well as sells stamps. The postal system is also very efficient with post being delivered within a day or two at the most if in the UK itself.
Well nothing else to report I have had my whine and think things can only get better.
Ta ra for now,
Sandy & Fred
After a crappy night of sleep for me we head off to the Bank after breakfast in hope of collecting our bank cards only to find that they have been sent to the branch in London. Jocelyn who is our contact at HSBC in Liverpool has tried her hardest to satisfy our banking needs. A new application was required to open a new account and we go through the whole process again. The account is approved but because we are taking out a large sum for car and 8 months rent we no longer met the dollar requirement for the account she had in mind. The whole world of finance seems to revolve around having a utility bill here.
We did receive the paper work for customs and the contact here will do the custom's clearance on our behalf and deliver our boxes for what is a very reasonable fee. Crunch time, however, is the flat is not available until Friday. So overall a very bad day for me.
We did experience the UK post office. The post office in the UK does everything you can possibly think of, not like the post office in Canada. Open accounts, exchange foreign currency, sells insurance, sells phone cards and who knows what else as well as sells stamps. The postal system is also very efficient with post being delivered within a day or two at the most if in the UK itself.
Well nothing else to report I have had my whine and think things can only get better.
Ta ra for now,
Sandy & Fred
Monday, May 18, 2009
May 18, 2009 - More Queen's English ??
Greetings All,
Well after a do nothing weekend we have headed back into Liverpool City Centre to stay at the Marriott until Thursday, when hopefully we will move into the flat. Our stuff has arrived from Canada but does not get unloaded from the container until May 21st. Which works out in the long run as we won't have the place until then. I have found waiting for things to happen very flustering. Everything centers around having a utility bill here and no-one will circumvent or work around requirements. Starting to see why people thinks Brits are stuffy :). We are like a newly wed young couple who is starting out with nothing and trying to make a start together for the first time. For the most part a great experience but for other things while understandable exasperating. No credit ratings, introduction letters mean nothing for the most part and waiting for bank cards and answers suck. Well enough complaining we will make the best of this and I am sure once we are in our own place I will feel more settled.
Now onto my English lessons and new words I have learned: Skint means you are broke need money, Cadge means your are borrowing money. La is a lad only they pronounce it as LAR., Rozzer is police. Fred has informed me that a lot of what I am hearing is Scouse which is Liverpudlian.
Not much else to report except Fred picks up the car on Wednesday so we will have our own wheels!!
We hope everyone is well and you are taking care of yourselves.
Ta Ra for now,
Sandy & Fred
Well after a do nothing weekend we have headed back into Liverpool City Centre to stay at the Marriott until Thursday, when hopefully we will move into the flat. Our stuff has arrived from Canada but does not get unloaded from the container until May 21st. Which works out in the long run as we won't have the place until then. I have found waiting for things to happen very flustering. Everything centers around having a utility bill here and no-one will circumvent or work around requirements. Starting to see why people thinks Brits are stuffy :). We are like a newly wed young couple who is starting out with nothing and trying to make a start together for the first time. For the most part a great experience but for other things while understandable exasperating. No credit ratings, introduction letters mean nothing for the most part and waiting for bank cards and answers suck. Well enough complaining we will make the best of this and I am sure once we are in our own place I will feel more settled.
Now onto my English lessons and new words I have learned: Skint means you are broke need money, Cadge means your are borrowing money. La is a lad only they pronounce it as LAR., Rozzer is police. Fred has informed me that a lot of what I am hearing is Scouse which is Liverpudlian.
Not much else to report except Fred picks up the car on Wednesday so we will have our own wheels!!
We hope everyone is well and you are taking care of yourselves.
Ta Ra for now,
Sandy & Fred
Friday, May 15, 2009
May 15, 2009 - Bought A Car
Greetings all,
After laundry duty and lunch we headed to Manchester to check out a Mercedes Benz, A Class car. The weather is cool today and very overcast and the road is quite busy.
Once at the dealership we see the car in question then walk to what we thought was the show room. A salesman who was walking by asked if he could help us and we told him what we wanted. Off we went for a test drive, Fred liked how the car handles and I like the fact you are higher up. Easy sale for the salesman Stuart and we get the price down a bit and also a protection package worth £300 for free. The car has just had a full service so we don't need to pay out for on until we drive another 15000 miles. All we now need is to call Stuart next week and he will arrange for someone to pick Fred up in Liverpool to take him to Manchester and the car is ours. Worked out far easier than opening a bank account.
Well I have been learning The Queen's English the last few days. Here are some examples; Gobsmacked means can't believe what the person said or did, queue is a line up, quid is a pound like our dollar, sod off means screw off but in a nice way according to Fred, and a fortnight is two weeks. Shite is shit only they say I like Shyt. I am sure I will come across many more different ways to say thinks in the weeks and months to come so should prove very interesting.
Well not much more to tell today, we are heading out to a Pub supper so maybe some news tomorrow.
Ta ra,
Sandy & Fred
After laundry duty and lunch we headed to Manchester to check out a Mercedes Benz, A Class car. The weather is cool today and very overcast and the road is quite busy.
Once at the dealership we see the car in question then walk to what we thought was the show room. A salesman who was walking by asked if he could help us and we told him what we wanted. Off we went for a test drive, Fred liked how the car handles and I like the fact you are higher up. Easy sale for the salesman Stuart and we get the price down a bit and also a protection package worth £300 for free. The car has just had a full service so we don't need to pay out for on until we drive another 15000 miles. All we now need is to call Stuart next week and he will arrange for someone to pick Fred up in Liverpool to take him to Manchester and the car is ours. Worked out far easier than opening a bank account.
Well I have been learning The Queen's English the last few days. Here are some examples; Gobsmacked means can't believe what the person said or did, queue is a line up, quid is a pound like our dollar, sod off means screw off but in a nice way according to Fred, and a fortnight is two weeks. Shite is shit only they say I like Shyt. I am sure I will come across many more different ways to say thinks in the weeks and months to come so should prove very interesting.
Well not much more to tell today, we are heading out to a Pub supper so maybe some news tomorrow.
Ta ra,
Sandy & Fred
Thursday, May 14, 2009
May 14, 2009 - To the Wirral
Greetings All,
After checking out new postings for cars, calling the guy about our boxes that are now arriving on the 18th and lunch we head out to the other side of the River Mersey a area known as the Wirral. We head off to Landican Cemetary were Fred's dad is and Amy will be going. It is a nice place and the gardens are very peaceful. We then try to head into Prenton were Fred grew up. After a slight detour, the GPS took us to Ravenswood Avenue in Heswall. After a major "Holy Shit" moment as we met a double decker bus on a basically one lane road we get his old homestead. I must say though the detour minus the moment was very pretty. The town overlooks the River Dee which looks very large from the top of the hill. The area were Fred grew up is also very nice and there is a lot of parkland around. We did not find his old high school but that will be another trip to the far side. The trip out we went throuh the Wallasey Tunnel and came back through the Birkenhead Tunnel. In the tunnel coming back Fred comments that we must be getting near the end as he can see water. WATER!! were I hope not because we are under the river. He calmly states that the GPS is showing him water. Well Thank God for that cause the Birkenhead tunnel houses 4 lanes two for what ever way you are crossing and they are very narrow. Would not like to have to evacuate quickly for any reason. Enough excitement for today we head back to Celia's for dinner and a relaxing night.
Ta ra,
Sandy & Fred
After checking out new postings for cars, calling the guy about our boxes that are now arriving on the 18th and lunch we head out to the other side of the River Mersey a area known as the Wirral. We head off to Landican Cemetary were Fred's dad is and Amy will be going. It is a nice place and the gardens are very peaceful. We then try to head into Prenton were Fred grew up. After a slight detour, the GPS took us to Ravenswood Avenue in Heswall. After a major "Holy Shit" moment as we met a double decker bus on a basically one lane road we get his old homestead. I must say though the detour minus the moment was very pretty. The town overlooks the River Dee which looks very large from the top of the hill. The area were Fred grew up is also very nice and there is a lot of parkland around. We did not find his old high school but that will be another trip to the far side. The trip out we went throuh the Wallasey Tunnel and came back through the Birkenhead Tunnel. In the tunnel coming back Fred comments that we must be getting near the end as he can see water. WATER!! were I hope not because we are under the river. He calmly states that the GPS is showing him water. Well Thank God for that cause the Birkenhead tunnel houses 4 lanes two for what ever way you are crossing and they are very narrow. Would not like to have to evacuate quickly for any reason. Enough excitement for today we head back to Celia's for dinner and a relaxing night.
Ta ra,
Sandy & Fred
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
May 12 & 13, 2009 - The Car Hunt
Greetings All,
May 12 we are back into the City Centre to get a letter from the bank for the landlord as part of the rental process. The main branch is very organized and in no time we are sitting with a officer and getting what we need. Turns out the account we opened as you may guess has not been the appropriate one and the young lady is going to have things sorted out for us come Monday when our banks cards come in. Banking in the UK is sure becoming a challenge. We spent a bit more time walking around the city centre after delivering the bank information to the Estate Agent then head back to Celia's. I am very tired today and hate the waiting around, I think it is because things have kind of come to a standstill. After supper we watch a TV series on DVD that Celia has about a doctor in Devon and it is totally hilarious. Fred can't believe that I get it as he says I don't have a sense of humor. What does he know.
May 13- In the morning we go with Celia to ASDA (part of the Wal-mart group)and some other shops to price out bedding, towels, TVs, shredders etc. Then back into Liverpool to search for a car. Not good news. Not much choice in used cars as the economy has been bad and to get a new one takes 3 months. We do have a option in London that we hope may be available when the salesman Benjamin phones us on Friday. It's more then we hoped to pay but fully loaded. So seems Friday will be that day that we get news on everything the flat's availability and if car is available. We need to get a car in two weeks as we need it for out June trip to France and Italy.
So not much news and will let you know how things drop into place.
Ta ra,(been told this is how it is spelt)
Sandy & Fred
May 12 we are back into the City Centre to get a letter from the bank for the landlord as part of the rental process. The main branch is very organized and in no time we are sitting with a officer and getting what we need. Turns out the account we opened as you may guess has not been the appropriate one and the young lady is going to have things sorted out for us come Monday when our banks cards come in. Banking in the UK is sure becoming a challenge. We spent a bit more time walking around the city centre after delivering the bank information to the Estate Agent then head back to Celia's. I am very tired today and hate the waiting around, I think it is because things have kind of come to a standstill. After supper we watch a TV series on DVD that Celia has about a doctor in Devon and it is totally hilarious. Fred can't believe that I get it as he says I don't have a sense of humor. What does he know.
May 13- In the morning we go with Celia to ASDA (part of the Wal-mart group)and some other shops to price out bedding, towels, TVs, shredders etc. Then back into Liverpool to search for a car. Not good news. Not much choice in used cars as the economy has been bad and to get a new one takes 3 months. We do have a option in London that we hope may be available when the salesman Benjamin phones us on Friday. It's more then we hoped to pay but fully loaded. So seems Friday will be that day that we get news on everything the flat's availability and if car is available. We need to get a car in two weeks as we need it for out June trip to France and Italy.
So not much news and will let you know how things drop into place.
Ta ra,(been told this is how it is spelt)
Sandy & Fred
May 11, 2009 - Found A Place to Hang our Hat !!!
Greetings All,
We head into the City Centre in the morning to book more viewings with another agent. In the UK, unlike Canada were the agent can show you anything you have to go to individual companies as they can only show you what they have. Fred really wanted to look at a brand new high rise at the Princess Dock and the earliest we can get a viewing is Wednesday at 2:00P.M. That accomplished we walk around to re-acquaint ourselves with the lay of the land.
At 3:00 we met up with John our agent with Andrew Louis and he has lined up 3 flats for viewing. The first one at the Anchorage, is overlooking a marina and is a nice size. Two downers are, the people are still living in it and the second bedroom is small.
Next we see two at Waterloo Quay. Nice size rooms in both units but the second has a better view. The units however are on the ground floor, something Fred is really not happy about but the worst is the fridge. A bar fridge is not conducive to everyday living. I am really disheartened as none of these are meeting my expectations and look nothing like what was on the web site we have been looking at for the last couple of months. John advised he has one more he will try to get us into, a penthouse in Armstrong Quay that is currently being refurbished. He said we must ignore the mess and look at the potential as they only got it on Friday. Well the best was saved for last. The view is spectacular overlooking the river Mersey and the Promenade. A nice kitchen with a regular fridge and freezer, separate dining room, two large bedrooms and a upstairs lounge or family room with a walkout balcony that will house a bar-b-que and small patio set, plus a good storage cupboard. So we put down our holding deposit and fill out the necessary forms and hope to hear Friday if we can move in next Wednesday. So it is all coming together slowly. Next the car hunt!!
Ta ra, (Liverpudlian for Bye for Now)
Sandy & Fred
We head into the City Centre in the morning to book more viewings with another agent. In the UK, unlike Canada were the agent can show you anything you have to go to individual companies as they can only show you what they have. Fred really wanted to look at a brand new high rise at the Princess Dock and the earliest we can get a viewing is Wednesday at 2:00P.M. That accomplished we walk around to re-acquaint ourselves with the lay of the land.
At 3:00 we met up with John our agent with Andrew Louis and he has lined up 3 flats for viewing. The first one at the Anchorage, is overlooking a marina and is a nice size. Two downers are, the people are still living in it and the second bedroom is small.
Next we see two at Waterloo Quay. Nice size rooms in both units but the second has a better view. The units however are on the ground floor, something Fred is really not happy about but the worst is the fridge. A bar fridge is not conducive to everyday living. I am really disheartened as none of these are meeting my expectations and look nothing like what was on the web site we have been looking at for the last couple of months. John advised he has one more he will try to get us into, a penthouse in Armstrong Quay that is currently being refurbished. He said we must ignore the mess and look at the potential as they only got it on Friday. Well the best was saved for last. The view is spectacular overlooking the river Mersey and the Promenade. A nice kitchen with a regular fridge and freezer, separate dining room, two large bedrooms and a upstairs lounge or family room with a walkout balcony that will house a bar-b-que and small patio set, plus a good storage cupboard. So we put down our holding deposit and fill out the necessary forms and hope to hear Friday if we can move in next Wednesday. So it is all coming together slowly. Next the car hunt!!
Ta ra, (Liverpudlian for Bye for Now)
Sandy & Fred
May 10, 2009 - Up to Liverpool
Greetings All,
Today we are headed to Liverpool in a large car by British standards. We have a Ford Mondeo which is a very comfortable car and the trunk is so large it handles all our luggage. The drive up is for the most part non eventful with me having only 4 " Holy Shit " moments on the way out. It is lovely and green everywhere and we arrive at Fred's cousin Celia's in time for a pre-supper drink and supper which is called tea. Tomorrow we head out early to the town centre .
Cheerio,
Sandy & Fred
Today we are headed to Liverpool in a large car by British standards. We have a Ford Mondeo which is a very comfortable car and the trunk is so large it handles all our luggage. The drive up is for the most part non eventful with me having only 4 " Holy Shit " moments on the way out. It is lovely and green everywhere and we arrive at Fred's cousin Celia's in time for a pre-supper drink and supper which is called tea. Tomorrow we head out early to the town centre .
Cheerio,
Sandy & Fred
Saturday, May 9, 2009
May 9- Last Day in London
Greetings All,
Well today was to be a day for doing another dreaded packing again as we head to Liverpool. But that all changed with a scan of the morning paper. Adrienne has a kids day at the Asia House Festival which she was dreading and asking for volunteers. We passed as I found a Morris Men Exhibition at Trafalgar Square. So we head out to see the show at noon walking up in record time for me. We have never been in London this late on our previous trips and it is like someone opened up the bowels of the earth and spit out the hoards of people. It is crazy busy and not yet the start of the tourist season.
A little history of the Morris Men Dance. It is a dance done by 6 men and a leader that celebrated the end of winter sometimes with sacrifices to ensure a good spring and always happened during the first two weeks of May. Around 1450 the dance changed slightly and is very much what we see today. Clean white scarves replaced heads or what ever animal was sacrificed and sticks replaced swords. Today they had a number of counties represented from all over England in the square. Some of the music sounded very much like pirate jigs and although some of the dances looked very much the same there were a number of differences in each dance that we could not see as we did not understand the various subtle nuances. The square was itself busy with the dancers competing with a Falun Chinese celebration.
After the show we walked back to the Morpeth Pub for a late lunch as we were heading off to a footie match. Liverpool versus West Ham United. The tube ride out was packed and Fred was asked if he came down from Liverpool to watch the game as he had his Liverpool jacket on and we were both sporting Liverpool scarves. He responded no Canada and reactions around us was funny to say the least.
The games was an amazing experience. Because of John's bad back I got to go and we had fabulous seats. In the 10th row from the field. Really should get danger pay to sit where we were, balls were flying all around us. The poor kid right in front of us got a good shoot in the head during practice time. The fans are very entertaining and lively with singing songs for players and praise for the team. The best was when West Ham fans started to leave early because they were losing they sang and waved "Show Me The Way To Go Home". Leaving the game is an experience in itself. 34591 people leaving the stadium and all heading for the tube can be quite a experience but everything was orderly and we made good time getting back.
On the tube ride back we met some West Ham fans; two in particular the were drowning there sorrows. They had a bottle of wine that they were swigging and we thought OMG trouble as we were sitting right beside them. Turns out they were harmless and rather funny. Once they found out we were from Canada, Fred answered what questions he could and I barely understood what he said given the drunken accent. Well back to the flat faster then the trip out and were were treated to Limoncello with apple and raspberry pie. Last but not least a nightcap at the Morpeth. Tomorrow we are Liverpool bound to look for a place to live.
I must also warn that we may be out of contact for a bit so please don't panic.
Cheerio for now,
Sandy & Fred
Well today was to be a day for doing another dreaded packing again as we head to Liverpool. But that all changed with a scan of the morning paper. Adrienne has a kids day at the Asia House Festival which she was dreading and asking for volunteers. We passed as I found a Morris Men Exhibition at Trafalgar Square. So we head out to see the show at noon walking up in record time for me. We have never been in London this late on our previous trips and it is like someone opened up the bowels of the earth and spit out the hoards of people. It is crazy busy and not yet the start of the tourist season.
A little history of the Morris Men Dance. It is a dance done by 6 men and a leader that celebrated the end of winter sometimes with sacrifices to ensure a good spring and always happened during the first two weeks of May. Around 1450 the dance changed slightly and is very much what we see today. Clean white scarves replaced heads or what ever animal was sacrificed and sticks replaced swords. Today they had a number of counties represented from all over England in the square. Some of the music sounded very much like pirate jigs and although some of the dances looked very much the same there were a number of differences in each dance that we could not see as we did not understand the various subtle nuances. The square was itself busy with the dancers competing with a Falun Chinese celebration.
After the show we walked back to the Morpeth Pub for a late lunch as we were heading off to a footie match. Liverpool versus West Ham United. The tube ride out was packed and Fred was asked if he came down from Liverpool to watch the game as he had his Liverpool jacket on and we were both sporting Liverpool scarves. He responded no Canada and reactions around us was funny to say the least.
The games was an amazing experience. Because of John's bad back I got to go and we had fabulous seats. In the 10th row from the field. Really should get danger pay to sit where we were, balls were flying all around us. The poor kid right in front of us got a good shoot in the head during practice time. The fans are very entertaining and lively with singing songs for players and praise for the team. The best was when West Ham fans started to leave early because they were losing they sang and waved "Show Me The Way To Go Home". Leaving the game is an experience in itself. 34591 people leaving the stadium and all heading for the tube can be quite a experience but everything was orderly and we made good time getting back.
On the tube ride back we met some West Ham fans; two in particular the were drowning there sorrows. They had a bottle of wine that they were swigging and we thought OMG trouble as we were sitting right beside them. Turns out they were harmless and rather funny. Once they found out we were from Canada, Fred answered what questions he could and I barely understood what he said given the drunken accent. Well back to the flat faster then the trip out and were were treated to Limoncello with apple and raspberry pie. Last but not least a nightcap at the Morpeth. Tomorrow we are Liverpool bound to look for a place to live.
I must also warn that we may be out of contact for a bit so please don't panic.
Cheerio for now,
Sandy & Fred
Friday, May 8, 2009
May 8, 2009 - Tour of Old Stomping Ground
Greetings All,
Well today we woke up to a fairly steady rain so did some laundry while deciding where to head out to. By the time the laundry was done it had cleared up so we took the tube down to the Borough Market. Once we got out of the tube we had to take cover for about 3 minutes as it started to hail. It quickly turned to rain then sun. At the market we wandered around taking in the sites and smells of food and shared a double lamb burger for lunch.
We then headed up the south bank of the Thames, old ground we have previously covered each trip to London but a lovely walk and always makes me feel that I have finally arrived in London. It is quite windy but very refreshing and surprisingly busy.As we walking arm in arm a rummy approached us and started to sing lovers, lovers how great that makes me feel. After we passed him Fred say's you sure do attract them Sandy! Me why me could be Fred :)! Once we are passed the London Eye we decide to cut up through Whitehall and head to St. James's Park. Before entering the park we stop to rest and grab some refreshment at The Clarence a pint of Adnams Guest Ale for Fred and 1/2 pint of Cider for me. Fortified we head on to St. James's Park. The flowers are in bloom but the flowering trees are very quickly losing their blooms with the strong wind. The tulips are also almost finished but those remaining are very beautiful. Amazingly they have the tomato and other vegetable plants out ready to be planted in the veggie section of the park.
The lake in St. James's is being drained to clean the sludge from the bottom of it and it seems to have disturbed some of the water fowl. A large white pelican is strutting along the path and chasing some of the people who are unsure of it and are in its way. It finally tires of his games and returns to what little water there is.
Once through the park the Coldstream Guards band is practicing on the parade ground of the barrack in full uniform. We stop here for a photo op and then carry on back up to the flat. We are getting to know our way around so well that maps are no longer required for the familiar tourist sites. We stop once more for refreshment as I am now really dragging my ass. A stop at the local pub The White Swan pint of Adnams Bitter for Fred and 1/2 pint of cider for me. We did discuss how come I never tried cider previously as it is cheaper then wine. Fred was quick to answer that before I was on my holidays so he felt I should have what I wanted now as we will be living here we are have to be more frugal. Right I laugh as he knows I will get what I want regardless.
Just another little note of differences over here. A number of words are pronounced very differently here, controversy is a good one and they say brilliant here when they mean it is fabulous were we say brilliant when we are being sarcastic like he is brilliant like a idiot. Should come up with some very new sayings once we get to Liverpool. Well today we were walking for about 3 1/2 hours when you take out the refreshment breaks but no idea as to miles. Just know I returned pooped.
Lastly Fred will be posting to Flickr later.
Cheerio,
Sandy & Fred
Well today we woke up to a fairly steady rain so did some laundry while deciding where to head out to. By the time the laundry was done it had cleared up so we took the tube down to the Borough Market. Once we got out of the tube we had to take cover for about 3 minutes as it started to hail. It quickly turned to rain then sun. At the market we wandered around taking in the sites and smells of food and shared a double lamb burger for lunch.
We then headed up the south bank of the Thames, old ground we have previously covered each trip to London but a lovely walk and always makes me feel that I have finally arrived in London. It is quite windy but very refreshing and surprisingly busy.As we walking arm in arm a rummy approached us and started to sing lovers, lovers how great that makes me feel. After we passed him Fred say's you sure do attract them Sandy! Me why me could be Fred :)! Once we are passed the London Eye we decide to cut up through Whitehall and head to St. James's Park. Before entering the park we stop to rest and grab some refreshment at The Clarence a pint of Adnams Guest Ale for Fred and 1/2 pint of Cider for me. Fortified we head on to St. James's Park. The flowers are in bloom but the flowering trees are very quickly losing their blooms with the strong wind. The tulips are also almost finished but those remaining are very beautiful. Amazingly they have the tomato and other vegetable plants out ready to be planted in the veggie section of the park.
The lake in St. James's is being drained to clean the sludge from the bottom of it and it seems to have disturbed some of the water fowl. A large white pelican is strutting along the path and chasing some of the people who are unsure of it and are in its way. It finally tires of his games and returns to what little water there is.
Once through the park the Coldstream Guards band is practicing on the parade ground of the barrack in full uniform. We stop here for a photo op and then carry on back up to the flat. We are getting to know our way around so well that maps are no longer required for the familiar tourist sites. We stop once more for refreshment as I am now really dragging my ass. A stop at the local pub The White Swan pint of Adnams Bitter for Fred and 1/2 pint of cider for me. We did discuss how come I never tried cider previously as it is cheaper then wine. Fred was quick to answer that before I was on my holidays so he felt I should have what I wanted now as we will be living here we are have to be more frugal. Right I laugh as he knows I will get what I want regardless.
Just another little note of differences over here. A number of words are pronounced very differently here, controversy is a good one and they say brilliant here when they mean it is fabulous were we say brilliant when we are being sarcastic like he is brilliant like a idiot. Should come up with some very new sayings once we get to Liverpool. Well today we were walking for about 3 1/2 hours when you take out the refreshment breaks but no idea as to miles. Just know I returned pooped.
Lastly Fred will be posting to Flickr later.
Cheerio,
Sandy & Fred
Thursday, May 7, 2009
May 7, 2009- Car Hunting then a Long walk about.
Greetings All.
Today we head up the the Mercedes Dealership to check out cars. We decide although overcast and cool, it's a good day to walk. On our way up overhead a convoy of helicopters travels up the Thames and at Albert Bridge heads back down the river. There were approximately 20 helo's. Will have to try and find out it something special is going on.
At the dealership we spend over a hour leaning about the process of purchasing a car in England. Apparently we have more options then we thought. We didn't think leasing or financing credit would be an option for us with no credit history in the UK. Benjamin, the salesman, was extremely helpful and even build a car for us to give us an idea of a price for a new car. Giving us suggestions and also told us to check out dealership in Liverpool and test drive the model we are looking at. If you buy a new car it takes 3 months for it to be delivered. So more decisions and discussions are needed before we take the plunge. Renting a car for now until we sort through all the requirements.
Upon leaving the dealership we walk along to Sloane Square. This is a shopping area that has a lot of boutique type stores. We stop and have a Cornish Pastie for lunch and split a diet coke. We continue our walk into Belgrave an area of London and stop at the Nag's Head for a pint. Kevin the owner was in and we had a brief chat with him before he headed off to do some family duties.We should note we met Kevin 2 1/2 years ago. A pint of cider for me is way to much but the rest was nice. The trees have flowered and some roses are in bloom already. We were out approximately five hours and Fred figures we walked about 5 or 6 miles in total.Tired but feeling like we accomplished something today we returned to the flat to relax.
Cheerio,
Sandy & Fred
Today we head up the the Mercedes Dealership to check out cars. We decide although overcast and cool, it's a good day to walk. On our way up overhead a convoy of helicopters travels up the Thames and at Albert Bridge heads back down the river. There were approximately 20 helo's. Will have to try and find out it something special is going on.
At the dealership we spend over a hour leaning about the process of purchasing a car in England. Apparently we have more options then we thought. We didn't think leasing or financing credit would be an option for us with no credit history in the UK. Benjamin, the salesman, was extremely helpful and even build a car for us to give us an idea of a price for a new car. Giving us suggestions and also told us to check out dealership in Liverpool and test drive the model we are looking at. If you buy a new car it takes 3 months for it to be delivered. So more decisions and discussions are needed before we take the plunge. Renting a car for now until we sort through all the requirements.
Upon leaving the dealership we walk along to Sloane Square. This is a shopping area that has a lot of boutique type stores. We stop and have a Cornish Pastie for lunch and split a diet coke. We continue our walk into Belgrave an area of London and stop at the Nag's Head for a pint. Kevin the owner was in and we had a brief chat with him before he headed off to do some family duties.We should note we met Kevin 2 1/2 years ago. A pint of cider for me is way to much but the rest was nice. The trees have flowered and some roses are in bloom already. We were out approximately five hours and Fred figures we walked about 5 or 6 miles in total.Tired but feeling like we accomplished something today we returned to the flat to relax.
Cheerio,
Sandy & Fred
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
May 6, 2009 -Amazing What Can happen you speak the Right Person
Greetings All,
Well the time difference finally caught up with us, or maybe it was the visit to the Pub for a nightcap. We slept in until 10:00 a.m. Before heading out I called the HSBC help line and asked about the opening of the Passport account and how quickly it can be changed to regular chequing account telling him what we would be depositing. He said that we should be able to get a better account than the passport account and the customer service representative should be able to give us options. I told him what poor service we had yesterday for which he apologized and suggested I speak to another rep in the branch. I told him not to worry I definitely would not be dealing with that idiot and thanked him.
Today armed with a better understanding of the British banking system off we went. Well as you may have guessed only the idiot was there so we went for a long walk to kill some time so that lunch hours could be completed. Upon our return we got the service I think HSBC would like to be known for. Not only was David Pape helpful he gave us a number of options. Unknown to us Passport accounts can only be in a single name and we needed a joint account as the drafts were were payable jointly. Bank cards are mailed and not provided immediately and he even resolved that issue by having them sent to the main branch in Liverpool as that's where we will be.
The whole process took about two hours as we needed a letter from John introducing us and a copy of his tax bill so took another trip back. So speaking to a intelligent, customer oriented person pays big time. Those who think Canadian banks make it hard to open a account have no real idea.
With two major achievement's today, opening a bank account and setting up viewings in Liverpool for Monday afternoon we celebrated with a pint of Best Bitter for Fred and a 1/2 pint of Cider for me at the Gallery before heading back to the flat.
Cheerio for now.
Sandy & Fred
Well the time difference finally caught up with us, or maybe it was the visit to the Pub for a nightcap. We slept in until 10:00 a.m. Before heading out I called the HSBC help line and asked about the opening of the Passport account and how quickly it can be changed to regular chequing account telling him what we would be depositing. He said that we should be able to get a better account than the passport account and the customer service representative should be able to give us options. I told him what poor service we had yesterday for which he apologized and suggested I speak to another rep in the branch. I told him not to worry I definitely would not be dealing with that idiot and thanked him.
Today armed with a better understanding of the British banking system off we went. Well as you may have guessed only the idiot was there so we went for a long walk to kill some time so that lunch hours could be completed. Upon our return we got the service I think HSBC would like to be known for. Not only was David Pape helpful he gave us a number of options. Unknown to us Passport accounts can only be in a single name and we needed a joint account as the drafts were were payable jointly. Bank cards are mailed and not provided immediately and he even resolved that issue by having them sent to the main branch in Liverpool as that's where we will be.
The whole process took about two hours as we needed a letter from John introducing us and a copy of his tax bill so took another trip back. So speaking to a intelligent, customer oriented person pays big time. Those who think Canadian banks make it hard to open a account have no real idea.
With two major achievement's today, opening a bank account and setting up viewings in Liverpool for Monday afternoon we celebrated with a pint of Best Bitter for Fred and a 1/2 pint of Cider for me at the Gallery before heading back to the flat.
Cheerio for now.
Sandy & Fred
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
May 5, 2009 - A lesson in the English Banking System
Greetings All,
Well today we learned it is not a easy process to open a chequing account in England.
Here you need proper ID which is a given but to get a chequing account you must have a utility bill with your name and address on it (verifies your address). While they do have an account for new comers they do not allow cheques and you must sign a 12 month contract with a fee of 6 pounds a month. As luck would have it we got the idiot who did not know the details of the product he was trying to sell to us. Here they are not as customer oriented as the Canadian system. Nothing is done in the branch except paper work and they mail out a bank card, you don't get it the time the account is opened. Staff is kept to a absolute minimum with the branch being no more then a hole in the wall. Needless to say we left the bank not opening an account in order that we could better research it on line which in hindsight we should have done before we left.
It looks like we have no choice in the type of account we can have as we are currently homeless so no utility bills, and we need a account to get a rental unit and purchase a car. So caught between a rock and a hard place. A rather flustering process but it will sort itself out or rather we will work through it.
Cheerio for now,
Sandy & Fred
Well today we learned it is not a easy process to open a chequing account in England.
Here you need proper ID which is a given but to get a chequing account you must have a utility bill with your name and address on it (verifies your address). While they do have an account for new comers they do not allow cheques and you must sign a 12 month contract with a fee of 6 pounds a month. As luck would have it we got the idiot who did not know the details of the product he was trying to sell to us. Here they are not as customer oriented as the Canadian system. Nothing is done in the branch except paper work and they mail out a bank card, you don't get it the time the account is opened. Staff is kept to a absolute minimum with the branch being no more then a hole in the wall. Needless to say we left the bank not opening an account in order that we could better research it on line which in hindsight we should have done before we left.
It looks like we have no choice in the type of account we can have as we are currently homeless so no utility bills, and we need a account to get a rental unit and purchase a car. So caught between a rock and a hard place. A rather flustering process but it will sort itself out or rather we will work through it.
Cheerio for now,
Sandy & Fred
Monday, May 4, 2009
May 4, 2009 - England Bound
Greetings All,
Hard to believe that we are finally beginning our next chapter in our lives. Packing our bags for the move was brutal. The ticket led us to think that we were each only allowed 50 lbs in total for two bags. Reality was it was 50 lbs for each bag. Check in at the airport was also a major pain in the ass. We get in the line and an attendant tells us to go around to section K to sign in. We get there and the women asks us if we are executive class. We tell her no and she then tells us to go back and we snap we were told to come here. She rather reluctantly takes us then weighs our carry on something that has never been done before. Tells Fred he has to lose 3 lbs and me 13 lbs. Fred says give us our boarding passes back and we will sort it out. Now I am really ticked and tell Fred it's his mother in my bag that is making it heavy. Well we sort it out. Out comes Amy, my laptop and purse. We go back and she asks to weigh my bag again. Well now I am under so I said to Fred give me your mother back and plunk her on the scale. Well she is too heavy to go back in and so I ask her what am I supposed to do with my mother-in-law. She says carry her on as you are allowed two carry on bags each that can weigh 22 lbs. Now I ask you If I can have two bags that equal 44 pounds and we each have one that that while over comes under the weight what is the big deal. Any way we go through carrying the laptop, my purse and Amy separate plus my carry-on and get through security. Now you are wondering what happened with all our carry-on pieces once we were out of sight You know it I put everything back in the carry on and off we went to Timmy's for a much needed tea & coffee. Now I know why Fred gets so ticked with Canadian airports.
Thank god the rest of the trip went very well. We had a fairly smooth ride over and came in almost a hour early due to strong tailwinds despite a 15 minute delay taking off. Adrienne picked us up at the airport and after a short search for the car (she lost it) :) we arrived safe and sound at their flat. John welcomed us to England with a bottle of Champagne .
Cheerio and stayed tuned for more adventures.
Sandy & Fred
Hard to believe that we are finally beginning our next chapter in our lives. Packing our bags for the move was brutal. The ticket led us to think that we were each only allowed 50 lbs in total for two bags. Reality was it was 50 lbs for each bag. Check in at the airport was also a major pain in the ass. We get in the line and an attendant tells us to go around to section K to sign in. We get there and the women asks us if we are executive class. We tell her no and she then tells us to go back and we snap we were told to come here. She rather reluctantly takes us then weighs our carry on something that has never been done before. Tells Fred he has to lose 3 lbs and me 13 lbs. Fred says give us our boarding passes back and we will sort it out. Now I am really ticked and tell Fred it's his mother in my bag that is making it heavy. Well we sort it out. Out comes Amy, my laptop and purse. We go back and she asks to weigh my bag again. Well now I am under so I said to Fred give me your mother back and plunk her on the scale. Well she is too heavy to go back in and so I ask her what am I supposed to do with my mother-in-law. She says carry her on as you are allowed two carry on bags each that can weigh 22 lbs. Now I ask you If I can have two bags that equal 44 pounds and we each have one that that while over comes under the weight what is the big deal. Any way we go through carrying the laptop, my purse and Amy separate plus my carry-on and get through security. Now you are wondering what happened with all our carry-on pieces once we were out of sight You know it I put everything back in the carry on and off we went to Timmy's for a much needed tea & coffee. Now I know why Fred gets so ticked with Canadian airports.
Thank god the rest of the trip went very well. We had a fairly smooth ride over and came in almost a hour early due to strong tailwinds despite a 15 minute delay taking off. Adrienne picked us up at the airport and after a short search for the car (she lost it) :) we arrived safe and sound at their flat. John welcomed us to England with a bottle of Champagne .
Cheerio and stayed tuned for more adventures.
Sandy & Fred
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