tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65943363147229959452024-02-20T21:22:30.414+00:00Cyn in LondonI've been inspired by a colleague and a cousin to create my own blog. There's no chance it can be as great as theirs are, but it's something to aspire to... My primary hope is that it's a way for me to stay in better touch with those I love who are so far away. Here we go...Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-60237789641390068162011-04-30T13:43:00.000+01:002011-04-30T13:43:48.636+01:00A Royal AffairWell, nothing like a Royal Wedding to get the world all abuzz--so what better reason to dust off the blog?!<br />
Love it or loathe it, the wedding of Prince William to Catherine Middleton is now part of our shared history.<br />
<br />
I have to admit that I was a curious and excited tv-watching participant in the royal celebrations. I figured, since work commitments required me to be away from London, I couldn't be standing on the wedding parade route in London to catch a glimpse of the Royal Couple...may as well try to get something that will commemorate where I was on the day.<br />
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I arrived in Sydney VERY early in the morning from a business trip to Adelaide a few days earlier. In the cab on the way to a client meeting, I heard a man on the radio from the Australian Mint saying that they had pressed a special commemorative coin for the Big Day.<br />
Now, I'm not a big coin collector--but my father was--so I was immediately curious and excited to find a way to get my hands on a coin. At 8:45am, the Royal Mint was set up in front of Customs House in Circular Quay in the city of Sydney, exchanging $0.20 coins for the commemorative coins. I fleetingly toyed with the idea of asking the cabbie to make a swing through the city centre so that I could get a coin...but knew that was no good...I'd for sure be late to my client meeting--a big no no, regardless of why.<br />
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I made it through the day, telling myself that if I left the office at a decent hour, I'd stop by on my way back to the hotel and see if I could still get my hands on a coin.<br />
I left the office at 4pm and wasn't in the cab more than 3 minutes when I asked the cabbie if going to Customs House on the way to the hotel was "convenient"--like he cared...the meter would still be running!!! He radioed in the office to find out exactly where to go and expertly navigated the city streets to park up in a nearby taxi rank.<br />
He waited patiently for me to go investigate the situation.<br />
<br />
It could not have been easier--rocked up, filled in a form, and in exchange for $0.20 Aussie cents, I got my coin.<br />
I could only have been happier if I could have figured out a way to get multiple coins...so I could not contain my glee when the man handing out coins said, "how many do you want?" Not wanting to appear greedy, I handed over $2.00 Aussie dollars (~$2.10 USD) and got TEN--count them--10 commemorative coins!!!<br />
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So, having chatted to the cabbie on the entire route about his family, my family, cooking, raising teenagers, higher education, the Royal Wedding...I gave him a coin to give to his 16 year-old daughter. So, I ended up being the proud owner of 9 commemorative coins.<br />
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Here is the packaging and coin...I'm going to leave the ones I keep uncirculated.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/5672365274/" title="Kate & Wills Coin1 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5103/5672365274_763b54992c.jpg" width="325" height="350" alt="Kate & Wills Coin1"></a><br />
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And of course, telling where I was during the royal event, the packaging says it all:<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/5672365556/" title="Kate & Wills Coin2 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5147/5672365556_f1e3ba4137.jpg" width="350" height="325" alt="Kate & Wills Coin2"></a><br />
...well, nearly. I went to Circular Quay in Sydney to get my coin, then holed up eating cheese and crackers in my hotel room to watch the coverage and do my expense report...close enough!<br />
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I have a some of the coins earmarked for a few special folks. Much better than a coffee mug or some other goofy piece of tat that will no doubt be filed away and never seen again!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-87783919693418085662010-08-07T00:38:00.000+01:002010-08-07T00:38:20.390+01:00Paris...We've now returned from our week-long holiday in Paris. City exploration was the main part of the adventure, but we did spend a day in Disneyland Paris--which was, of course, it's own brand of fun.<br />
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We have aches in places that we didn't know could ache from all the walking and are happy to be sleeping in our own beds tonight. We experienced nearly everything that a city could throw our way and had a great time.<br />
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The pictures are uploading now. 3 cameras worth...so it's going to take a while to get them to where I can blog the best of them.<br />
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And it's official, Blondie is has a new name...it's "MoreDrama". So it's now, me, Paulster, Drama and MoreDrama.<br />
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More to come once the photos get loaded!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-39390800467994919852010-07-29T11:57:00.002+01:002010-07-29T12:39:58.149+01:00One More Sleep 'Til ParisI can't believe that we're already to the end of July and just one more month of summer to go. But that does mean that tomorrow morning, Paulster, Drama, Blondie (who's on the verge of being renamed Drama2) and I will set off on the Eurostar for a week in Paris.<br />That part of the adventure isn't what I'm looking forward to...been there, done that.<br />The part that I'm looking forward to is watching Drama and Blondie discover Paris, as a city. <br />Blondie has gotten to work on learning the french names for all types of fruit and a few other words. Some of it she'd learned in school, but she's definitely interested in it. Favourite French word so far...Pamplemousse.<br />We'll see how much she's willing to say out loud to a french waiter!<br /><br />We've watched Dr. Who's encounter with Vincent Van Gough and of course they want to go up the Eiffel Tower. With a whole city to explore and a day or two in Disneyland Paris, we might need a vacation to recover from our vacation when we get back!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-2678629422424879042010-07-16T20:46:00.000+01:002010-07-16T20:46:20.513+01:00Forgetting Something ImportantOk, so things have been a little quiet lately on the 'ol blog. Before I get any more wise cracks from readers who have been really, really patient waiting on a post...<br />
It's not like there's been nothing to report. (you may have to read that sentence twice...excessive use of negatives) <br />
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In the past few months, there's been almost too much going on to keep up with.<br />
Here's a list...in the order in which my brain pulls it up:<br />
1) Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood in concert<br />
2) Norah Jones in concert<br />
3) Rob Schneider's stand up show in a giant upside down purple cow...yes, there will be pictures of that posted. You kind of have to see it to believe it...<br />
4) Watched Paul and his sister run a 10K<br />
5) Flown back and forth to Texas twice...one time routing through Canada to see Banana and Sven and the splendour of Niagara Falls<br />
6) Watched my brother marry a lovely, sweet woman who complements him beautifully<br />
7) Hugged ALL 4 of my nephews and their parents<br />
8) Eaten sushi with my mom<br />
9) Experienced the wonders of XpresSpa in the airport<br />
10) Shopped with my favourite Aunt<br />
11) Read several books (Julia Child's <i>My Life in France <i></i></i>was a highlight--thank you LB2!<br />
12) Laughed hysterically while watching Total Wipeout<br />
13) Had a great night out with several girlfriends and their friends<br />
14) Went to my 20 year High School reunion<br />
15) Recalled some of the most fun moments of my life that I would never, ever want to repeat<br />
16) Baked (and ate) lots of chocolate chip cookies and even shared some of them with the neighbours<br />
17) Planned my summer holiday to Paris and a weekend trip to Zurich<br />
...and countless other things.<br />
All that...and no blog posts?! What's up?<br />
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The truth is, I've been feeling a little sorry for myself...mainly due to a health issue that is NOTHING compared to what many people I know and love have been through...but nonetheless has impaired my running and other activities I enjoy, my overall energy levels and generally left me feeling blue. I'm not real good at coping with situations that I cannot control and this is one of those things that I can't fix on my own. (I know that the fact that I'm a control freak will be quite a revelation to all my blog readers out there!...sorry for springing it on you like that).<br />
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I was walking to the bus stop the other day to go somewhere...when I was reminded to count the blessings in my life rather than focussing on the negatives. The road where I catch the bus has a Crematorium/Funeral Home on it, so seeing a funeral procession isn't an unusual experience. But this day, a hearse rolled past with a gleaming white casket in it... I didn't need to know who she was to know she was someone special. The faces of the people in the family cars and trailing vehicles said it all... <br />
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I am grateful to the woman in the casket who was obviously so dear to so many for reminding that I have my life, my friends, my family and I need to be grateful for that, living my life to the fullest. And with that, it will be a good long while before I revisit the pit of despair I've been allowing myself to crawl into lately.Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-69169942011944252062010-06-15T16:40:00.000+01:002010-06-15T16:40:30.902+01:00Breaking the SilenceSo, have you heard the crickets chirping from this blog lately? I have not one good excuse for not having updated the blog lately. In fact, We've had several blogworthy events since the marathon in April...some day, I'll catch it up.<br />
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I really just wanted to do two things, say Hi, and break the blog silence.<br />
So, the CyninLondon blog is not dead, it's just been in a coma for a while.<br />
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There's some stuff on my mind, so you'll be hearing from me soon!<br />
Hugs, CynCyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-57496832132098936122010-04-27T01:09:00.002+01:002010-04-27T01:11:02.828+01:00ThirteenThis past Sunday was the 30th Annual London Marathon. My friend and colleague, Hachie Gal, was one of the 40,000+ competitors. It was her 13th marathon. Like last year, she ran in support of the Guide Dogs. It's not too late to donate. <a href="http://www.justgiving.com/HollyYoungLondonMarathon2010">Here's the link where you can donate online.</a><br />
Here's Hachie Gal with a Guide Dog at the marathon expo.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4551749695/" title="P1010662 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010662" height="281" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4551749695_9b9aecb4ff.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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There goes our girl from the first pit-stop. Spot the flag.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4552479448/" title="P1010692 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010692" height="281" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4035/4552479448_ddd4b31c78.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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And here comes our girl at mile 18. Texas flag shorts a blaze!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4551860489/" title="P1010699 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010699" height="281" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3086/4551860489_92a6eb5782.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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Despite the vast numbers of Road Crew members, we managed to miss our girl at two consecutive stops. You just can't get the help these days. We were disappointed with ourselves for leaving her without supplies for nearly half of the race.<br />
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This is the third marathon I've witnessed and I continue to be in awe of people who can muster the strength that making it 26.2 miles to the finish line requires. It is truly amazing.<br />
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Blondie and Drama and other friends/family of Hachie Gal joined the Road Crew this year. And we made posters:<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4552442524/" title="P1010681 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010681" height="281" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3135/4552442524_1a7a5c21a4.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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Like last year, many of the competitors were in fancy dress [costume]. The full complement of characters were around. The most odd was a giraffe that had to have suffered when the wind picked up.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4552448920/" title="P1010684 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010684" height="281" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3356/4552448920_5b1032152a.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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Of course, a few celebs were on the course. The only one I spotted (thanks to his giant butterfly wings) was Sir Richard Branson.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4552496484/" title="P1010698 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010698" height="281" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4552496484_9faaaa2247.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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A highlight of the day was pushing Drama and Blondie out close to the runners with bags of Jelly Babies. For the US contingent, these are pure sugar gummy bear-type candies that make perfect fuel for runners. We had our poster up and called out to the runners that we had Jelly Babies for them and they ran past, grabbing candies and trucking on. It took a bag getting dumped on the pavement to perfect the technique...but we managed to give out 6 bags or so throughout the day.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4551832081/" title="P1010691 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010691" height="281" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3551/4551832081_1cf3a5fb8e.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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Road Crew members: Martini, C1, & K gearing up for the day ahead.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4552436092/" title="P1010678 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010678" height="281" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3176/4552436092_f800caeccf.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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And Crew Chief, Budman with newbie, M2.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4551793571/" title="P1010679 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010679" height="281" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1283/4551793571_72c0d6d338.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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And post-race, M&M flanking Hachie Gal and Budman.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4552548516/" title="P1010713 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img alt="P1010713" height="375" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4046/4552548516_830df9589c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Again, an awe inspiring event with energy that sets the whole city on fire.<br />
Hachie Gal, you are simply amazing! Congratulations on completing number 13.Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-86229897000918954542010-04-02T21:42:00.003+01:002010-04-02T22:01:33.898+01:00It's a Good Friday...for baking cookies!<br />My little helpers are here for Easter Weekend and today and Monday are "Bank Holidays" (officially no work). So what are we to do when it rains all day in London?<br />Bake, of course.<br />Thanks to Nigella Lawson, the UK's Domestic Goddess--we have a recipe for butter cookies with icing for our inspiration.<br />So off we go...<br />Dough made, check. Dough rested in the fridge, check.<br />Roll out the dough to start the cutting, check. Here's Drama doing her bit.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4484267037/" title="P1010643 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4484267037_346d12c0d4.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010643" /></a><br /><br />And Blondie with her cut outs ready to pop in the oven.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4484268579/" title="P1010644 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2718/4484268579_ba5a04a0a9.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010644" /></a><br /><br />The fun part is making the icing different colours, as you can see by the grins.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4484251447/" title="P1010634 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/4484251447_7d904a2eca.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010634" /></a><br /><br />And then of course, putting the yellow, orange, red, purple, and blue icing on the cookies.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4484273781/" title="P1010647 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2770/4484273781_d5f17661e5.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010647" /></a><br /><br />Here are a few shots of the finished project.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4484926648/" title="P1010648 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4484926648_36462aec7c.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010648" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4484931274/" title="P1010650 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4484931274_96b1e1a3ec.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010650" /></a><br /><br />You can see the resemblance, can't you?!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4484932644/" title="P1010651 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4055/4484932644_d20be6825b.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010651" /></a><br /><br />Random ending to the blog post!<br />And during all that...a squirrel visited the backyard to eat the birdseed.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4484910670/" title="P1010640 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4005/4484910670_cb9fd54ee6.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010640" /></a><br />(Of course, I had to take the picture through my filthy kitchen window so as not to make him run off) Unlike Texas, this is the ONLY squirrel in my back garden. They aren't overunning the place--thankfully.Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-5644391168033143462010-03-30T23:34:00.003+01:002010-03-31T00:06:31.816+01:00I Want to Be...Your Sledgehammer! Why don't you call my name?<br /><br />Lyrics from the most fabulous Peter Gabriel. But do you think that he sang that iconic song during the concert in London on Sunday night? NO, HE DID NOT! Are Paulster and I angry about that? YES WE ARE!<br /><br />We're getting over it, but how in the world can a musician who was defined by an album get away with doing 2 songs from that album during a concert? The songs we wanted to hear...In Your Eyes, Red Rain, Sledgehammer, Big Time...you get the idea...pretty much anything from the Album So that was released in 1986.<br />It's like Michael Jackson doing a concert without singing Thriller, or Madonna without Like a Virgin--what the heck?!<br /><br />Before I go on too much of a rant, I must say that on the whole, it was a good show. He had the "New Blood" Orchestra with him and some great female backing singers. I guess it's a sign I'm getting OLD, when I enjoy having rocking 80's tunes set to orchestral arrangements. Whatever. It was pretty magical at some points.<br />Here's a sample from Salisbury Hill:<br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="225" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=60c193c413&photo_id=4476033457&hd_default=false"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=60c193c413&photo_id=4476033457&hd_default=false" height="225" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br />Admit it, it sounds pretty darn great, doesn't it?!<br /><br />Here's a pic of Mr. Gabriel on stage:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4476020993/" title="P1010615 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2714/4476020993_5d8046acd6.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010615" /></a><br /><br />And another of a cool backdrop.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4476021639/" title="P1010619 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4476021639_eb9efa51fa.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010619" /></a><br /><br />So, iTunes, here I come--there are some songs I still want to hear!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-15193258192282385702010-03-11T21:07:00.003+00:002010-03-11T21:38:04.382+00:00Quality TimeIt's been a VERY long time since my twin brother and I got to hang out and have a significant amount of quality time. But last weekend, we made up for lost time. Clinton came to London to look at an airplane for some colleagues who were considering the purchase. <br />Having gotten business out of the way during the first 10 hours after he landed, we had all day Saturday and Sunday to play.<br />First--stock up with Starbucks. Check.<br />Second--stop on the Jubilee Bridge and take pictures with your iPhone. Check.<br />You are the ultimate American tourist!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4415077262/" title="Ultimate American Tourist by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4415077262_894e37d98b.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="Ultimate American Tourist" /></a><br /><br />And I join in...with my Starbucks cup! (You can take the girl out of Texas...)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4414314227/" title="P1010577 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4414314227_3e79e90095.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010577" /></a><br /><br />Here's a shot of Paulster, Drama, Blondie and Clinton on the Jubilee Bridge.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4415079742/" title="Paulster, Drama, Blondie and Clinton by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4055/4415079742_2c59672c88.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="Paulster, Drama, Blondie and Clinton" /></a><br /><br />Cyn's Standard 48 hour First-timer Tour includes a River Cruise, "flight" on the London Eye, and a visit to the Tower of London. So...true to form, off we went.<br />Here's a self-portrait from the deck of the cruise. It was sooooo cold--but beautifully sunny!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4415087928/" title="P1010580 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4415087928_219f531593.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010580" /></a><br /><br />A shot of Clinton and the girls...before we all retreated to the warmth of the inside of the boat!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4414322541/" title="P1010581 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4414322541_ab968151b7.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010581" /></a><br /><br />On to the Eye...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4415094080/" title="P1010583 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4415094080_afeb067a44.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010583" /></a><br /><br />Blondie...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4415101740/" title="P1010586 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4415101740_d4ea129056.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010586" /></a><br /><br />And everyone...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4415110446/" title="P1010590 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/4415110446_31c9fdaf78.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010590" /></a><br /><br />I never get tired of that view...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4414348869/" title="P1010593 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4054/4414348869_782677d472.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010593" /></a><br /><br />Day 2: The Monument to the Great Fire of London (1666)...you can almost see Clinton down there.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4414360955/" title="P1010598 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2756/4414360955_d42f81dc8a.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010598" /></a><br /><br />Clinton modelling his Howls for Haiti shirt at the Tower.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4414375801/" title="P1010605 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4414375801_f2066243f3.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010605" /></a><br /><br />On the walk back to the Tube...City Hall and a look back at Tower Bridge.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4415159804/" title="P1010611 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4036/4415159804_4d2766bf0e.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010611" /></a><br /><br />Long overdue, but what a great visit!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-78970965682796887112010-03-01T00:06:00.002+00:002010-03-01T00:17:06.636+00:00The Miracle of the InternetIt is with laptop running wirelessly that I inform you we have successfully re-established the Miracle of the Internet in our home! Well, I can't exactly take credit for it...I did unpack the new router and plugged it in...it was Paulster who made it work.<br />I had accidentally plugged something in wrong, so Paulster had to call tech support who diagnosed the problem. Doh! Oh well, so I did it correctly the last two times...getting it wrong once isn't so bad. In my defense, I was on a conference call at the time of assembly--so attention divided. Excuses, excuses! ;)<br /><br />While it was nice to have a technological break on some fronts...on others, it was just down right inconvenient not to have it.<br /><br />So, pictures from the weekend in Sheffield for Dora and Paulster's birthday are currently uploading for blog posting soon. Among other activities that we need to catch up on! Stay tuned!!!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-24398390881083940582010-02-24T22:48:00.003+00:002010-02-24T22:53:53.200+00:00A Trip Back in TimeWell, I can't actually remember when the last time was that my house did NOT have an internet connection. But that's the condition we find ourselves in at the moment. <br />A not-so-funny comedy of errors is to blame, I'll spare you the details of administrative "issues" at the phone/broadband company and communication problems that spawned this whole thing.<br /><br />So, it's not that we haven't done anything fun in the last month--in fact, we have. I just haven't had a way to upload photos and post on the blog from the homestead. <br /><br />Yes, I could've done it from the office, but suddenly, I find myself pretty busy--so haven't taken the time to use the office connection to post.<br />So...apologies. This little problem should be remedied at some time tomorrow--but it will likely be the weekend before I catch up on a few posts.<br /><br />Later!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-52919874871259989972010-01-23T17:45:00.002+00:002010-01-23T18:10:14.071+00:00National TV AwardsOn a school night, Hachie Gal, Budman and Paulster and I ventured off to the O2 arena in East London. Paulster had secured tickets to the National TV Awards. Essentially, like a small version of the People's Choice Awards in the US. There are only 11 awards given--so it wasn't a long programme--but it was fun. Everyone votes for their favourite shows and viola...award given.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4292204537/" title="P1010362 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4292204537_57aeeeaa27.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010362" /></a><br /><br />The show opened with a song from the XFactor [think American Idol] winner. It's the resurrected "Don't Stop Believing" from Journey.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4292946290/" title="P1010364 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4292946290_e11ce0eabc.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010364" /></a><br /><br />And a truly hideous performance "Under Pressure" from the doofus twins, John and Edward (Jedward) with a special guest appearance by Vanilla Ice. Jedward "failed out" of XFactor...but they were kept in far longer than their talent warranted. Those two look like Pee Wee Herman's love children. Wherever did they dig up Robert Van Winkle, that mug. A couple of years ago, he was on the UK "reality" show Big Brother. I guess they just keep dredging him up for the freak show value.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4292940144/" title="P1010420 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4292940144_52d33cf2c9.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010420" /></a><br /><br />The outgoing Dr. Who (David Tennant) won a Best Actor award and the show won as well. He's a personal favourite of mine, so I tried to get a snapshot of him from the Big Screen. Turns out, I managed to get every contorted, terrible shot of his handsomeness...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4292938086/" title="P1010438 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4292938086_ba0bee707a.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010438" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4292937746/" title="P1010442 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4292937746_1aaff852d1.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010442" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4292195395/" title="P1010445 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4035/4292195395_274b65c771.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010445" /></a><br /><br />I was not gifted with the timing that night on the photos...<br /><br />One of our favourite shows, Gavin & Stacy, won, so we were happy from the start.<br /><br />Most of the people were dressed like they were going to a cocktail party with tiny dresses, tuxes and LOTS of sequins. Not all age-appropriate or body-shape appropriate--so the people watching was at least half of the night's entertainment.<br /><br />Another fun night out in London!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-1229907281963996672010-01-17T17:05:00.002+00:002010-01-17T17:22:18.664+00:00Makeovers!On Friday, it was time for Drama and Blondie to shed their locks and take on new looks for 2010! My hairdresser, Miss D comes to the house and we turn the dining room into the beauty parlor. I just got a trim, but Drama and Blondie went for much more dramatic new styles!<br /><br />Here are the before pictures:<br />Drama<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4279173420/" title="P1010347 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4279173420_a8da23e2a3.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010347" /></a><br /><br />Blondie<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4278438071/" title="P1010344 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2804/4278438071_04325ca44b.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010344" /></a><br /><br />And After!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4279138832/" title="P1010357 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2765/4279138832_2722b260c6.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P1010357" /></a><br /><br />The locks that are now history!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4279156032/" title="P1010352(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4279156032_2036572afe.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010352(1)" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4278412187/" title="P1010350 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2696/4278412187_4c5f3d2fb8.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010350" /></a><br /><br />Lovely!!!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-51370434987571687372010-01-16T23:09:00.004+00:002010-01-17T17:30:37.837+00:00Happy New YearWell, better late than never, I guess...but I wanted to wish all my blog readers a Happy New Year. I know you're out there, even if you're just lurking and never post a comment (although I'd love to hear from more of you!)<br />It's hard to believe that 2009 is over and 2010 is in full swing.<br />I'm sure it will be an eventful year!<br /><br />Paulster and I celebrated in our traditional way (except last year when we went to a party)--which was make our way to a pub on the Southbank of the river Thames in London, claw our way to the bar a couple of times--wow, it's crowded--and then wander out into the street to watch the fireworks from just below the London Eye.<br /><br />It's always a spectacular show (the fireworks, I mean)--and people watching in the pub is always a hoot...one of my favourite past times.<br /><br />Here are a few photos of the evening:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4277266741/" title="P1010315(2) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2788/4277266741_eb00b9d1a2.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010315(2)" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4277193555/" title="P1010324(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2689/4277193555_925204387b.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010324(1)" /></a><br /><br />Something new for the blog this year...a video!<br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="225" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=37289605ee&photo_id=4277904064&hd_default=false"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=37289605ee&photo_id=4277904064&hd_default=false" height="225" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br />And the happy revellers ringing in the new year with a self-portrait! [<em>Special Note for AC: Note the hat...just like yours!!! Surely did keep my head warm on that cold, cold night!</em>]<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4277218389/" title="P1010338(2) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4277218389_dac2e67e66.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010338(2)" /></a><br /><br />Wishing you and yours a very healthy and happy 2010!!!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-88572519100923021692010-01-14T18:58:00.002+00:002010-01-14T19:16:37.005+00:00Cabin FeverSo...it's not really a cabin as much as a house in a London suburb...but, it's real. Cabin Fever.<br />I'm so sick of being in the house that a trip to do mundane errands like go to the Post Office, the pharmacy and photo shop were quite a treat this afternoon.<br /><br />Since before Christmas--when we had the lovely snowfall that made me full of the joys of Christmas, we've had off and on, more of the same weather.<br />So much for being joyful after weeks of it.<br /><br />I have to admit that the first 2 weeks of lounging was nice, catching up on a series and a half of House that we had recorded on our TIVO-type device, cooking and sleeping was great. Also, that was around the Christmas/New Year celebrations...so always something to do.<br />But this week, I've had a cold and between that and the weather, I'm feeling a bit grouchy.<br /><br />A welcome respite has been a really excellent Christmas present. It was something that I didn't even know that I wanted--but Paulster used his brain and came up with a good one. The Sookie Stackhouse series of books by Charlaine Harris. This is the group of books that the new TV series TrueBlood is based on.<br />So, there are 8 books in the boxed set that I got for Christmas, a 9th one that is out and a 10th one due out in May.<br />Some of you may not be interested--it's a bit graphic and is about vampires and other "supernatural" creatures--but I was thoroughly captivated by the first TV series. We're anxiously awaiting the second series--that has apparently already started (and may be finished by now) in the US.<br /><br />I always get a kick out of reading the books that a TV series or movie is based on and then trying to pick out the threads that are similar. With Dexter, the first book and the first series were nearly identical, except at the end. Then, the TV series took a hard right turn and kept going. Not necessarily a bad turn, just different than the books. And Bones was the same.<br /><br />I've just now finished the last of the 8 books in my little set and am logging on to Amazon to get the 9th one ordered and the 10th one on pre-order for May.<br /><br />I have to warn you that, in my experience, if you mix high powered Sudafed with these books for several days, you're likely to have some odd dreams.<br />On the other hand, they're quick reads and creative storytelling--so well worth waking every hour to make sure there's not a vampire breathing down on you--that turns out to just be your cat sharing your pillow.<br /><br />They definitely get my endorsement!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-2815661165265915362010-01-09T21:12:00.002+00:002010-01-09T22:09:13.919+00:00Christmas CatchupThe last post was about the snow and how that managed to get me in the Christmas mood. By now, we've had lots of snow now and it's frankly getting a bit old!<br />But let's look at Christmas...<br />We get to have two Christmases. One, adult only and low key. The second, when the girls get here on Boxing Day and we get the full assault of child-like excitement at Christmas--it's contagious!<br /><br />So, on Christmas Day, Hachie Gal and Budman came over for a leisurely lunch.<br />The humans in the house were not the only ones lounging around. After having set the table with the crystal, silver and antique china, Sulley made himself at home.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4252064805/" title="P1010120(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4070/4252064805_9db86bab10.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010120(1)" /></a><br /><br />Cat (and most of the cat hair) safely removed from the table and the humans sat down for lunch.<br />It's hard not to act and look a bit silly when you open a Christmas craker and put on the paper hat. But it's mandatory for celebrating a UK Christmas.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4252060075/" title="P1010121(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4252060075_9c8f7e86cc.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010121(1)" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4252048649/" title="P1010124(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2679/4252048649_b54d3563e1.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010124(1)" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4252828046/" title="P1010122(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2753/4252828046_2d6664a3dd.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010122(1)" /></a><br /><br />And for the second Christmas--even I got into the photos with my hat...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4251857443/" title="P1010180(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4251857443_5ddd5793ac.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010180(1)" /></a><br /><br />After Santa's arrival...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4252698508/" title="P1010158(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2527/4252698508_a51788e710.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010158(1)" /></a><br /><br />Note the big red card on the tree...Santa brought something that couldn't be opened until the 29th of December. That turned out to be tickets to the Miley Cyrus concert in London that night. Wow! ...and that'll have to be the subject of another post.<br /><br />Here's Blondie, showing off the trash bin that Santa brought for her room. Practical Santa...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4252644484/" title="P1010173(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2669/4252644484_a0fa43b8a7.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010173(1)" /></a><br /><br />And here's Drama, showing off her Hannah Montana calendar.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4251881357/" title="P1010171(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4251881357_b349986ef1.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010171(1)" /></a><br /><br />And here's Kenny, contemplating the Remote Control Tarantula that Emilie got...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4251861197/" title="P1010177(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2759/4251861197_b34a1255ac.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010177(1)" /></a><br /><br />Hachie Gal & Budman gave the girls some "snow". A test tube with some magic stuff in it, that once you add water, it turns into snow. Very fun.<br />Here's Blondie making her snow. Thanks HG & B for the hours of activity. Will post what the "snow" eventually morphed into later--once the girls applied their creativity.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4251838349/" title="P1010185(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2699/4251838349_37bdb078b7.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010185(1)" /></a><br /><br />And my friend Melissa hooked me up with some Shrinky Dinks when I was in Texas. They presented hours of fun and lots of homemade jewelry and fridge magnets.<br />Here's Blondie with her finished product that is her version of the Gruffalo.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4251830695/" title="P1010187(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4044/4251830695_8e2afb1ec0.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010187(1)" /></a><br /><br />All around, two great Christmas celebrations.Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-42213931514824215392009-12-22T23:29:00.004+00:002009-12-22T23:39:50.734+00:00I'm Dreaming of a White ChristmasIt's contagious. Hachie Gal has been planning her Christmas-related events with great vigor for some time. You only have to check out the <a href="http://www.travelsofatexasgal.blogspot.com">"Days of Christmas" blog posts</a> to see what she's been up to.<br />Benefitting from that, Paulster and I tagged along to a showing "on the big screen" of White Christmas in Hammersmith last night.<br />It seems unfathomable that I had never seen the movie all the way through--but, it must have been.<br /><br />A really great movie, full of iconic songs, zany mishaps, and the great voice of Bing Crosby.<br /><br />It's been so cold and snowy here, that it was great fun to walk to and from the theatre on slushy, slippy sidewalks [pavements].<br /><br />Only a few more days until Christmas!!! I'm ready.Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-75802040511093510792009-12-18T01:45:00.005+00:002009-12-22T23:28:25.426+00:00Snow, Glorious Snow!I'm officially in the mood for Christmas now. I put up the Christmas tree tonight AND, it's been snowing today--especially heavy tonight.<br /><br />Here are some pictures:<br />One of the high street in our town<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4200095624/" title="P1010056(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2525/4200095624_96c3fb1e22.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010056(1)" /></a><br /><br />And one of Kenny stomping around in the snow<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4206651417/" title="P1010075(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2638/4206651417_3be8239bc0.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010075(1)" /></a><br /><br />And Sulley, taking it all in...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4199328979/" title="P1010060(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2619/4199328979_74d058e9f1.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010060(1)" /></a><br /><br />The back garden<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4200071514/" title="P1010063(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2726/4200071514_b5f637ff71.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010063(1)" /></a><br /><br />A few days later, we got another snowstorm that lasted at least half an hour. This picture makes me laugh, because the huge snowflakes were showing up on the photo like shooting stars.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4199468143/" title="P1010090(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2690/4199468143_cb84793bcd.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010090(1)" /></a><br /><br />And here are a few of the Christmas decorations.<br />The stockings were hung on the STAIRCASE with care (we have to improvise...no chimney.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4199286361/" title="P1010072(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2573/4199286361_d782cc9b96.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010072(1)" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4199280539/" title="P1010074(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2707/4199280539_2748a4b5a2.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1010074(1)" /></a><br /><br />Kenny, holding down the sofa and his Christmas pillow [cushion].<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4200218488/" title="P1010092(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2755/4200218488_fc7f9b9680.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010092(1)" /></a>Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-50031295535928936042009-12-13T23:35:00.004+00:002009-12-16T20:52:45.427+00:00More to be Thankful for...those laugh out loud moments. Even if they are at someone else's expense...<br />So, a well-known side effect of Thanksgiving is the post-lunch nap.<br />And O...in addition to taking in some traditional Thanksgiving fare, is recovering from double knee replacement--requiring some serious meds.<br />Ergo, nap time for her and entertainment/photo opps for us...<br />Pre-Thanksgiving lunch nap:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4174705833/" title="P1000975 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2759/4174705833_79a73c4561.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000975" /></a><br /><br />Post-Thanksgiving lunch nap:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4174716665/" title="P1000972 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2799/4174716665_391b40327a.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000972" /></a><br /><br />And the Day After Thanksgiving nap:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4183310636/" title="P1010008(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2690/4183310636_9972e01468.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010008(1)" /></a><br /><br />And another event that day that for me, was not so laugh-out-loud--but exhiliharting for another member of the family. When my team, the Texas Aggies lost the BIG game against the Texas Longhorns. It didn't help that my brother-in-law, BKB, is a Longhorn. I had big hopes for my Aggies and they answered the charge from the Longhorns very well...until they got 2 touchdowns behind.<br /><br />Sadly, it was before the 2 TD downfall that I had started talking smack with BKB--resulting in "consequences" for whichever person whose team lost. Turns out, I was the one having to don one of his burnt orange shirts emblazoned with the Longhorn logo, with my hand making the "Hook 'Em Horns" symbol. Complete humiliation for an Aggie...<br /><br />Here's BKB holding the shirt that I eventually wore for my "punishment".<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4183259030/" title="P1000978 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2768/4183259030_77cf957b60.jpg" width="446" height="500" alt="P1000978" /></a><br /><br />I'm awaiting the picture of me in the shirt making the obscene gesture. I'll post it as soon as I have it...<br /><br />The primary highlight of the day was spending time with my family--and a killer smoked turkey cooked by BKB--monitored by my oldest nephew.<br />Here are some snaps of each.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4175502752/" title="P1000964 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2642/4175502752_28da376ffb.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000964" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4174722237/" title="P1000971 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2667/4174722237_f5e4a4e0e5.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000971" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4175490228/" title="P1000968 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/4175490228_4f39c30df5.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000968" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4175509900/" title="P1000962 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2775/4175509900_8d899aa8a5.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000962" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4174738815/" title="P1000965 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2517/4174738815_9277ce766c.jpg" width="331" height="500" alt="P1000965" /></a><br />The hostess with the mostess! Many thanks LB2 for a great Thanksgiving celebration!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-67495026263919760252009-12-10T22:02:00.001+00:002009-12-11T01:30:42.768+00:00I'm Thankful For......Getting to make a trip back to Texas for Thanksgiving. And getting a side-trip to Shreveport/Bossier pre-Thanksgiving.<br /><br />It was great to catch up with so many folks--and even then, there were several more that I didn't get to catch up with.<br /><br />During the pre-Thanksgiving trip to Shreveport/Bossier, O and I stopped in to visit a few more special ladies.<br />Here they are!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4175517458/" title="P1000960 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2680/4175517458_f87f8e3ae9.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000960" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4175523780/" title="P1000958 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2514/4175523780_81dc916ed2.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000958" /></a><br /><br />After our visit, O and I went back home to finish up some cooking for the Thanksgiving Feast that was due the next day.<br />The next day--Thanksgiving Day, we shuffled into Captain Cletus' car and headed down the road.<br /><br />After a few stops to stretch our legs and some game day traffic--we made it. What a welcoming site to see the day's menu posted for us!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4174698915/" title="P1000977 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2495/4174698915_23b800e632.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1000977" /></a><br /><br />There was even a place on the board that listed who our "waiters" were (my nephews topped the list).<br />With a greeting like that...you know it's going to be a good day.<br /><br />...more on that later...it's late!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-90930751271120428582009-12-06T13:54:00.002+00:002009-12-06T14:27:14.871+00:00Mama's Got a New Set of WheelsI'll re-cap the Texas Thanksgiving trip soon enough...hold your horses for that...<br />Today's post is about one thing that I'm thankful for. While I was home Ouida got a new car. As much good as the Suburban has been for hauling people and goods, it was worn out.<br />It was a gas-guzzler to begin with, so we borrowed Cletus' car to do all of our Thanksgiving driving. This prompted the conversations about whether the Suburban had served it's purpose and was ready for replacement...<br />When, on the Monday after Thanksgiving, it left Ouida stranded on the main road in our hometown with a pooped-out alternator--the answer was a clear YES!<br /><br />Another thing to be thankful for is a car dealer in the family. While none of us can afford the "new" cars he sells, Cousin H has great connections in the gently-used car department and had exactly what Ouida wanted.<br /><br />Here's Ouida in her last drive in the Suburban.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4162296677/" title="P1010017(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2795/4162296677_7c09aa2441.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010017(1)" /></a><br /><br />And being chauffeured to lunch by Cousin H. Mexican food is always a perfect way to celebrate.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4162283621/" title="P1010020(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2487/4162283621_d1c4637f6e.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010020(1)" /></a><br /><br />And here's Ouida's new ride...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4163026106/" title="P1010025(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2720/4163026106_16e64b388d.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010025(1)" /></a><br /><br />That's one happy customer!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4163038952/" title="P1010022(1) by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2795/4163038952_35903d1540.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1010022(1)" /></a>Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-12981724440312632022009-11-25T00:59:00.004+00:002009-12-11T00:57:52.295+00:00A Night with the WoodsToday, O and I hopped (OK...it was more of a shuffle) into the car (OK...it was Captain Cletus' car) and drove to Louisiana to visit Aunt Karo and Uncle J.<br />The ladies had a nice lunch and visit, then came up to "the woods" where they live.<br />I love it up here. It's serene and cozy.<br /><br />How do you entertain yourself in the woods? Sit, Talk, Laugh and Cook!<br /><br />Aunt Karo needed some Pumpkin Raisin Bars cooking, so I popped into the kitchen to make a mess.<br /><br />Here's the recipe:<br />Pumpkin Raisin Bars<br />2 C. All purpose Flour<br />2 C. Sugar<br />2 tsp. Baking Powder<br />1 tsp. Cinnamon<br />1 tsp. Nutmeg<br />1/2 tsp. Salt<br />1/2 tsp. Cloves<br />1 C. oil<br />4 eggs<br />1 can (15 oz) pumpkin<br />1/2 C. chopped nuts<br />1/2 C. raisins<br /><br />Frosting:<br />1/3 cup butter, softened<br />1 (3 oz) package cream cheese, softened<br />2 C. powdered sugar<br />1 Tblsp milk<br />1 tsp. vanilla<br /><br />Heat oven to 350 degrees (F). Grease 15" X 10" X 1" baking pan. In a large bowl combine all bar ingredients expect nuts and raisins; beat at low speed until moistened. Beat 2 minutes at medium speed. Stir in nuts and raisins.<br /><br />Pour into greased pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely.<br /><br />In a small bowl, combine all frosting ingredients; beat until smooth. Frost cooled bars. Store in refrigerator.<br /><br />For a Pumpkin Raisin Cake, use a 13" X 9" pan and bake for 40 to 50 minutes.<br /><br />The funny thing about cooking in another person's kitchen is that the tools are not your own. For instance--the pre-historic hand mixer and jazzy apron. See photo below...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4174858515/" title="P1000945 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2585/4174858515_ffff0c7657.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1000945" /></a><br /><br />Pre-historic though it was, it worked like a charm!<br /><br />What fun to get to spend time with people I love and don't get to see very often.<br /><br />The next morning, we took our time getting up and about--ate some pumpkin cake for breakfast and took a few snaps before hitting the road to visit some other folks.<br />Here is one of me, Aunt Karo and Uncle J.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4175536900/" title="P1000953 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2597/4175536900_67c178ceb5.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000953" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4175550304/" title="P1000949 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4039/4175550304_98a105852a.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000949" /></a><br /><br />I liked Aunt Karo's hat so much that I went out and bought one for myself!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-72031172751202474682009-11-13T01:16:00.003+00:002009-11-13T01:29:18.278+00:00First Major Home ImprovementAs much as we love our house...we don't love spending vast amounts of money on "maintenance". Especially when there's still so much to do <em>inside</em> the house. But...this week, that's exactly what we did.<br />The garage doors looked decent from a distance, but get too close and you see the chinks in the armour. Rotten wood, peeling paint, and a latch so secure that a toddler could pull the doors open.<br /><br />So, we now have new garage doors. Yippee!? <br /><br />Before (imagine it without the car)...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4098917593/" title="House by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2696/4098917593_44ea0e37ed.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="House" /></a><br /><br />And After...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4089869926/" title="P1000938 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2794/4089869926_884f3b3a7d.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000938" /></a>Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-55073626608824881602009-11-12T23:07:00.004+00:002009-11-12T23:51:41.741+00:00That Little 'Ol Band from TexasA couple of weeks ago, on an average Wednesday night...Paulster, Hachie Gal, a couple of other friends and I went to see the amazing ZZ Top at Wembley Arena. It was a fantastic show...taking me right back to the days of driving around in my Nissan 280Z with the T-tops off, wearing my Ray Ban Cats sunglasses...blasting the Eliminator cassette tape. Back before I understood what the songs Pearl Necklace or Tube Snake Boogie were really about.<br /><br />It was an enclosed arena, so pretty darn loud, and our seats were...well, not so close to the stage. So it was perfect to just sit and enjoy the music. Billy Gibbons is turning 60 next month and he's not slowing down one bit. The guitar, bass and drum trio were incredible as ever.<br /><br />Pearl Necklace was the only song I could think of that I expected to hear...but didn't. The rest were all on the play list that night. Sharp Dressed Man, Legs, Tush, La Grange, Gimme All Your Lovin, Jesus Just Left Chicago--all there!<br />And a bonus track of Foxy Lady that was as good as Jimi Hendrix himself could have played it.<br /><br />Here's a video clip of Legs, complete with the fuzzy white guitar & bass:<br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="225" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=e45e268983&photo_id=4061526654&hd_default=false"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=e45e268983&photo_id=4061526654&hd_default=false" height="225" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br />And a few other shots and videos from the gig.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4062156084/" title="P1000849 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2634/4062156084_ea25817fa5.jpg" width="375" height="210" alt="P1000849" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4061326768/" title="P1000855 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3459/4061326768_6742bafe74.jpg" width="375" height="210" alt="P1000855" /></a><br /><br />Video of Foxy Lady:<br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="225" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=f739072fda&photo_id=4062155744&hd_default=false"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=f739072fda&photo_id=4062155744&hd_default=false" height="225" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br />Turn your computer screen to see the clip of Sharp Dressed Man!<br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="225" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=5d82d72e40&photo_id=4061036241&hd_default=false"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=5d82d72e40&photo_id=4061036241&hd_default=false" height="225" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4061041761/" title="P1000852 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2688/4061041761_42d65e9391.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P1000852" /></a><br /><br />What a great way to spend a Wednesday night!Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6594336314722995945.post-10997622321411091262009-10-31T22:11:00.004+00:002009-11-01T00:29:21.370+00:00Oh Canada!It's a sad week here in normally Jolly 'Ol England...Sven and Banana have officially moved to Canada. It was a tearful goodbye in the high street of Uxbridge after lunch and a little reminiscing on Tuesday afternoon as they headed off to the airport. <br />Here's a pic of the boys having one last pint on Tuesday afternoon. Paulster, Sven and Vik.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4062196000/" title="P1000840 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2622/4062196000_1747b1302e.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000840" /></a><br /><br />A couple of weeks before hand, a surprise going away party was organised and was a fitting celebration for nearly 4 great years of getting to know these two.<br />A quick pic of the table...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4041090166/" title="P1000776 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2732/4041090166_780e727c27.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P1000776" /></a><br /><br />They have such a diverse group of friends here in London and given their cultural backgrounds, we decided to give Honorary Canadian Citizenship (and names) to those with a Croatian heritage/name. Those of us with non-Croatian backgrounds were given Croat names.<br />My name in Croatian is: Cvijeta Anđelka Pešut.<br />Paulster's is: Pavao Vlatko Damjanović.<br />Drama's is: Marija Valerija Damjanović.<br />Blondie's is: Iskra Marijana Damjanović.<br /><br />And we all have certificates to prove it!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4040316215/" title="P1000782 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2736/4040316215_2475a13237.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000782" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4040324299/" title="P1000781 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2595/4040324299_e7a566611b.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000781" /></a><br /><br />Borat featured into the evening's celebration...to maintain the surprise, we all held Borat faces on sticks in front of our own faces as they were led into the party area. Then...the "masks" just ended up being props for the rest of the evening.<br /><br />Here's Maven looking coy with her fan.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4041130940/" title="P1000765 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2737/4041130940_a29dd155fe.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1000765" /></a><br /><br />And Budman Borat.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4040375335/" title="P1000766 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2489/4040375335_47f676af19.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P1000766" /></a><br /><br />And Budman and Blondie "feeding" Borat some Tiramisu. Lovely, fresh Tiramisu it was!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4040331725/" title="P1000780 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2779/4040331725_afcf3574a4.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000780" /></a><br /><br />Budman and Hachie Gal joining the party!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4061725543/" title="P1000761 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2458/4061725543_e7b7036f3f.jpg" width="375" height="351" alt="P1000761" /></a><br /><br />And Sven & Banana with the girls as the night ends.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4041044628/" title="P1000788 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2769/4041044628_1205627ac7.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000788" /></a><br /><br />We know having them in Toronto means one more place we can visit and a couple more reasons to get there. We've had such a great time over the years with them here in London and in several other places we've ventured together...Paris, Croatia, Brighton, Hampton Court Palace, Pizza Express, Nando's, KFC, dinner at ours, countless pubs, the coffee bar at work...every place we turn is a memory of the fun times together.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4061454687/" title="P1000839 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2720/4061454687_ceb5afa187.jpg" width="375" height="350" alt="P1000839" /></a><br />A shot of Sven and Banana one last time at Pizza Express!<br /><br />And some of our outings...<br />Brighton Pier<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4062573670/" title="Paul & Cyn and Goran & Ana_BrightonApril2007 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2490/4062573670_50dceffca1.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="Paul & Cyn and Goran & Ana_BrightonApril2007" /></a><br /><br />The boys at Hampton Court Palace<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4062573642/" title="P6100101 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2755/4062573642_978fac2d50.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P6100101" /></a><br /><br />One Hot Married Couple (you had to be there...)<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4062573676/" title="Ana & Goran 28 July 2007 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2699/4062573676_010bccf2cb.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="Ana & Goran 28 July 2007" /></a><br /><br />Helping us paint the kitchen!<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4062573664/" title="DSCN2115 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2755/4062573664_283bb9d318.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="DSCN2115" /></a><br /><br />And one last cuddle wtih Kenny...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/26788640@N06/4062573618/" title="P1000616 by cyninlondon, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2605/4062573618_8a94e37b44.jpg" width="375" height="281" alt="P1000616" /></a><br /><br />You will both be missed here in London immensely!<br />We wish you all the best in your new life in Canada.Cyn In Londonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09199816517448470816noreply@blogger.com1