Wonder-ful

I have just booked tickets for James & I to see Stevie Wonder on his European tour - at Manchester. I dont go to many concerts, but this one I just couldnt resist!! Its on Friday 3rd October.

In fact, I have seen Stevie many years ago - probably about 20 years ago, when I took my sister, Mia (as a mere child). It was her first concert, and what a first!

Oooh, I am very excited. Manchester is just over 2 hours away, so Ive also taken advantage of the good deals with Travelodge (£29 per room) just 3 miles from the concert venue, so we can make the most of the evening.

Right, better get packing for my holiday tomorrow. What does one bring on a caravanning holiday in North Yorkshire? (answer: everything for every eventuality and weather condition!)

New windows

Ive finally managed to spend some money on my house and have proper workmen doing stuff and creating mess!

A while ago I decided to have my kitchen and bathroom window replaced with double glazed windows. And the back door. Well, perhaps if Im replacing that, then I can change it a bit? I came up with a great idea to brick up the back door and replace it with a window and then replace the Victorian sash window in the dining room with some French doors. I got some quotes. Blimey! I then used my contacts at work and got a bit more discount (ok, still expensive but thinking of it as an investment) and placed an order.

So, Tuesday morning the bricklayer was due at 9am and turned up at 8.10am (dont you just hate it when you are expecting to be let down and they turn up EARLY when you are not quite ready??!).

Bob (the builder....actual name Steve) quickly took out my back door and left a gaping hole in the wall. Not good as it was raining (what a surprise!). Then the other Bob arrived with his apprentice (get things from the van and sweep up). They got through it all fairly quickly and by the end of day 2 I had 3 new windows and a brand new set of French doors.

Im still awaiting the installation of my new front door (damaged frame - unable to install), but as for the back windows and new doors, I am pleased to report that it all looks absolutely GREAT!!

BEFORE.........
AND AFTER.......

Jazz in the rain

Just spent the weekend at Burton Agnes Jazz Festival. James had been away with his kids in his parent's caravan last week, so he continued his holiday (minus kids) by bringing the caravan to Burton Agnes where we camped (or is that caravan'd?) from Friday to Sunday.

It seemed like the perfect way to spend a mid-summer weekend - relaxing and listening to cool jazz music. Unfortunately, this being England, we also had to suffer a bit of rain, and then a bit more rain, followed by a lot of rain! Such a shame really, as there would have a lot more people if we had been forecast (or surprised by) some sunshine.

The music was very good, and it was very well organised, and we didn't have to suffer the picnic in the rain, as we had our cosy caravan!

I didn't take any photos of us in the rain - sorry! However, we did escape for a while into Driffield on Saturday to watch the 'drive by' of vintage steam engines, tractors, etc, through the town. Fantastic! (and no rain!!). James explained lots of things about tractors. I can tell you a few facts - um, no. Can't remember any. Oh yes, they use them on farms!

Er....I have got a picture of a sheep from the Driffield show a couple of weeks ago - how about that?