Colin FotoShoot Blogg

2009-03-01T20:24:00.004Z

A brief visit to Marwell Zoo produced a few cats and big cats pictures. And a break from days in with snow before.

I have started a photo graphy group at STH Basingstoke.

On saturday-last day of February I took a bus into Basingstoke to record some bus activity , people and the usual fabulas display of crocus's at Eastrop roundabout.

I bumped into Stuart and managed to grab a portrait shot.

Be seeing you

Colin at citypool

2009-02-04T07:24:00.004Z

Hi there

And into February...with snow!

We did a late visit to Birdworld in January our first outing in 2009.Pictures on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

We remembered our canary Amos who passed-he was a very friendly ,grateful and amiacable bird-we will always miss his song.

Not much else to report...awaiting an updated 2cd "California Blues" album by Randy and Ed with Spirit. Trying new Serif software.

I'm at last using my mp3 player 2gb which is excellent once you can prise out of people how to convert cd to wma.

...now its not big enough !!haha!

i've read that Mb will be rapidly expanding in the photoworld as dslr's are now upto 24Mp

mine is 10Mp which is as big as this computer can handle...and I can afford.

2009-01-16T17:02:00.004Z

Hi there

Well Christmas over ..and a Happy New Year ...into 2009.

On the last couple of days of December Paula and I used the last of out tesco days out tokens on a trip - not far- to Basingstoke's very own Milestones Museum.

Well worth a visit...we used the restraunt too..and the gift shop...and a good photographic expierence ( www.flickr.com/photois/colinbp ) was had by us both.

The day before we travelled 18 miles to Birdworld and to our suprise and delight it was fully open and so we did a quick look around Underwater World too! (Usually it's on winter hours with not much open).

I got some good pics here too especially 3 different toucans and one of the new arrivals in the ground hornbills-fascinating birds -termed "vunerable" due to poisoning , loss of 70% natural habitate and prey, trapping and being shot for attacking reflectoins by breaking windows. i went via http://www.birdworld.co.uk/ site to a ground hornbill conservation site which was very informative. they are slow breeders and the conservation group are helping as well as zoos breeding programmes round the world.

This week saw my return to the Shaw Trust Horticulture garden project as a volunteer which i enjoyed.

Christmas saw Paula's gifts of a Lindo travelling guitar and semi accoustic guitar -so that should help me find a little light music with John , Richard, Livvie and Natalie.

In the New year i have been scanning a scrapbook my great grandfather put together in 1932 and added to in 1950's with cuttings from local newspapers in the Alperton/Wembley-Middx area.It includes reports of his son/my grandfather football winning suides of Wembley BOB's (Brigade old boys) also later Wembley Institute and Wembley & Harrow Posties cup winnning side. Later in the 50's he added his grandsons' / my dad and Uncles' reports of Alperton Old Boys cup winning sides. There is also a picture of the last throws of Watkins Folly/ the Legs which was on the site where the Wembley Stadiums were later built and was built to the first stage of a "larger" than Effel tower similar structure. All dimolished 100 years ago in 1908 as reported in local newspapers-proberly the Wembley Gazette.

Well see you next time in February maybe?

bfn

Colin

2008-12-22T19:49:00.006Z

Well as Christmas Day creeps ever closer I find more things i'm not achieving!

Set backs come and go but our canary Amos is not appearing to be well and we lost our lovely Bert after his trials with a bad eye.

Bert was a beatifully graceful bird who seemed to do things in a precise planned way-always first down for veg and very often a late night fly to show us what him and his mates had practiced whilst we were out and not looking. It was with sadness that we had to bury him with the birds we had previously lost-in our garden.RIP Bert -you were much appreciated for the short two years we had the pleasure of your company and friendship.

Managed to visit Marwell Zoo in December -got a white Rhino, a meercat along with tiger and a few leopard portraits.

tried out the new "Grasse cafe there too-excellent!

A big thank you to the Shaw Trust Horticulture project with which I volunteer with. Another year gone by. Paula and I attended the Shaw Trust staff meal at a local Brewers Fayre which was very tasty and simply run. I must admit i was a little shocked at £5.28 for 2 x diet colas-even if they were quite large. i later found that most people opted for small bottles. Still a splendid time was had by all-Paula and I certainly were grateful!

Today I attended the Shaw Trust Horticulture project meal which was held at the same hall as last year and was worked hard on and produced an excellent meal finished off with the traditional Nigel /Carolyne (with Chris's help) Quiz....i actually managed a winners box of chocalate stars. Paula and I do not manage many chocalates but we should manage these-its only a small box!

Thank you!

So an evening and two days to Christmas Day...i looked at the tv listings guide on the webb on Christmas afternoon to evening...well i look forward to HM Queen'Elizabeth II speach - last year I enjoyed it very much! Not sure I 'll watch much else -just talk and play cds with maybe a bit of computer. Definately no turkey has died for us here - i appreciate birds of a feather much more than a plate of their bodies. Maybe looking after 30 odd creates such an appreciation and a view of caring nature at its best.

Well if there are any readers of this blogg even if you havent followed Paula and I with our ups and downs with life and the animals we encounter .....

...we wish you a Happy Christmas for 2008 Festive Season- solstace and all!!!

2008-11-27T21:57:00.004Z

Hi there

A big gap ; we visited the Central Studios "open Mic" once again in November again seeing Raz and Nadeen White (ill at the time ) perform superbly.

I've a new "Sunshine superman" DVD -the extensive study of the artist/writer/musician Donovan -it was a birthday present from Paula (but my DvD plays fails to see anything loaded at present).

Last night we went to our second (& the third in the series) of Basingstoke Unplgd! check out www.myspace.com/basingstokeunplgd .

Artists included Ron Peploe with Deborah Smith, a very nervous but talanted Chris Hall , Giancarlo Catelli, Josh Antonini Project and topping the Bill was "That Nadeen White Experience" -who performed a new song, plus a stunning set that was enjoyed by us, the audience and the band who responded in splendid fashion. Highlights included (apart from initially breaking a string) the "Pale pirate from Stoke Barehills -which was very popular.

The band performed tight vocals with Raz on percussion and Johnny Marvel on double bass. Nadeen White , of course, was in terrific form and worked the audience very well.

pictures i took on my Canon Eos40d are on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

www.myspace.com/nadeenwhite to hear some tracks and find out where you can catch the band.

Christmas is comming ...Quorn is instead-thankfully!

Enjoy!

colin

2008-10-12T13:41:00.006+01:00

Hi there

An up and down time that picked up when Paula and I went to the Haymarket Theatre in Basingstoke to see an "Open Mic" unplugged gig for free. Next one is November 5th 2008.

We saw 5 out of the 6 acts all were very professional ,the sound was excellent and we got there extra early and got good seats.

Then on Friday we took time out to go to Queen Marys' College/ Central Studios "Open Mic Night" where we saw and I took a whole load of photos using for a change my Canon A80 Powershot.

This week has been exceptionally sunny and i tried for some Autumn leaves shot at Kempsott and East Oakley.

On the Wednesday i had also spent an hour taking a bus ride to Norn Hill in Basingstoke to take trains coming out of Basingstoke Station and some passing local buses.

And to finish the week i managed a few pet shots including the 3 "blue" budgies Jimi , Mooney and Rupi.

So a busy photogenic week which started in the dolldrooms.

2008-10-02T20:14:00.010+01:00

Hi there!
And into October as everyone prepares for Halloween....
September went doubly quick we visited Birdworld again with it's great new flying display -featuring Boris, Mozart and Charlie -check out the pictures www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

And Marwell Zoo where the tiger was especially...well irritated by my camera then gave a big yawn!!! it's that ..Puddephatt fellow again!!!!

We are still working on Bert's eye ..had to take him to the vet and now we are bathing it with cotton wool and water. He's in the small original cage temporarily with best mate Debbie. A bit of a holiday really!!

I've now got a facebook.com account and i trying to get a myspace.com to confirm my 2nd email address but i'll wait on virgin to sort it out ..eventually.

listened to the new or part of it Oasis album -free to listen to in full until a release date of 6th October 2008. Excellent-what i heard!!

We did a stall for Cats Protection (League) -good ol' Dave Reece was there with a smile selling Schael Guitars -hand painted by Jeanette and built with Fender parts by Dave.
Paula and I enjoyed the sale even if it was on a Sunday!!

I interviewed Latter-Day Saint Sister Maureen Nelson who went out to Africa serving in the galley on a Mission Ship. Helping very poor people medically...see www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp for the pics and historical Church story.

My Manchester City gave Harry Redknapps ' Portsmouth a hammering then lost to Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carling Cup and Wigan in the Premiership. They are playing the 2nd leg of Uefa cup vs a Cypriot team tonight.(2-nil up 4-1 on agg up) You still cannot write it any better!!!!-eh!

There's some dehlias from Birdworld too!

colin

2008-09-14T23:26:00.006+01:00

Hi there! (I even made it to blog before end of month!!!wow!!)
Friday took Paula and I too Birdworld again. We wanted to drop 7 photos in for entry in the Birdworld photo competion(7x5") -closing date 21/9/2008 - £1 per photo -entry for on website (see my flickr profile). Max 5 barely altered photos each.
Anyway whilst enjoying outside refreshments and watching an lcd screen Birdworld video an friendly robin appeared and demanded to get a photo took of himself -well enthusiastic at least!
i got 4 shots out of the session.
We caught the afternoon penquin feed (the only others were a group of 4 adults(people)) and one wild Heron -again captured on camera descending to feed also on the penquins' sprats.
We then went and saw an inform and feather improving Ivor-the talking -citrone crested cockateau-maskot of Birdworld(i think from a little island called Sumar(i).
Next to which we had an exclusive (no one else turned up- end of day/season-maybe) tour of feeding the Birds of Prey (actually for two veggies not too squemish a deal (dead-chicks{male chickens that the industry cannot use-no one eats cockreals and well it don't take many...!!}).
Anyway, we got a few shots of Snowy, Eurasian-eagle and Ural Owls of which I personnally think B/w versions were more effective/enjoyable. On the Dslr you can shoot in B/w and re convert later if needed but you get the feel of b/w film shoot. Thank you to the guide -he did well for us!

Saturday was spent radio fivelive-ing listening to Premiership matches (3 on the trot) with Paula's "Citypool"- half, beating the Rags 2-1 with an OG equalizer (thanks to new boy Reira having a great game(debut{in a previous life he played for City(on loan) and was in the team that won a 3-1 derby) ....then Babel winner. Followed by "The Family's" Gunners troucing Blackburn 4-0 -i still didnt establish whether Robbie Fowler was up front for Blackburn??? Answers on a postcard ..to Paul Ince! Then match three my "beloved" City 'til I die team going one -nil up with a £32m debut goal from another Rob "bie" -only for the other players and "Him" to go down 1-3 at the CoMS -in the end. Oh and a certain England captain got sent off near the end -giving a glimmer of hope for 6mins. No luck though but 60 times more spending power at the only Manchester based club -though if that buys into "bad -taste" someone here will be watching (if i can afford the 9squid) Blue Square South team "Basingstoke Town " FC in the near future ...could get even more embarassing if we start seeing trophys...do not want to end up conceited and big headed like some Greater London/Manchester teams.

Any which way the inheirant "You could not write it as abserd -City" I'm sure will prevail= win , lose or draw. Just hope we laugh more than we cry-eh!

Shaw Trust Horticulture Open Day/Plant Sale/10th Anniversary is next saturday 20th September 2008 10am-1pm Elizabeth Rd,South Ham, Basingstoke...all being well .

last mail i got it right about doom and gloom and magpies but it happened to Newcastle utd fc in the form of booting out King Kevin-their opportunity of a good season in the Premiership...maybe Joey B will save them come October-eh! Well it took 2 seasons for City to replace him (Joey) ...spots and all! Forgiveness is the key or is it bring back Peter bring back Paul...fly away chairman or however the poem/song goes...and was it a Lennon/McCartney-probably not a hit then!!!

On the cd rumourmill singer/songwriter/teacher Dave Reece is maybe seeing a New Year album release but hasn't decided on a title yet. Last 2 albums "Clown for the Day" Sands of....were brillient!
bfn
colin

2008-08-22T22:31:00.005+01:00

August almost over! What have we done!!!!

Paula and I visited BirdWorld , including Jenny Wren Farm with our good friends Sister Eyre and Sister Hardesty from Utah / California in the good 'ol USA. They have been kind to us, along with Sisters Clark, Vernon and Pederson by teaching us at Home.

We had an excellent Morning and rounded it off with a "Smoothie" at the "Smith & Causey" run cafe at Farnham Pottery in Wrecclessham.

What can I say? A BIG "Thank you!!!

August 25th marks two years since my late Aunt died. RIP Jessie xx

The Reading Festival starts tonight until Monday so traffic in Reading will be horrendous a place to avoid-i think!! Not sure who is headlining???

Manchester City play mum's West Ham - so I'm a bit on edge as per ususal (Half wishing Mum wins!)

Paula's 'Pool play 'Boro -I know how it should go ...but???

yeah Torres!!!!

Marwell Zoo has a huge Wildlife Art Exhibition on at present -we hope to view???

Watched a "Star Trek"-Next Generation this afternoon with a drunk Wesley and Data getting them away from an exploding planet/sun??? Will Our "Next Generation" manage to??? get here?

Well be seeing you...some where on the Final Fronteer (curtain) in Sunny Basingstoke!

we have loads of Magpies here and aparently were all doomed!!!!

bfn

Colin

2008-07-11T16:47:00.005+01:00

Hi there
Well June over and into July.
Paula and I lost one of our green linolated parakeets; "Pear"-she was two and a half years old should have lived until ten years old at least and died unexpectedly and comparatively quickly-we were devastated. Not a good week!
Last night my dad told me my second cousin Kirsty Anne Northrop nee Pearce died in her sleep-they did not know why.
I can remember holding Kirsty only weeks old -i was about 11 years old. As i took controll her dad George said "ah she filling her nappy" and they all laughed at the face this little boy pul;led. I used to enjoy visiting my Grandparents and every other month seeing my mums sisters' family. Seems so long ago now; such innocent times. Kirsty was good at computers and her job and after falling ill the company kept her on as long as they could ,always friendly and popular-like her mum, Janet who also passed away at a young age.
My condoluncies to Mrs Grace Carter, Mr Steve Northrop, Stephen/Claire Pearce, Michael Pearce and Mr George Pearce -her dad ;if still around.

The family; getting smaller by the hour!!

best wishes
Colin

2008-06-25T14:23:00.004+01:00

Hi there
On Saturday 21st June 2008 I was Baptised at the Chapel of Latter Day Saints in Popley, Basingstoke at 5PM-ish.
It was a great day for me and I was very happy and came out, having been fully imersed in water by Abraham Knell with a big smile.
I had two hymns, 2 speakers , in Peggy Lea and Erin Toomey, and a musical piece by Sister Eyre and Sister Hardesey. I was welcomed by Bishop Gavin Beere. We had an opening and closing prayer by Karon Banks and Sylvia Rites. Their was a video "finding faith in Christ" while I got changed.
Food was kindly provided by Church members.
The extra bonus was the Womens Relief came back just at the right moment to witness my Baptism. The delay by lack of a key to the Chapel -helped on this occasion.
On Sunday, 22nd June 2008 I received the Confirmation and Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands by Chris Banks, Gavin Beere and Abraham Knell at the Sacroments Meeting.
"Wow!"

The picture , taken by Paula Puddephatt shows me pre-Baptism in traditional white clothes.

A splendid Time was Guarenteed for all! ...So Sgt Pepper took you by Suprise?

2008-06-13T23:08:00.005+01:00

Hi there! Sun dwellers and umbrella carriers

June and the Longest Day and Summer begins! The beginning of the rest of our lives!

For me 21st June 2008 I hope will be a continuation but also realisation and a begining!

I have only caught two matches of Euro 2008, Poland's 0-2 defeat by Germany ...and then their 1-1 draw with Austria...I saw the goals Croatia were involved in only ..but I'll be raising an eyebrow when Germany play Austria ....fully expectant - either way!

We visited Marwell Zoo on 12th June 2008 - a changeable day -we had mainly sun. The oryx were "awake" -a 1st since visiting Marwell Zoo. I got 2 shots in a 2minute session -shooting in RAW for the day. Not particularly sharp but I 'm grateful for seeing and photographing these very indangered friends.

After we'd been there a while we returned full circle to the "Squirrels snack bar" for refreshments. We were delighted to have the usual crowes in attendance -with one about 6 inches away from my shoulder. He even posed for two sessions of close-ups. The crowes are not encouraged unfortunately-i think they should be made a "feature" ...they are inquizitive,friendly and people enjoy having them close -especially children. BirdWorld have bigger birds doing similar in the wild grey herons-they included them in their penquin talk and allow for fish given in the penquin feed. The crowes are in numbers and yes they may do damage but that's the nature of it and as far as food is concerned i think i'd be grateful of the opportunity of helping nature...after all they encourage us to feed are garden birds. I feel the same way about pidgeon who have a whole range of beautiful colours in the feathers and being bigger birds -they eat more or so it seems but then the neighbours cat also often helps himself to the seed and then leaves a deposit! Lucky he has a bell and so far has not been quick enough for the low,heavy pidgeons or delicate blackbirds!

All 3 pictures taken on this occasion at Marwell Zoo. See the rest on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

bfn

Colin

2008-05-28T13:09:00.004+01:00

News of a new Samantha Murphy album came in my inbox this morning was very welcome.

I was her well in her new pad too!

May was changable with both sunshine and rain.

There were a few stand out events for Paula and I... A visit to Birdworld taking Sister Pederson & Sister Eyre of the Church of Latter Day Saints - the Sisters are from around Salt Lake city, USA. Well we had a great time-shots on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp as usual.

We had fun and Ivor was a delight! As were my company!

Chelsea vs Manchester Utd gets an unusual mention here -following the dissappointing Liverpool loss. The Champions League Final was held in Moscow and a suprisingly open game comenced. We tuned into the radio but soon decided to watch on tv. The best move I was soon to witness; Roony coming from right back up to half way a delicate delisously delivered 50 yard ball to Ronaldo on the left wing , controlled centred met by Treves who's shot was just saved then coming to Carrack who shot was saved by the excellent Chelsea goalkeeper who was dressed liked a "Cone" -Apparently the distinct bright orange makes you aim for him psycalogically.

I thought Utd were the better team -there were several close calls. But Chelsea came close with superb on the turn shot by Lampard that beat beat Van der Sarr only to crack against the woodwork.- better than his equalizer actually! And Drogba shot which was breathtaking again beating the keeper but not the woodwork. Utd goal was a free header by Ronaldo beatifully stepping back to lose the defender. Extra time then penalties. When Ronaldo did his little cheat-stop that the Chelsea goalie had seen on previous video didnt work and saved-I thought Chelsea had it in the bag but John Terrys foot/leg slipped and his shot went wide -agonisingly for all concerned! Anelka then was predicted and saved. Utd were Champs!

Deservedly so! "When Bobby Charlton went up 1st with the players it made me remember when Sir Bobby and the late George Best won exactly 40 years ago- I was in my formative years and there were peers who were all Utd fans -enjoying life at the top-they would not let me join -I'll always remember being a failed Rag fan but eternally greatful in life's lesson that I support a better more sporting City team -for the last 41 years! Football wise I thing the 2008 team going forward were on the night equal to the 1968 side but the 2008 defence lacked a bit or was it that Chelsea were just that good??

I enjoyed both Chelsea and the Rags that May evening -the first time i've seen them play open football without little cheats and proffessional fouls that frustrate usually.

A great display of "the English Game" as a team and something to be proud of......Morning after Blues ..did I really cheer the Rags and enjoy them...a sobering thought for a grumpy old man!!

"Rainy day dream away ..let the sun take a holiday" -Jimi Hendrix

Electric Ladyland must be 40 years ago!

I'll leave you with a couple of portraits; Paula in our back garden and the lovely Sisters Pederson & Eyre.

Bye for now
Colin

2008-05-06T19:55:00.004+01:00

April was very showery and what seemed very busy-not sure what we achieved -though!

This past couple of weeks we've been to Birdworld and Farnham Pottery plus a Bank Holiday Monday to Marwell Zoo. We got Jessops/Sigma to repair Paula's 18-200mm lens but have not been out taking many shots-really!

The weather seems to have turned from the showers to a Sunshiny May sky.

The resulting pictures are on the usual http://www.colinpuddephatt.com/ & www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp The image is the Baby Amur Leopard now gracing Marwell Zoo .

2008-04-18T15:34:00.004+01:00

Brillient! Fabulous! "They get better with age and expierence!"
Who???
JETHRO Tull...yes Ian Anderson, Martin Barre, Duonne Perry etc...
where?
I/we saw them last night at the Anvil theatre in Basingstoke, Hampshire,UK.
Gripping, brillientlly, crisp deliveries of mainly early songs with a screen show telling the Jethro Tull as we all know and love.
Yes I bought the T-Shirt ..on this the "40th Anniversary British tour".

Highlights were a brillient "Nursie" + musical arrangement, Heavy Horses, Thick as a Brick (edit), Living in the past, loads off the first 2 albums, a piece only recorded for the BBC radio while at the Marquee in the late '60's big break, seranade for a cookoo, Beside Myself off "Roots and Branches" album, the first half closing with a fantastic version of Boiree (JS Bach). ...and of course brillient guitar bass ,accordian piano and the crisp drum solo from Dioanne.
..and the famous "Aqualung" followed by the enchore "Locomotive Breathe".
the pre and interval tape was brillient with versions of "Sunshine of your love" What a wonderful world" but i did ponder as i left having spent 2 hours listening to a marvelous top hole band why the play out "California Dreaming" stuck so firm.?

Brillient lads-do come again...soon1

ps no violins ???

pss new album (studio) in the making plus a dvd of a more comprehensive discography promised!!!
Thanks to Graham and Sidonie + family for treating us both to the tickets ..and to Jethro Tull band ,crew and the Anvil Theatre.

Miss them at your peril.
colin

2008-03-28T08:10:00.003Z

Hi there

Hope you all celebrated Easter OK? We had a quite one but visited Farnham Pottery and BirdWorld/ Underwaterworld/ Jenny Wren Farm - just before.

Funny ol' weather we've had ; hail/sleet/snow/sunshine/cloud/rain...and that's just in ten minutes!!!

Been trying the chords to "eight miles high!" by the Byrds -Dave Reece kindly showed me (guitar tutor).

I'm told the Viables in Basingstoke Cats Protection will be on 14th September 2008 -and Dave will be adding another stunning guitar performance to the event (Last years photos of the 80th Anniversary show are on about page 40 of www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp ).

My dad & Brother's family are in Barcelona for the week-dad's never flown before -so a 1st time in 80 years !

Paula's never flown either and I have just to Stuggart ...well i say Stuggart but because of fog it went to Dusseldorf then Munich then bus..but Stuggart to Heathrow I did. BA too-excellent!!! Many years ago!!

bfn

colin

2008-03-09T22:15:00.005Z

What did the elephant, the Lion and the Rhinos do in March 2008???

A: Have their pictures taken at Paignton Zoo and put on

WWW.COLINPUDDEPHATT.com

alternatively view: www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

Most can be purchased in 10" x 8" Print form.....

....for a very reasonable price (in the UK only)

2008-03-09T13:28:00.008Z

hi there
We're fresh back from Paignton in Devon ...i'm downloading 16Gb of photo memory card as I speak!!
Well! We set off on Monday 3rd March at 7.20am and having passed "Stonehenge" we stopped at Shalden -just by Teighnmouth by noon. We had arrived at a small zoo -home to quite a few endangered species-a lot of the small monkeys etc. The zoo helps breed rare animals trying to re-establish and build numbers, including releases into the wild (with major successes with Madagascon Lemurs!).
The staff were immediately friendly and interested in us and our cameras. The lemurs were fed almost immediately we arrived - which was fun to watch these friendly animals (and keepers!).
There was a very active "dusky conure" who enjoyed playing with his ball/swing and enjoyed socialising with us and his keepers. Quite an fascinating bird -bright colours too! The two scarlet Macaws were attentive too! as were a group of porkupines who had an old meercat (who had unfortunately just lost its partner) and several passers -by in the form of robins and blackbirds -to share meal time with- the porkupines were suprisingly cute!
The rather large Kookaboro sang very clear and loud and the many small mice/rodents/lizards were fascinating to view. Although quite a small establishment it suited our purpose of length of visit and our wait until we could book in our hotel. A very worthwhile and fascinating collection-we thought! (under a fiver entrance fee!).
Litrally yards away - the "Smugglers' tunnel" which led down to a smallish cove -my late Aunt & Uncle lived for many years in nearby Dawlish but I don't think i had visited these before (or "The Ness" which I think is a pub/restraunt.

So we drove to Paignton via Torquay and even saw Torquay football stadium via the diversion because we should have gone along the seafront -really! Because we stayed at the Preston Sands Hotel last November-overnight - we knew the way-parked up, booked in and unpacked. We had a small walk along the front -along to Paignton Pier where we had a coffee/diet cola and flatjack.
We took our camera and enjoyed click'n' away on the front including some beach huts waiting for the summer months.

To our suprise we'd bought dinner as well as b&b - so we had a delicious veggie meal.
Tuesday saw us catch a delightful sunrise which really lasted - almost ten minutes. After breakfast we made our way to Paignton Zoo -we got in "free" as part of our Marwell Zoo Annual passes-and spent an enjoyable day dashing round catching all the action on our Canon Eos40d's.
Before dinner there was a superb rainbow-bright, full and colourful that you could see the end on a ship moored directly out in the Torbay - view from the bedroom window-again i hope i've captured on film.
Wednesday we set out to "Living Coast" -again on "Marwell Zoo Passes". It is basically an avairy with displays. Built on the old "Spa" on the front and is home to several types of breeding penquins, some seals, puffins, wadders and loads of other unusual birds - based on a walk through bases -again it was feeding time-this time the penquins. Paulas' camera is playing up with a lens contact problem so this was slightly annoying to her/us!
Later in the afternoon we returned to the hotel and strolled to Paignton seafront including what the locals call "Tat-Alley" -the tourist street of postcards abnd icecreams.

After dinner we tuned the tv into the radio coverage of Liverpool vs West Ham and Paula enjoyed the citypool 4-0 win , Torres hatrick and superb finale of a S Gerrard goal!
We went to bed at 11.30pm and just settled down when at 11.45pm the newly screwed to the wall tv and stand fell off and bounced quite well!...as the workmen had been busy fitting in all rooms we joked of a domino effect!

Thursday saw us back at Paignton Zoo and we tried to specialize in Elephants,Lion , Tigers and Seaturtles' shots. We had the bonus of a lovely moment share with mother and one year old birthday black Rhino-we saw the local news tv story earlier.
Dinner was again superb finishing off with Paula having a strawberry -bannana split and me with chocalate gateaux and ice cream- talk about two kids! The other guests had been very friendly all week and the staff very kind and efficient!
After breakfast Friday we took last looks at the room and view and drove for an hour to the Donkey Sanctuary at Sidmouth. The immediate thing that struck us individually - was the peaceful feeling standing with thirty or forty donkeys -what calm ,placid, friendly creatures.
Th Sanctuary helps children some with learning difficulties and illnesses with a special environment with carefully selected donkeys to ride and overcome some difficulties such as co-ordination. A superb expierence we thought...there is reports coming out of the great value phycalogically for peoples mental wellbeing to mix and socialise with animals. On a personal front our pet birds and the visits to zoos have lifted both of us quite considerably over the last few years together.
And so a three mile drive throufgh a superb little village and surrounding countryside to Honiton and the Black Hills, through to Stonehenge where we stopped for a coffee at "Countess Services"before arriving back home to see the birds and our flat at about 3.30pm (after visiting the local tescos for supplies).
The birds were kindly and very well looked after while we were away by Fiona and the only stress was caused by discovering we had a broken window.
Saturday we did the Hurst Community School Boot sale with my pictures(framed) and some poetry, my dad (Stan) and nephew Rhys had theier own table next to us-the difference being Dad sold stuff and we just paid the pitch but we spread the "Word" and talked to a few friendly people. We listened to Liverpool beating King Kevin's Newcastle and reports on citypool losing to our local Premiership team at Madstad.

When i've downloaded the 16Gb of photos produced them in the new Serif Photoplus X2 image manipulation software -please view at www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp or www.flickr.com/photos/paulabirds And also some for sale at the NEW website :
http://www.colinpuddephatt.com/

Thank you for you time
bye for now
Colin

2008-02-23T20:43:00.005Z

Hi again-time flies!

44 years in fact! this was when i was Christened in St John's Church in Oakley (i was two and a half and lived 200 yards up the road in a newly built bungalow "Hamlyn"-partially named after Graham (Big brother) {"Ham"} and me "Lyn"} -the "y" coming from my middle "Br"Y"an name)

Sadly both my God parents Uncle Kenneth Carter and Aunt Jessie Brisley have passed-and now unless something "miraculas" -and where else should miracles be better placed -St John's Church is due to be knocked down in the summer 2008. Another bit of me falls apart-cannot even talk to my mum -other than prey or hope that she's "Around-and can hear!"

Aparently the day was delayed because my late Uncle John had a car crash with us all in -the bit of road still takes people away in the present day. Luckily it one of those big late fifties/early 60's cars and although out of 9 people only my brother (Graham) stayed concious through it all. I was months old at the time in my dads arms at the time. it made the local paper-which my mum kept the article..and relatives saw us on Southern tv news.

Apparently on the(Christening) day my Uncle wore a big duffel coat and i shout that i wanted to see the train-which if you go to www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp you can see the road over rail bridge yards away in St Johns Road. I used to wait for my brother (Graham) who bussed it locally to the centre of Oakley in the school bus and got off to greet my mum and me and perhaps my cousin Susan (so probably Aunt Marge.{Uncle Johns' wife})who lived next door-the two bungalows were designed and with help built (the reverse of each other-(handed) by my Uncle John and my Dad(Stan).

Shortly after my Christening in March (14th -i think) ...while the Beatles were on tour in USA- we moved to Woodley in Berkshire wher the family home now has my dad living there still (often visited by Big brother and Grandkids (some not so little now!!).

Standing by the fence on that St Johns Road bridge is about the only memory before Woodley and i think carved my perpetual interest in trains-(they were even electric trains (EMU's) mainly on that route in 1964 too!)

Today Saturday we did the Hurst Community School Boot Sale for something like the forth time-we've yet to sell anything but thoughly enjoyed meeting people and showing these pictures for sale-my dad might join us on 8th March 2008 with his bits and pieces.

Earlier last week or so we took Myles to Marwell Zoo again-got some great shots and enjoyed his and the animals company (including the wild birds!!)

Anyway -nextime i hope to report on a return to Living Coast and Paignton Zoo.

Bye for now

Colin

2008-01-12T15:20:00.000Z

Hi there

A quiet but Happy Christmas for Paula and I. And we hope you all have a great and prosperous 2008A.D.

Watched and enjoyed both HM Queen Speach and the history of which, programme afterwards-50 years!!!

Have not been out much as in with a New Year came a bad cold. So i'm kind of over that this week and we've had a busy week with our local carpenter helping us out -making room for two appliances from Hotpoint (Fridge and freezer).

Also what we joke as "The Clutter Police" came and the Lady in qestion was very kind and helpful and will one hopes return as promised this week.

We visited my dad, Stan, in Woodley, Berkshire on thursday and took some b/w shots having not really tried the Canon 60mm Macro lens out...so we did...see www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

Just done a bootsale at Hurst Community School with minus £5 being the final takings (£5 being the pitch price).

Anyway the setting was great with loads of trees and birds blue sunny sky for the 1st time this week and a big hall with quite a few stalls but not many customers but we spoke to a few and we both enjoyed the expience and we're be back on the 26/1/08.

Looking forward to lots more photography in the spring and hopefully catch some more Church action.

bfn

colin

2007-12-10T18:36:00.000Z

Hi there
Well into another crazy week-eh?
Went to Shaw Trust Horticulture today- plenty of wreaths being made there! Managed to feed the wild birds and do a bit of invoicing.

Friday we went to the Christmas Fayre at "Smith & Causey" - Farnham Pottery (Farm shop & cafe). We went there with a stall -partially sponswered by the Shaw Trust - to sell my framed photographs and prints. It was over Friday and Saturday and was cold then wet on Saturday.
It was very enjoyable and we talked to a great deal of people about my hobby photos.

Apart from the Whirlpool dishwasher going wrong there is not much to report this week

Oh! spent some birthday vouchers (kindly given by Paulas' parents in November) - amongst them my 1st -very own- Elvis- purchase (a live album from Vagas in 71 to 73). A Loius Armstrong compilation and a Blondie hits cd ( well i never bought them at the time-high time i did -eh! rather than "The time is hi!"

Moving on ...to Christmas build up ...
Colin

2007-11-28T23:17:00.000Z

Hi there!

Dashed off to Devon for a lightening visit to Paignton Zoo and Torquay's "Living Croast" both of which were excellent but very different. Paignton Zoo is a spectacular landscaped home for many happy animals - there seemed to be loads of wild birds happily nipping in a sharing a feed with the zoo animals. Similarly at "Living Coast" the wild life swooped nearby.

The photography was very inspiring., as was the hotel room view with the sea yards away. It seemed to stay lighter longer and was certainly warmer than Hampshire.

Stonehenge was very interesting on the way down to Devon at sunrise and a fog filed passing view. Also the scenery was spectacular on the way back by it's shear beauty of rolling hills, Churches and stone farm houses. 7 hours travelling, 300 miles in 34 hours. Then listened to Liverpool FC in Europe and downloaded 1500 photos and put some on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

2007-11-11T23:29:00.000Z

Hi there

Another Birthday week; 46 and 34 respectibly -though sometimes i feel 12 others 5 years old but usually just over 93!!

We've been visiting BirdWorld (and Forest Lodge garden centre for a chedder ploughman's) and Marwell Zoo - visiting with Myles (Marwell) and including both birthdays.

To comemorate my mum and Aunt who passed away last year we were given 2x Canon Eos40D dslr cameras with Sigma (18-200mm (x2) and 10-20mm lenses) plus a Macro 60mm Canon lens between us. Both of them enjoyed our photos - so it is with them we rememember the fond memories we have.

It takes a while to get used to the different format and sheer size of the equipment. This is my 3rd Canon slr and 6th camera (plus i suppose you could count the Canon ion camera and camcorder (canon).

Usual www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp for the shots!!

I'm using large jpeg at present while i get used to the camera.(Paula is using small Raw files).

For birthday presents we bought a winter coat and Manfrotto Modo series tripods-always wanted a Manfrotto tripod.

On the guitar - a few new chords plus "Waterloo Sunset" and "All my loving".

Speaking of guitars Paula and I also saw Michael Messer and accompying accoustic by Ed ??

at the Anvil in the Forge which is kind of under the stairs rather than the main auditorium.

Brillient! slide guitar mainly early blues (or country -blues, my favourite).

The week before we saw another set by Singer songwriter (again acompied by an accoustic guitarist) Kathryn Williams. Again brillient! Thank you to the artists concerned.

Today we heard and observered the 2minutes "Silences" for those that gave for the fight for peace and Freedom. I still hold the view that most incidenticies can be worked out without taking up arms. And I do not believe a few people should have the access to blowing the planet up-who ever they may be. Sorry! that's my view!

As the John Lennon song says "Stop the killing ! Now!!! Do it Now! Free the people! Now! Do it! Now! ....."Fredda People" by John Lennon -"Mind Games" album 1973.

"Torture, war and terriorism are all wrong" Colin Puddephatt-9th November 2007

ps "2 wrongs don't make a right!!" -old saying!

2007-09-25T21:14:00.000+01:00

Hi there

Paula and I have been to the usual regulars in our week but also 2 Fotoshoots to : firstly; a trip along the beautiful country villages of Hampshire, visiting quite a few Churches along the way and half time at the "Watercress-line" Mid-Hants Railway which is preserved or privately owned ex- Southern Railway (or ex-BR) stock ; mainly steam though some vintage diesels.

Both Churches and Railway (and Paula, of course) were beautiful!!!!

Secondly; BirdWorld in Holt Pound on the Hampshire/ Surrey border near Farnham-we're members so it's a regular for us with long and short visits throughout the year (round trip 36 miles).

Once again an array of beautiful birds and garden.

I really must get down to our pet new comers -mooney & Rupi...ive no pictures to offer yet!

A quick Welcome to cyber -World as my dad goes online a year before being classified as "Elderly". Best wishes and well done ..very brave -i thought!!!

the "Snaps!" Shaw Trust team found it's way to Echinswell -another Church to photo.

The Shaw Trust Horticulture -Basingstoke(2nd photograph), garden Project Open Day/Plant Sale (plus our framed photos) is this Saturday 29th September 2007. At Elizabeth Road Allotments, South Ham, Basingstoke we're open 10Am to 1Pm.

Perenials, bedding plants, tea/coffee and usually a raffle (our framed pics are 10"x8" matt @ £5 each or 3 for a tenner { 7"x5" matt @ £2 each or 3 for a fiver})

admision to the open day is Free. -

On that I'll leave you with some pictures from that I've taken...remember www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

bfn

colin

2007-09-11T21:48:00.000+01:00

Hi there

Well we've been busy inbetween a cold each, with visits to Southsea & blue Reef and we tried for a laugh a boot sale of framed photos, and we also went to Reading ,viewing the magnificent wind turbine/mill up close and while there the outside of Premier League's last year newbies Reading FC-the Royals. Then moving on to Tescos for refreshments and petrol and Forbury Garden with its Lion and silver band playing to a relaxed audience in the Sunday afternoon sun. Also a quick look at Reading Abbey Ruins and the Kennet river/canal. After a bad expierence in McDonalds queue we moved down to Burger King for a coffee/strawberry milkshake(me) before driving home for cheese on toast with mushrooms with tomatoes.

Blue Reef previously was fun and we hadnt been there for a couple of months, got this good shot of an Asian Otter -"pause for thought!". and some of the IOW hovercrafts and ships coming in tio Portsmouth Harbour. Having a diet cola(me)/coffee in Wimpy with a view of the street from above before returning home .

"Snaps!" volunteer job took me to Whitehill which is part of the famous "Watershipdown" near Kingslere.

Last time the team were there was in the snow and they did a display of shots for Kingsclere library(not there on display now -of course).

More guitar lessons, and cd's from Jackson C Frank (anthology)- famous amoung other things with the songs "Carnival" and the more known "classic" "Blues run the game" which Bert Jansch covers both of his old late friends numbers-ref Le Cousins in '65.

Also a new triple cd called "Salvation-the "Spirit" of '74" which is 2 x cd live and one cd of outakes from after Randy's time in Hawaii recouperating and a good deal of the material from the 2 albums(original Potato land and follow u featuring the copyright "Wizard of Oz" samples) pre "Spirit of '76" "Son of Spirit" " Future Games (Kahuna Dream) and ????? . How could i complain of such excellance-"live".."Veruska" "All along the watch tower" etc even Dylan's "positively 4th Street" cover. Amazon.co.uk gave me a very reasonable price for the pre-order.

Bye for now or as Spirit of '76" s Jack Bond says "Until N.....E....X....T.time!!"""

colin

2007-08-24T23:34:00.000+01:00

Hi there once again

Pictured here is my lovely Paula sitting on Platform 1 of the preserved railway the Mid-Hants or "Watercress" line -the natural spring water of the River Itchen made the town of Alresford famous for it's fabulously nutricious watercress fields.

More photographs from this visit with Paula and the day before's with the Shaw Trust "Snaps!" group can be found on the usual www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp & Paula's www.flickr.com/photos.paulabirds .

Thanks to the volunteers and staff of the Mid-Hants Railway and Michael my Shaw Trust officer.

Moonie and Rupi (i keep calling him "Rooney" for some reason???) are settling in ok but i still have no photos of them yet...they are tiny compared with the larger bigger budgies!!!

The new Clare Burson cd "Thieves" came from USA and is being readily played. I've ordered the other SMTV ( http://www.samanthamurphy.com/ ) interviewed artist; Izzy Cox -this time from http://www.cdbaby.com/ = Izzy has a fantastic voice and sound...check it out!!!

The Rutles album is getting plenty of play...the original vinyl was available in the '70's with hit singles from the prefab four...a spoof of the Beatles with George Harrison in on the joke and as an interviewer in the tv film/ now dvd. great alternative sounds with Neil Innes and crew with the film staring Eric Idle with Mick Jagger and Paul Simon adding their two pennith worth and Bianca Jagger also strarring-i recall!!!

The 2nd cd was "Archeology" released when many a fine band released their "Anthologies"!!! Also excellent!! Neil Innes recentlty played a reformed Bonzo dog doo dah Band tour and some solo gigs including a few Rutles numbers.

Bye for Now

Colin "Citypool" Puddephatt - non-singer/songwriter with "no fixed ability!!"

(The yoke's on me!!!)

2007-08-10T00:13:00.000+01:00

August already!!!! Well there's been sadness with the passing of young Donna -one of our original budgies . The cage seems very empty but almost ready to enter are Rupi (after the Ian Anderson album ) and Moonie - after the Manchester City FC song "Blue Moon" (quite a lot going on there!) and also Keith Moon late drummer for the incredible The Who. Both sky blues (budgies)!! Also the previous week enter 4 bengaliese finches (society finches) ) named Woody (Guthrie), Merri (Merideth Brooks), Ralph (McTell) and Kathryn (Williams) -all singer /songwriters/birds. The names are getting harder to think of for new birds we befriend!

Pictures are as usual on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp with trips to BirdWorld, the back garden and Mortimer (again).

The debut cd issue and extended vinyl style cover soundtrack to "All you need is cash" the tv/DVD film by The Rutles (here in the UK) is my latest cd listened to album.

Mainly listening to singer /songwriters at present; Ralph McTell/Kathryn Williams/Clare Burson (countdown to "Thieves" album release 21august-USA) / Bert Jansch / Michael Messer

We've had flash floods seems were having hot spells now!

Have fun!!Colin

2007-07-13T22:23:00.000+01:00

Hi again!

July already! time flies....

....Paula and I visited Liverpool football club for a tour of the ground and museum-fantastic -magic moments!

Could not find tunnel under Mersey so went via Runcorn's superb bridges and Menlove Ave (John Lennon ref).

Stayed overnight in Chester (Hoole actually!) walked into Chester outskirts (pics on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp ) -went to Blue Planet Aquarium next morning (again -brillient-pics on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp ) -then drove home! 36hours (& ten minutes , 489.3miles).

Been to Beale Park near Pangbourne & Reading -very impressed-have not been for quite some time! Took nephew Rhys along.

Been to BirdWorld in Holt Pound, near Farnham, Surrey-once again-got some good-ish shots of a peacock calling & displaying, an eclectus parrot and some waterlilly's. Pleasant & relaxing afternoon had by us both!

2007-06-06T23:32:00.000+01:00

Sad now ...Mum and Arrow were a year ago ...RIP.

Happy later...

i had my 1st guitar lesson today-thoughly enjoyed it, learnt quite a bit-not one to forget.

i managed to get lost though, having invented a new address in my directions, in the end i asked the postman then discovered my tutor was right next to him.

so i'm busking "Knock on wood" at present and practicing "pentatonic minor and major scales-a new way of G fingering and several other new chords. Need to change the strings too!

Thanks to Dave Reece -my tutor ... www.davereece.com

2007-05-22T22:52:00.000+01:00

Klaus was named on a continuing "Beatle" Theme after bassist and artist Klaus Voorman-whio the Beatles met in Hamburg days.
When he came to us to be honest he was ill and in a state. The pet shop had a couple of big snakes and the high temperature by a drafty door didn't suite Klaus (Pete, Stuart and Billy Zed).
After touch and go he got his feathers back and started his very recognisable honking churp.
Then he got his foot caught in a toy. i found him dangling (birds will like other animals rip a limb off to get free) but i caught him early( he was in another room)all in our lounge now). After a couple of weeks limping on the floor of the catch with a very caring Pete accompanying him he got better and although had some shaky up and down days , i was suprised when Paula came to me a couple of sundays ago to say he had left for Heaven.
We were very sad and buried him with our other bird -friends under our favourite climatis ...which duly flowered beautifully.
Paula wrote and read a poem for him. RIP Klaus -we miss you and your honking churp. A friend indeed! May 2007.

2007-05-22T22:15:00.000+01:00

OK! Hi there!
Bit behind with entries but you can follow where we have been on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp & www.flickr.com/photos/paulabirds
Since last entry we went to London Zoo again-just Paula & I, not often on the train-great time had by both of us.
Also we went to Liberty's Rapture & reptiles which was excellent and can be found off the A31 a mile or so out of Ringwood, Dorset. We went on a friday so did not see anything fly but we had a hot day and a friendly and good day.
We've been to Marwell Zoo too(twice i think). The new walk through walaby and Kookaboro enclosure plus attatched lovebird cage was very photogenic this time.

We've also done two things with Rhys -one a trip to the seaside-mainly Oceanarium -at Bournemouth on a rainy day-we got parking -arriving at 11.15 on a Sunday(no chance if sunny!).
The turtles - "Cruiso" and "Friday" were magnificent!! as were the sharks, rays etc.

We also helped with the Shaw Trust Horticulture Plant Sale/Open Day and in order to raise funds to replace a delapidated bird table - i have great delight feeding seed to the sparrows families and other birds- we sold some framed 10" x 8" prints as seen on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp and also some of Paulas' photos. Rhys was a great help with many suggestions and organisation skills...we hope to do more. Fun was had. Caught the sun too! (i was lucky as i left the polythenne cover in the garage.).

"Snaps!" team (i am a volunteer helping now only) celebrated the 10th Aniversary and were filmed and have displays at Kingsclere library and central Basingstoke library.

We hope to see the Champions League Final-hopefully action packed and excitingly good football once again!

Birdworld visit too planned...so until next time!
Bye for Now
Colin & Paula (citypool)

ps "turtle" photo by Colin

pss "chive & bee" photo by Rhys

2007-04-20T23:03:00.001+01:00

As an extra!!!! ...And I do not seem to have mentioned the visit to Marwell Zoo with Paula and nephew Myles which was excellent , finishing off with some very close,larger than (only just) a pussycat..Snow Leopards .

2007-04-20T23:03:00.000+01:00

London Marathon weekend - seems so long since the last! The predicted weather is sunny -good for the crowd/photographers but hot and sticky for the runners!

A few new pictures on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp since my last entry here. A few Shaw Trust Horticulture flowers - the plant sale/open day coming soon!!

And a ride in the country with Paula, seeing a deer for a minute or so in the road ahead-crossing to the field. plenty of beatifully healthy and coloured pheasants. A stop for a shoot by a gate overlooking a rapeseed field, plus a view , later overlooking the M3 and Basingstoke. All via a visit to Alresford Station for a cuppa on the platform of the Mid-Hants (Watercress line) Railway. We set out to see bluebelles but i messed up and couldn't find them (went with Snaps! 2 years ago to Micheldiever on the Winchester road.

Still what's that Chineese saying (John Lennon borrowed) ; "Life is what happens to you while you're making other plans".

Been listening to accoustic guitar/vocal music recently, the likes of Bert Jansch ( http://www.bertjansch.com/ ) , Davy Graham (http://www.davygraham.com/ -has a myspace site and a new album out in May!!! see the sites!!!) , Ralph McTell and Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens). Also been listening to a superb 4cd limited edition box set by the late Randy California with his "Euro American Tour 1980 -198?" Great live cuts included from solo and Spirit's "Potatoeland Tour" plus the whole of the "Euro-American" album tracks plus various studio demos. I must say the best highlight (and there's quite a few!!!Buy! Buy! Buy! ) is "Shattered Dreams" taken live (though the original "Free 45" single tracks -"Shattered Dreams" c/w "Magic Wand" is also on the box set) , side 4 is pretty interesting too with some live stuff...fantastic guitarist/band/people!!!! the price on http://www.amazon.co.uk/ was only £12 pre ordered including p&p -so for 4 xcd ...i was amazed ,pleased and as the Rutles said "shocked and stunned!"

Sounds like Samantha Murphy has been busy and Paula and I await for news and new product soon ; see http://www.samanthamurphy.com/ and her myspace and http://www.flicker.com/ sites. Just to remind her debut album "Somewhere between starving and stardom" was superb! Theres some live youtube videos too of Samantha playing (accoustic guitar/vocal).

Anyway have a good time - maybe catch the sun and the London Marathon ...and maybe some photographs to put on your own http://www.flickr.com/ site???? it's great fun and very addictive!!!

2007-03-15T23:31:00.000Z

Another month almost over, with Spring well and truly here with Daffoldils and poly Anthus shots on my www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp account.
Trips out included the Roman remains plus St Marys' church at Silchester - lots of daffs there! plus St Saviours at Mortimer West End just over the Berkshire border. With its beautiful stained glass window of the four seasons...yes looking at it in the church with Vivaldi playing somehow appeals!!!

The Basingstoke & District caged bird society was very good, excellent in fact! Nigel Darley gave a talk on would you believe birds. One of the best meetings so far-more information to help look after our birds-which is a main reason we joined. Thanks to Nigel .

Yoiung Myles came over last weekend and put some photos up and is now a fully paid up flickr account holder -via our birthday present. Hope he had a great joint party today in Maidenhead.

the icons not come up to add a photo-sorry! would have added one im using on the desktop saver (?) of Daffodils & St Marys' church at Silchester....maybe i'll add later???

2007-02-22T22:58:00.000Z

No "Snaps!" for me today, although rain had stopped the trip out anyway...some nice person cut the fuelline on mine and two other Vauxhall cars. lucky no one was smoking in the car park. very considerate! ....£105.56 later......

Liverpool had a good win last night in camp nou vs Barcelona.

started doing table-top photography with a daylight lamp -bought "Digital Camera" magazine as an extra treat....these things happen!

bfn

colin

2007-02-17T00:31:00.000Z

A busy week here in citypoolland we attended the Basingstoke Caged Bird Society AGM.

I was at the Shaw Trust as a volunteer at the Horticulture Project and "Snaps!

The Horticulture Project has an open day/plant sale on May 13th at Elizabeth Road Allotments, South Ham, Basingstoke, Hampshire, UK -10AM-1pm.

A visit too to Blue Reef Aquarium, at Southsea, Hampshire with Paula and Rhys (see www.flick.com/photos/colinbp ) and a visit to parents and hairdresser this afternoon.

bfn

Colin

2007-01-25T14:03:00.000Z

Been having trouble remembering how to access this blogg over the Christmas/ December period so I just relised that no announcement of Bert, Davy and Tiffany named as usual on a musical theme after singer/songwriters Bert Jansch and his hero Davy Graham, and Tiffany is after the singer famed for 80's songs "Think We're alone now" and Beatle cover "He was just standing there" and has some excellent recent albums. These three budgies bought us up to 6 now with further additions of Sammie, Mikey and Debbie (see previous log) brings us up to 9 budgies, 2 Linolated parakeets )Apple & Pear), 1x Canary (Amos) 1 x Star finch (Eric) and 8x zebra finches ( George,Ringo, Stuart, Pete, Klaus, Billy, Damon, Jarvis, ) brings us to 21 birds!

As you can see inspired by Myles -who came and took some delightful shots- I managed a good session with Apple & Pear.

Christmas was quiet with just Paula, Me & the birds....we enjoyed HM Queen 's speach then watched "A shark's Tale" on a Dvd, with a snippet of the year end TOTPs show.
Apart from that we played our cd collection and talked for hours.

Builders still are outside -they start up their noisy engines at 7.50 every week day -just 10 feet from our bedroom-no chance of comfortable lie-ins-eh! Oh the price of tarmac and lack of wildlife and trees!
Into the New Year....2007, nearly February....(to be continued...)

2007-01-25T13:46:00.000Z

New Year 2007- Welcome to Sammie, Mikey and Debbie-named after Samantha Murphy & Mike Schmid both singer/songwriters stateside ( www.samanthamurphy.com & www.mikeschmid.com ) , both of whom kindly gave permission. Thank you. And "Debbie" is unofficially named after singer/artist Deborah Gibson, known initially for her 80's singles and since several fantastic albms and stageshow productions in London and Broadway.
See pictures :

Had a sprinckling of snow here this week -a few hours -not much to build a snowman with-eh!

Been watching football on tv and playing cds

....and playing with Serif Photoplus 11 software to manipulate our images.

www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp still is fun for us ATM.

2006-12-05T23:05:00.000Z

Well December 2006 comes quickly, we lost our beloved trees outside our lounge window for of all things "Enviroment improvements!!!!!!!"???
Didn't enjoy seeing them chopped down at all.
It is also been a year since we lost John and Paul our zebra finches from the original group (named after Beatley things) and of course we had already lost Madge (gaining Donna) and Arrow later this year and then Emerald.
Brighter news is that Bert, Davy and either a female budgie by the name of Debbie but more probably Tiffany looks sure to fly in and join us. Happy Christmas! We hope!

We have last week been to BirdWorld and Marwell Zoo(with Myles) even if most was on short term winter hours and we had stormy winds before Sunday's Marwell zoo visit leaving them without electricity (but we did eventually get a coffee before leaving earlish.)

Music wise we've been enjoying The Who's new "Endless Wire" album, Bert's albums (with Pentangle and John Redbournes material) , Donovan, Vashti Bunyan, Samantha Murphy and Mike Schmid (he has a Christmas limited edition ep available via his site; sounds great!! quite cheap too (under a fiver-just! inc p&p from USA)
Yusuf's "An Other Cup" is a great album along with back catalogue. The Beatles new "Love" show cd is fantastic mix to listen too -leaves me on an "up".
Paula's been playing Debbie Gibson and Tiffany albums i bought her in October (back catalohgue) and plenty of classical music has hit our turntable ,including Paul McCartney's classical cd.

Football's been great ,even if Paula's Liverpool lost 3-2 in Europe tonight!!!
(City drew 0-0 to Watford in the Premiership last night- both on tv!
the Derby on Saturday too! Come on City!!!

So for now ( unless we get concrete'd over for "enviromental reasons")......
We'll be seeing you!!! (yes ANEW DAY Magazine would be nice too!)
colin(& Paula)
Ps the photo was taken whilst visiting Blue Reef Aquarium at Southsea (photo literally by the sea wall) ...Annual membership is very worth it!!!
Pss My Dad would have been celebrating his and my late mum's 53rd Wedding Aniversary today...to end on a sad note!
Concret don't float!!! but don't let 'em brick you in!!-eh!

2006-11-15T07:56:00.000Z

Paula & I were given tickets by my brother,Graham & his family for a fantastic concert at The Basingstke Anvil on Sunday night (12th November). !st on were Chicken Shack with Stan Webb -fantastic, Blues just how I like!wow! Then John Mayal & the Bluesbreakers equally fantastic Blues. John Mayal was in the foyer autographing his cd's for sale-i managed a photograph (see www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp) and a 5cd Box set-just out! It was cheaper than buying 2 albums on cd. I also purchased a Chicken Shack live cd which was equally great when i consequently played them.
On a run I got up at 5am, washed,dressed even loaded the photos on flickr.com but then disaster!
Dear Emerald our tamist budgie died suddenly and unexpectedly. She was truely a lovely bird and we already miss her.

Last night (14th November 2006) we went to the Basingstoke & District Caged Bird Society Meeting where we had a small show. Again some pictures on my flickr photo site.
(picture : John Mayal with my autographed box set)

2006-10-29T12:14:00.000Z

Wednesday 25th October was special to my family in two folds ; 1st it would have been my mum's 81st birthday-so a good way for me to get through the day turned out to be taking Paula and my youngst nephew to BirdWorld,Farnham, Surrey,UK. We(Paula & I ) are members and two Tesco vouchers got Myles in free along with two packets of birdseed to feed .
It was Halloween Week and we(or rather Myles) had a great time with his beaker collecting the various ingredients like Owls teeth and Snake slime at various points. We visited the Halloween Grotto which was set up fabulously and we also went on the train (road) -a 1st.
We saw the penquins then the Pelicon feeds with the usual wild Herons coming down to feed on left over sprats. The weather though chilly at times just about held for us.
Pictures are on my (and Paula's ) www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp & www.flickr.com/photos/paulabirds sites.

Thursday was a "Voluntary Snaps! morning at the Shaw Trust in Tadley. I assist Mathew finalize his superb abstact art display in Tadley Library. Ive had 2 or 3 helping him print & laminate the display as a volunteer (as opposed to a "Snaps!" member.
Good win for Liverpool vs Aston Villa 3-1 better than the diasterous viewing of City,Liverpool and Reading matches last week. Unfortunately Reading lost 3-1 vs Portsmouth away this week with Manchester City home to Middlesborough as the 8pm Monday night game on Sky sports 1...here's hoping-eh!
Here's hoping "Freddie" (Samaras) is on song!

2006-10-05T17:11:00.000+01:00

Saturday & Sunday's 75th Annual Basingstoke & District Caged Bird show was exhausting to both Paula & I, but well worth helping out
It was a busy week made even busier & busier...we survived. And enjoyed it!
We helped number the benches, having helped put them up, carry & place arriving birds, sweep the floor of spilt seed, help Harry & Sue supply a judge with budgies. And sat assisting Sue on the Tombola. My Dad bought Rhys and Myles to see all the birds. And the final thing was clear up, in reverse. We had a lovely vegetarian meal too! Followed by delicious Apple pie & custard.
Great fun for the two of us! Thank you to all involved ! (pictures on my site www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

Football we managed to see Liverpool - brillient match in Europe, followed by Saturday's noon match with a 0-2 smash and grab by Bolton Wanderers. And heard of City's late equalizer and Joey's cheeky gesture to provoking Everton fans! Not sure what Basingstoke Town did???

Monday was spent at the Shaw Trust garden Project (Horticulture).
And Wednesday I was shopping while Paula did a Shaw Trust Creative Writing course in Tadley,Hampshire.

Today was a paperwork/computer one with two men from "Mitie" coming to fix the bedroom door hinges. Great job done!

Friday is a volunteer day and Saturday will maybe see Rhys our nephew come over to see the birds and use the computer photo package.

Sunday's a day of Rest!

2006-09-13T18:35:00.000+01:00

Today brought two new friends to us in the form of Zebra finches: Damon and Jarvis after Blur and Pulp pop artists.

This keeps the "music theme" going with our birds although not a Beatle connection as previous- suppose Noel and Liam are coming soon????? No well! - not yet as we've only room for 10 finches(we've now got 9-Paula has cudly toys named Liam and Noel though!!) and a third is due with potentially the name Bert, after the very talented guitarist Bert Jansch who incidently has his "Black Swan" new album out on the 24th September 2006. So we look forward to the arrival of both!!hehe!!

Well City lost!! Well done those Reading FC players first big scalp of the season! I hear the roads were somewhat congested. Did we go? no watched it on Sky Sports 1 -good open game I thought-The red card -well the hand or arm was there but didn't seem like intent but Referees have to make split second decisions which I prefer to video hesitation and camera angles and new software which can tell where the ball was made. People play football computers don't in the Premiership!

Mike Schmid provided us with 2 albums on cd ( www.mikeschmid.com ) { "Mike Schmid" & "The high cost of living (a love story)"both of which are excellent with tracks like "Dear Me". Mike works alongside Samantha Murphy in USA to great effect. I'll urge you to check out Samantha Murphy's album "somewhere between starving & stardom" which I/we cannot put down -so good!!!! ( www.samanthamurphy.com ) There's great videos on youtube website (via Samantha's site) and a "Myspace" website too, loads to see and sample. www.cdbaby.com can also supply album by both artists plus other independant musicians at what I think is a great price range (though Samantha's works out $5 cheaper via her site if you take her newsletter at the same time , at the moment (newsletter Number 50 arrived in my inbox today).

2006-09-10T15:35:00.000+01:00

Hi Folks!
Not a great week, Dear Jessie's funneral -all the way down to Devon and back in a day-left me pretty shattered!

Watched Paula's (and half of Citypool's) Liverpool play well but lose 3-0 to local derby rivals Everton. All I need to complete the 3 is my Manchester City (the "City " in Citypool) to Lose to local Premiership (newly Promoted and an ex ("How many days?" Manager-Mr Steve Coppell's) Reading!!! (on Monday, 12th September.
Happy Birthday's go out to Graham, Dad and Tamsin too!
Well I have enjoyed my music this week (Smantha Murphy's "Somewhere Between Starving and Stardom" , Bert Janch's "Jack Orion/ Nicola {2 on 1 cd) + his "Crimson Moon "cd, plus Clare Burson "Idaho" EP (+"In between") and Madonna latest tour cd (still have not watched the DVD!!yet!!) . But I've also enjoyed www.flickr.com and all my "Flickr-mates!" Thank You!
Got 2 Mike Schmidd albums coming in the post!

So what picture shall I post?? hmmm??? From my entry on the Flickr group "Bathroom portraits"-well the original's on Samantha's group but I decided on a "Pop -Art" version.
Bfn
Colin

2006-08-27T15:49:00.000+01:00

Sunday-all day today!! Not done much-or yesterday.
My Aunt - Jessie Brisley died on 25th August 2006.
I watched the rain and the sun and the clouds..nuffin doin'
Will try to have a better week...hopefully . (God willing!)

Picture by my Dad; Kath (my mum)+ Jessie - 2 down in 2 months...this family can't get much smaller!!!!

2006-08-20T21:01:00.000+01:00

Paula & I visited Bird World this morning had a great time then watch Chelsea vs Manchester City-a dissappointing but predictable 3-0 defeat of City. Seems they need more players-I think.
Watched Liverpool vs Sheffield Utd for the other Citypool game-1-1 draw. Saw just the Reading goals vs Middlesborough-oh and the Arsenal goal.

2006-08-20T20:50:00.000+01:00

On Saturday 12th August the Basingstoke Caged Birds Society along with Berks & Bucks Budgerigar Society met for their Annual Bar-B-Que at Nigel & Sheila Darley's house.
Paula accompanied me there for a good veggie meal and a fine welcome by others.
We saw Nigel & Sheilas' caged birds and the photos are on the www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp2 site.

2006-08-17T22:32:00.000+01:00

Paula and my pet parakeets had their first chance to join the lounge flying group today 17/08/2006. Not out as long as Amos by far but they seemed tired and content when they went home to their first floor cage. My camera keeps resetting the flash -on setting, it did it several times this last couple of weeks-perhaps it's me! As a rule I don't use flash photography for animals or babies.

2006-08-17T22:26:00.000+01:00

Paula and I managed a visit to Marwell Zoological park near Winchester, Hampshire on 16/8/2006. We saw some of the many attractions we'd not had time for on previous visits.
The weather held and we very much enjoyed ourselves. Thanks to the Marwell Zoo team.

2006-08-10T23:14:00.000+01:00

Our canary Amos decided to go for a fly today- not really been out much since we had him, he's never shown us he wanted to but 5 minutes before I was due to leave for "Snaps!" he said "yes!" , ie vooom he's was out while I was feeding him-I'd tried to alter his swing which got snagged when I'd last cleaned him out.

Well I didn't think he'd last to dark, scrambling (me) under the budgies cage to pick him up at 8.30pm. (11.5 hours) .

We had an enjoyable day -got my Fotoshoot anyway! But we did not do a lot exept drink cold drinks (non alchoholic).

We hope to repeat the episode pretty soon -if he's willing.

A beautiful bird; Amos.

2006-08-06T21:21:00.000+01:00

Paula & I went to Bournemouth today. The seaside was at it's height of fun with thousands of holidaymakers. The weather was pretty hot though clouded as we left at 3pm -ish.
We mainly wanted to visit the Aquarium -Oceanarium.
As a relaxing, beautiful creatured place it's superb; the two enormous seaturtles, friendly stingrays, sharks, catfish- all absoilutely wonderful, even a soft shell toitoise -I think similar to Underwaterworld's "Godfrey", this one was buried in the sand-I thought it was an eel then a whole body of a shell rose out and he/she swam about. wow! A moment and a half!!!
Feeding time was very good and we saw two ; sharks, & turtles.
You get an all day ticket so we had a break in between lunch(vege burger & chips Plus tea & coffee- Rob's along towards Poole (only a hundred yards or so).v good.

A good time was had with lots of photos.

2006-08-02T15:54:00.000+01:00

Sparkey & Emerald came out for a fly today, Jimi & Donna chose to look on, this caused great excitement with the other birds. They were flying about the living room, for about an hour.

The photo of Sparkey on the finches cage is getting to be a regular shooting spot- by me of the budgies whilst out. (there's a pencil drawing version and a different photo(s) of Emerald in the same spot. The pictures are of a mature Donovan (autographed & sent to me by Donovan, kindly) Durham Cathedral & John Lennon captured in West Germany in a Hamburg doorway (aka Rock'n Roll cover picture).

Steve Marley, an up and coming musician (with band) -New single "Believe"-actually he said was an E.P...more value for money (Buy,Buy,Buy!) recently played Guildfest (appartently Donovan played too) -came as an Ntl engineer and fixed the cable box attatched to my tv. He fixed my Dad's recentlly too. Well done Steve-not often you have a celeb fix your tv at home(s).

2 other of my sites;

http://paulapuddephatt.tripod.com/donovan/ -my Donovan fan site

( Donovan's Official site for up to date news, sales and reviews, clips etc is www.donovan.ie)

www.colinpuddephatt.bravehost.com - my Home page (text only)

Shaw Trust Summer Outing tommorow -hopefully have some pictures for you all!!

2006-07-24T21:05:00.000+01:00

Been to Shaw Trust Horticulture today -stayed on the computer most of it, a very hot bright sunny day. Brought some garden project red currents home for pudding ,a courgette/marrow grown there too.
Still plenty of flowers there -though the hose pipe ban is taking it's toll.

Looking forward to the start of the football seson-a few more good players -a mixture of young and not so old for Manchester City. I think Basingstoke Town are preparing too with a few new players. Yes Liverpool too! Citypool for the cup!

Budgies are settling down.
Upload for www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp2 run out too but no new ones to put up. Bit headachey tonight-probably the computer/sun combination.

Watched 1st of BBC1's "Bear week" probably the headachges didnt enjoy the programme half as much as we did. Think i'll have to reboot NTL box again as I'd lost most of the channels (again)- didnt have time before and didnt feel like it after!

I'll miss these light nights soon- amongst other things..and people!

2006-07-17T20:27:00.000+01:00

Joined Nigel & crew at Shaw Trust Horticulture, Basingstoke for first time since early June. Took a selection (my 3rd session this summer) of the flowers there on the garden project.

2006-07-17T20:19:00.000+01:00

Our nephew Joined us at Bird World (including Under WaterWorld, Jenny Wren Farm and the Heron Theatre (thanks to Noddy for performing in the heat!!!).

Another scorcher - well worth the Annual passes.

Ivor (citron cressed cockateau) & Dolly (African grey parrot were very friendly and in fine form....and a Indian Peacock showed its display again (see earlier pictures on www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

Thanks to Myles (great fun, sport and an informative young man).

2006-07-17T20:13:00.000+01:00

Paula & Colin (me) visited for the second time Marwell Zoo, near Winchester, Hampshire. (worth checking annual pass-really good value).

Had a great time and things like the Giraffes, Bongos, Tigers, Sandcats and the road train (well it was hot!!). See my NEW 2nd Flickr.com site. (puddephattcolin).

A well rounded day! Thank you Paula!

2006-07-11T15:08:00.000+01:00

The two new budgies are getting all Paula's attention and having escaped into the lounge,with thoughts of quarentine gone up in smoke, they were moved that 1st evening into the lounge from the office to be with the other cages- cardboard in place having had Emerald suss the Pets at Home cage emergency exit(must had design plans-eh!).
Yesterday we let them fly loose around the lounge from 3pm to 7pm when an exhausted Emerald finally found home where Sparkey had returned an hour earlier. Fun was definetly seen here!
Today or rather this afternoon we have repeated the flight this time from 1pm-(still out)!!

The finches have not batted an eyelid and even took their daily communial bath and Jimi and Donna seemed pretty friendly too. Apple and Pear (the linolated Parakeets were a bit shocked at another bird clinging on to their cage - they seemed abit abrupt with the budgies.

Here are a couple of pictures taken on the10th July - a Monday.

2006-07-08T16:05:00.000+01:00

Saturday 8th July 2006 10AM ; Welcome new arrivals!

Emarold & Sparkey

the 1st few snaps of them in our late canary "Arrow" old cage.

well we didn't want to leave it empty-Thanks to Nigel.

2006-07-05T19:57:00.000+01:00

This is Colin -married to Paula....

with birds (Jimi,Donna, Amos, Apple & Pear with George Ringo, Billy, Klaus, Pete, Stuart not forgetting Eric) ....and loads of Paula's cuddly toys.

CityPool + Manchester City FC / Liverpool FC= my team/Paula's team.

Add to that plenty of music.

And a healthy interest in photography. see our sites ; www.flickr.com/photos/colinbp

and www.flickr.com/photos.paulabirds

Please pay us a visit and comment pleasantly if you wish.