On 20 September I graduated at the Barbican in London. I think I am glad that I went to my graduation, although I wasn’t that fussed about going. It was an interesting experience. On arrival they gave you your certificate, which made me think, is there any actual need to go to the ceremony now?! I went to collect my gown and was disappointed to discover that we didn’t get a hat. However, for the official photos they let you borrow a hat and fake scroll.
They sat Calvin and me on the front row, I’m guessing so it would be easier for us to get on stage. What they didn’t pre-empt was that Calvin would sprawl directly in front of the steps exactly where everyone needed to go to walk across the stage. Several times I tried to move him, but he was having none of it therefore, everyone had to hop over him.
When Calvin and I were called up to exchange envelopes (that is the graduation part) I was fully expecting him to do something to make me cringe. Surprisingly, he strode across the stage in Guide Dog mode. The applause we received was much longer than most people, I wanted the ground to swallow me up, as I blushed with embarrassment!
Overall, I have had an amazing four years with The Open University and studying towards a BA (Hons) in English Language and Literature has to be one of the best life decisions I have made to date. Getting a First was just a bonus!
Wednesday, 16 October 2013
Sunday, 15 September 2013
Swindon Shenanigans
I went on the Victa family weekend from 23-26 August, only I didn’t go with my family, as an over 18 I was able to attend alone. As always with Victa events, I had an incredible time, surviving on minimal sleep and laughing for 4 days straight!
Friday:
When arriving at the PGL centre where we would be staying, I knew instantly that it would be a challenge to find my way around the place. The venue is very large so it can cater for literally hundreds of people and felt quite maze like in its layout. It wasn’t too daunting though, as everybody was in the same situation and I knew I had friends willing to help out.
Somehow I managed to arrive last to my room meaning I had to settle for the top bunk. I don’t mind the top bunk too much, but without fail I’ll wake up in the night needing to spend a penny, so climbing up and down the ladder when half asleep is always a risky business!
Meal time reminded me of a school canteen where you had to queue up, get your own tray and select from the limited options. However, once I had collared someone to carry my tray for me (balancing a tray in one hand and controlling a Guide Dog who decided he didn’t fancy working for the entire weekend was never going to work,) I discovered the food wasn’t really too bad.
In the evening we had a welcome meeting before being split into our groups for ice breaker activities. There was a bar on site that sold very reasonably priced drinks so most people levitated there afterwards.
Saturday:
Activities started at 9 sharp. My group were on the low ropes to begin. I guess it was ok, it was basically a variety of tyres, beams, nets etc the sort of thing you find in a good park and you had to navigate your way over, under and through. Of course I managed to do the majority with ease. Next was rock climbing, as most people know one of my favourite activities. I asked one of my competitive friends if he fancied racing me, I honestly thought I would have a good chance of winning despite him being partially sighted and male. Unfortunately, I got beaten and demanded a rematch allowing me to have a 7 second head start to make it fairer. I felt the pressure, as I frantically raced to the top and managed to just beat him! I love racing!
In the afternoon our first activity was fencing. This was something I had never tried before and Calvin found quite distressing, as he clearly thought I was being killed. Initially it was pretty good fun, we didn’t really listen to the instructor and just tried to stab each other as much as possible! It was quite entertaining fighting a guy who thought he couldn’t hit me back because I was female! His loss! To finish the day we did zip wire. Calvin naturally wanted to run alongside me as I shot through the air! I felt sorry for whoever had to hold him!
Sunday:
Even though all of the information said to bring old clothes, spare clothes, spare trainers for wet activities, I never considered for a second that I would actually be getting wet! I still thought as I made my way to raft building that morning I would be able to get away with it. I left Calvin in the room, as I definitely didn’t want a wet dog! It was raining, which immediately made staying dry impossible. After constructing the most secure raft I was assured we wouldn’t fall in. I wasn’t taking any risks though and refused to get on. When one of my friends literally picked me up and plonked me on the raft kicking and screaming of course, I wished for a split second that I weighed a hundred stones so I could still have my feet safely on dry land. I’m not a strong swimmer hence not being good with water and despite having a life jacket when the instructor pointed out that the water would reach my shoulders I was freaking out. It was going to be ok mind, as we wouldn’t get wet as the raft nervously bobbed on the water. One of the volunteers thought it funny to splash us from the side. I got wet. He then decided to capsize the raft, I held on for dear life as everyone else toppled into the water. However, the second time I fell in, went under and when I tried to push up in a major panic, I found the raft was blocking my exit! It felt like an age that I was drowning for, although it was probably only a few seconds. I emerged and was chucked into the instructor’s canoe in order to recover from my ordeal. Typical! As some time passed I was waiting on the side. One of my friend’s said he’d guide me and the beep guided me into the water! I was far from impressed! On reflection after my near death experience I am glad that I did do it, as traumatic as it was. I used my hair dryer to dry my trainers too, so all was fine!
In the afternoon the sun came out. Aero ball was the first activity where you jump on a trampoline and try and shoot a ball into a hoop. I decided to skip this one with my detached retina, jumping isn’t the best for my eyes. Vertical challenge ended the day, which I really enjoyed, I guess because it involved climbing. A rickety ladder, tyres, beams and a cargo net got you to the top. I was a little paranoid, as the same friend who I raced rock climbing and plonked me on the raft thought it would be funny to fiddle with my harness straps making me get it checked a million times first! Calvin cried the whole time I was climbing, which made me wonder if he knew something I didn’t and at any moment I would plunge to my death. It was all good though!
The final night was a bit of a blur. A friend gave me a tube of Smarties to consume. I don’t eat chocolate much these days being a dedicated athlete and all, so I think they made me a little hyper. I broke all staying up records and didn’t go to bed until 4am. I have no idea how I functioned the next day!
Monday:
I really didn’t bring enough clothes. I had no idea we had activities on the final morning. The first one was trapeze. I went first in the group, too tired to protest otherwise and when I reached the top and held the bar I expected to fall to the ground. Yet to my surprise nothing happened! I just swung there. I got told to let go and again I thought I would fall to the floor, however, I was just held in the air. That was it! I couldn’t believe I had woken up for that! The last activity was the giant swing. To mine and the girl’s amusement who I went on with because she is bigger than me, the swing had a see-saw effect, I was sort of hanging in the air on my side whilst she was lower down. I pulled the cord to release us and my stomach did somersaults as we whizzed through the air, the wind whipping at our faces. It was fun! A fun finish to a fun filled weekend!
Thanks to Victa, all of the volunteers and all of my lovely blinkie friends!
Friday:
When arriving at the PGL centre where we would be staying, I knew instantly that it would be a challenge to find my way around the place. The venue is very large so it can cater for literally hundreds of people and felt quite maze like in its layout. It wasn’t too daunting though, as everybody was in the same situation and I knew I had friends willing to help out.
Somehow I managed to arrive last to my room meaning I had to settle for the top bunk. I don’t mind the top bunk too much, but without fail I’ll wake up in the night needing to spend a penny, so climbing up and down the ladder when half asleep is always a risky business!
Meal time reminded me of a school canteen where you had to queue up, get your own tray and select from the limited options. However, once I had collared someone to carry my tray for me (balancing a tray in one hand and controlling a Guide Dog who decided he didn’t fancy working for the entire weekend was never going to work,) I discovered the food wasn’t really too bad.
In the evening we had a welcome meeting before being split into our groups for ice breaker activities. There was a bar on site that sold very reasonably priced drinks so most people levitated there afterwards.
Saturday:
Activities started at 9 sharp. My group were on the low ropes to begin. I guess it was ok, it was basically a variety of tyres, beams, nets etc the sort of thing you find in a good park and you had to navigate your way over, under and through. Of course I managed to do the majority with ease. Next was rock climbing, as most people know one of my favourite activities. I asked one of my competitive friends if he fancied racing me, I honestly thought I would have a good chance of winning despite him being partially sighted and male. Unfortunately, I got beaten and demanded a rematch allowing me to have a 7 second head start to make it fairer. I felt the pressure, as I frantically raced to the top and managed to just beat him! I love racing!
In the afternoon our first activity was fencing. This was something I had never tried before and Calvin found quite distressing, as he clearly thought I was being killed. Initially it was pretty good fun, we didn’t really listen to the instructor and just tried to stab each other as much as possible! It was quite entertaining fighting a guy who thought he couldn’t hit me back because I was female! His loss! To finish the day we did zip wire. Calvin naturally wanted to run alongside me as I shot through the air! I felt sorry for whoever had to hold him!
Sunday:
Even though all of the information said to bring old clothes, spare clothes, spare trainers for wet activities, I never considered for a second that I would actually be getting wet! I still thought as I made my way to raft building that morning I would be able to get away with it. I left Calvin in the room, as I definitely didn’t want a wet dog! It was raining, which immediately made staying dry impossible. After constructing the most secure raft I was assured we wouldn’t fall in. I wasn’t taking any risks though and refused to get on. When one of my friends literally picked me up and plonked me on the raft kicking and screaming of course, I wished for a split second that I weighed a hundred stones so I could still have my feet safely on dry land. I’m not a strong swimmer hence not being good with water and despite having a life jacket when the instructor pointed out that the water would reach my shoulders I was freaking out. It was going to be ok mind, as we wouldn’t get wet as the raft nervously bobbed on the water. One of the volunteers thought it funny to splash us from the side. I got wet. He then decided to capsize the raft, I held on for dear life as everyone else toppled into the water. However, the second time I fell in, went under and when I tried to push up in a major panic, I found the raft was blocking my exit! It felt like an age that I was drowning for, although it was probably only a few seconds. I emerged and was chucked into the instructor’s canoe in order to recover from my ordeal. Typical! As some time passed I was waiting on the side. One of my friend’s said he’d guide me and the beep guided me into the water! I was far from impressed! On reflection after my near death experience I am glad that I did do it, as traumatic as it was. I used my hair dryer to dry my trainers too, so all was fine!
In the afternoon the sun came out. Aero ball was the first activity where you jump on a trampoline and try and shoot a ball into a hoop. I decided to skip this one with my detached retina, jumping isn’t the best for my eyes. Vertical challenge ended the day, which I really enjoyed, I guess because it involved climbing. A rickety ladder, tyres, beams and a cargo net got you to the top. I was a little paranoid, as the same friend who I raced rock climbing and plonked me on the raft thought it would be funny to fiddle with my harness straps making me get it checked a million times first! Calvin cried the whole time I was climbing, which made me wonder if he knew something I didn’t and at any moment I would plunge to my death. It was all good though!
The final night was a bit of a blur. A friend gave me a tube of Smarties to consume. I don’t eat chocolate much these days being a dedicated athlete and all, so I think they made me a little hyper. I broke all staying up records and didn’t go to bed until 4am. I have no idea how I functioned the next day!
Monday:
I really didn’t bring enough clothes. I had no idea we had activities on the final morning. The first one was trapeze. I went first in the group, too tired to protest otherwise and when I reached the top and held the bar I expected to fall to the ground. Yet to my surprise nothing happened! I just swung there. I got told to let go and again I thought I would fall to the floor, however, I was just held in the air. That was it! I couldn’t believe I had woken up for that! The last activity was the giant swing. To mine and the girl’s amusement who I went on with because she is bigger than me, the swing had a see-saw effect, I was sort of hanging in the air on my side whilst she was lower down. I pulled the cord to release us and my stomach did somersaults as we whizzed through the air, the wind whipping at our faces. It was fun! A fun finish to a fun filled weekend!
Thanks to Victa, all of the volunteers and all of my lovely blinkie friends!
Thursday, 15 August 2013
Devon Delights
Last Wednesday until Saturday Calvin and I went down to Teignmouth to stay at the Cliffden Hotel. The Cliffden is one of four Vision hotels in the UK that specialise in catering for the visually impaired. I have stayed at the hotel once before, but not in the actual building. For my friend’s hen do, we stayed in the self-catering Coach House. It was therefore nice to experience another side of the hotel and Teignmouth itself.
I only stayed for three nights, but everybody I met up with excluding one other stopped for a week. I thought a week would be far too long, yet on reflection, the time flew by before I knew it. Five out of the nine in our group I met back in March on the Action residential, so it was lovely to catch up with them all again and make a few more new friends too.
Wednesday:
After missing my connection at Birmingham New Street by the skin of my teeth, an unwelcome extra hour was added to my train journey. On the bright side, this gave me time to finish the third book in the Fifty Shades of Grey series (those books are over rated in my opinion, but a must read nonetheless). Calvin and I arrived in the late afternoon and a few wanted a light or in some cases a substantial snack before dinner. We therefore took the short walk to the beachside cafe where we hoped the dogs could have a free run too. Unfortunately for Calvin and Mitsey, the tide was in, so we couldn’t let them off.
In the evening some went back to the beach, only I’m a bit of a wimp or sensible, you decide (I don’t like going out at night) and chose to have a quiet drink in the hotel instead.
Thursday:
I was stupidly excited about going to the beach! What was more exciting was that the weather was lush! After some people struggled to drag themselves out of bed, we made it. It was the first time I had taken Calvin to the beach since his dog attack, so I was wary about letting him off. Much to Calvin’s disappointment, I kept him on the long lead, as the beach was very busy and he had no Guide Dog friends to protect him. Calvin displayed his disapproval by digging holes in the sand that we took turns to fall in to. We had lunch at a tasty chip shop and went back to the beach in the afternoon. I left Calvin at the hotel for the afternoon session.
One of my new male friend’s amused me in the afternoon by purchasing a pink bucket with a pirate crab pictured on the front with a yellow spade to match. He then proceeded to try and build a sand castle on a slope, although to be quite honest, I’m not sure it would have been much better on a flat piece of sand! I thought I could do better, only when I tipped the bucket over to make the castle, the sand ended up more in a pile than a solid shape, fail! The remainder of the afternoon’s entertainment slash panic was provided by another friend who is totally blind and was left to fend for himself in the sea! When you go away with other visually impaired people, you really have to trust in each other! Around half an hour later, after I had had several heart attacks with worry, said friend casually emerged out of the sea and wondered towards us, oblivious to the frenzy that he had caused. He had gone for a long paddle, none of us could see him and feared he was lost at sea!
That evening I did venture out since we had a set destination in mind, a local bar. One thing that has to be said for Teignmouth as a town, they are just as VI aware as the hotel. People seriously go above and beyond to help you out, which makes everything that much more enjoyable. So a pleasant evening was had.
Friday:
A relaxing morning was spent on the beach, (Calvin got to have a free run with Edey) followed by most consuming more chips. I was saving myself for afternoon tea that has to be done when you’re in Devon! We caught the bus to Dawlish, a nearby town and found a tea room. I did have my sights set on cheese scones, only they had run out so I had to settle for sweet ones. I won’t moan, as they were pretty scrummy. I donated my tea after hearing how inviting the hot chocolate was, it came with cream, a flake and marshmallow. So naturally, I had to have one, it was worth it!
On the last night some went to Spray Point, I can’t remember what is special about that place, as I didn’t go, whilst a few of us tortured ourselves listening to the karaoke. None of us participated, just judged. After we got our hearing back, we played a few party games to pass the time, which worked well until the others returned.
Saturday:
Everybody went swimming, except for me. This is because I met up with Calvin’s puppy walkers who live nearby. I met up with them the last time I was in Teignmouth too, a few years before. Calvin recognised them, which is lovely for them and filled me with pride, well, I was just pleased he didn’t show me up and make out that they were complete strangers! Calvin had an epic run on the beach and splash in the sea, which tired him out nicely for the train journey home.
Overall, it was a great few days to unwind, chill out and have some laughs with some fun and funny people. One of the guy’s I met helps run a radio station called Dodge Radio. I like their slogan on their website, which says ‘dodge the world, enjoy the music’! I am a bad friend and haven’t yet taken a listen, I’m assured they play a wide variety to suit all though, just click here to take a listen.
I only stayed for three nights, but everybody I met up with excluding one other stopped for a week. I thought a week would be far too long, yet on reflection, the time flew by before I knew it. Five out of the nine in our group I met back in March on the Action residential, so it was lovely to catch up with them all again and make a few more new friends too.
Wednesday:
After missing my connection at Birmingham New Street by the skin of my teeth, an unwelcome extra hour was added to my train journey. On the bright side, this gave me time to finish the third book in the Fifty Shades of Grey series (those books are over rated in my opinion, but a must read nonetheless). Calvin and I arrived in the late afternoon and a few wanted a light or in some cases a substantial snack before dinner. We therefore took the short walk to the beachside cafe where we hoped the dogs could have a free run too. Unfortunately for Calvin and Mitsey, the tide was in, so we couldn’t let them off.
In the evening some went back to the beach, only I’m a bit of a wimp or sensible, you decide (I don’t like going out at night) and chose to have a quiet drink in the hotel instead.
Thursday:
I was stupidly excited about going to the beach! What was more exciting was that the weather was lush! After some people struggled to drag themselves out of bed, we made it. It was the first time I had taken Calvin to the beach since his dog attack, so I was wary about letting him off. Much to Calvin’s disappointment, I kept him on the long lead, as the beach was very busy and he had no Guide Dog friends to protect him. Calvin displayed his disapproval by digging holes in the sand that we took turns to fall in to. We had lunch at a tasty chip shop and went back to the beach in the afternoon. I left Calvin at the hotel for the afternoon session.
One of my new male friend’s amused me in the afternoon by purchasing a pink bucket with a pirate crab pictured on the front with a yellow spade to match. He then proceeded to try and build a sand castle on a slope, although to be quite honest, I’m not sure it would have been much better on a flat piece of sand! I thought I could do better, only when I tipped the bucket over to make the castle, the sand ended up more in a pile than a solid shape, fail! The remainder of the afternoon’s entertainment slash panic was provided by another friend who is totally blind and was left to fend for himself in the sea! When you go away with other visually impaired people, you really have to trust in each other! Around half an hour later, after I had had several heart attacks with worry, said friend casually emerged out of the sea and wondered towards us, oblivious to the frenzy that he had caused. He had gone for a long paddle, none of us could see him and feared he was lost at sea!
That evening I did venture out since we had a set destination in mind, a local bar. One thing that has to be said for Teignmouth as a town, they are just as VI aware as the hotel. People seriously go above and beyond to help you out, which makes everything that much more enjoyable. So a pleasant evening was had.
Friday:
A relaxing morning was spent on the beach, (Calvin got to have a free run with Edey) followed by most consuming more chips. I was saving myself for afternoon tea that has to be done when you’re in Devon! We caught the bus to Dawlish, a nearby town and found a tea room. I did have my sights set on cheese scones, only they had run out so I had to settle for sweet ones. I won’t moan, as they were pretty scrummy. I donated my tea after hearing how inviting the hot chocolate was, it came with cream, a flake and marshmallow. So naturally, I had to have one, it was worth it!
On the last night some went to Spray Point, I can’t remember what is special about that place, as I didn’t go, whilst a few of us tortured ourselves listening to the karaoke. None of us participated, just judged. After we got our hearing back, we played a few party games to pass the time, which worked well until the others returned.
Saturday:
Everybody went swimming, except for me. This is because I met up with Calvin’s puppy walkers who live nearby. I met up with them the last time I was in Teignmouth too, a few years before. Calvin recognised them, which is lovely for them and filled me with pride, well, I was just pleased he didn’t show me up and make out that they were complete strangers! Calvin had an epic run on the beach and splash in the sea, which tired him out nicely for the train journey home.
Overall, it was a great few days to unwind, chill out and have some laughs with some fun and funny people. One of the guy’s I met helps run a radio station called Dodge Radio. I like their slogan on their website, which says ‘dodge the world, enjoy the music’! I am a bad friend and haven’t yet taken a listen, I’m assured they play a wide variety to suit all though, just click here to take a listen.
Monday, 5 August 2013
First Class
I started my degree with The Open University when I was 21, the year most of my friends graduated. It took me 4 years to complete a BA (Hons) in English Language and Literature. Despite being late to the party, I am glad that I did it. I never expected to actually get a First Class degree! I don’t know if it sounds boastful of me to say, but I feel like I deserve the grade. I have always been regarded as an intelligent individual, but cleverness has never come naturally to me. My ethos with anything is to continuously work hard and you will be rewarded in the long term. Ok, enough with my attempt to be modest since I am clearly failing. I am amazing! I don’t usually play on my disability however, on this occasion I am not ashamed to say to achieve a First as a non-disabled person is excellent, but to achieve one after gradually losing your sight is simply exceptional! I am so so so proud of myself!
EA300 Children’s Literature module results:
TMA 01 – 75%
TMA 02 – 82%
TMA 03 – 85%
TMA 04 – 85%
TMA 05 – 85%
TMA 06 – 80%
OCAs – 82%
EMA – 86%
Overall – Distinction
Degree Classification – First Class Honours BA (Hons) English Language and Literature
My graduation is on 20 September in London!
EA300 Children’s Literature module results:
TMA 01 – 75%
TMA 02 – 82%
TMA 03 – 85%
TMA 04 – 85%
TMA 05 – 85%
TMA 06 – 80%
OCAs – 82%
EMA – 86%
Overall – Distinction
Degree Classification – First Class Honours BA (Hons) English Language and Literature
My graduation is on 20 September in London!
Wednesday, 24 July 2013
Dog Attack
Since having Calvin, I have heard a lot about Guide Dogs getting attacked and know that lots of work is being done to try and change the law, so that dog owners are prosecuted for not controlling their pets. However, in the nearly four years I have had Calvin, I never really expected him to be a victim with his bolshie attitude. How wrong was I!
Last Friday, we went down to Dorset, as on Saturday it was my birthday and I have dreamed of going to Monkey World for years. I love monkeys! Recently, the weather has been amazing and therefore it seemed logical to spend some time on the beach. Naturally, Calvin was beside himself with excitement as soon as he smelt the sea air. He was puppy walked in Devon and so spent a lot of the time free running by the sea.
Conveniently, our hotel appeared to be across the road from the dog section of the beach. So we let Calvin off the lead, as we followed the ramps down to the shore. When we got on the beach, Calvin clocked the sea and went bounding towards it. Another dog was playing in the sea with its owner, nowhere near where Calvin was heading. For no apparent reason whatsoever, the dog aggressively pinned Calvin down on the sand before he could make it to the water and attacked. The owner was fairly swift to restrain his dog, but Calvin came limping over with a heart breaking cry. Calvin didn’t even try to fight back.
The beach was packed and therefore herds of people came over to check if Calvin was ok. The owner of the dog also came to check, only after the initial shock Calvin seemed fine with no visible injuries. Much to Calvin’s dismay, thereafter I kept him on the lead. I hate going in the sea, but went in with him so he could have a little paddle. It must have been around twenty minutes later, my mum noticed that Calvin was bleeding on his back.
We asked the lifeguard, some people from the council and other dog owners if they knew where the nearest vets were. Nobody was helpful. I called Guide Dogs to see what I should do, thankfully, it was just before five. I was told to report it to the police who would have details of the nearest vets. The police gave me an incident number, but had no details for the vets. So I had to call the dog warden for the area who gave me the number for the emergency vets that was no use because it didn’t open until seven. I eventually text a friend and got a number that was constantly engaged, luckily we found the practice in the yellow pages and drove there instead.
It was nearing seven by the time Calvin actually got seen. The vet took him away to shave around the wound and to see if it needed stapling. When I got him back, it turned out he had two bite wounds that the vet decided not to staple and said would heal itself. Calvin was given an antibiotic injection along with a pain killer jab and antibiotic tablets for six days. Due to the positioning of the wounds, I am unable to work him, as the harness would touch the affected area.
This meant on Saturday, I had Calvin on the lead and had to be guided around Monkey World. I did not expect Calvin to freak at the sight of monkeys. He was crying and jumping all over me when we reached the gibbon enclosure. I thought it was going to be an extremely long day! We went to one of the chimp enclosures next. Turns out, that chimps aren’t too keen on dogs either. They began banging on the windows, which made Calvin and some kids cry. We moved swiftly away, only we had to pass the outside enclosure before we were clear of them. Without warning, I felt bullets being fired at us! Several of the chimps had trooped together and were picking gravel up from the floor and sling shotting it at us through the fencing! They have powerful shots let me tell you! Calvin began to growl and bark as we hot footed it away! Poor Calvin wasn’t having a great weekend!
Apparently, once you have been attacked by chimps, no other monkey can faze you! Afterwards Calvin was eager to visit all of the other types of monkeys who were intrigued to see him too. Everywhere we went, the monkeys would appear and follow Calvin as we walked along. To be fair none of the other apes felt inclined to throw stones!
So, I had an eventful birthday, not exactly how I planned. Calvin is ok within himself, but it is frustrating that I can’t work him for a while.
Last Friday, we went down to Dorset, as on Saturday it was my birthday and I have dreamed of going to Monkey World for years. I love monkeys! Recently, the weather has been amazing and therefore it seemed logical to spend some time on the beach. Naturally, Calvin was beside himself with excitement as soon as he smelt the sea air. He was puppy walked in Devon and so spent a lot of the time free running by the sea.
Conveniently, our hotel appeared to be across the road from the dog section of the beach. So we let Calvin off the lead, as we followed the ramps down to the shore. When we got on the beach, Calvin clocked the sea and went bounding towards it. Another dog was playing in the sea with its owner, nowhere near where Calvin was heading. For no apparent reason whatsoever, the dog aggressively pinned Calvin down on the sand before he could make it to the water and attacked. The owner was fairly swift to restrain his dog, but Calvin came limping over with a heart breaking cry. Calvin didn’t even try to fight back.
The beach was packed and therefore herds of people came over to check if Calvin was ok. The owner of the dog also came to check, only after the initial shock Calvin seemed fine with no visible injuries. Much to Calvin’s dismay, thereafter I kept him on the lead. I hate going in the sea, but went in with him so he could have a little paddle. It must have been around twenty minutes later, my mum noticed that Calvin was bleeding on his back.
We asked the lifeguard, some people from the council and other dog owners if they knew where the nearest vets were. Nobody was helpful. I called Guide Dogs to see what I should do, thankfully, it was just before five. I was told to report it to the police who would have details of the nearest vets. The police gave me an incident number, but had no details for the vets. So I had to call the dog warden for the area who gave me the number for the emergency vets that was no use because it didn’t open until seven. I eventually text a friend and got a number that was constantly engaged, luckily we found the practice in the yellow pages and drove there instead.
It was nearing seven by the time Calvin actually got seen. The vet took him away to shave around the wound and to see if it needed stapling. When I got him back, it turned out he had two bite wounds that the vet decided not to staple and said would heal itself. Calvin was given an antibiotic injection along with a pain killer jab and antibiotic tablets for six days. Due to the positioning of the wounds, I am unable to work him, as the harness would touch the affected area.
This meant on Saturday, I had Calvin on the lead and had to be guided around Monkey World. I did not expect Calvin to freak at the sight of monkeys. He was crying and jumping all over me when we reached the gibbon enclosure. I thought it was going to be an extremely long day! We went to one of the chimp enclosures next. Turns out, that chimps aren’t too keen on dogs either. They began banging on the windows, which made Calvin and some kids cry. We moved swiftly away, only we had to pass the outside enclosure before we were clear of them. Without warning, I felt bullets being fired at us! Several of the chimps had trooped together and were picking gravel up from the floor and sling shotting it at us through the fencing! They have powerful shots let me tell you! Calvin began to growl and bark as we hot footed it away! Poor Calvin wasn’t having a great weekend!
Apparently, once you have been attacked by chimps, no other monkey can faze you! Afterwards Calvin was eager to visit all of the other types of monkeys who were intrigued to see him too. Everywhere we went, the monkeys would appear and follow Calvin as we walked along. To be fair none of the other apes felt inclined to throw stones!
So, I had an eventful birthday, not exactly how I planned. Calvin is ok within himself, but it is frustrating that I can’t work him for a while.
Wednesday, 17 July 2013
Live Shows
May:
Back in May I went to see The Big Reunion Tour at the Capital FM Arena in Nottingham with some friends. We were transported back to the nineties and early noughties, which in a nutshell was epic! Atomic Kitten, B*Witched, The Honeys, Liberty X, 911, 5ive and Blue all provided hit after hit that kept us dancing, singing and reminiscing all night! When I was younger, I saw Blue three times in concert, my friend and I had a slightly unhealthy obsession with Duncan Matthew James! Thinking about it, I don’t think I have actually grown out of that and would definitely consider seeing Blue again, as whilst all of the bands were amazing, Blue took the roof off in my opinion! I have however, booked to see 5ive tour on their own, which I am certain will be another great night.
June:
It felt like an age since I had been to the theatre, Christmas time in fact when I saw Grease. So although I hadn’t heard of the musical Dreamboats and Petticoats, I was eager to see it. The show was jam packed with apparent hits from the sixties, only other than ‘Let’s Twist Again’ I’m ashamed to say I didn’t recognise any! It was quite a generic love story, the humour seemed amateur at times, but if you view it light heartedly, it was an alright show. There must have been some pop star that was big back in the day, as lots of old women got very excited when I can only assume he started performing his old hits!
July:
I attended my first festival! Admittedly, I didn’t do the whole camping thing and only went for one day, but everyone has to start somewhere! My friends are in a band called The Last Train Home and after entering a competition for unsigned artists made it through to the final meaning they had the chance to perform in the Rhythm Tent at the Godiva Festival in Coventry. I had heard some of their music on Sound Cloud in the past, yet had never seen them play live. I can honestly say I was more than impressed! They write their own material, play their own instruments and have amazing vocals too (oh and they are both blind as well). It’s so lovely having such talented friends and I have pre-booked them to play at my non-existent wedding in the distant future, although there is some dispute over fees! Surely their wedding present to me should be that they play for free!
On a serious note, if you are interested in checking out The Last Train Home and their music (I highly recommend it) just click here to go to their Sound Cloud page.
Back in May I went to see The Big Reunion Tour at the Capital FM Arena in Nottingham with some friends. We were transported back to the nineties and early noughties, which in a nutshell was epic! Atomic Kitten, B*Witched, The Honeys, Liberty X, 911, 5ive and Blue all provided hit after hit that kept us dancing, singing and reminiscing all night! When I was younger, I saw Blue three times in concert, my friend and I had a slightly unhealthy obsession with Duncan Matthew James! Thinking about it, I don’t think I have actually grown out of that and would definitely consider seeing Blue again, as whilst all of the bands were amazing, Blue took the roof off in my opinion! I have however, booked to see 5ive tour on their own, which I am certain will be another great night.
June:
It felt like an age since I had been to the theatre, Christmas time in fact when I saw Grease. So although I hadn’t heard of the musical Dreamboats and Petticoats, I was eager to see it. The show was jam packed with apparent hits from the sixties, only other than ‘Let’s Twist Again’ I’m ashamed to say I didn’t recognise any! It was quite a generic love story, the humour seemed amateur at times, but if you view it light heartedly, it was an alright show. There must have been some pop star that was big back in the day, as lots of old women got very excited when I can only assume he started performing his old hits!
July:
I attended my first festival! Admittedly, I didn’t do the whole camping thing and only went for one day, but everyone has to start somewhere! My friends are in a band called The Last Train Home and after entering a competition for unsigned artists made it through to the final meaning they had the chance to perform in the Rhythm Tent at the Godiva Festival in Coventry. I had heard some of their music on Sound Cloud in the past, yet had never seen them play live. I can honestly say I was more than impressed! They write their own material, play their own instruments and have amazing vocals too (oh and they are both blind as well). It’s so lovely having such talented friends and I have pre-booked them to play at my non-existent wedding in the distant future, although there is some dispute over fees! Surely their wedding present to me should be that they play for free!
On a serious note, if you are interested in checking out The Last Train Home and their music (I highly recommend it) just click here to go to their Sound Cloud page.
Wednesday, 3 July 2013
Tunisia
How has it been 3weeks already since I got back from Tunisia?! I went with my family to the 5star Amir Palace Hotel for a week from 5-12 June.
I say 5 star, only I have certainly stayed in better 5 star hotels. Upon arrival we had no porter to help us with our luggage to go to our rooms, I guess this saved us money on a tip! We had 2 rooms as usual and we walked into one to find a wardrobe door hanging off and the other was not made up. So a complaint was made and we were upgraded to rooms with a sea view. I had to giggle to myself inside when the guy who changed our room for us strode over to open the balcony door and asked if I agreed with him about the view being beautiful! I’m sure it was, so nodded enthusiastically and declared ‘wow yes its lovely’!
As with any hotel, you do find that the food gets repetitive. Breakfast was ok most of the time, I love the various pastries you get on holiday and the turkey sausages became a firm favourite. Apparently a firm favourite with most of the guests, as it was a battle against the Russians every meal time for food! I think only the British queue. This would have gotten you nowhere in Amir Palace, as if you didn’t grab the food first, it was often found that they didn’t replenish it. Meat in sauce with rice was the meal of choice or rather lack of choice every lunchtime and evening! I went wild on some days and swapped rice for pasta! One positive aspect about the food was the good quality chocolate ice-cream available in the evenings, although again, you had to be quick to get it. I found it quite strange that they gave you a square spoon to eat the ice-cream, funnily enough, eating it was a challenge! I really don’t know what use a square spoon could have in any situation! Oh and once you had the food on your table, if you blinked for a second, a waiter may have swiped it from under your nose assuming you were finished despite your plate being full! It was crazy the amount of times this happened to guests!
One thing I can’t complain about was the weather. It was hot everyday. You couldn’t really feel the heat either so didn’t have to sit in a pool of sweat as there was a constant breeze, well gale force wind at times, but mostly just a light wind! My family and I got into a bit of a routine. Each morning was spent with my parents playing tennis on the cracked hard court, stopping now and then to fix the net that kept collapsing if the ball hit it too forcefully. Whilst they were busy with that, I did a circuits session on the side of the court, convinced I could tease my six pack into showing its face (I have been trying to get a six pack for months), only my stomach still refuses to show any definition. My brother was content with sunbathing. The afternoons were spent by the pool or the beach where I listened/read my audio/Braille books. It was absolute bliss. We did venture out of the hotel twice to the neighbouring towns. Nothing was really bought though, as we were bombarded by the locals to ‘looky looky’ ‘no hassle’ (only we are clearly hassling you) and being told they had ‘Asda price’.
Despite the flaws of the hotel, which just added entertainment to the trip more than anything, I had a really nice break. It is a shame that we are not having much of a summer here, as I long to just sit in the garden and relax since I currently have no uni stress. Thankfully, it is not long until I’m away again though, as I am going to Egypt on a Nile cruise with Victa at the beginning of October. Bring on the sunshine!
I say 5 star, only I have certainly stayed in better 5 star hotels. Upon arrival we had no porter to help us with our luggage to go to our rooms, I guess this saved us money on a tip! We had 2 rooms as usual and we walked into one to find a wardrobe door hanging off and the other was not made up. So a complaint was made and we were upgraded to rooms with a sea view. I had to giggle to myself inside when the guy who changed our room for us strode over to open the balcony door and asked if I agreed with him about the view being beautiful! I’m sure it was, so nodded enthusiastically and declared ‘wow yes its lovely’!
As with any hotel, you do find that the food gets repetitive. Breakfast was ok most of the time, I love the various pastries you get on holiday and the turkey sausages became a firm favourite. Apparently a firm favourite with most of the guests, as it was a battle against the Russians every meal time for food! I think only the British queue. This would have gotten you nowhere in Amir Palace, as if you didn’t grab the food first, it was often found that they didn’t replenish it. Meat in sauce with rice was the meal of choice or rather lack of choice every lunchtime and evening! I went wild on some days and swapped rice for pasta! One positive aspect about the food was the good quality chocolate ice-cream available in the evenings, although again, you had to be quick to get it. I found it quite strange that they gave you a square spoon to eat the ice-cream, funnily enough, eating it was a challenge! I really don’t know what use a square spoon could have in any situation! Oh and once you had the food on your table, if you blinked for a second, a waiter may have swiped it from under your nose assuming you were finished despite your plate being full! It was crazy the amount of times this happened to guests!
One thing I can’t complain about was the weather. It was hot everyday. You couldn’t really feel the heat either so didn’t have to sit in a pool of sweat as there was a constant breeze, well gale force wind at times, but mostly just a light wind! My family and I got into a bit of a routine. Each morning was spent with my parents playing tennis on the cracked hard court, stopping now and then to fix the net that kept collapsing if the ball hit it too forcefully. Whilst they were busy with that, I did a circuits session on the side of the court, convinced I could tease my six pack into showing its face (I have been trying to get a six pack for months), only my stomach still refuses to show any definition. My brother was content with sunbathing. The afternoons were spent by the pool or the beach where I listened/read my audio/Braille books. It was absolute bliss. We did venture out of the hotel twice to the neighbouring towns. Nothing was really bought though, as we were bombarded by the locals to ‘looky looky’ ‘no hassle’ (only we are clearly hassling you) and being told they had ‘Asda price’.
Despite the flaws of the hotel, which just added entertainment to the trip more than anything, I had a really nice break. It is a shame that we are not having much of a summer here, as I long to just sit in the garden and relax since I currently have no uni stress. Thankfully, it is not long until I’m away again though, as I am going to Egypt on a Nile cruise with Victa at the beginning of October. Bring on the sunshine!
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