Sometimes, just sometimes, graffiti is good. Like this example from Newcastle.
And, more appropriately from my perspective, this fine example.
The subways of Washington
A few years ago, I considered writing a book, a pictorial book, about the subways of Washington (T&W, not DC). I have lots of pictures of Washington subways, but I’m now actually considering an alternative publication; one based on shopping trolleys.
I’d run with the title: the Shopping Trolleys of Washington.
I’ve already begun work on illustrations.
More may follow, in advance of my book.
Unless, of course, I revert to the original subway concept.
An old favourite and a new
Exploring new music is an important part of going to a festival. For example, we came across Augustines (or, at the time, We Are Augustines) at T in the Park. While the band split up in October’ 16, they remain a firm favourite. I’ve mentioned in the past that we’ve been to Billy McCarthey’s (the former Augustines’ front man) solo gigs and his was a welcome addition to this year’s Kendal Calling festival.
And his performance was as good, if not better, than expected.
He played some solo material, but there was a really nice selection of Augustines’ songs too. It was good to hear a lot of Augustines followers singing along.
A new discovery at this festival was Felix Hagan and the Family, who were a great, unique experience.
They’ve a couple of albums, so I’m going to check out Amazon. We’ll also be watching out for any gigs in the Northeast. Interestingly, they’re playing at Bi Nuu, Berlin, where we saw William McCarthey last year.
A day to recover
After a festival, particularly as I’ve gotten older, I try to build-in a recovery day. That’s today.
So I’ve spent a large part of today working on the shed, finally finishing rebuilding the second wall.
Somehow, I’ve quite bit of stone left over.
Kendal Calling
Our third Kendal Calling was a good one. Tw\no days of burning sunshine, then another two of rain. We had three festival newbies and some veterans, but the mix was great. Our campsite was the best ever. The tents are already dried out and ready for next year. Which won’t be at Kendal (Penrith).
Some random pictures; probably too random.
Sundays
Sundays are now officially shed days. Well, in our house.
I’d hoped to finish the wall, but it’s just too hot. Saying that, there’s not a lot more to do before I can start rendering.
Saturday
This afternoon involved a bike ride.
We had corn dogs and beer too.
El Gringo
I’m on a bus to Washington right now. I’m meeting a mate there, then we’re off to a computer fair in Sunderland. I’ve not been to one of those in around a decade, probably longer. The internet pretty much killed off computer fairs, so it’ll be interesting to see whether this is more than a one-off. And what they have to offer now that phones and tablets have decimated the desktop market (I still have two desktops).
Anyway, a couple of minutes ago, I passed a man walking down the street. He was carrying a newspaper and, I’m assuming, a bag of cans (beer, rather than beans). Before High Fell club closed a few years ago, I often used to see him on buses. He used to catch a bus outside the club at closing time. He often had a carrier bag, filled with (another assumption) meat. Whatever day of the week I passed the place, he’s be at the bus stop at closing time.
I named him El Gringo, because he’s short, somewhat round, balding, with slightly long hair and a huge Zapata moustache.
Looking back, I’m not sure why I gave him that name. With a sombrero and an ammunition belt over his shoulder, he’s be a classic spaghetti western bad guy.
I was surprised to see that he’s still alive.
Another sunny afternoon …
… in the shed. But it finally feels I’m getting somewhere.
Grumpy Panda
I’m still surprised that a vegan fast food place can survive in Gateshead. After intending to visit Grumpy Panda since it opened, we finally made the (short) trip this afternoon.
Well worth it too.
Think this could be a regular thing.