Life of Angus

Something isn't right

2012-02-09T22:10:00.000Z

Does anyone have a cold head?

Traditional family time

2012-02-09T22:02:00.002Z

Bedtime for boys

2012-01-22T19:46:00.000Z

Grandfatherly duties

2012-01-22T19:44:00.002Z

Niece B's childminder is out of action after the children jumped on the minder and put her back out. This week it was Susie's turn to take up the childcare slack and, fearing the worst, she called on the help of her own mother. As she was unable, it fell upon Susie's father to take up the reigns. I think it would be fair to say that he is not used to such intensive kinder minding anymore but he did a sterling job reading stories, dressing and undressing and assisting on outings etc.. Here he oversees H and F on their wheeled devices.

2011 Round Robin

2012-01-19T22:23:00.002Z

In February I led the school ski trip to Schladming. Asthere wasn’t a huge amount of fresh snow I spent most of the time on skis. Funas it was I hope to spend more time on two planks on the 2012 trip to Altenmarktin the Ski Amade. The other major school trip was just a few days later toDorset; which was pleasant even in bracing early spring.

As the weather improved and H became (a little more) steadyand we ventured outdoors to the parks and attractions of London: ticking offvarious museums and events (including the Royal wedding for Susie and H). Moresignificantly for us was the baptism of H in March. He was walking slightlyafter his first birthday in May. Before summer bade farewell we made it to thevisit of Zippo’s circus and the incredible motorbike antics Peckham Rye. F whowas three this year ticked off a couple of milestones of his own – toilettraining in March and starting nursery in September.

Aside from a few trains trips to Scotland we were also fortunateto fly off for a grand tour to western Canada in the summer. Meeting Dave andtaking in the spectacle of the Calgary Stampede got us off to a grand oldstart. Further west we enjoyed watching whales and the busker festival inVictoria. We got off the beaten track with a week in the woods on GalianoIsland. While the boys and I hiked through the towering forests, Susie skirtedthe shoreline by kayak and recuperated in the Galiano Inn Spa. There was lesshiking in Whstler but the remaining snow made for spectacular views from thegondolas. We met more old friends in Vancouver: Erin and the Cheyne familyrespectively. Adrenaline activities for toddlers (and indeed adults) came atUBC’s treetops walks and the suspension bridge at Capilano in Vancouver. Whilewe were away we had the less fortunate sensation of watching the London riotsrolling on cable news live on our street.

Back at home we were relieved to see only minor damagearound our home. I enjoyed concerts from Pulp, The Vaccines and Arctic Monkeysin the autumn. Susie and her sister, Sarah continued singing with Nunhead CommunityChoir and appearances all over Southwark. Susie won’t have to sing for hersupper however as she has been putting in some serious hours freelancing inrecent months. Not content with this she has signed up to be an Olympicvolunteer next summer. Work for me has progressed, under the incessant pressureof exam pressure and the context of government cuts and retaliatory industrialaction. I expect that will bring another form of fun and games in 2012 duringthe Olympic year.

Christmas comlpete

2012-01-19T20:13:00.002Z

Back home and back at work, tree and cards down. Christmas in Edinburgh does seem a while ago now but it was fun while it lasted.

Christmas has arrived

2011-12-20T13:47:00.002Z

The boys have started to recieve and open Christmas presents.

Outline pictures

2011-12-20T13:46:00.000Z

Grr

2011-11-17T21:07:00.001Z

We have all been afflicted by various colds and the like lately. Since these don't make a great picture here is a recent one of H enjoying a read instead.

I bet you look good on the dancefloor

2011-11-03T22:08:00.000Z

I went to see the Arctic Monkeys with Christian on Saturday but we're not the only ones enjoying the music recently.

Half-term excursions

2011-10-27T12:14:00.004Z

Over half-term we have packed in various excursions in London: a walk in Dulwich Wood; visits to Greenwich Park and the newly extended Maritime Museum; Stratford and the Discovery storytelling centre; and Columbia Road and Hackney City farm.

All the leaves are brown

2011-10-18T12:14:00.004Z

Hot-umn

2011-10-01T15:54:00.000Z

It may be October - and we are feeling low after Scotland's elimination from the rugby world cup - but it is bright and hot outside. Lacking a garden with a pool, B and H had to make do with a washing up bowl on the balcony. Pool party!

Starting nursery

2011-09-29T20:49:00.000Z

Exciting times for F who has started nursery. Susie and H are accompanying him during the first week and all are impressed by the variety of play opportunities on offer and also maybe just a little dazed.

While the mummies are away ...

2011-09-26T19:15:00.000Z

With Susie away in colder climes for the weekend I was in charge of looking after the boys. The highlight was probably having an entire playgroup full of toys and resources to ourselves. H likes to copy his brother and so when F moved on to something new H tried his hand at painting for the first time. Back at home F got to do one of his favourite things - making cakes - while mini had a nap.

Settling into Autumn

2011-09-15T21:16:00.002Z

It may be the end of summer and I may be already back in the thick of it at work but there is still plenty to do at the weekend. I left Susie to get on with some work at the weekend while I took the boys to the Thames Festival. Even closer to home we enjoyed a trip to the circus on Peckham Rye a couple of nights ago. The climax involving multiple motorbikes has to be seen to be believed although H and cousin B were more excited by the horses and F was quite taken by the budgies on the mini 'climbing frame'.

Susie and I even have even managed a rare night out and a strut down memory lane to see Pulp in Brixton the other week.

Link: Zippo's Circus.

In the woods

2011-09-15T21:05:00.001Z

While in town for the new museum I also caught up with an old friend - good luck with the house buying process - before heading north on a mini trip to Mull or the Isle of Eagles as some enterprising locals seem to be calling it now that the Balamory gravy train is drying up.

From Tobermory I enjoyed a solitary walk to Aros Park, where the bright daylight contrasted beautifully with the damp forest forest floor. It was good to have some peace - Susie kept the boys in Edinburgh!

The main purpose of my trip was to visit my uncle Donnie in Kilchoan. I was pleased to find him in good health and good cheer, even if the weeds need some whacking!

Transport tete-a-tete

2011-09-15T20:30:00.002Z

Over the summer we found ourselves in both London's Museum of London Transport and Glasgow's new Transport Museum (or Riverside Museum: Scotland's Museum of Transport and Travel to give it is official and long-winded title). I thought it might be fun to compare the two under some arbitrary headings.

Cost
London charges £13.50 for adults. This hefty amount doesn't seem so bad however as the same ticket becomes an annual pass for no extra charge. Okay for people who live here - like us - but probably not much use to most visitors. Glasgow City Council museums - of which the Riverside is one - have been free for as long as I can remember so it is one up to the Scots.

Location and access
The Riverside Museum is - you guessed it - by the River Clyde. They moved the museum from the Kelvin Hall so they could get this great spot and space but there was a cost and that was access. A very handy new bus route (it was even open-topped on the day we went) runs every half hour or so from the city centre but it is a bit out of the way and not easily accessible by foot or bike. The London museum is in Covent Garden and so is very easy to access. While it lacks the open spaces and views of the Clyde London comes out top in this category.

Content
Many museums seem to be built with a focus on how they look rather than what is inside them. F enjoyed similar big trains and buses in both London. While Glasgow had a wider range of content as it focused not just on public transport I think it perhaps tries to do too many things. While some elements in Glasgow are arranged thematically e.g. the historical streetscape there also seemed to be broad areas with a mixture of content and a confusion of order or narrative if you prefer. Given that it is brand new I had higher expectations as well - I would have expected far more interactivity for a museum born in the 21st century. With takes its tighter focus and larger public transport collection and makes them work harder.

Building
London's museum has been refurbished to accentuate the fine Victorian iron work (it used to form Covent Garden's flower, fruit and vegetable market apparently) while also opening up the space to let the light from the large glass panels illuminate the collection. Glasgow commissioned the star-chitect Zaha Hadid to create a sculptural beauty. The angular structure draws the visitor towards the Clyde and the city's maritime heritage. This connection and the stunning shell give Glasgow the points here.

Overall
Perhaps not surprisingly - given that one is from my home town and other from my place of abode - I have sat on the fence and declared a draw. Both are worth a visit.

Elsewhere in Glasgow there were more transport-related attractions. George Square and the surrounding streets were turned into a disaster zone for a Hollywood movie about Brad Pitt and some zombies.

Links: London Transport Museum
Glasgow Riverside Museum

Vancouver

2011-09-08T21:15:00.001Z

Vancouver is always a pleasure, especially when you are staying at the at a plush hotel it is a delight. Susie scored a gig writing a review for the newly refurbished Hotel Georgia and we happily tagged along. As part of a protracted face-lift the Rosewood Group sought to as much of the grandeur and style of the early twentieth century while bringing in the best of modern conveniences and service - how many staff in large hotels make a point of remembering your name. Susie enjoyed accessing the Internet through the TV - although not so much when it came to the rioting back in London. I enjoyed the salt water pool with LED light displays and windows on the bottom. The boys enjoyed the huge bath - F even had his own kiddie sized robe to step into.

Being in Vancouver we also caught up with Giles and Emma and their boys over on the North Shore. Elsewhere, we were accompanied to Granville Island by Erin and boyfriend Al.

Plush accommodation and old friends aside Vancouver has bountiful attractions for any visitor, especially of you like the outdoors (and don't mind the odd spot rain). While on the North Shore we joined the throngs at Capilano Suspension Bridge. The long wobbly bridge isn't the only thing that is designed to turn your legs to jelly. There is also a tree top walk and a cliff side walk - you get the idea. H was too wee for the cliff walk but was dragged across the others.

You know what they say about wobbly walkways? You wait all year for one and then they all come at once. And so it was we were at the University of British Columbia Botanical Gardens the next day and lo and behold another canopy walkway. This one was a lot quieter and a lot more wobbly and all the better for it in my opinion. Buoyed by his recent experiences F and H set out confidently although the latter ended up being carried most of the way - which incidentally was quite a challenge for me.

Also on the UBC campus was the Beaty Biodiversity Museum, which Erin escorted us round.Uniting the university's various fauna collections, the museum recently opened in fine purpose built building. The specimens are all kept in long library-like rows and containers. There are enough drawers to open and toys to keep children entertained and all will be wowed by the huge blue whale skeleton suspended above the double height entrance and visible from the outside through.

Vancouver is just a great place to enjoy the great outdoors. The famed Stanley Park is a brilliant place for a walk or a cycle with views of the surrounding mountains and city skyscrapers adding to the drama. We all cycled - the boys were in the chariot - round the sea wall, with a stop at the excellent aquarium to add to the boys excitement.

The food is invariably great, especially the Asian dishes. I always love the sushi but didn't get a chance to try the hot new Japadogs - next time maybe. If only the exchange rate wasn't so bad and you could guarantee the sunshine we would have all our summer (and winter) breaks in Canada. Actually I just remembered the boys and their jet lag!

Links
Rosewood Hotel Georgia
Capilano Suspension Bridge
UBC Botanical Garden
Beaty Biodiversity Museum

Whistler ways

2011-09-08T20:12:00.003Z

Whistler is legendary for its skiing and snowboarding so it was with great anticipation that we arrived in mid-summer! Actually for many of those in the know i.e. the locals this is actually the best time of year. The boys had to pretend they were white water rafting, and they could only view the daredevil antics of those tackling the downhill mountain biking from the safety of the gondola but there was still plenty of tot-appropriate excitement for them to tackle.

Had more of the alpine hiking trails have been open I am not sure Susie and I would have been so content to take it easy but the long winter (is it ever anything other than long in Whistler) had yet to melt away from many of the routes. We did get plenty of miles in along the fantastic paved Valley Trail network that weaves its way up and down and across the valley. One such excursion took us to Lost Lake, where H and I went for a wee paddle. As the sequence of pictures show H gradually disrobed as his splashing and stumbling soaked his shorts and then his T-shirt. At least I know now how much water a nappy can hold - lots.

Lost Lake Park was one of many we visited. Perhaps unsurprisingly it wasn't until we returned with children that we realised just how great the facilities are in Whistler. There are several parks, all accessible form the pedestrian and bike only Valley Trail, and all very well maintained with good facilities.

Aside from a hunt for 'swings' we were also drawn to the various parks by the range of events taking place while we were there: from a 24hr Bio Blitz at Alpha Lake Park to a fancy dress party at Rainbow Park and outdoor cinema at Lost Lake Park.

There were also events and attractions indoors that the boys enjoyed. The brilliant library attracted us a couple of times and the neighbouring museum ran a crazy creatures day, that allowed F to take home his very own crocodile. Many of the events were attached to the centennial celebrations of the resort. Of course, like many places in North America, Whistler has different histories. It was good to hear some of this in the stunning First Nations museum. Here we enjoyed the salmon candy snacks, walked through the interpretive forest, dressed up and banged drums and even touched a (dead) Cougar. Luckily the bears we saw outside on another day were several metres further away.

Links:
Resort Municipality of Whistler
Whistler library
Whistler museum
Squamish-Lilwat Cultural Centre

Galiano Island

2011-08-19T20:43:00.020Z

Galiano is one of the Gulf Islands that lie between Vancouver Island and the mainland. With a total population of little over 1000 dotted, even its main village of Sturdies Bay where the ferry disembarks, is very low-key.

Like most buildings our quirky self-catering accommodation, Wheatly's was set amidst trees. As well as being very peaceful this afforded us glimpses of the local wildlife: chipmunks, snakes, sea eagles and deer (which F was adamant were actually goats). Fortunately - since the boys spent much of their time playing outside with the toys and facilities provided - bears and cougars don't reside on the island.

Susie’s forthcoming travel article on kayaking was one of the main reasons we were on Galiano. As I had to look after the boys while she was out paddling with Galiano Kayaks I can’t comment on the experience. She assures me however that this (and the various spa treatments at the Galiano Inn that she insists provided the necessary balance to the physical activity) were most excellent.

When not out ‘working’ Susie joined the boys and me for walks. There were quite a few trails through the woods and when we weren't amongst the trees we would walk along the rocky shores or quiet roads to the fine bakery or ice cream shops. Ironically the island has remained relatively undeveloped due to much of the land being used as a tree farm by the logging industry into the 1990s. A lack of personal or public transport prevented us from exploring the even-quieter northern end.

Our last day on the island coincided with annual Galiano Fiesta. After the ‘parade’ through Sturdies Bay the procession moved on to the Lion's Club playing fields. A chain saw display and stands selling things like hammocks were among the attractions. H and F took even picked up ribbons printed with 'participant' and 'I tried' respectively for their efforts in the under 5s race.

Links: Wheatley's, Galiano Inn and Spa, Galiano Kayaks

Victoria

2011-08-19T20:39:00.009Z

Victoria is said to be one of the most 'British' of Canadian places and the overcast weather that greeted our arrival backed this up. However we were excited to be arriving back in BC and on F's birthday. His personal excitement increased further when he saw the double bed that was to be all his (for bouncing and some sleeping) at our apartment and as for the various sliding doors that he could play with ...! Elsewhere at the Parkside Plaza we were all impressed by the three-story enclosed atrium, rooftop gardens and mini cinema.

Away from the hotel we enjoyed the buskers' festival taking place around town. Being Canadian it was all very well organised with a programme denoting the time each performer would appear at the various (sponsored), along with a biography. There were always boats and float planes coming and going at the busy harbour. We boarded one of the former and joined the daily flotilla that 'hunts' one of two local orca pods. Our sightings were mainly long range but that didn't detract from the fun day out on the water and the boys were even persuaded to don their sunglasses to enjoy the view.

Calgary

2011-08-17T18:57:00.020Z

"Yee Ha - this is rodeo!" hollered the MC at the grandstand and, judging by the number of cowboy hats worn around town, this enthusiasm captured the mood of a good proportion of Calgarians during their annual Stampede festival. All the horses and cows (I didn't say bull) appealed to the boys.

They got a further fix of animals at the excellent zoo. As well as live animals they also had a fun dinosaur walk, with life-size models hidden amongst the trees. Elsewhere at the excellent Heritage Park out of town they indulged another of their 'passions' as we rode on ye olde steam train. There were also a number of buildings from the pioneer days and some lovely cars and signage from the mid-twentieth century.

As well as these great attractions Susie and I were especially pleased to see our old friend Dave. He took us to a great restaurant called Charcut on our last night where the food is fresh and fun - F was intrigued to see the pig's heads in the highly visible cooler. I hope it didn't frighten him too much and anyway it is good to know where our food comes from.

O Canada

2011-08-14T15:36:00.002Z

Feeling bleary being back in London after our holiday in Canada - it may be the jet-lag or the riots that took place in the 'hood while we were away. It is always tiring with two wee boys, home or away, but since we were away for a good few weeks the family Henderson were able to see and do lots of things. I will say a bit about each place in a separate blog entry.

Birthday celebrations lift off

2011-07-13T21:07:00.004Z

We will be out of town on F's birthday so Mike, Sarah and B came over for an early celebration. The easel was very well received although F had so much trouble keeping the wee ones away from the magnet letters that he had to fly them both off in a hot air balloon.

First pair of shoes

2011-07-13T21:02:00.005Z

H has been walking for a couple of weeks but has being going bare foot, even outside. It was about time he acquired his first shoes then. Here he is getting used to them, with advice from brother F.

We marched them into town

2011-06-30T19:24:00.009Z

Today F and I were in town in support of the industrial action against government cuts. Of course such things can be a little tedious, especially for a not-quite three year old, so we found time for a play and peace as well.

We were also in town with Susie and H at the weekend for a stomp around City Hall.

Baby you can drive my car

2011-06-19T19:43:00.003Z

H is getting more confident on his feet but still
prefers to have something to hold on to.

Spectator sports 2

2011-06-02T14:04:00.002Z

The choices were made and then we all had to wait a few weeks to see whether or not we would get the various Olympic tickets we requested. Our account has been debited so we must have something, we just don't know what yet. It all adds to the excitement. Even if we hadn't got anything that would have been fine because it was a lottery for an over-subscribed event - there has been far too much moaning in the media. Sometimes I feel there is just so much media space and time to fill that they always need to criticise to generate a story.

Half-term, have fun

2011-06-02T09:54:00.006Z

I'm having a rare moment of peace during what should be my half-term holiday. Susie is off on a well-earned break in Norway with Sarah for a few days meaning I am home alone with the boys. Actually it hasn't be too bad thus far - in part because Susie left me two pages of instructions! The day before Susie left we had a visit from Gill, M and baby J, who all recently left the gritty streets for Essex. F and M always have a giggle.

Nunhead Cemetery open day 2011

2011-05-21T18:38:00.006Z

Today was the annunal open day at the splendidly gothic Nunhead Cemetery. The scheduled performance of the Nunhead community choir, including Susie and Sarah, drew the crowds in. Actually the fact that this was the first time in ages they hadn't clashed with the FA cup final, the fine weather, and variety of stalls and attractions available probably all had something to do with the day's popularity as well. Below F is admiring some fine bubble blowing in one of the said attractions.

Happy Birthday H

2011-05-11T20:25:00.003Z

Let them eat cake

2011-05-11T19:37:00.006Z

Happy Birthday H.

After opening pressies, with help from big brother, he and cousin B enjoyed stuffing themselves with cake.

Spectator sports

2011-04-30T15:07:00.004Z

Modern Pentathlon, tennis, table tennis, cycling (track), swimming, gymnastics (floor); not to mention the opening and closing ceremonies. Like many thousands of others we waited until the deadline day to apply for tickets and then like many others got rather carried away in the number of tickets we requested. The lottery system in operation practically encourages one to over-state spectator enthusiasm given the likelihood of being unsuccessful in some/ most of one's bids.

Fingers crossed we don't get everything we requested otherwise we will be paying out the best part of a grand and learning the rules to a lot of new sports. I hope we do get some of course. It will be great to be part of the biggest event seen in London since, well, the Royal wedding. Unlike Susie (and H) I (and F) were unwilling to expend the Olympian efforts to follow that particular sport live yesterday.

Toilet training 1

2011-04-22T09:45:00.003Z

We arrived back from Scotland and straight into summer in London this week. Not that we have been able to fully enjoy it mind you as we have mainly been indoors doing full-on toilet training with F. On day 1 we got through 7 pairs of pants but he was quite enjoying the novelty and was happy to run to the bathroom every 15 minutes. By day 3 the novelty was wearing off and now getting him to go to the bathroom is turning into another in a long list of toddler tantrum flash points.

We have been able to entertain ourselves with crafts and cooking indoors and after a couple of small sojourns in recent days are hoping for more exposure to sunlight over the Easter weekend.

Scotland at Easter

2011-04-22T09:05:00.005Z

We recently enjoyed a week in Edinburgh, staying with Susie's folks. F loves hanging around Gaga and having a giggle with with cousins E and A, be that in Gaga's garden our on trips around town. H especially enjoyed his first trip through to Glasgow, where we met up with Michael and visited Lei, Shannon and baby M - and their fantastic toy collection. The day we met Andy for lunch and H had his first taste of chips came a close second. Perhaps he will have some Irn Bru in the summer!

Bounding into Spring

2011-03-22T21:41:00.011Z

Winter has had a tight grip on Britain this year, which has been great for the Scottish ski resorts, but left the rest of us desperate for Spring. Thankfully the last couple of weekends have coincided with the appearance of some welcome sunshine. Here are cousins H and B enjoying a climbing frame on their way to see the animals at Mudchute farm on the Isle of Dogs.

Another weekend: another farm of sorts -this time Coram's Fields, which has a small selection of hens, rabbits and a couple of sheep and goats. While it's menagerie may be meagre it's range of swings and other apparatus is extensive. F and H found an unusual bouncy thing that they were able to to enjoy together.

Baptism

2011-03-22T21:24:00.005Z

We were pleased to have H baptised recently. It went very well although there were some nerves and tears on the day. All were more relaxed once we got home and the kiddies had a play, while the adults enjoyed some champagne.

Dorset explorer

2011-03-05T19:35:00.004Z

Hot on the heels of the Austrian ski trip I was off again - this time taking an A level class to Dorset. We were able to hit the beaches for four consecutive days - while we studied coastal erosion and management, rural and urban re-branding - albeit four very chilly days at the end of February/ beginning of March.

Aside from simply enjoying time outdoors, we were able to collect some good data. The students were particularly interested in the effect of River Cottage farm on Lyme Regis and the surrounding 'good food' area and the evidence of rapid coastal erosion along Studland Beach.

School ski 2011

2011-03-05T18:37:00.003Z

For the 2011 school ski trip we again returned to Austria, this time to Schladming, in the Ski Amade region. I was very impressed with the modern lift system although that allowed us to get plenty of kilometres in on one mountain at a time. The conditions were good on the winding runs through the trees and we even found the odd powder scraps beyond the piste.

Being limited mainly to pistes and with plenty of beginners in our midst I spent a few days on skis. I am getting better on two sticks but have some way to go before I can keep up with Mr Bradshaw, seen here taking a rest on a bull - probably waiting for me to catch up with him!

Swinging London

2011-02-06T20:01:00.003Z

Today was breezy but bright so we took the kiddies to the park in the afternoon for a run-around. For H this usually means sitting in the buggy watching someone else do all the running but he does now join his brother on the swings.

Birthday blue

2011-02-06T17:40:00.003Z

Happy birthday to me. Thanks for the cards and presents. The pick of these was a little blue teapot from Susie. I am looking forward to 'real' tea at the weekend - so long as it is Earl Grey - from now on.

Outstanding start to the year

2011-01-20T21:16:00.005Z

It seems like I have been back at work for ages already but there have been some bright spots to lift the gloom of January. We enjoyed a couple of days out locally over the New Year weekend including a pleasant couple of hours at the Imperial War Museum followed by lunch at Nandos!

Given the weather F has spent a lot of time at the local soft play emporium. H was so excited to join us one day that he went and stood up all by himself.

When F does get out for a 'run around' he takes full advantage of it as this action shot shows.

A personal bright spot was victory in a pub table tennis tournament. Unfortunately this was quickly followed by resounding defeat in my next outing!

2010 Round Robin

2011-01-01T21:56:00.003Z

The year started and ended with decent snowfall, even here in the balmy south-east. As a result, leading the school trip to Saalbach-Hinterglemm in February didn't seem so exotic.

It was third time lucky with the driving test in the summer. Actually I am not counting the second fail in Easter since I wasn't actually allowed to do the test on account of a warning light - a mere technicality.

On the day the country got a new boy in Downing Street in May the Henderson household welcomed baby H to the world. The birth of my second son was a joyous occasion although I didn't have to go through labour!

Of course the birth of a brother has had a profound effect on F and has brought a range of emotions from strong love through occasional apathy to strong jealousy. Cousin B arrived in February and they now enjoy spending a lot of time together and we all enjoyed her baptism in September. On church-related matters we were less excited to bid farewell to our minister, Camille, to Washington D C in the summer. Aside from these relationships, it has been a pleasure to watch F become more and more confident in his speech and physical movement.

Holiday wise, summer saw an enjoyable trip to Edinburgh and a lovely birthday for F, when he and his cousins enjoyed a lovely sunny day in their grandparents' house. In autumn we gambled on Newquay in Cornwall. It turned into a good family holiday and everyone got something out of it: surfing for daddy, spa for mummy, and playing around the beach and rental apartment for the boys.

On the topic of sport, the most exciting event for me turned out not to be the 2010 World Cup but Ping London, where 100 or so tables were spread out across London for public use. We managed a few games but the big thing has been the repercussions in terms of the the sport's status and venues. I have tried out a couple of pub nights recently and hope to continue this into the new year.

Work is ticking along well enough. I spent much of the summer getting enthused about the new GCSE controlled assessment on the topic of sustainability. As part of this I took an enjoyable trip to the BRE Innovation Park.

Happy New Year to all who stumble this way!

Present tense

2010-12-27T18:29:00.005Z

The opening and playing with new presents is a joy and can also lead to frayed nerves with piles of packaging (landfills!), beeps and repetition. Of course we are individually and collectively grateful for all gifts received and are having a lot of fun with these.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-27T18:06:00.006Z

After living in London for 10 years I enjoyed my first Christmas in London this year. We were fortunate to be joined by some family to create a full house. Susie and Sarah conducted a nativity play, starring the three kiddies. Here is one picture from the 'rehearsal' and one from the actual performance.

Home front

2010-12-16T19:56:00.005Z

Susie bravely took the boys to Scotland last week on the train. She was travelling with Sarah and so there were two adults and three kiddies on trains that were even more packed than usual on account of the snowfall. For much of the week in Edinburgh they were house bound but here is a picture of Sarah pulling F and cousin B through the snow.

For my part I enjoyed a holiday at home and some interrupted sleep! I also took the advantage of their absence and had a few wee nights out. Most entertaining was a table tennis competition night at the Westow House pub in Crystal Palace. Over the course of the evening I won and lost a good few games, including a whitewash to a man so cool he played all night with a suit jacket and cravat on. I will be back to challenge him on Tuesdays when I can.

Singing Sisters

2010-12-12T15:28:00.005Z

Susie and Sarah's rehearsals with the Nunhead Community Choir came to a climax with a performance at the Ivy House pub. The choir were led by Lloyd Wade who is currently features in the charts with Eliza Doolittle. The sisters can be seen singing with gusto over Lloyd's right shoulder in the grainy (sorry) image to the left.

More recently they were joined on stage by Mike (and F) for the Service Unit Christmas party at St Columba's.

Susie's birthday

2010-12-12T15:27:00.002Z

Happy Birthday Susie!

Here is a picture from the wee birthday tea. F and B were helping to open the pressies.

Snow day

2010-12-02T15:45:00.004Z

The snow has worked its way down the East Coast to London bringing predictable chaos in its wake. Today I enjoyed a 'snow day' from work and so took the opportunity for a walk through the snow with the family to work up an appetite for a pub lunch. Now I better settle into some proper work.

Sick ward

2010-11-13T21:02:00.003Z

Susie has been nursing the boys all week. The vomiting thankfully morphed into colds after a day or so but it has been unpleasant nonetheless. Me having work commitments most evenings this week didn't help lift the cloud. I am sure they will be back to their best next week.

Pumpkin head

2010-10-31T21:18:00.002Z

While the version of Halloween that is packaged in the media is more akin to the North American version there is a more ancient tradition from the Celtic nations. Nonetheless I took the easy option and carved a pumpkin this evening rather than risk stabbing myself with the tough little turnip of old.

Boys posing for the camera

2010-10-25T21:17:00.006Z

More pictures from our trip to Cornwall - the first proving that it was sunny.

The boys looking better without me ...

Newquay

2010-10-25T19:50:00.006Z

We have just returned from a week in Cornwall. We found a great self catering apartment in Newquay through a company called Natural Retreats - very modern and spacious and close to Fistral Beach - so good that we would happily move in given the chance! They even had these cute beach huts to store all your wet stuff.

With the weather holding out we were able to find plenty to occupy us in and around the town: from drawing in the sand to feeding time at the zoo. Susie and I even managed to sneak away from parental duties at different times - surfing for me and spa for her.

F enjoys playing with H

2010-10-15T21:00:00.003Z

F can be a little 'over affectionate' with his little brother. On the whole H enjoys the attention but there are frequently tears from all concerned at the moment. However it can be very sweet.

October pictures

2010-10-15T20:54:00.005Z

Greenwich peninsula

2010-09-24T21:05:00.003Z

I have visited the Greenwich peninsula a few times over recent months; mainly in preparation for geography fieldwork that I am leading there in October. Most recently we visited the Millennium primary school on Open House weekend and were suitably impressed by the quality of learning environment and focus on environmentally friendly architecture; a theme that continues throughout the grandly named Greenwich Millennium Village.

Of course F is not overly interested in sustainability. Luckily he has been able to enjoy pond dipping at the Ecology park and on another visit, a glimpse of the characters from 'In the night garden' while we are having lunch at the 02. A glimpse was all he got becasue we didn't actually take him into the show - sorry F!

Baptism

2010-09-24T20:55:00.005Z

The reason our small party were standing bleary eyed on the platform at Fenchurch Station on a recent Sunday was that we are all heading out to Essex for the baptism of baby B. After a lovely service we all enjoyed a lovely barbeque in her granny's garden with the late summer shining. Congratiulations and blessings to B and her proud parents, Sarah and Mike.

On a wing and a prayer

2010-09-24T20:49:00.004Z

After three years with us in St Columba's Camille has moved on to Georgetown, Washington. We will miss her spiritual guidance and also her friendship very much. The high-esteem and affection we all felt for her were clear from the large crowd that attended her last servcie and subsequent lunch. Our gratitude and prayers wing their way across the Atlantic to her.

Brighton stag-do

2010-09-24T20:14:00.005Z

I recently joined Richard for his stag-do in Brighton. A large - I'm talking over 6 hours - part of the day was set-aside for a cricket match between Sussex and Surrey. I never really enjoyed watching cricket on the telly and it wasn't a great improvment live however I can partly see the attraction - a few beers and the Saturday paper in the sunshine, not to mention Richard's entertaining and informative banter. Best wishes to Richard and Veronica for the big day in Madrid - sadly, unlike Surrey, we won't make it out.

Summer slides away

2010-08-30T09:56:00.002Z

Back to work this week after the summer hols. Aside from a wee trip to Edinburgh we have have been content with little day trips and park visits in and around London. Here are all the boys at the top of a slide in Ruskin park.

BRE Innovation Park

2010-08-29T13:23:00.006Z

With an ongoing interest in green issues and architecture I was pleased to visit the BRE Innovation Park, near Watford last week. Part of the extensive campus is set aside for a small 'village' of fully-assembled and functioning homes of the future, designed to give a glimpse of how the delivery of sustainable buildings and communities can be achieved. I love a bright and airy new home at the best of times but the green features and innovation on show were particularly inspirational (and I am afraid will remain aspirational for many). Without a technical background many of the construction materials and techniques were lost on me but so much seemed to make sense and I look forward to seeing more green (and affordable) housing design around the country.

The Building Research Establishment was formerly a government department but has been a private company since 1997. It provides expert, impartial research, knowledge and advice for the built environment sector and beyond to government, business and industry. Promoting sustainability is one of its key focuses. Much of what has been built at the Innovation Park will make its way into the main building trade (some of the techniques are already in widespread use), especially as the government has set tough targets for the sustainability for new housing - by 2016 all new builds will have to be carbon neutral. BRE opens up the Innovation Park for regular tours for the building industry and the public.

BRE Innovation Park and links to individual homes

H bath time

2010-08-21T20:23:00.004Z

H seems to be enjoying bath time at the moment. I think part of the attraction is that he gets wrapped up nice and warm when he comes out.

Peering out

2010-08-21T19:56:00.005Z

F and I arrived at playgroup to find the doors locked today - for reasons unknown - so we made up our own varied play session. First 'woody' park - we make up the names for lots of parks based on their distinguishing features, in this case lots of wooden features including the play house F is peering out from in the picture - then the library, where there was more peering out.

Super cooker

2010-08-21T19:29:00.002Z

... or should that be supper cooker or souper cooker or cardboard box with bits of coloured paper attached. Creating a pretend cooker for F became a mini-project for me this last week after his recent enthusiasm for baking cakes and a growing collection of play food. Get your order in!

Cake bake

2010-08-12T19:56:00.003Z

F and I are spending a lot of time hanging out this summer. Today's activities were park in the morning and baking fairy cakes in the afternoon. F was a very willing helper but strangely declined to test the product - they were only a little burnt!

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

2010-08-12T19:14:00.007Z

There was much excitement yesterday as we set out a family day trip by car. Having aimed for an 8:30am departure some of this excitement had waned when we hadn't made it past the local supermarket petrol station by 10am. This partly explain the late decision to switch destinations from the intended Leeds Castle to the closer-at-hand historic dockyards at Chatham.

This is really a series of attractions spread across a very large site around the old docks. As well as boats and ships in and out of the water there are trains, museums and galleries. With the kiddies on board we only managed to see a small portion of the sites but we were nonetheless impressed and would hope to go back (the tickets are valid for a year). I was pleased to see some links to the proud shipbuilding and heavy engineering of Clydeside and also appreciated the magnificent architecture of the Big Space (when built in 1838 it was Europe’s largest wide span timber structure).

Of course F was most impressed with the play park but did enjoy exploring HMS Cavalier.

H smiling

2010-08-08T13:11:00.004Z

F likes to keep us up to date with what his little brother is doing at any particular moment e.g. H is dribbling or sick. A frequent commentary of the moment is "H is laughing" - here are a couple of good recent illustrations.

Ping Pong is coming home

2010-08-02T21:10:00.005Z

I rather like playing table tennis and so I was delighted that a 100 or so weather-proof tables have been installed at busy places across London this summer. With the kiddies to look after however it took us until this weekend to actually get up close and try one out. Susie used the strong breeze to her advantage to take victory at the Bermondsey square table, with F acting as a ball boy; with varying degrees of compliance.

The mayor, Boris Johnson, humoursouly announced at the hand-over cermenony after the 2008 Beijing games that ping pong was coming home. He claimed that Britain had invented table tennis over its dining tables before it became a Chinese national obsession. Whatever the validity of this statement, the popularity of the joint initiative - between the English Table Tennis Association and Sing London, the participatory arts organisation - just may prove it to be true. Ping! will be visiting 4 more cities in the next two years before returning to London for 2012 and the Olympic games.

Official website

Bye bye Scotland

2010-07-27T14:02:00.005Z

We are back in London after our week and half in Scotland aka our summer holidays. Of course the sun does not always shine but when it does it is appreciated all the more. We mostly spend time with Susie's family in and around Edinburgh and we will miss them all. F has already said he wants to see gaga, grumpy and all the other cousins, aunties etc again and I am sure H would say the same if he could speak.

Happy birthday

2010-07-20T20:15:00.006Z

We celebrated F's second birthday today. He was joined at the Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh for a 'run around' by cousins A and E. Later we all enjoyed tea and birthday cake in the garden courtesy of gaga.

Me and my cousins 2

2010-07-20T20:05:00.005Z

F and H recently had a picnic in the park with cousins in London. We are up in Scotland this week so they are now enjoying plenty of time with their Scottish cousins. Despite the travel sickness and rain we all enjoyed a day trip to North Berwick for fish and chips. The picture shows F with cousing A and E on a roundabout in Gullane - minutes after the aforementioned sickness! We also managed a stop for ice cream at the famous S. Luca in Musselburgh to complete the East Lothian experience.

Poole party

2010-07-19T21:51:00.004Z

We were delighted to spend part of A's birthday with him. Nice face painting eh!

Pool party

2010-07-19T21:10:00.004Z

F and his friend E were invited to M's house for paddling pool party in the garden recently. They gathered together to celebrate their joint second birthdays.

Me and my cousins 1

2010-07-04T16:07:00.005Z

Susie's cousin and her family came over to join the usual suspects for a picnic in Peckham Rye yesterday. Everyone was pleased to while a way a few hours in the lovely weather. F and his cousin M were esepcially pleased to have someone new to play with while cousin T was happy doing her own thing. H and B were quite content to lay back on the picnic rug, the latter having had her first taste of raspberries.

Driving test passed

2010-07-04T15:58:00.005Z

Few! I was delighted to pass my driving test at the second time of asking last week. Many thanks go to Mike for all his instruction and patience. F has either been inspired by my efforts or is keen to learn for himself so he doesn't have to go in a car with me!

Fit for summer

2010-06-27T09:18:00.002Z

With summer upon us many people feel an urge to get fit. Here F and H are having a pause during their workout in the baby gym.

World Cup 2

2010-06-27T09:05:00.006Z

With the third lot of group games and now the knock-out stage underway the World Cup is properly up and running. With Ghana overcoming the USA last night there was much excitement in this particular corner of London and with England facing their nemesis, Germany today there is fevered excitement in the country.

It isn't all about foot-balls, there are other balls causing excitement. Andy Murray continues to generate the faith that he may one day win a major, hopefully starting with Wimbledon this year. And the lawn bowls season is now underway. Yesterday a few of us took to the lawn in Peckham Park to test our skills or lack thereof.

H and his mummy

2010-06-20T21:09:00.001Z

World Cup 1

2010-06-15T21:12:00.007Z

Every fourth year there is a World Cup and a mixture of sadness and joy. The sadness that Scotland failed to qualify again (will we ever join the likes of Honduras, North Korea and Slovenia again?). Normally however that melancholy is replaced by joy as I watch the fantastic football on show and relief as I realise that Scotland would have been sent home with their tail between their legs. Not this year; not yet anyway! We are still waiting for this tournament to come alive.

Perhaps the drone of the vuvuzelas is interfering with some of the fine football brains on the pitches. At least the Lothians MSP has saw the danger ahead for Scotland and called for a ban on the horns at all Scottish stadiums. The cheery parliamentarian clearly does not want the standard of our football to fall (further).

See the BBC story here. The photograph is also taken from the BBC website.

Recent picture of H

2010-06-15T21:09:00.002Z

Trip to town

2010-06-01T20:51:00.004Z

We took H on the train for the first time on Sunday as we ventured into town for church. It was a bit of an effort carrying the buggy laden with two wee boys up and down stairs but it was good to get out as a family, and having to make extra cafe stops isn't too much of an ordeal.

H on playmat (photo credit: grumpy)

2010-05-28T20:56:00.003Z

2010-05-24T19:27:00.004Z

Cousin B and H enjoy some time together on the playmat this afternoon.

... while F gratefully received a couple of new books from Auntie Jilly.

Recent pictures

2010-05-24T18:52:00.003Z

Tentative steps

2010-05-17T17:49:00.007Z

Susie had her first proper taste of the outside world for a week as we all ventured to the nearby playpark this afternoon. The baby being held by Gaga is cousin B as H hid from the sunlight.

Home is where the H is

2010-05-16T19:55:00.004Z

After a short stay in hospital Susie and H made their way home on Friday. In the first picture H is enjoying a snooze - needless to say he is more awake during the night time; when his parents would rather be asleep. In the second picture F is delighted to have H visit in his cot.

Play group

2010-05-16T17:44:00.005Z

One of the best things about living in London is the huge range of activities for kids and I don't mean just the big museums and attractions. There are lots of local activities on too. F and I have found a Saturday club just for dads and their offspring. Here F enjoys playing on some of the outdoor toys in their garden.

Chips for lunch

2010-05-14T14:06:00.004Z

While his mummy has been in hospital F has been enjoying a holiday with auntie Sarah, uncle Mike and cousin B. However we enjoyed some quality time together yesterday with a bowl of chips in the cafe followed by a run around in the park. Now that Gaga has arrived in town F has returned home.

The new boy

2010-05-12T08:33:00.010Z

On Monday Labour and Brown in particular started a process that led to a new boy and coalition in Downing St. On Monday Susie went into labour. We are delighted to announce that this brought an exciting new addition to the Henderson family. H C Henderson arrived safely on Tuesday weighing in at 7lb 13oz. Mother and baby are staying in hospital for observation but are otherwise fine. Mummy and daddy hope H and F can quickly form a successful coalition.

Elephant parade

2010-05-03T19:53:00.006Z

The weather has not been great in London over the bank holiday weekend but we still got out today to look at the new elephant parade that has sprung out all over London. F and his pal M admired some finely decorated sculptures and a good run around in the shadow of Tower Bridge this morning. Similar to the cow parade that was doing the round a few years ago this campaign is designed to highlight the plight of the Asian elephant: http://elephantparadelondon.org/

Parked

2010-04-14T09:02:00.009Z

With baby 2 due soon we've been parked close to home this Easter. This isn't any great hardship since we love pottering around in London generally and parks specifically.

F met his pals E and M on a lovely sunny day in Peckham park.

On a less sunny day Team Henderson enjoyed a visit to the Battersea zoo. The highlight was the crawl through the tunnel to get a closer look at the meerkats.

We were not the only ones waiting expectantly. Susie's parents were staying with us en route to their cruise from Athens. Unfortunately the Icelnadic volcano meant they never made it to Greece but at least they enjoyed a trip to Greenwich park.

Drive in the country

2010-04-10T21:09:00.004Z

After a long, cold, lonely winter the sun returned from its southern hiatus to bless us with a beautiful day. We drove with Mike to the lovely countryside just south of the M25. We stopped in a little place called Marsh Green, near Edenbridge for a pleasant pub lunch in the beer garden. After that we played around outside. Here Mike shows F some cows and explains why gates are good ideas. Susie enjoyed a wee rest with her ever expanding bump. Having endured my driving on the way out, Mike took the wheel to ensure we got home before night fell.

More studying

2010-04-09T21:02:00.004Z

Driving test 2 was as (un)successful as the first. At least this time I didn't fail - there was a warning light in the car that meant the examiner refused to let us leave the centre - but the net result was the same. Further study and practice is needed. F shows how to knuckle down to work.

London Eye

2010-03-14T20:00:00.004Z

We were fortunate to have some fine weather for our trip on the London Eye. Not that F needed good visibility to see the short distance to the trains coming in and out of Charing Cross Station.

School Ski

2010-03-14T19:41:00.005Z

The 2010 school ski trip was to Saalbach-Hinterglemm in Austria.

Christmas comes but once a year

2010-01-01T17:13:00.002Z

After a lovely time in snowy Edinburgh and a less than lovely journey south we are back in London. For most people Christmas comes once a year but F's opening of presents took place over a number of days. While he is still a bit young to know what it is all about (but then most people forget what it is about anyway) he did seem to get the hang of ripping wrapping paper after a few tries. Merry Christmas all.

Snow is falling

2009-12-24T14:00:00.003Z

We are comfortably settled into our accommodation in Edinburgh - Susie's parents - for Christmas. There was a thick blanket of snow when we arrived and the white stuff has continued to fall, making it feel especially festive.

Journey to the East

2009-12-21T12:50:00.004Z

At this time of year we read of three wise men who follwoed the star to see the new baby in Bethlehem so it was appropriate that we three travelled to see a new(ish) baby this weekend. Of course our journey was not so arduous but we did have to content with the snow in Colchester as we visited Janine and Mike and baby E, who is not yet two months old. Despite the cold, he and his parents were well.

Weekend

2009-12-15T21:47:00.006Z

The night after the work's Christmas party ... it wasn't so much that I had a few drinks it was more that F wakes up so early nowadays. At least it means we have more time to enjoy the days together and this Saturday just gone was one of the those fine and busy London days.

We started off by meeting an old friend from university for an early lunch at the Brunswick Centre. Fraser and his wife Jenny now have their own wee girl. She and F enjoyed a potter in Coram's Fields after the restaurant. As well as some great looking apparatus for older kids this super little park in the city even has a miniature zoo with sheep, goats, rabbits, ducks et al.

From there we headed south via some unchartered (for us anyway) streets. The businesses on Lamb's Conduit Street are worth another visit I feel; especially the bike and book shops. As we crossed the Thames at Waterloo Bridge London was beginning to look dark and moody.

Things were a lot brighter and louder in baby disco. Yes F attended his first 'rave' at the Royal Festival Hall. I would have stayed for the last dance but F needed to get home for his supper/ Susie needed to get home for the X Factor final.