Taking advantage of the pretty much unprecedented February clear spell, I took full advantage of a day’s leave booked to spend with Lily. Katie’s half term doesn’t coincide with Lily’s which is a bit crap, but we had such a stonking day together - was really good fun.

We set off bright and early to head over to look at the Anthony Gormley installation on Crosby Sands, between Southport and Liverpool. The vista was so impressive in these clear, crisp conditions; it was inspirational. We returned to the car with one sandy, knackered dog, and had our butties (along with some cheeky scrounging avians, see right), then were due to head to the museum in Manchester for the afternoon, when we passed Knowsley Safari Park. The sun was out, it was relatively quiet, and the opportunity just begged us. Some photos here (a mix of proper camera and phone stuff). Ace times.

Since I got a Pro Account on Flickr, meaning bags of photo storage, I thought I’d upload a few from the archive… more as a back up than anything else….

Our Honeymoon in India was taken on slide film but I never got round to scanning them properly… these few were done on the cheap on a not very good slide scanner, but they’re a nice reminder.

Also found these old photos of Elvis as a puppy, which someone took on a digital camera for us way before we got a digital camera, in 2001. He’s such a cutie.

For the second year running, we went to stay with our ace and very welcoming mates Rachel and Jon in Eastbourne for New Year. Managed a lovely run with Jon (opens in Google Earth) on New Year’s Eve along the cliffs near Beachy Head, and a great walk on the beach on New Year’s day.

Their new dog, Buzz, is just gorgeous.

Lovely Christmas Day at Sally and Simon’s house in Chorlton.
Photos Here, including a bit of bike ride action with Olly and Lily, and some pics of Boxing Day here

Had a great trip to see Sarah and Alan - our old neighbours - last weekend. There’ something very reliable and reassuring about old mates. Such a great time - just hanging out and nipping out to Crickley Hill for a walk. Thanks for a great stay guys… Piccies here