Throne

Definitely a throne of sorts, just not one made of iron LOL. Well done to one IKEA store for getting into the GoT spirit.

Here Be Dragons!

Is it the gratuitous murders? The political intrigue and double crossing? Fire breathing dragons? Or the boobs? Somehow Game Of Thrones is quite addictive isn't it?

Not part of George R R Martin's Songs Of Ice And Fire series LOL.

Lewes

Lewes Castle is one of the oldest Norman castles in the UK. Situated relatively close to Hastings, it was one of the first fortifications built in England by the conquering Norman army of William I (sometimes referred to as The Conquerer or The Bastard). Temperatures today reached a very pleasant 24 degrees in Sussex, lovely. Made for a grand time exploring the castle ruins and grounds; however returning to the mundane of work will seem that bit harder LOL.

Cleves

Taking in history is always something I've been interested in, although have to confess to being far from an expert. Given the opportunity I enjoy widening my understanding of times past and how people lived.

Tucked away in the Sussex town of Lewes (pronounced like the sidekick to Inspector Morse) is the lovely cottage gifted to Anne of Cleves on the annulment of her marriage. Not a bad settlement I'm sure, especially since I don't think Anne lived there long or indeed at all. Instead I believe it was used to generate rental income in the end. Stepping inside, despite modern safety features and electrical cables, it is easy to imagine how life would have been.

Oh and Happy Easter everyone.

Made

Some might say it is brilliant that when you park your car you no longer need to fumble for change to put in the meter, instead you can call or use an App. I say, but wouldn't we all be happier if we had Meter Maids LOL?

Forbury

Here's some images of the Forbury Gardens in Reading. Previously these were part of the Abbey grounds and used as a gun emplacement in the civil war of 1150, between Matilda and Stephen, King Henry I's daughter and nephew. These days the Forbury, complete with the Maiwand Lion, is a municipal garden, free of monks and warring royals LOL.

Easter At The Quarter

Really can't believe it but it has taken nearly a year to visit the newly opened ruins of Reading Abbey, or Abbey Quarter as it is officially known. With money from the Heritage Lottery Fund, I understand, the ruins of this once great structure have been stabilised, now permitting visitors unhindered access.

On my way back to the car from my annual opticians appointment I allowed myself chance to explore and snap a few shots. The sky was somewhat overcast and moody but I think it fair to say the Abbey doesn't look too bad. If you look closely at some of the below pictures, you might also get a glimpse of some of the more modern buildings and of the famous Victorian era Reading Prison. Oscar might be proud it still stands LOL.

Close One

Something of a milestone today: gave my son his first electric shaver. Not too sure he was that impressed but it's part and parcel of growing up. One thing is sure, he'll be in need of it before too long.

Early Bird

6.30 this fine morning, no worms seen never mind caught LOL...