I'm Annette!

Annette’s Excellent European Adventure: A Small Part of England

Posted on June 23, 2015 by oltimetv

June 23, 2015

Annette’s Excellent European Adventure:
A Small Part of England

I stand on Steep Hill, with the beautiful Lincoln Cathedral
towering behind me.
March 2015

England is a treat to explore. Happily tagging along on my husband’s business trips, I have been blessed to be able to visit England’s northeastern area on a few occasions. Being an avid (iPhone) photographer, I share with you a photo album highlighting my two visits to the Lincolnshire area and beyond, from this past year.

My husband, Dale, and I enjoy an evening stroll on the Cleethropes beach.
Due to the nippy June temperatures, I had to buy a stocking cap!
June 2015

St. Patrick’s Day and a Solar Eclipse
Forest Pines Hotel, Scunthorpe

I awoke March 17^th and thoughtfully dressed in my sage green sweater and jeans before heading downstairs for breakfast. It was St. Patrick’s Day, after all, and as any self-respecting former elementary school teacher knows, green is the color of the day. So, imagine my surprise when I walked into the restaurant, and nary a green clad Brit could be found, nor even a shamrock decoration! After a conversation with a local on the subject, I found that St. Pat’s celebrations do happen in this part of the world, too, but mostly in the pubs. I was, however, treated that afternoon to a beautiful rainbow, befitting of the day dedicated to the “wearin’ of the green” and the legend of the leprechaun’s pot of gold.

I spied this St. Patrick’s Day rainbow outside my hotel window.
Maybe I should have followed it to the end, for my portion of the leprechaun’s pot of gold! :o)
March 17, 2015

Three days later, another phenomenon appeared in the sky, a solar eclipse. This astronomical occurrence took me by surprise, and like most of my fellow breakfast diners that morning; I could only watch live Internet and TV coverage, as nature put on its display. (Viewing a solar eclipse with the naked eye can cause irreparable damage.) With almost 90% coverage of the sun, an eeriness set in. Daylight’s colors faded into sepia hues. There was an uncomfortable, attentive, mood that predominated the restaurant, as patrons began to speak in hushed tones. We waited and watched. Slowly the world, as we know it, returned to its colorful and sunny state.

This photo perfectly captures the unusual color that blanketed the area during the solar eclipse.
Lincoln
March 20, 2015

This photo was used with the kind permission of photographer,
Shradha Mishra, who took this photo in Lincoln.
Many, many thanks, Ms. Mirshra!

Screen Shot 2015-06-23 at 4.51.41 PM
How sweet is this eclipse illustration by English children’s book illustrator, Mark A. Chambers?

A great big thank you to Mr. Chambers for allowing me to use his illustration in this blog post!
To read more about Mark A. Chambers, click on his website here.
(Special limited edition prints of this may be made available soon on this website.)
You may also follow him on twitter at https://twitter.com/markAchambers.

Chips, Fries, Crisps

When not chasing rainbows, or being mesmerized by an eclipse in March, I was often enjoying food served at the Forrest Pines. There were some delicious dishes prepared there, but one night it was just that cuisine which proved a humorous moment.

This Onion Veloute soup was one of my favorite dishes served at
Forrest Pines.
You can find the recipe at the bottom of this post.

Dale and I had just arrived at the hotel, and being travel weary, and only slightly hungry, we decided to have room service bring up a sandwich for us to share. Not wanting French fries that night, I requested that we would just like chips.

Walkers is an English variety of crisps for sale in local stores.

As I said, I was tired, I really did know better, but I had made a blunder when ordering. Chips to the English, would be to us (Americans) French fries. Our American (potato) chips are to the English, crisps. When our sandwich order arrived, to my dismay, we received not potato chips, but a double order of French fries, what the English call chips! (Bacon is another word with a different connotation here. English bacon is similar to our American Canadian bacon.)

English “chips” and a hamburger with American-style bacon at
London’s Heathrow Airport’s, London Pride by Fuller’s.
March 2015

Lincoln
March 2015

We were hungry. One evening, after Dale had finished work, we set off to nearby Lincoln for dinner and a bit of sight seeing. Although it was a brief trip, we enjoyed our time spent there.

Dominating the Lincoln landscape is the beautiful Lincoln Cathedral,
first built in 1092.
To read about the cathedral’s history, click here.

You may recognize this cathedral from the 2006 movie, The Da Vinci Code. Read more about that here, and here.

Dale and I were on Lincoln’s Steep Hill, weighing our dinner options, when the wonderful smell of this barbeque caught our attention and drew us in!We found ourselves surrounded by American flags and delicious American cuisine at Ribs n Bibs.

Dale is all bibbed and ready to dig in to our yummy dinner.
I apologize for my blurry photo. I guess that I was more concerned about eating than about photo clarity, at the time. :o)

At the parking lot (or car park, as they are often called in the UK), I pose with the Lincoln Castle in the background. It is home to an original copy of the Magna Carta.

York
March 2015
York is an historic old city with a lot of charm. I had a clear-cut agenda for my short visit there in March; shopping at Cath Kidston’s and lunch at Betty’s Café Tea Room!

I spotted this colorful print, inspired by a vintage Railway poster, in a clothing store. Unfortunately, no one could tell me where I could purchase one to take home.

Looking down the historic street of Stonegate in York.
Cath Kidston’s is located where the blue sign is, on the left hand side.

I love the British-based Cath Kidston shops, even more so during a sale! :o)

I thought that the name of this pub, The Yorkshire Terrier, was cute, sitting on Stonegate.
Note the photo bomber on the left hand side of this picture!

Many of the shop display windows in York, were filled with eye candy.

Eating at Betty’s Café and Tea Room, when in York, is always a treat!

My friendly Betty’s server recommended her favorite dish, so I went with her recommendation.

The Haddock, Salmon and Prawn (shrimp) Gratin was delicious.

To read my past blog post about Lincoln and York, please click here.

Cleethorpes
June 2015

I bought this cute print to remind me of Cleethorpes,
a replica of a vintage rail poster.

Dale and I enjoyed our stay at the Dovedale Hotel.
The hotel’s location in Cleethorpes made it possible for me to walk
around town each day.

Our hotel room looked out onto this quaint English street.

My daily walk to town took me by the water.
This photo was taken in the morning, during low tide.

Cleepthorpes is situated on the mouth of the Humber, an estuary.
During low tide, the sand separates the beach from the water.

A whimsical kite sculpture named Festival “flies” near the beach.

A sign welcomes visitors to shop on Seaview Street.

Seaview Street, as it wakes up to a new day.

Spotted this as I did my daily walk. Isn’t it cute?

I enjoyed my share of fish and chips while in Cleethorpes.
The haddock, at The Captain’s Table,
complete with mushy peas, was the best. YUM!

I left an American iced tea wake, wherever I went in Cleethorpes. I would ask the waitress for hot English Breakfast, or black tea, and a couple of glasses of ice. Although, my request produced some mystified looks, the iced tea was wonderful!

I usually resisted dessert, while having lunch, unlike this sweet little girl.

This little donut guy sits outside a shop by the water.

Fishermen in their little huts, dot the beach.

The evening sunsets were stunning.

A ferris wheel sits idle by the water.

A fisherman gazes at a lone ship sailing along the horizon.

A luminous moon shines over the water.

Recipe

I have not had the opportunity to try this recipe for Onion Veloute, yet. It was delicious and was very different from the onion soups that I have eaten before. Many thanks to Forrest Pines chef for sharing this recipe!

To read my previous posts on my European adventure, click on the links below.

https://annettehoffman.wordpress.com/2015/03/20/annette-and-dales-excellent-european-adventure-part-1-germany/

https://annettehoffman.wordpress.com/2015/04/12/annette-and-dales-excellent-european-adventure-part-2-france/

https://annettehoffman.wordpress.com/2015/05/23/annette-and-dales-excellent-european-adventure-part-3a-england-a-day-in-london/

Thanks for reading! :O)

Annette

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, due to a happily full upcoming calendar, please look for my next post around July 24.

A great big thank you to all of my faithful blog followers!

To become an “I’m Annette” blog follower, receiving each blog via email, upon publication for free, yes, I said free, please sign up on the right-hand side of this page, or go to annettehoffman.wordpress.com.

“Emergence”
March 2015

I was fascinated by this light enhanced sculpture at
London’s Heathrow Airport.
To read more about it, click here.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Annette and Dale's Excellent European Adventure, Betty's Cafe and Tea Room, Cath Kidston, Cleethorpes, Da Vinci Code, Emmergence sculpture at Heathrow, England, Festival kite sculpture in Cleethorpes, Forrest Pines Hotel, Lincoln, Lincoln Castle, Lincolnshire, Lincon Cathedral, London Pride, Mark A. Chambers, Onion Veloute soup recipe, rainbow, Ribs n Bibs, Shradha Mishra, solar eclipse 2015, Steep Hill, Stonegate, The Captain's Table, York | 6 Comments

Scotland, The Director’s Cut

Posted on June 11, 2015 by oltimetv

June 11, 2015

Scotland, The Director’s Cut

It was four days ago that I posted Anniversary in Scotland. At that time, I had hoped to include a brief video that my hubby took of an Edinburgh bag piper. Being a youtube newbie, I gave up. After a little studying, however, I am now ready to give it a try. The quick video is included below. For my wonderful group of email followers, I apologize for an earlier attempt that you received that had gone awry. Here we go…….

Dale and I enjoying the Dalhousie Castle grounds.
May 30, 2015

Wedding Anniversaries-I am of the belief that each and every wedding anniversary should be commemorated in a celebratory manner by the esteemed couple. Over the years, for Dale and myself, this date has most often meant a nice dinner out, or occasionally a romantic weekend away.

Anniversary #35-Dale and I enjoy a rare dinner out while overseas.
May 28, 2013

Unfortunately, last year our special day was spent apart; over 6,000 miles apart! Dale was hard at work overseas. I was tending to things at home, including getting to know our precious new grand daughter, who had been born in April. :o)

Dale and I leave the church on our wedding day. May 28, 1978
To read last year’s post, “Annette and Dale Get Married, or Someday You’ll Look Back on this and Laugh”, click here.

Getting There

This year on May 28, Dale and I were together overseas, anticipating a flight out at 6 am the next day (Friday) for England (…another business trip for Dale). First though, we would enjoy the weekend celebrating our anniversary in Scotland. Embarking upon our adventure, we would land at the Manchester Airport, then rent a car, and drive the 4+ hours to Edinburgh.

The distance from Manchester to Edinburgh looked a lot closer on the map! :o)

That UK journey proved to be a beautifully enchanting canvas of varying degrees of green and dotted with fluffy white sheep, enhanced by a background of clear, brilliant blue sky interspersed with large, billowy white clouds.

I was enjoying the beautiful English countryside, and happy that Dale had that whole “driving on the other side of the road” thing under control!
May 29, 2015

Fluffy white sheep were in abundance throughout the
English and Scottish countryside.

One of the many awe-inspiring scenes that we had the pleasure of witnessing on our drive from Manchester to Edinburgh.

Our Destination

Our destination in Scotland was the Dalhousie Castle. It has always been a dream of mine to stay in a castle, so my sweet hubby booked one that I had found online.
It was located in Bonnyrigg, just a few miles outside of Edinburgh.

I was extremely giddy when I got my first glimpse of the castle, from the road.
To read more about The Dalhousie Castle, click here.

As we neared the castle, we were treated to a vision of medieval architecture. Although, it was past 8:00 pm when we first arrived (as shown in this photo), the sun would not set until almost 10 pm.

Our canopy bed was both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, too.

Check out the decorated inside of the “roof” of the canopy.

Every room Dalhousie Castle was beautifully decorated.

We were delighted to find the castle hosting a wedding reception in this room while we were staying here. The young men in the bridal party all wore traditional Scottish kilts.

Prior to eating in the castle’s Dungeon Restaurant, patrons are seated in this cozy library, where drinks and pre-appetizers are served and orders for dinner taken.

Dale and I pose in the castle’s Dungeon Restaurant.
We enjoyed our anniversary dinner here after the day in Edinburgh.
May 30, 2015

A Castle in the Movies

Dalhousie Castle was built in the 13th century. It has been beautifully preserved and was an idyllic setting for our anniversary weekend, complete with delicious gourmet food and all of the modern day amenities.

The unusually delicate croissants, made on site, were my favorite breakfast item at Dalhousie Castle.

While staying at Dalhousie Castle, I was reminded of another castle, although this one was English, and part of the 1944 movie, The Canterville Ghost. (In actuality, much of the film was shot in Busch Gardens in Pasadena, California, and the rest at the MGM lot.)

A glimpse of the Canterville Castle in the opening of the movie.

This film, based on a short story by Oscar Wilde (Remember this author from high school English class?), is an enjoyable bit of escapism. Charles Laughton stars as the humorously tender hearted, and cursed ghost, along with the cute Margaret O’Brien playing the ghost’s descendent, and Robert Young as a likable American serviceman during WWII.
To learn more about this movie, click here and here.

Margaret O’Brien, Robert Young, and William Gargan sneak a peak at ghost Charles Laughton, in The Canterville Ghost.
This film is available on DVD,
and is occasionally shown on Turner Classic Movies.

Edinburgh

Dale and I enjoyed the double decker bus ride into the city,
and even got some Edinburgh tips from friendly locals seated next to us.

The Scottish and English countrysides were painted bright yellow
with fields of blooming rapeseed.
This photo was taken on our brief bus trip into Edinburgh.

We spied Edinburgh Castle upon the hill as we rode into the city.

Imposing Edinburgh Castle was extremely busy, with an hour and a half wait just to purchase tickets to go inside. Dale and I opted instead to survey the outside of the castle, and instead headed toward town and to another famous castle. (See below the Canongate Tolbooth photo.)

Heading away from Edinburgh Castle,
the way was lined with shops and historic buildings.

Tartan-clad bagpipers play beautifully along the Edinburgh streets.

To hear this bagpiper, click on the youtube video below.

Kilt makers could be found throughout Edinburgh’s busy streets.
I snapped this wedding kilt and lovely Scottish wedding dress in
John Morrison’s display window.

Dale, who has the name Burns in his linage, had to stop for a photo here.

Canongate Tolbooth, now a museum, was built in 1591.

I was very excited to have the opportunity to see an authentic royal castle!
Palace of Holyroodhouse,
is the official residence of Her Majesty, The Queen in Scotland.
Thanks to the audio tour, Dale and I learned that Mary, Queen of Scots
had once lived here.

The 12th century gothic ruins from Holyrood Abbey on the Castle grounds are hauntingly beautiful.

I fell in love with this gold tiger with rock crystal eyes and teeth at the
Gold Exhibit, displayed at The Queen’s Gallery of the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This piece came from India, and was made around 1785.
To read more about this gold tiger, and the rest of the collection,
click here and here.

We went from a gold tiger’s head to a real roasted hog’s head!
This was in the window of OINK, the Scottish hog roast sandwich restaurant.

As you can tell from Dale’s expression,
the OINK pulled pork sandwiches were good!

Having spotted a post card of this cute little pup in an Edinburgh gift shop,
I immediately recognized him from the Disney movie, Greyfriars Bobby, and right there and then, wanted to locate his statue! My ever-patient husband assisted me in tracking down the Edinburgh monument, erected in this
legendary canine’s honor.

MV5BMTY0MzE5MzIxNF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMTgwMzYyMQ@@._V1_SY317_CR2,0,214,317_AL_
The 1961 Disney movie, Greyfriars Bobby, about this famously loyal dog
is available on DVD.

Walt Disney with his four-footed star from the film.
To read about other Disney films set in Scotland,
click here and about the history of this dog here.

Dale and I had seen much of Edinburgh for just one day, and I was one tired Annette.
I was anxious to head back to Dalhousie Castle to relax and partake of our scheduled anniversary dinner in The Dungeon. Dale, having spent one day in this charming city, several years earlier, implored me to take in just one more sight.
It required a hike up quite an incline to Calton Hill.
I must say, the climb was worth it.

Dale stands on Calton Hill with a stunning view stretched out behind him.

Another beautiful view of the Firth of Forth (Try saying that one
10 times very quickly in a row!).
This is an estuary, or firth, of the River Forth, and flows into the North Sea.

The impressive Holyrood Castle from the perspective atop Calton Hill.

The unfinished Scottish National Monument stands tall on Calton Hill.
To read more about this monument and Calton Hill, click here.

It had been a wonderful day in Edinburgh!

The Rosslyn Chapel of The Di Vinci Code

Sunday morning came too quickly. Our anniversary weekend was rapidly coming to a close. Dale and I sadly bid the captivating Dalhousie Castle good-bye, setting out to find one final Scottish landmark before hitting the highway (or carriageway, as they say in the UK) toward England. A 15-minute drive from our temporary castle digs, led us to the stately, 15th century Rosslyn Chapel, best known for its part in the 2006 movie,
The Di Vinci Code. Steeped in legend and intrigue, some believe that the Holy Grail is buried within Rosslyn Chapel’s walls . An interesting aside; Rosslyn Chapel is privately owned by the chapel founder’s descendants. To read more about Rosslyn Chapel, click here and here, and click here for an interesting article about the chapel and the legend.

Finding our way to Rossyln Chapel proved a slight challenge,
due to it’s out of the way location, but it was well worth the effort.

Rosslyn Chapel is amazing from every angle, Holy Grail, or not.

A Celtic cross grave stone (center) is one of many in
the Rossyln Chapel Cemetery.

Collegehill House, a building just outside of the chapel,
displays a plaque in honor of the building’s original use as The Rosslyn Inn, naming some of its distinguished visitors. Click on the photo to enlarge.
A renovated Collegehill House may now be rented out
for lodging, and sleeps 6.

Thanks for reading! :O)

Annette

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, please look for my next post around June 25. A huge thank you to all of my faithful blog followers!

To become an “I’m Annette” blog follower, receiving each blog via email, upon publication, please sign up on the right-hand side of this page for free, or go to annettehoffman.wordpress.com.

Love and special thanks, to my hubby for contributing several photos for Anniversary in Scotland, and my previous blog posts!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Anniversary in Scotland, bagpipers, Bonnyrigg, Calton Hill, Canongate Tolbooth, Collegehill House, Dalhousie Castle, Disney in Scotland, Dungeon Restaurant, Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, Greyfriars Bobby, hear bag piper, Holyrood Abbey, John Morrison, kilt, Mary Queen of Scots, Oink restaurant, Palace of Holyrioodhouse, rapeseed, Rosslyn Chapel, Scotland, The Centerville Ghost movie, The di Vinci Code | 5 Comments

Scotland

Posted on June 7, 2015 by oltimetv

June 7, 2015

Scotland

Dale and I enjoying the Dalhousie Castle grounds.
May 30, 2015

Anniversary #35-Dale and I enjoy a rare dinner out while overseas.
May 28, 2013

Dale and I leave the church on our wedding day. May 28, 1978
To read last year’s post, “Annette and Dale Get Married, or Someday You’ll Look Back on this and Laugh”, click here.

Getting There

The distance from Manchester to Edinburgh looked a lot closer on the map! :o)

I was enjoying the beautiful English countryside, and happy that Dale had that whole “driving on the other side of the road” thing under control!
May 29, 2015

Fluffy white sheep were in abundance throughout the
English and Scottish countryside.

One of the many awe-inspiring scenes that we had the pleasure of witnessing on our drive from Manchester to Edinburgh.

Our Destination

I was extremely giddy when I got my first glimpse of the castle, from the road.
To read more about The Dalhousie Castle, click here.

Our canopy bed was both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, too.

Check out the decorated inside of the “roof” of the canopy.

Every room Dalhousie Castle was beautifully decorated.

We were delighted to find the castle hosting a wedding reception in this room while we were staying here. The young men in the bridal party all wore traditional Scottish kilts.

Prior to eating in the castle’s Dungeon Restaurant, patrons are seated in this cozy library, where drinks and pre-appetizers are served and orders for dinner taken.

Dale and I pose in the castle’s Dungeon Restaurant.
We enjoyed our anniversary dinner here after the day in Edinburgh.
May 30, 2015

A Castle in the Movies

The unusually delicate croissants, made on site, were my favorite breakfast item at Dalhousie Castle.

While staying at Dalhousie Castle, I was reminded of another castle, although this one was English, and part of the 1944 movie, The Canterville Ghost. (In actuality, much of the film was shot in Busch Gardens in Pasadena, California, and the rest at the MGM lot.)

A glimpse of the Canterville Castle in the opening of the movie.

Margaret O’Brien, Robert Young, and William Gargan sneak a peak at ghost Charles Laughton, in The Canterville Ghost.
This film is available on DVD,
and is occasionally shown on Turner Classic Movies.

Edinburgh

Dale and I enjoyed the double decker bus ride into the city,
and even got some Edinburgh tips from friendly locals seated next to us.
This view was from the top level of the bus.

The Scottish and English countrysides were painted bright yellow
with fields of blooming rapeseed.
This photo was taken on our brief bus trip into Edinburgh.

We spied Edinburgh Castle upon the hill as we rode into the city.

Heading away from Edinburgh Castle,
the way was lined with shops and historic buildings.

Tartan-clad bagpipers play beautifully along the Edinburgh streets.

To briefly hear the melodious sounds of an Edinburgh bagpiper, click the youtube video below.

May 29, 2015

IMG_5724Our canopy bed was both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, too.

IMG_5562
Check out the decorated inside of the “roof” of the canopy.

IMG_0783
Every room Dalhousie Castle was beautifully decorated.

IMG_0915
We were delighted to find the castle hosting a wedding reception in this room while we were staying here. The young men in the bridal party all wore traditional Scottish kilts.

IMG_0922
Prior to eating in the castle’s Dungeon Restaurant, patrons are seated in this cozy library, where drinks and pre-appetizers are served and orders for dinner taken.

Screen Shot 2015-06-04 at 4.29.33 PM
Dale and I pose in the castle’s Dungeon Restaurant.
We enjoyed our anniversary dinner here after the day in Edinburgh.
May 30, 2015

A Castle in the Movies

IMG_5727
The unusually delicate croissants, made on site, were my favorite breakfast item at Dalhousie Castle.

Screen Shot 2015-06-03 at 9.38.34 AM
A glimpse of the Canterville Castle in the opening of the movie.

Screen Shot 2015-06-05 at 6.18.45 PM
Margaret O’Brien, Robert Young, and William Gargan sneak a peak at ghost Charles Laughton, in The Canterville Ghost.
This film is available on DVD,
and is occasionally shown on Turner Classic Movies.

Edinburgh

IMG_5595
Dale and I enjoyed the double decker bus ride into the city,
and even got some Edinburgh tips from friendly locals seated next to us.

IMG_5702
The Scottish and English countrysides were painted bright yellow
with fields of blooming rapeseed.
This photo was taken on our brief bus trip into Edinburgh.

IMG_5600
We spied Edinburgh Castle upon the hill as we rode into the city.

IMG_5621
Imposing Edinburgh Castle was extremely busy, with an hour and a half wait just to purchase tickets to go inside. Dale and I opted instead to survey the outside of the castle, and instead headed toward town and to another famous castle. (See five photos below.)

IMG_0889
Heading away from Edinburgh Castle,
the way was lined with shops and historic buildings.

IMG_0808
Tartan-clad bagpipers play beautifully along the Edinburgh streets.

IMG_5629
Kilt makers could be found throughout Edinburgh’s busy streets.
I snapped this wedding kilt and lovely Scottish wedding dress in
John Morrison’s display window.

IMG_0818
Dale, who has the name Burns in his linage, had to stop for a photo here.

IMG_0819
Canongate Tolbooth, now a museum, was built in 1591.

IMG_0824
I was very excited to have the opportunity to see an authentic royal castle!
Palace of Holyroodhouse,
is the official residence of Her Majesty, The Queen in Scotland.
Thanks to the audio tour, Dale and I learned that Mary, Queen of Scots
had once lived here.

IMG_5639
The 12th century gothic ruins from Holyrood Abbey on the Castle grounds are hauntingly beautiful.

IMG_0838
I fell in love with this gold tiger with rock crystal eyes and teeth at the
Gold Exhibit, displayed at The Queen’s Gallery of the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This piece came from India, and was made around 1785.
To read more about this gold tiger, and the rest of the collection,
click here and here.

IMG_5659
We went from a gold tiger’s head to a real roasted hog’s head!
This was in the window of OINK, the Scottish hog roast sandwich restaurant.

IMG_5657
As you can tell from Dale’s expression,
the OINK pulled pork sandwiches were good!

IMG_0843
Having spotted a post card of this cute little pup in an Edinburgh gift shop,
I immediately recognized him from the Disney movie, Greyfriars Bobby, and right there and then, wanted to locate his statue! My ever-patient husband assisted me in tracking down the Edinburgh monument, erected in this
legendary canine’s honor.

MV5BMTY0MzE5MzIxNF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMTgwMzYyMQ@@._V1_SY317_CR2,0,214,317_AL_
The 1961 Disney movie, Greyfriars Bobby, about this famously loyal dog
is available on DVD.
To view a photo of Walt Disney with this four-footed star,
and read about other Disney films set in Scotland,
click here.

IMG_5674
Dale stands on Calton Hill with a stunning view stretched out behind him.

IMG_5675
Another beautiful view of the Firth of Forth (Try saying that one
10 times very quickly in a row!).
This is an estuary, or firth, of the River Forth, and flows into the North Sea.

IMG_5694
The impressive Holyrood Castle from the perspective atop Calton Hill.

IMG_5678
The unfinished Scottish National Monument stands tall on Calton Hill.
To read more about this monument and Calton Hill, click here.

IMG_0897
It had been a wonderful day in Edinburgh!

Kilt makers could be found throughout Edinburgh’s busy streets.
I snapped this wedding kilt and lovely Scottish wedding dress in
John Morrison’s display window.

Dale, who has the name Burns in his linage, had to stop for a photo here.

Canongate Tolbooth, now a museum, was built in 1591.

I was very excited to have the opportunity to see an authentic royal castle!
Palace of Holyroodhouse,
is the official residence of Her Majesty, The Queen in Scotland.
Thanks to the audio tour, Dale and I learned that Mary, Queen of Scots
had once lived here.

The 12th century gothic ruins from Holyrood Abbey on the Castle grounds are hauntingly beautiful.

I fell in love with this gold tiger with rock crystal eyes and teeth at the
Gold Exhibit, displayed at The Queen’s Gallery of the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This piece came from India, and was made around 1785.
To read more about this gold tiger, and the rest of the collection,
click here and here.

We went from a gold tiger’s head to a real roasted hog’s head!
This was in the window of OINK, the Scottish hog roast sandwich restaurant.

As you can tell from Dale’s expression,
the OINK pulled pork sandwiches were good!

Having spotted a post card of this cute little pup in an Edinburgh gift shop,
I immediately recognized him from the Disney movie, Greyfriars Bobby, and right there and then, wanted to locate his statue! My ever-patient husband assisted me in tracking down the Edinburgh monument, erected in this
legendary canine’s honor.

The 1961 Disney movie, Greyfriars Bobby, about this famously loyal dog
is available on DVD.
To view a photo of Walt Disney with this four-footed star,
and read about other Disney films set in Scotland,
click here.

Dale stands on Calton Hill with a stunning view stretched out behind him.

Another beautiful view of the Firth of Forth (Try saying that one
10 times very quickly in a row!).
This is an estuary, or firth, of the River Forth, and flows into the North Sea.

The impressive Holyrood Castle from the perspective atop Calton Hill.

The unfinished Scottish National Monument stands tall on Calton Hill.
To read more about this monument and Calton Hill, click here.

It had been a wonderful day in Edinburgh!

The Rosslyn Chapel of The Di Vinci Code

Sunday morning came too quickly. Our anniversary weekend was rapidly coming to a close. Dale and I sadly bid the captivating Dalhousie Castle good-bye, setting out to find one final Scottish landmark before hitting the highway (or carriageway, as they say in the UK) toward England. A 15-minute drive from our temporary castle digs, led us to the stately, 15th century Rosslyn Chapel, best known for its part in the 2006 movie,
The Di Vinci Code. Steeped in legend and intrigue, some believe that the Holy Grail is buried within Rosslyn Chapel’s walls . An interesting aside; Rosslyn Chapel is privately owned by the chapel founder’s descendants. To read more about Rosslyn Chapel, click here and here, and click here for an interesting article about the chapel and the legend.

Finding our way to Rossyln Chapel proved a slight challenge,
due to it’s out of the way location, but it was well worth the effort.

Rosslyn Chapel is amazing from every angle, Holy Grail, or not.

A Celtic cross grave stone (center) is one of many in
the Rossyln Chapel Cemetery.

Collegehill House, a building just outside of the chapel,
displays a plaque in honor of the building’s original use as The Rosslyn Inn, naming some of its distinguished visitors. Click on the photo to enlarge.
A renovated Collegehill House may now be rented out
for lodging, and sleeps 6.

Thanks for reading! :O)

Annette

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, please look for my next post around June 25. A huge thank you to all of my faithful blog followers!

To become an “I’m Annette” blog follower, receiving each blog via email, upon publication, please sign up on the right-hand side of this page for free, or go to annettehoffman.wordpress.com.

Love and special thanks, to my hubby for contributing several photos for Anniversary in Scotland, and my previous blog posts!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Anniversary in Scotland, bagpipers, Bonnyrigg, Calton Hill, Canongate Tolbooth, Collegehill House, Dalhousie Castle, Disney in Scotland, Dungeon Restaurant, Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, Greyfriars Bobby, Holyrood Abbey, John Morrison, kilt, Mary Queen of Scots, Oink restaurant, Palace of Holyrioodhouse, rapeseed, Rosslyn Chapel, Scotland, The Centerville Ghost movie, The di Vinci Code | 3 Comments

Annette’s Excellent European Adventure: England, A Day in London

Posted on May 23, 2015 by oltimetv

May 22, 2014

Annette’s Excellent European Adventure:England, A Day in London

I enjoy the sights of London, with the famous Harrods,
the domed department store, in the background.
March 14, 2015

I apologize. I find myself a month behind in my blogging schedule, having stated in my last post of April 12,

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, look for my next post around April 22.

I ran into a couple of blogging obstacles…

An unexpected bout with strep throat,

In How to Marry a Millionaire, Betty Grable, has her temperature taken by Fred Clark, upon coming down with the measles.
Unfortunately, I did not look this elegant when battling my week of illness.

a quickly planned, but enjoyable, long weekend trip to Cape Cod, Massachusetts,

Posing on the beach with my mother-in-law (on her 90^th birthday!) and son, on beautiful Cape Cod.
May 2, 2015

and just plain lack of time and energy. :o)

The majestic Big Ben keeps time on a cold evening in London.
March 14, 2015

A Day in London
March 14, 2015

Paddington

Dale and I had arrived at London Paddington Train Station, eager to begin the third/England leg of our European adventure. We would enjoy one day of fun in London before heading north, the next morning, for a week of work for Dale.

Please, join me in looking through my photo album from our enjoyable London day.

When in London we enjoy staying at the convenient Hilton Paddington Hotel, just steps from the Paddington Train Station and the Underground/The Tube (subway).

Paddingtonscape, by illustrator Hannah Warren, sits in the lobby of the Paddington Hilton Hotel. This statue is one of many Paddingtons, designed by celebrities, and sold, to raise money for charity.
To read more about the fundraiser, click here.

The view from our hotel window overlooked Paddington Train Station.

I stand in front of the entrance of The Tube,
London’s Underground Metro System.

Harrods

Riding on The Underground with Dale.
First stop, Harrods.

Harrods!

Shopping at Harrods for my souvenir; a necklace by London designer
Alex Monroe.

I chose Monroe’s famous bee design in silver.
I love the detail on the front and back.
To see more of his designs, click here.
Photo courtesy of Alex Monroe.

Being a fan of the British designer Cath Kidston,
I had to check out the goodies sold at Harrods.

After a 45-minute search of several of the seven floors of Harrods, Dale and I, finally and happily, located the cute restaurant that we had eaten at in 2013.
We now know that it is called the Galvin Demoiselle Petit Bistro.

To read more about this restaurant located on the ground floor, click here.

The Princess Diana Memorial in Harrods
To read more about Harrods and the memorial, click here.

Sightseeing

We enjoyed a quick trip to the Victoria and Albert Museum.

I was excited to stumble upon this sculpture in the Victoria and Albert Museum, Bashaw, ‘the faithful friend of man’, as I had seen it in the film
“If It’s Tuesday, It Must be Belgium”.

The sculpture Bashaw, ‘the faithful friend of man’, as seen early in the film
“If It’s Tuesday, It Must be Belgium”.
To read more about this sculpture, click here.

Not enough hours in the day to tour it this trip,
but the Tower of London was an impressive sight.

Dale and I arrive at the Tower Bridge at sunset.
To see a live view of the bridge via webcam, click here,
scrolling down to the bottom of the page, then click on the red LIVE button.

The sweet scent of candied roasted nuts permeates the Tower Bridge.

Dale gave his hearty approval of the vendor’s culinary skills.

As the sun began to dip, I soon missed the hat that I had left behind in the hotel. A quick stop at a souvenir shop netted me a Union Jack stocking cap, complete with pompom, and a much warmer head. :o)

The Tower Bridge at dusk.

One of London’s newer buildings, The Shard, overlooks the Thames at sunset.

Dale and I stumbled upon this great restaurant; Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant in Covent Garden in the theatre district.
We later found out that it is quite historic, having served guests for 60 years, with the walls covered in photos and autographs of celebrities who had eaten there before us.
To read more about it, click here.

Before heading back to the hotel, we had to take one more look at London. With the London Eye behind me, and Big Ben in front of me.

Dale and I at Big Ben, bidding goodnight to beautiful London.

To read my previous blog post on London, please click here.

To read my past two blogs from the
Annette and Dale’s Excellent European Adventure, click on the links below.

https://annettehoffman.wordpress.com/2015/03/20/annette-and-dales-excellent-european-adventure-part-1-germany/

https://annettehoffman.wordpress.com/2015/04/12/annette-and-dales-excellent-european-adventure-part-2-france/

Thanks for reading! :O)
Annette

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, please look for my next post around June 15.

A giant thank you to all of my faithful blog followers!

To become an “I’m Annette” blog follower, receiving each blog via email, upon publication, please sign up on the right-hand side of this page for free, or go to annettehoffman.wordpress.com.

Dale and I stand in front of St. Pancras Railway Station, before walking into King’s Cross Station, as we prepare to leave London.
Movie fans may recognize this site from Harry Potter.
March 2015

Another Harry Potter sighting at King’s Cross Station, as we find our train to northern England.
Platform 9 3/4

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Alex Monroe, Bashaw, Big Ben, Cath Kidston, Covent Garden, Galvin Demoiselle Petit Bistro, Giovanni's Italian Restaurant, Harrods, Harry Potter, King's Cross Station, London, London Eye, Paddington, Platform 9 3/4, roasted nuts, St Pancras Railway Station, The Shard, The Tube, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, Victoria and Albert Museum | 7 Comments

Annette’s Excellent European Adventure: France

Posted on April 12, 2015 by oltimetv

April 12, 2014

Annette’s Excellent European Adventure: France

Dale and I enjoy the sights on the main street of Thann,
in France.

I have come to love the pretty village of Thann, in the Alsace region of France. I count myself fortunate to have been able to join my hubby on business trips here on several occasions. Dale’s company’s plant in Thann is home to the oldest chemical plant in Europe. In fact, proudly displayed on the plant walls is a document signed by Napoleon, approving the establishment of the plant in 1808!

Napoleon signed this document in 1808.

Thann’s web site, here, states, In 1808, Philippe-Charles Kestner from Hanover established a chemical business in Thann to answer to the needs of the textile industry. This chemical factory, which operates on the original site, is now the oldest chemical plant in Europe.

Our time spent in Thann was enjoyable, as always. In addition to walking around the town, taking in the local beauty, I also visited the local stores, always while making sure that I allowed for the daily mid-day closures. (Everyone, including school children, go home to eat their noon time meal.) One day, while shopping in a local dress shop, a woman began speaking happily to me in French. I replied, in English, that I was sorry, but I did not speak French. Then she stopped short and spoke to the shopkeeper. In English, the shopkeeper explained to me that the woman had mistaken me for someone else. The next day, a similar exchange happened with a man, also mistaking me for someone else. So, it must be true; maybe everyone does have a twin somewhere in the world! Unfortunately, I did not get the chance to meet my French “twin”. :o(

Do I have a unrelated “twin” living in Thann?
To read an article about the “twin” theory, click here.

It is at this point that I must make a confession. I have a photography crush on Thann! (Yes, it’s a real thing! I saw it on the Internet.) While there, something new always catches my eye, and the sights that I enjoyed before, change with each season and visit. Please, join me on a photo tour of my recent, March 2015, stay in this picturesque village, below.
To read my 2013 post on France, please click here.

Our Hotel

The front entrance to our Thann hotel.

Staying at the Hotel du Parc is always an enjoyable experience. Some famous guest have been in residence here, including Charles de Gaulle, former prime minister of France and WWII general.

Enjoying our hotel room view of the Rangen de Thann vineyards on the hill,
awaking from the winter slumber.

The Sights

The Vineyard and River

The Rangen de Thann Vineyards, known for their fine Riesling wine

The Witch’s Eye, ruins from the 13^th century Engelbourg Castle,
stands watch over the vineyards.
Read more about it here.

A village sign announces the Thur River.

With the Vosges Mountains in the background, the Thur River flows through Thann.

The Witch’s Tower, on the left, was built in the 1400’s as part of the old town wall, with the roof that was added in the 1600’s, overlooks the Thur River.

Colorful houses sit on the Thur River and near the local vineyards.

The Cathedral: St Theobald’s Church

The catherdral dominates the Thann landscape.

The imposing gothic cathedral proudly stands on the main street of Thann.

Construction of the cathedral began in the 1300’s.

The organ is impressive, and the high ceilings, pillars, and stain glassed windows adorn inside, as well.

To read more about St. Theobald’s click here.

The Tastes

At times, Dale and I found ordering food a challenge in Thann. Neither Dale, nor myself, read, or speak, French. All menus being written in French, and most locals not knowing English, we became somewhat of an amusement to the local wait staffs in our attempts to order food. Fortunately, through their patience, we were usually able to decipher enough to order.

Dale and I also found dining times in France different than those when we were in Germany. While in Bacharach, it was not yet the height of the season. Many restaurants were not open, and those that were, closed at 5:30 pm. In other words, if we wanted to eat dinner, we had to eat by 5:00 pm. Fast forward to Thann, where dinner is not served before 7:00, or 7:30 pm in all of the local restaurants. Needless to say, we had to readjust our stomachs/dining clocks to a bit later. :o)

You can read about our trip to Germany here.

A cute café on Thann’s main street serves up tasty breakfasts and lunches.

Menu easels annouce the day’s menu (in French) up and down the Main Street.

The placemats at Au Petit Rangun were fun, saying
“A Pierrier with fine bubbles!”.

This quiche at Au Petit Rangen was delicous!
Please, excuse the blurred photo.
I was just so excited to dig in! :o)
Although, French, quiche is seen less frequently in this Alsace part of the country.

Croissants at Au Petit Rangen are wonderful!

The server at the Le Caseus Café recommended the sausage and sauerkraut plate to Dale, an Alsace dish. I enjoyed this yummy quiche.

Dale, shown here, and I had several meals at the restaurant of Aux Sapins.

The Alsace “pizza” Tarte flambée was yummy there.

The desserts at Aux Sapins were always a treat!

Often the desserts were a work of art!

Dogs

Dale and I always did a double-take when we saw a dog in a restaurant, a not uncommon practice in France. We were always amazed at how well behaved these four-footed patrons were!

A gentleman enjoys his coffee and newspaper while his dog rests nearby.

We did not see this cute dog until their party got up to leave.

Thanks for reading! :O)

Annette

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, look for my next post around April 22.
A big thank you to my faithful blog followers!!!

PLEASE, JOIN MY BLOG FOLLOWING FOR FREE!!!

Please, become an “I’m Annette” blog follower, and you will receive “I’m Annette” via email, FREE, immediately upon posting. Sign up on the right-hand side of this page today. :o)

I love it that Perrier is offered in cans and in vending machines throughout France!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Alsace, Chemical Plant, Does Everyone have a twin, Dogs, France, Hotel du Parc, La Thur, Perrier, Rangen de Thann, Riesling wine, St. Theobald's Church, Thann, Witch's Eye, Witch's Tower | 10 Comments

Annette’s Excellent European Adventure: Germany

Posted on March 20, 2015 by oltimetv

March 20, 2015

Annette’s Excellent European Adventure: Germany

Dale and I pose in front of Stahleck Castle, now used as a hostel,
in Bacharach, Germany.
To read more on Stahleck Castle, click here.

I was overwhelmed!
The thought of packing bags for 8 weeks was daunting enough, but packing for five different countries, and two very different climates, had thrown me into a tailspin.
My hubby’s business trip would take us to Germany, France, England, and Switzerland for stays of one week each. The final four weeks would find us back at our “home away from home”, overseas for the past 2+ years, near the desert.

Screen Shot 2016-05-20 at 4.41.38 PM
I, like Mickey Mouse in Moving Day, packed furiously.
To view this 1936 Disney short, click here.

It was now Sunday morning, our flight was scheduled for late that evening, and the pressure was on. I began furiously stuffing suitcases, giving little thought to any organization, or any hope of a wrinkle-free look upon arrival. Saying a prayer, and filled with terror, all of the required resources needed for our excursion were hastily stowed in the various suitcases strewn throughout my bedroom. Somehow, miraculously, all was packed in time for our departure.
Our excellent European Adventure was about to begin!

Meet our luggage for this trip (minus Dale’s work computer satchel).
This photo was taken at our hotel in France.

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

Thanks to the wonder of air travel, Dale and I found ourselves in Frankfurt/Germany just a mere eight hours after taking off from Washington Dulles International Airport.

Disney’s One Hundred and One Dalmatians
was one of the film options shown on our flight from
Washington DC to Frankfurt. I also enjoyed the offering of
How to Marry a Millionaire on the flight. :o)

To read about my recent One Hundred and One Dalmatians
trip to California, click here.

Upon retrieving our luggage, it was time for us to navigate the first train system, of many, on this adventure. Although, at times finding the correct car and track could be confusing, we found European train travel, on the whole, quite efficient.

Dale studies the tickets as we wait for our train from Frankfurt to Dusseldorf.

A view from our train’s window provided us with glimpses of the pretty German landscape.

Arriving in Dusseldorf, and weary of lugging our bags, Dale and I next opted for a taxi, rather than another train, for the final leg of our journey to our Dusseldorf hotel.

Feeling a bit travel fatigued, walking into The Golden Tulip Hotel provided us with a bit of a surprise. The hotel lobby accorded us a view of the connected Espirit Arena, a 50,000+ stadium.

IMG_4428_2
Espirit Arena, connected to our hotel in Dusseldorf.
To read more about Esprit Arena, click here.

A light rain fell, as we got our first glimpse of the famous Rhine River from our
hotel room.

Schnitzel!

We had arrived at our first German destination. Traveling by plane, train and automobile/taxi, and we were a little on the tired side, but not ready to hibernate for the evening, as it was also my birthday! I had determined weeks earlier, that my birthday meal in Germany must consist of schnitzel. Armed with advice from hotel staff, and their instructions on how to navigate the city’s transit/train, we were off again. We were on a schnitzel quest; to find delectable German cuisine at a recommended restaurant called Schweinske in the old town/Altstadt area of Dusseldorf. And find it, we did!

Cold, but happy, that we found our schnitzel destination,
Schweinske’s, in Dusseldorf.
March 2, 2015

Although a bit travel weary, due to only four hours sleep
from the night before, I thoroughly enjoyed my German-style birthday with a mushroom schnitzel.
March 2, 2015

My birthday dinner would be the first of several schnitzels that I had the happy occasion to eat, while in Germany, and they were all delicious!

Relaxing along the Rhine, or “It’s Just Like in the Movie!”

I love old movies! On more than one occasion, a movie has dictated the destination of a side trip, or an entire vacation, that we have taken.
(Read about my The Quiet Man-inspired trip to Ireland here and here.)

My Blu-ray copy of The Quiet Man

1969’s, If It’s Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium, revolves around an eclectic American tour group, and their eighteen day trip from London to Rome. While this movie does not exactly rate in the blockbuster category for film, it does serve as an informal travelogue for some of Europe’s most scenic spots, with a few amusing stories thrown in.

If It’s Tuesday, This Must be Belgium, 1969

As this film aired on Turner Classic Movies recently, it was a certain scene that caught Dale’s attention; a river cruise on Germany’s Rhine. It was this particular scene that became the impetus for the three day, vacation portion, of our German trip.

The inspiring Rhine River Cruise as shown in the film
If It’s Tuesday, This Must be Belgium.

To view this scene, click here, and fast forward to about 34-35 minutes into the film.

With Dale, wanting to go on a Rhine River cruise, and me wanting to visit a castle (and eat schnitzel), we turned, via the Internet, to the master of travel, Rick Steves.

It was through Steves’ suggestion, that Dale and I decided that we would spend our three free days in and around the German village of Bacharach.

Travel expert, Rick Steves was a wealth of information on the
Rhine River area.

To view Rick Steve’s 25 minute piece ‪
Germany’s Romantic Rhine and Rothenburg click here.

After another (luggage-lugging) train trip, we made our way to the quaint German village of Bacharach. Much of this area closes up throughout the winter months, including the hotels. While researching lodging, we were pleased to find that the Hotel Kranenturm was open and accepting reservations. We requested a room with a Rhine River view. Arriving at the hotel, and after a friendly greeting from the proprietor, Suk, Dale and I were happy to see that our room not only had a water view, but a castle view, as well!

Dale photographs me,
as I look out the window (with the castle view),
from our room at the Hotel Kranenturm, Bacharach

I photograph Dale from the Rhine side window of our hotel room.
(Although, the trains/train tracks go right by the hotel, we did not find it bothersome.)

The castle view and the Rhine River view from our hotel room windows.

Dale peers up through the staircase of the landmark Hotel Kranenturm.
To read more about the historic hotel, click here.

Dale and I learned, upon arriving, that the Hotel Kranenturm is a landmark in town, and serves as lodging for the various Rick Steves tour groups that visit Bacharach throughout the tourist season.

A Rick Steves patch is proudly displayed at the Hotel Kranenturm.

Photo Gallery
Please join me, as I share with you some images from our fun mini-vacation in Germany.

Rhine River Cruise: Castles and Scenery

Koblenz: The city where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers Merge
To read more about Koblenz, click here.

Bacharach: the quintessential German town along the Rhine

Thanks for reading!

Annette

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, look for my next post around March 31. A great big thank you to my faithful blog followers!!!

PLEASE, JOIN MY BLOG FOLLOWING FOR FREE!!!

My goal is to boost my follower number to 100 in 2015.

Please, consider becoming an “I’m Annette” blog follower, and you will receive “I’m Annette” via email, FREE, yes FREE, immediately upon posting. Sign up on the right-hand side of this page today. :o)

On the road leading to Bacharach

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Annette and Dale's Excellent European Adventure, Bacharach, Dusseldorf, Espirit Arena, Germany, Golden Tulip Hotel, Hotel Kranenturm, If It's Tuesday, Koblenz, Moselle River, Moving Day, Rhine River, Rick Steves, Schnitzel, Schweinske, Stahleck Castle, This Must Be Belguim | 9 Comments

A Girls’ Disney Weekend

Posted on February 20, 2015 by oltimetv

February 25, 2015

A Girls’ Disney Weekend

Photo Feb 07, 18 16 31

My Daughter and I Meet Up with Mickey at Disneyland
February 7, 2015

I started it.
I innocently forwarded an email to my daughter, Martese, from D23, the official Disney fan club. There would be a special showing, at the Walt Disney Studios-Burbank, California, of the animated 1961 classic “101 Dalmatians“, in conjunction with the re-release of this movie on DVD and Blu-ray. This Disney film has always been Martese’s favorite, since taking her, as a one-year old, to see it in the movie theatre in 1991. With this in mind, I often send Martese 101 Dalmatian sightings that I come across.

It all began with this one email from D23.
View it here.

Just minutes after sending the email, Martese text (or is it texted?) me that she had purchased two tickets to attend. This, despite the fact, that she lives in Minnesota! After discussing the trip with her husband, it was decided that I would be asked to join in on the dalmatian hijinks/trip. I happily accepted, despite the fact that I live in Maryland!

Martese (with red dalmatian balloon in hand) at her
101 Dalmatian-themed, 4th birthday party.
November 1994

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Martese and Mike’s wedding;
the table decor included a touch of 101 Dalmatians,
and the wedding photos included a touch of Mickey Mouse. :o)
May 12, 2013
(Original photos taken by Caleb Jamin Studios)

The Fun (long) Weekend Began!

Warm weather greeted us when we arrived
at LAX/Los Angeles Airport.

Martese volunteered to navigate through the L.A. Traffic.

After Martese and I found each other at LAX and rented a car, our weekend adventure began. We faced the evening, bumper to bumper, LA traffic, found the Disneyland exit, and checked into our hotel, situated directly across from Disneyland. Wasting no time in immersing ourselves in Disney, Martese and I immediately walked the short distance to Downtown Disney for dinner. Downtown Disney requires no admission fee, yet surrounds visitors in a festive Disney atmosphere. Throughout the weekend, when not visiting Disneyland parks, we took our meals in Downtown Disney, or the nearby Disneyland Hotel.

Downtown Disney and The Disneyland Hotel
February 6-9, 2015

Downtown Disney– an array of family friendly shops, and restaurants that offer everything from fast food to higher end “table service” meals.

The Earl of Sandwich offers quick delicious soup and sandwich options at Downtown Disney.

Photo Feb 07, 08 02 47
A “101 Dalmatians” pillow pet was adopted by Martese from Downtown Disney’s World of Disney shop.

Photo Feb 06, 22 28 14

Having fun, trying on the new Star Wars Mickey Ears.

When not choosing Disneyland, or Downtown Disney fare for our meals and shopping, the Disneyland Hotel offered fun browsing, food for our breakfasts and an additional shopping alternative with their gift shop.

Venturing into the Disneyland Hotel area (above),
we enjoyed yummy Mickey Waffles in the dining area, whimsical tea cup chairs in the lobby area, along with colorful Mary Blair artwork.(below)
(To read more about the talented Mary Blair, see below- It’s a Small World.)

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Saturday-Disneyland!

May 7, 2015
Disneyland Park and California Adventure

Disneyland Park

The Entrance to Disneyland, early in the Morning

A statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse, and a beautiful day, welcome Martese and me to Disneyland.
The castle in the background was covered in an illustrated tarp for renovations to prepare for this year’s, 60th anniversary year celebration for Disneyland, beginning this May.

Photo Feb 07, 10 44 20

Martese and I are both fans of the It’s a Small World ride. (The facade of this attraction was under renovation and covered in illustrated tarp, too.)

Martese and I each bought a soft,
fleece It’s a Small World throw, as our Disneyland souvenir.

Read about Mary Blair’s contribution to this ride and Disney, here.

Martese sips her non-alcoholic mint julep, as we both savor delicious Mickey-shaped beignets (sort of like a doughnut) near the Haunted Mansion.
Remember, calories don’t count at Disneyland! :o)

Photo Feb 07, 12 43 03
Martese and I share a much anticipated, and luscious, Disney (pineapple) Dole Whip, and proudly display our
“I’m Celebrating Dole Whips!” buttons.

I loved it that my Starbucks Iced Tea sported
“Annette” on it!

Martese snapped this photo of me and the Matterhorn in the background.

Disney’s California Adventure Park

Martese stands at the entrance of
Disney’s California Adventure park,
early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Photo Feb 07, 13 25 45
Martese and me with Mickey’s Fun (ferris) Wheel in the background.

Photo Feb 07, 13 29 44 Photo Feb 07, 14 13 23
Disneyland cuisine must include one of their tasty, and famous corn dogs.

Photo Feb 07, 14 46 06
Martese and I tried the oft-talked about, and addicting,
dill pickle popcorn in the cute Car Land area.

Photo Feb 07, 15 15 47
Photo Feb 07, 17 31 09

One of my favorite attractions of the day was the Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek ride.
This attraction is unique to Disneyland, and is not offered at Walt Disney World.

The photos of this ride, below, are courtesy of Martese on a previous trip that she took to Disneyland.

100_2569

100_2573

To view this ride, watch it on youtube here. At around 2:10 on this video,you can see all of the doors that decorate the ceiling above, just as they do in the Monster Inc. movie.

For a nice write up on Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek by mice chat.com, and more photos from this feature, click here.

Martese and I finished our Disney day with an elegant meal at the Carthay Circle Restaurant. This beautiful Disney restaurant is designed as a nod to the once grand, but now unfortunately demolished, Carthay Circle Theatre of Los Angeles. Walt Disney’s first feature film, Snow White and the Seven Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs premiered in this theatre in 1937.

My delicious meal included this exquisite
Carthay Autumn Salad (see the recipe that
I, sort of, have for this salad,
toward the bottom of this post)
and Carthay Signature Fried Biscuits
(filled with cheese and bacon) .

My grilled Angus New York
with Chimichurries (pesto)
was perfection! A Chocolate
Crème Brûlée Tart delightfully
rounded out the meal.

Martese and I loved dinner at Disney’s
Carthay Circle Restaurant

A Look at Disneyland of the Past

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For a glance of the Disneyland that once was, in 1962 to be exact, snag a dvd copy of the cute movie, 40 Pounds of Trouble, (I bought mine here.). Tony Curtis plays a Reno casino manager (in this remake of the Shirley Temple film Little Miss Marker) who finds himself caring for the five-year old daughter of a customer, and in the process treats her to a day at Disneyland. To see the Disneyland clips from this film, click here and then here. I also found a fun post on miceage.micechat.com which shows, via movie stills, many Disneyland scenes from the movie. Did you know that at one time, you could take a helicopter from LAX straight to Disneyland! Check out this entertaining Disneyland blog, with many wonderful photos from this movie, here.

This photo from 40 Pounds of Trouble,
courtesy of miceage.micechat.com

Sunday-Hollywood and Walt Disney Studios
February 8, 2015

With a wonderful day at Disneyland behind us, Martese and I looked forward to the new day in and near Hollywood. Our Sunday schedule had been in place, for awhile, with all activities scheduled around the much anticipated 2:00 pm showing of 101 Dalmatians.

We set out early for Hollywood to stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, visit Graumin’s (now known as TCL) Chinese Theatre, Tour the
El Capitan Theatre, and the Hollywood Costume Exhibition.

Photo Feb 08, 11 04 12
Clad in 101 Dalmatian sneakers, Martese stands next to
Walt Disney’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame .

To read more about The Hollywood Walk of Fame,
click here.

I’m Annette!
I pose by Annette Funicello’s star on the
Hollywood Walk of Fame .

Read about my mouseketeer connection. here

images

Photo Feb 08, 10 02 07
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre is famous for stars’ footprints in concrete.(above photo)
Martese and I pose next to one of the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre’s two imposing, and authentic, guardian lion statues.(below photo)

To read more about Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, click here.

Fun Fact for ya- When Grauman’s went under renovation a few years ago, the theatre could not locate their original blueprints. Then someone thought of contacting Walt Disney World. It was Grauman’s who had given a diagram of their theatre to WDW to recreate a Grauman Chinese Theatre style front for their Hollywood Studio’s The Great Movie Ride. Grauman contacted Disney and was able to borrow back the blueprint to renovate their theatre.

Photo Feb 08, 10 09 35
While viewing John Wayne’s famous cement footprints in the theatre courtyard,
I could not resist recreating an iconic I Love Lucy moment. (above)

Lucy and Ethel decide to take a souviner back to New York, in the form of John Wayne’s footprints from
Graumin’s Chinese Theatre. (below)
l Love Lucy: Season 5, Episode 2
Lucy and John Wayne (1955)

The El Capitan Theatre is a beautifully restored old movie theatre on Hollywood Boulevard, and just down the street from Grumman’s. Built in the 1920’s, the El Capitan Theatre, is now owned by Disney, and has been renovated to its original splendor. Martese and I enjoyed a brief tour of the theatre, and were treated to freshly popped popcorn and drink. While there, the El Capitan was preparing for the next day premiere for the movie, McFarland, USA. In addition to that, the theatre was also getting ready for the Academy Awards which would occur two weeks later. (After watching the red carpet arrivals at the Dolby Theatre across the street on Oscar evening, the crowd makes it way to the El Capitan to watch the Academy Award program broadcast on the theatre’s big screen.)

The ornate ceiling of The El Capitan Theatre, on the left.
On the right, Martese stands under the El Capitan marquee, on part of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which dons the sidewalks on both sides of Hollywood Boulevard

Across the street from the El Capitan Theatre is this view of the historic Hollywood Sign.

Photo Feb 08, 10 55 19
The Dolby Theatre, the setting of the Academy Awards Ceremony, is also across the street from the
El Capitan Theatre.

Thanks to the Turner Classic Movie Channel, I learned that the Hollywood Costume Exhibition was in Los Angeles, for a limited time, not far from Hollywood. This exhibit began at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. In fact, I had tried (on two different occasions), but failed to see it when I was there. Happily, this time we were able to secure tickets, ahead of time, to view this treasure trove of Hollywood costumes. My favorite piece was a pair of ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, along with Dorothy’s gingham dress .

To read more about this wonderful costume exhibit, click here.

Martese and I wait to see the amazing
Hollywood Costume Exhibition in LA.
This particular site will eventually become the
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.

Our next stop was the Walt Disney Studios! We arrived early, chatting with other D23 members, as we anticipated the opening of the gates and the showing of 101 Dalmatians.

Photo Feb 08, 18 41 13
The Walt Disney Studios six-legged water tower.
Roy Disney, Walt’s brother and business partner, thought that a six leg design looked better than
the standard four-leg design. For a “tour” of the
Disney Studios, read http://www.disunplugged.com, here.

Photo Feb 08, 14 54 18
The Walt Disney Studios street sign.

Photo Feb 08, 14 53 29
Martese and I pose in front of the
Walt Disney Studios Animation Building.

The big screen welcomes us to 101 Dalmatians.

A happy Martese is glad to see her favorite Disney movie in the same theatre where Walt Disney sat.

We met Robert, sitting next to us. He has a Disney Instagram site findingwaltdisney. To view his photos, click here.

Martese and I enjoyed second row seats. :O)

Before the movie, guests were treated to an interview session with (from right to left) Lisa Davis (the voice of Anita), Mimi Gibson (the voice of Lucky),
and legendary Disney animator of the movie, Floyd Norman.

To read more about the day’s event, click here.

It had been a fun afternoon, and we were basking in the glow of all things Disney, as we walked toward the gates to leave. It was then that we spotted historic animator, Floyd Norman . He was kind enough to speak to us for a moment, and allow us to take a photo. He was delightful.

Mr. Norman takes time to pose for a photo with Martese.
Can you believe this man is 80-years young!?

To read Floyd Norman’s blog, click here.

You can also read another write-up about this event, here.

A Mickey Bar and Good-bye
February 9, 2015

Our Girl’s Weekend, filled with wonderful memories, seemed to come to an end way too quickly. Martese and I breakfasted on our final Disney meal of the weekend. While munching on Mickey Waffles at the Disneyland Hotel’s Tangaroa Terrace , it suddenly occurred to us, that we had not eaten the one “must have” Disney delicacy that weekend, Mickey Bars. So, for dessert that morning, after a breakfast of Mickey waffles, we enjoyed our early morning Mickey Bars, and our awesome Girl’s Weekend was complete. :o)

Sort of a Recipe

Below is a “recipe”, as best as I could get, for the delicious salad that we had at the Carthay Circle Restaurant.

Carthay Autumn Salad-
Mizuna (a type of lettuce), crisp Pears, and spiced(candied) Pecans with charred Orange Vinaigrette.

Free Printable

Print out and enjoy one of these free printables that Martese and I designed.

To read about my family vacation to Walt Disney World in June 2014, click here.

Thanks so much for reading and have a magical day! :o)

Annette

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, but things are busy around here, so look for my next post around March 20, if not before.

A giant thank you to all of my faithful blog followers!!!
If you are not currently getting my blogs via email, I’d love for you to do so!

PLEASE, JOIN MY BLOG FOLLOWING for Free!!!

It is my hope to boost my follower number to 100 in 2015, so….

Please, pretty please, become an “I’m Annette” blog follower. By doing so, you will receive “I’m Annette” via email, FREE, yes FREE, immediately upon posting, sign up on the right-hand side of this page today. :o)

Planning a Disney Vacation?

Our Daughter, Martese, is a Magic Maker® for Off to Neverland Travel, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner for any of the Disney Destinations, and other vacation locations.
Martese’s vacation planning services are totally FREE!!!
Website: marteseehm.offtoneverland.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Martese-Ehm-Off-to-Neverland/258249034343274

Photo Feb 09, 08 58 45
Saying Good-bye to the Disneyland Hotel Restaurant, Tangaroa Terrace
February 9, 2015

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged 101 Dalmatians, 40 Pounds of Trouble, Cathay Autumn Salad recipe, Cathay Circle Restaurant, D23, Disneyland, Disneyland Hotel, Downtown Disney, El Capitan Theatre, Floyd Norman, Free Calories Don't Count at disney printable, Grumman's Chinese Theatre, Hollywood, Hollywood costume Exhibition, Hollywood Sign, Hollywood Walkt of Fame, Inc. Ride & Go Seek, It's a small world, Mary Blair, Monters, Off to Neverland Travel, Walt Disney World Studios | 19 Comments

Thinking of Valentine’s Day

Posted on February 13, 2015 by oltimetv

February 13, 2015

Valentine’s Day: noun
a holiday that reminds spouses to do the romantic stuff that they should be doing anyway.

I had to chuckle when I recently saw this definition online about Valentine’s Day ( I paraphrased it just a tad.) While there is certainly truth in this statement, I like to think that Valentine’s Day is for everyone to enjoy (especially the movies)!

Pour yourself a cup of tea, grab a candy kiss, curl up on the couch, and read my not-overly serious, and at times random, thoughts on this day before Valentine’s Day, 2015.

Pour yourself a cup of tea, grab a candy kiss and read along.

Random Valentine’s Thoughts

These items fall into the random Valentine’s category…

I found this heart-shaped potato chip! Then, I ate it. I love the Cape Cod reduced fat variety! :o)

A heart-shaped potato chip

In the late 1980’s, before the advent of iPhones, laptops and home computers, I staged my two oldest (two more little cupids would bless my hubby and me in the next five years) in this Valentine pose to send out with our Valentine’s Cards to grandparents. Although, Trevor’s cupid wings are a bit crooked, and Spencer looks a bit tentative, I still think this Valentine montage is precious.

My two little cupids

Being a fan of classic movies, I love the comedy Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953). This scene from the song “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend” with Marilyn Monroe in her bright pink gown, surrounded by hearts and backdrop in red, just screams Valentine’s Day!

Marilyn Monroe stars in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

Kisses

In last year’s blog, I focused on hearts at Valentine’s Day. (You can read that blog here.) Kisses are this year’s focus.

Kiss On My List (1980)

I always think of Hall & Oates 1980 song, Kiss On My List, when the smooch topic comes up. The catchy tune and lyrics are still fun to listen to thirty-five years later.

Your kiss is on my list of the best things in life….

Click here to listen to this easy rock classic.

Three of My Favorite Movie Kisses

Since the beginning of the movies, the kiss has been an intregal part of film magic. Here are three of my favorite movie smooches.

Gone With The Wind (1939)
You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how. Rhett Butler

Clark Gable, as Rhett Butler, provides audiences with more than one memorable kiss throughout the 238 minutes of Gone with the Wind. This kiss is one of the best that Scarlett/Vivian Leigh receives during the movie classic.

nick-and-jess-kiss-w724
Rhett and Scarlett
To watch these clips, click here and here.

The Quiet Man (1952)
If anybody had told me six months ago, that today I´d be in a graveyard in Inisfree, with a girl like you that I´m just about to kiss…Sean Thornton

John Wayne has had his share of admirable kissing scenes throughout his years in the movies, with lucky Maureen O’Hara on the recieving end. In The Quiet Man, this romantic kiss takes place in an Irish graveyard between Mary Kate Danaher and Sean Thornton.

John%20Wayne%20&%20Maureen%20O'Hara
Sean and Mary Kate
To watch the clip of this scene, click here.

The Lady and the Tramp (1955)

Disney’s Lady and the Tramp find themselves lip to lip while slurping up Italian spaghetti, and being serenaded with romantic music. This is a truly sweet moment in movie history.

lady-and-the-tramp-530x300
Lady and Tramp
To watch the clip of this scene, click here.

Valentine Movies

I have a fun movie to recommend for your Valentine Day viewing pleasure. Undercover Blues(PG-13) is a 1993 romantic comedy that does not take itself too seriously. It features Dennis Quaid and Kathleen Turner as Jefferson and Jane Blue, married ex-spies, attempting to live the normal life with their baby daughter, on vacation in New Orleans. The story is cute, and it is enjoyable to witness the rapport between this movie’s husband and wife team.

For my Valentine movie recommendations from last year’s post, please go here.

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Undercover Blues stars Kathleen Turner and Dennis Quaid as married ex-spies.

Free Valentine Printables

As I mentioned last month (here), I often use printable on my entry table to coordinate with the current season and holiday. It is easy to print them up on card stock and slip them into my basic black frame.

This February’s entry table

Christi, from her cute blog Love From The Oven, offers many cute printables, and kindly gave me permission to share this one with you.
To print this Black, White And Gold Valentine’s Day Free Printable
click here.

Free-Printable-Love-Sign-at-Love-From-The-Oven-450x630

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, I also created a free printable that features one of my favorite lines from the movie Rocky. For more on this movie in last year’s Valentine post, go here.

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Print this free Printable, Happy Valentine’s Day!

Rocky quote Thanks so very much for reading! :o)

Annette

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, but things are busy around here, so look for my next post around March 20, if not before.

A giant thank you to all of my faithful blog followers!!!
If you are not currently getting my blogs via email, I’d love for you to do so!

PLEASE, JOIN MY BLOG FOLLOWING!!!

It is my hope to boost my follower number to 100 in 2015, so….

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Gone with the Wind, Heart shaped potato chips, Kiss on my List by Hall & Oates, Lady and the Tramp, My two little cupids, Rocky, Rocky printable, The Quiet Man, Undercover Blues, Valentine Free Printables, Valentine's Day, Valentine's Day silly quote | 5 Comments

An Ideal Lazy, Cozy, Winter Afternoon

Posted on January 25, 2015 by oltimetv

January 25, 2015

Van Johnson, Me (Well, my head, anyway, Esther Williams lays claim to the rest.), and John Lund, ski in the fun winter film, Duchess in Idaho (1950).

Don’t you just love the look of new fallen snow, all pure and white, as the frozen crystals glint in the sunlight?

The sight of the glittery, vanilla drifts may beckon some to the blanketed ski slopes, but for me, it just makes me want want to curl up all snug in my house by the fireplace.

With a winter wonderland just outside the window, what a luxury it is when I can enjoy an unencumbered afternoon inside all snug and warm, free from schedules, chores, and responsibilities.

The Essentials

Before settling into a day of restful winter bliss, one must gather together a few necessary essentials. (Essentials are proceeded by an asterisk*.)

*Blankets
My blankets of choice on this winter day are of the fuzzy variety, the kind that makes you want to snuggle under and get cozy.

A fuzzy blanket and my furry friend, Kali

(A quick aside: In addition to snuggly, fuzzy blankets, I am also a fan of the texture and feel of those wonderful silky sheets and sumptuous bedding that my hubby and I have encountered at some of the nicer hotels on our travels. I have been unable to locate anything comparable to them here in the states, but recently I read about a company called Parachute Home who is now selling them. The founder, Ariel Kaye, returned from overseas, and like me, was unable to find the luxurious sheets. Her solution? She started her own company.)
To read Ms. Kaye’s story, and view her merchandise, click here.

*The Eats

If one is having a special day, there must be some fun treats on the menu. Although, I am normally an unsweetened iced tea girl, a winter day often calls for something of the warmer variety. I often opt for a cup of black hot tea, made with my favorite Barry’s Tea.

To read about how I discovered Barry’s Tea, click on the link here.

I am a Barry’s Tea fan!

Other options for warm beverages are hot apple cider, or hot chocolate.
Click on the links below for the recipes.
https://annettehoffman.wordpress.com/2013/11/12/annettes-thanksgiving/
https://annettehoffman.wordpress.com/2013/08/13/touring-with-swiss-missmrs/

For another delicious hot chocolate option, use a packet of Trader Joe’s Instant Organic Hot Cocoa Mix, but instead of making it with water, as directed on the packet, make it with warm milk.

Make Trader Joe’s hot chocolate mix with milk.

And if your calorie count can afford it, add some freshly made chocolate chips cookies

Yummy, Grandma Westphal’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

Click on the link below for my Grandma’s Chocolate Chip Cookies
https://annettehoffman.wordpress.com/2013/06/08/chocolate-chip-cookies/

The First Snow

Mid-November of 1997, our family moved from Houston, Texas to Ashtabula County, Ohio. All four of our children were born in Houston (actually Webster, Texas), so our new home’s winter snow was something new and exciting (at least in the beginning). When arriving in Northeast Ohio, on the shores of Lake Erie, we were greeted by our first of many snowfalls in the snow belt. Bounding from the car, our children were eager to touch the white stuff. After a minute of exploration, our youngest, Chandler, who was age three at the time, began to cry. It seems that the little guy had expected that the snow would be just like ice cream. Upon a quick taste, Chandler disappointedly found out otherwise. :o( It also quickly became apparent that we must head straight to the store to purchase coats, hats, mittens, and boots, because coming from Texas we owned none of these items!)

Chandler, age three, in 1997, not long before
our moving to the snow belt of Ohio.

*A Suggested Essential

I have a friend who has perfected the true art of the ideal, cozy afternoon. In fact, she was the one who gave me the cocoa packet (and the add milk hint) and the great mug shown in the photo above. (Thank you, Jodi!) She insists that in addition to having some sweet treat and/or beverage, wearing pjs is a must. To quote Jodi, “Pajamas increase the experience 1000% !!!!”

I have yet to try wearing pjs on my cozy day, (I never know who may be dropping by during the day.) but I do have two sets of pjs handy when the opportunity presents itself. My old flannel ski pants set, and my new scottie dog set. I received the scottie dog jams at Christmas from my daughter and son-in-law. Aren’t they cute?

Ski flannel pjs and scottie dog pjs

*The Most Essential! :o)

My ideal lazy, cozy, winter afternoon would not be complete without including a few of my favorite winter-worthy dvds.

A stack of winter-worthy dvds

Lucy Goes to Sun Valley ( 1958),
The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour: Season 1, Episode 5

After the iconic I Love Lucy show’s six-season run, then came The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour, that was a series of thirteen one-hour shows. Each episode still featured Lucy, Ricky, Ethel and Fred, plus a special celebrity guest star.

Fernando Lamas is the guest star in the Lucy Goes to Sun Valley episode. This trip to Sun Valley was to be a Lucy and Ricky’s second honeymoon, but a television appearance for Ricky scuttles the plans. Lucy and Ethel use the reservations, instead, and when they discover that Lamas is there, too, the fun begins.

Fun fact for ya-Fortunately, a double was used in the scene depicting Lucy skiing, because Lucille Ball”s double ended up with a broken leg!
http://everythinglucy.youns.com/chindex.asp

Click on the link below to watch this fun Lucy episode.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhzRjiemXQ0

Lucy and Fernanado Lama in Lucy Goes to Sun Valley.

Don’t Trip Over That Mountain (1963),
The Dick Van Dyke Show Season 2, Episode 22

Novice skier, Dick Van Dyke can not wait to hit the slopes for the first time, despite his wife, Laura’s, misgivings about his outing. Unfortunately, the adventure turns into disaster (well, not too much of a disaster), and Dick must hide his ski injuries from his wife.

Click on the link below to watch this enjoyable Dick Van Dyke episode.
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x7mqh4_the-dick-van-dyke-show-don-t-trip-o_fun

053
Dick Van Dyke practices his skiing prowess in his living room in
Don’t Trip Over That Mountain.

Ski Party (1965)

Okay, I guess you could call watching this beach movie, but on skis, a guilty pleasure, but who cares? I love this movie! It is light, funny, and features Frankie Avalon and Dwayne Hickman, who spend part of the movie disguised as British co-eds in an attempt to learn how to ski to impress the girls .

Ski Party is one of my favorite winter-time flicks.

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Deborah Walley, Frankie Avalon, Dwanye Hickman
and Aron Kincaid star in Ski Party.

For a few interesting tidbits about Ski Party and the Beach Party franchise,
click on this link http://metv.com/lists/8-things-you-never-knew-about-the-beach-party-movies

ski-party-0
Leslie Gore sings the upbeat “Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows”
Click on the link below to hear Leslie Gore sing this song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cn9-pBGJgG8

ski-party-2-1000x431
One of the highlights of Ski Party is the rousing performance
of “(I Got You)I Feel Good” by James Brown, The Godfather of Soul.

Click on the link below to hear James Brown, and check out his amazing footwork.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/chi-james-brown-ski-party-column.html

The James Brown Connection

My first year of teaching, in 1980, I was as a fourth grade teacher
in Winnsboro, South Carolina.
I have many memories of my rookie year, but one in particular pertains to
James Brown. I remember one of my homeroom students (pictured below)
telling me that his cousin was thee James Brown! I am sorry that I
did not ask more questions, at the time!

A photo of me, next to my 1980-1981(YIKES!)
Everett Community School class.

Other Winter Movies

For a list of other wintertime movie suggestions, including Duchess in Idaho ,in the top photo, click on the link here.

White Christmas (1954)

OR you could always watch White Christmas, because anytime is a good time to watch a classic Christmas movie!

white-christmas-snow
Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney, Danny Kaye, and Vera-Ellen (her voice was dubbed by Trudy Stevens in this song)
sing “Snow” in the movie White Christmas.
Click on the link below for a clip of this scene.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQ9cxfumEOo

Free “Snow” Printable from White Christmas

White Christmas has several memorable lines, many from its repertoire of great songs. I currently have this printable, on my entry table. (The song above provided the inspiration for this printable.) It is appropriate for January. You can print one ,too!( below )

A quote from the White Christmas song,
“Snow”, sits in my entryway.

White Christmas Print.jpg
Click the quote above and print this on an 8×10 piece
cardstock.

For another White Christmas printable, “Count your blessings instead of sheep.”,click on the link https://annettehoffman.wordpress.com/2013/12/06/counting-the-days-till-christmas/

Kali is having her own ideal, lazy, cozy afternoon.

Thank you to my children! To Trevor, for his assistance with the top photo, and to Martese for the White Christmas printable.

Thanks so much for reading! :o)

Annette

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, look for my next post around February 13.

A giant thank you to all of my faithful blog followers!!!
If you are not currently getting my blogs via email, I’d love for you to do so!

PLEASE, JOIN MY BLOG FOLLOWING!!!

It is my hope to boost my follower number to 100 in 2015, so….

Winter photo of my front door.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged "Snow", Barry's Tea, chocolate chip cookies, Cozy, Dick Van Dyke, Don't Trip Over That Mountain, Duchess in Idaho, Everett Community School, Free White Christmas Printable, I Feel Good, I want to wash my hands, in snow, James Brown, Lucy Goes to Sun Valley, my face, my first year of teaching, my hair, Parachute Home, ski, Ski Party, Sunshine Lollipop and Rainbow song, White Christmas, White Christmas printable, winter, winter dvds | 4 Comments

We’re Off to See the Wizard (of Oz movie)….

Posted on January 18, 2015 by oltimetv

January 19, 2015

We’re Off to See the Wizard (of Oz movie)…

Here I am, very excited to see The Wizard of Oz on the big screen!

The Wizard of Oz! I love it! This 1939 movie classic has been a favorite of mine since childhood. Its annual showing was the high water mark of the kid television world in the 1960’s. Unlike today, where one can watch most any movie with the slip of a dvd into the player, or the click of a computer button, back then if you missed the yearly showing, it was an entire year for a chance to see it again.

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Dick Van Dyke, with the help of his three oldest children, introduced the 1961 telecast of “The Wizard of Oz”.
Photo courtesy of Vince Waldron’s
The Official Dick Van Dyke Show Book,
https://www.facebook.com/DickVanDykeShowBook/photos/pb.252037021487372.-2207520000.1421711979./648170598540677/?type=3&theater

It was with excitement that I received Turner Classic Movie’s invitation to attend a showing of The Wizard of Oz on the large screen. Seeing this ageless movie in an actual movie setting, and upon a big screen, had been on my wish-list for a long time. I quickly bought tickets for the January 14th, evening showing,even bribing (with a promise of movie popcorn and drink) my 20-year old son to go along with me.

WOZ2015
Turner Classic Movie’s Wizard of Oz announcement

Settling into our seats that evening, the previews began, complete with fun The Wizard of Oz trivia questions.

The answer to this TCM trivia question is “B”.

I was giddy with excitement as the credits to the movie began to roll.

Seeing the opening in the original sepia tones.

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Run, Toto, run!!!
(I always wanted a Toto. He’s so cute!)

Being a child of the 1960’s (well, actually I was born in 1958), I grew up with black and white television. Which means that until 1968, when our family bought a color TV set, I saw The Wizard of Oz in entirely black and white.(Just in case you missed it, the beginning of the film is in sepia tones, and changes to color when Dorothy arrives in Oz.) The thing that struck me the most when watching the movie in the theatre that night, was just how vibrant the color in this film is…

tumblr_inline_mv1vca5pOs1qh2wbo
The ruby slippers were redder, and sparkled more,

the yellow brick road was a brighter yellow,

Glinda’s dress was pinker and more glittery,
(Fun Fact for Ya- Glinda the Good Witch’s dress was originally worn by Jeanette MacDonald in the 1936 black and white film, San Francisco. For a clip with a quick view of the dress, click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNfwV_YF1Aw)
Did you know that Billie Burke was 53 years old when she was given the role of Glinda!

dorothy-in-poppy-field-the-wizard-of-oz-1939-7
the poppies were more colorful,
(Fun Fact for Ya- The snow used in this scene was 100% industrial
grade chrysotile asbestos! Yikes!)

the Wicked Witch was greener and meaner,
(Fun Fact for ya-Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch, was a former Kindergarten teacher. I found this sweet clip from when she joined Mr. Rogers, in 1975, on his PBS children’s program and discussed her
Wizard of Oz part.
Click on the clip below to watch it.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6kpcPD8bks

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and the greens of the Art Deco decorated Emerald City were greener.
(Fun Fact for Ya- Judy Garland’s Dorothy was the inspiration for the character of Mary Ann on Gilligan’s Island (1964),
and The Three Stooges, Curly Howard, was Bert Lahr’s inspiration for the role of the Lion.)

Note-The first two photos in this section were taken at the actual showing of The Wizard of Oz on the big screen,
but the other photos were not.

Things that I Noticed While Watching…

There were a few things that I noticed for the first time, thanks to the
big screen experience.

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I could see the lines of the Scarecrow’s face, for the first time.
(The Scarecrow/Ray Bolger’s face make-up consisted of a rubber prosthetic with a woven pattern, like burlap. When filming was wrapped, the rubber piece had imprinted a pattern of lines on Bolger’s face, that took over a year to disappear.)

I saw a gold item in the castle scene, just after Dorothy and her friends find themselves in the poppy field.
The Flying Monkey hands it to the Wicked Witch.
(After some research, I found that this object is the magical Golden Cap from L. Frank Baum’s first Oz book , The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, published in 1900. The cap has special powers, which allows whoever is wearing it, to summon the Oz’s Flying Monkeys.
The other scenes in the movie that refer to the Golden Cap were deleted. )
http://oz.wikia.com/wiki/Golden_Cap
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winged_monkeys

Scarecrow_with_gun
The Scarecrow is carrying a pistol when they are in the Haunted Forrest.

And I wondered, just who was Nikko mentioned in the ending credits?
It seems that there was some mild controversy among
The Wizard of Oz fans about the true identity of Nikko.
Was he the Head Flying Monkey,
or the Captain Winkie of the Wicked Witch?
My research revealed that Nikko’s identity is that of the head
Flying Monkey.
The name Nikko, coming from the name of a Japanese town which has a shrine for the famous Hear No Evil/See No Evil/Speak No Evil monkeys.

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Pat Walshe, the Flying Monkey, was an actor from Vaudeville days.
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0909930/bio?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm

The Head Winkie was played by Mitchell Lewis, who had a long career in films, beginning with silent movies.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitchell_Lewis
http://oz.wikia.com/wiki/Mitchell_Lewis

dorothy-gets-cleaned-up-at-the-wash-and-brush-up-company-8
Much of the information in this blog post came from my personal knowledge, or the website below.
For more fun facts, click on it below.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0032138/trivia
and
http://www.oscars.org/collection-highlights/wizard-oz

One more piece of The Wizard of Oz trivia:

When Jack Haley played the Tin man, he used a falsetto voice throughout the movie.

My personal favorite of Dorothy’s special trio is the gentle Tin Man. He seems so sweet and caring, plus I love his costume!

Who is your favorite of Dorothy’s three friends, and why?
The Scarecrow?
The Tin Man?
or The Cowardly Lion?
Please, answer in the comments section below.

Thanks so much for reading! :o)

Annette

A big thank you to all of my faithful blog followers!!!

I attempt to post my blog bi-monthly, look for my next post around January 31.

PLEASE JOIN MY BLOG FOLLOWING!

It is my hope to boost my follower numbers this year, so….

100_2260
I enjoy the Ruby Slipper’s display at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C.
December 2008
http://americanhistory.si.edu/treasures/wizard-of-oz

At the Smithsonian Institution, one pair of ruby slippers used in the filming of The Wizard of Oz is a popular display, so popular in fact, that the carpet immediately in front of the shoes has had to be replaced several times.
It is rumored that this pair of shoes is not a matched set!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0032138/trivia

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Curly Howard inspired Bert Lahr, Dick Van Dyke presents The Wizard of Oz, Glinda's dress worn by Jeanette MacDonald, Judy Garland inspired Mary Ann on Gilligan's Island, Margaret Hamilton/Wicked Witch was Kindergarten teacher, Nikko, Ruby slippers, Scarecrow and the gun, The magical golden cap and the Wicked Witch, The Scarecrow's rubber face, The Wicked Witch on Mr. Rogers, The Wizard of Oz on the big screen, Three Stooges, Turner Classic Movies, Winkie, Wizard of Oz snow was asbestos | 11 Comments

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