My new and improved Bath-Knight Blog
June 28, 2012 at 4:49 pm | Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a commentTags: Annette Greenwood, Bath-Knight, blogging, Wordpress
Anyone who reads my blog regularly will be aware that I’ve been blogging with WordPress.com for some time now. I’ve really enjoyed using WordPress.com and would most certainly recommend it to anyone looking to get started in the world of blogging.
However, after careful consideration I’ve decided to move my blog to a self-hosted site which is a little more technical but better suites to my needs. The URL to my blog remains the same www.bathknightblog.com and all previous content is included. You may see some slight changes visually but nothing too drastic.
I was really happy with the blog transfer and will now have plenty of opportunities to make visiting the Bath-Knight Blog as user friendly as possible. However, I sadly lost contact with my wordpress.com followers and would love for you, and any new readers, to click my e-mail subscribe box to ensure that we stay in touch. Simply type in your e-mail address and you’ll be kept up to date with all of my posts.
Thanks for reading and making the Bath-Knight Blog such a success.
Annette
Dogs for the Disabled- Big Dogs Breakfast Thank You letter!
June 27, 2012 at 4:24 pm | Posted in Charity | Leave a commentTags: Assistant Dogs, Big Dogs Breakfast, Charity, Dogs for the Disabled, fundraising, Thank you
Earlier this month we held a ‘Big Dogs Breakfast’ fundraising event in aid of one of my favourite charity’s, Dogs for the Disabled. The event was a triumph as we managed to collect £100.00 for Dogs for the Disabled who train puppies that will later become assistant dogs.
Today we’ve received a lovely letter thanking Bath-Knight for our generous donation and explaining more about the work which Dogs for the Disabled do to help train puppies become assistant dogs who are a lifeline to disabled children and adults across Britain.
Dogs for the Disabled are a fantastic charity that needs lots of support to continue their outstanding work. If you’d like to hold your own Big Dogs Breakfast then see the official website for more information.
Screenwriter and Director, Nora Ephron, dies aged 71.
June 27, 2012 at 1:13 pm | Posted in News | Leave a commentTags: Death, Film Director, Films, Nora Ephron, Screenwriter, Sleepless in Seattle, When Harry Met Sally, You've Got Mail
Today has brought the sad news that screenwriter, director and journalist, Nora Ephron has died aged 71. A Hollywood favourite, Nora Ephron, was the woman behind some of the most successful and well-loved romantic comedies including Sleepless in Seattle, You’ve Got Mail and When Harry Met Sally.
Nora Ephron- Film director and writer died aged 71
Prior to writing and directing films, Nora established herself as a writer and journalist starting her career reporting for the New York Post. Alongside reporting she also wrote a series of essays that were featured in publications such as The New York Times Magazine and Esquire, where she became well known for her humour and wit which audiences loved and dominated many of her later films.
Sleepless in Seattle
Like most people I am aware of Nora Ephron’s work predominately in film because her works have become ‘rom-com’ classics over the past 20 years or so. I remember first watching When Harry Met Sally with Megan Ryan and Billy Crystal and it being a film which I wanted (and did) watch over and over again. Her likable and heart-warming style continued with Sleepless in Seattle and You’ve Got Mail, which both featured Meg Ryan and a younger Tom Hanks.
You’ve Got Mail
Most recently I enjoyed Nora’s last film credit, Julie & Julia, starring Meryl Streep, whom Nora had worked with earlier in her career. The film, about two women who love to cook, was a real triumph and had that witty, warm-hearted feel that Nora became so well-known for. Qualities which have been touched upon in many tributes made since her death.
Nora Ephron is a sad lose for film and journalism as she was a women who was so highly thought after, only today I read that she will be remembered as one of the ‘most influential women in Hollywood’. I’m sure that her legacy will live on through her many films, articles and essays.
The ‘Bionic’ woman, Claire Lomas, plans new charity challenge; cycling from Paris to London
June 26, 2012 at 1:20 pm | Posted in Sport | 1 CommentTags: 'Bionic Woman', Bionic Suit, Claire Lomas, Cycling, London Marathon, Paralysed, Paris to London, ReWalk
In May hundreds of thousands of runners took to the streets of London to complete the 26.2 mile London Marathon. Whilst runners sped off, 31 year old Claire Lomas, who was left paralysed from the chest down in 2007 after falling off a horse, was preparing to make marathon history by becoming the first person to complete the London marathon in a bionic suit.
Wearing a ReWalk bionic suit by Cyclone, which stimulates movement with sensors, Claire crossed the finish line 16 days later having raised an enormous £200,000 for Spinal Research and capturing the nation with her determination. Claire’s achievement was phenomenal and showcased how revolutionary technology can help improve the lives of disabled people.
Claire Lomas now plans to cycle from London to Paris
Claire’s marathon success generated international media attention and she’s become a role model for people with spinal injuries across the world, which is why she’s decided to throw herself into another endurance challenge cycling from Paris to London next spring.
Claire will carry out the 250 mile trek on a specially adapted bike which uses electric pulses and sensors to stimulate movement in her legs. This movement will encourage Claire to push her legs forward and pedal. The pace of the cycle ride is expected to be more intense than the London Marathon so Claire has already started a training programme and has a practice cycle planned in Scotland in the coming months.
Claire Lomas crossing the London Marathon finish line
Working within the mobility industry I’ve been lucky to see some of the devices which are available to paralysed and disabled people. However, rarely have I seen such advanced devices been used in real life and shown to their full potential. I think that Claire is a fantastic example of how to regain confidence and achieve great things despite experiencing such tragedy. She is a real inspiration and I’m looking forward to seeing her cycle from Paris to London next year.
Wimbledon 20120 the 126th Championship begins.
June 25, 2012 at 3:41 pm | Posted in Sport | Leave a commentTags: 126th Championship, British, Centre Court, Grand Slam, Royal Box, Sport, Strawberries and Cream, Tennis, Wimbledon
The world’s oldest tennis tournament, The Championship, Wimbledon begins its 126th tournament in South West London today. The only Grand Slam to be played on grass, Wimbledon is the most prestigious tennis tournament in the world and a sporting event which I particularly look forward too.
Novak Djokovic Wimbeldon 2012
Kick starting Wimbledon 2012 Men’s Singles is last year’s Champion, Novak Djokovic, who is currently seeded number one. Djokovic started play at 1pm against Juan Carlos Ferrero on Centre Court whilst the six times Wimbledon Champion, Roger Federer, commenced play on Court One against Albert Ramos. The Women’s Single are also underway as the female world number one, Maria Sharapova, plays Anastasia Rodionova.
As the players preparing for their first Wimbledon matched sports fans are looking forward to a fortnight of exceptional tennis. I’ve always looked forward to the annual Wimbledon fortnight, much more than any other Grand Slam and that’s probably because Wimbledon is so steeped in history and is quintessentially British.
Punnets of Strawberries served at Wimbledon
Traditionally spectators have enjoyed strawberries and cream whilst watching play, a tradition which I don’t see ending anytime soon and the players wear their brightest whites. The Wimbledon Royal Box is often occupied by members of the Royal Family too, who always amp up the excitement; a visit from the newly married Duke and Duchess of Cambridge last year added a touch of joy.
Who knows which royal faces will be present this year, or which tennis aces will go home as Wimbledon champions 2012; it’s far too early to make any assumptions on who will be triumphant, although a British win for Andy Murray would be prefect for the summer of sport in London 2012.
Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in Royal Box Wimbledon 2011
However, I’m sure that the Wimbledon roof will most probably come into play at some point during the tournament if the past couple of weeks of gloomy weather are anything to go by but it wouldn’t be Wimbledon without a little rain.
Watch Wimbledon on the BBC and via the Red Button. Alternatively keep up to date with scores and matched on Wimbledon’s official website or Twitter page.
Gloomy weather for the British summer
June 22, 2012 at 4:56 pm | Posted in Weather | Leave a commentTags: British Summer, EURO 2012, Isle of Wight festival, Rain, Royal Ascot, Weather
After so much anticipation surrounding this year’s British summer, thanks to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, London 2012 Olympic Games and a host of cultural events it’s an enormous shame that the weather has been so miserable.
The news this morning was dominated by weather stories after thousands of Isle of Wight festival goers were left stranded in their cars overnight due to the site being waterlogged. Sports fans have been left disappointed as England’s cricket match was forced to be cancelled this afternoon, and those dressed to the nines at Royal Ascot are probably wishing they’d worn a raincoat and wellies!
A sea of umbrellas at Royal Ascot
Sadly the forecast for this weekend doesn’t hold much hope either. So how can we get out of the miserable weather blues? I’m planning on making the most of the weekend indoors by spending some time quilting and of course, I’ll tune in for the England vs. Italy game on Sunday with my fingers crossed that they get through to the Euro’s semi-finals.
Have a wonderful weekend and don’t get too drenched. Umbrella’s at the ready…!
Annette’s Websites of the Week: Pinterest, Carers Week and Holidays for All
June 22, 2012 at 10:03 am | Posted in Annette's Websites of the Week | Leave a commentTags: accessible holidays, Annette's Websites of the Week, Carers Week 2012, Holidays for All, Internet, Pinterest, Social media
Pinterest is a new social media outlet that focuses entirely on visual images and photographs. Having used Pinterest for a couple of weeks I have to say that I think it’s one of the most exciting social media channels on the web as it incredibly creative and really does inspire users to ‘pin’ their favourite images.
Like Twitter and Facebook, Pinterest is simple to use, once you know how. Simply sign up and wait for an e-mail invitation. Once you’ve received it (mine took a couple of days) log into Pinterest and explore the visual delights Pinterest has to offer. Users can set up individual ‘boards’ to which they ‘pin’ their favourite images much like making a digital scrapbook.
Pinterest- our favourite new social media channel
Pinterest is a great place to find blogs, websites and photo galleries that feature content which matches your interests. Plus you’re likely to network with likeminded individuals who share your passions, which will make going online lots more fun.
Even America’s First Lady, Michelle Obama has Pinterest… and so does Bath-Knight!
Carers Week runs from 18th- 24th June 2012 and is an awareness week that prides itself on highlighting the work and commitment that carers make to look after loved ones who are old, disabled or in need of additional care.
This year’s theme ‘in sickness and in health’ hopes to heighten the awareness of the side effects that carers experience; becoming ill, neglecting their own needs and receiving little or no help from social services. Carers Week organisers want to help Britain’s six million unpaid carers find solutions to the problems which they face on a day to day basic.
Support carers via this week’s Carers Week campaign
The Carers Week websites features up-to-date information on the campaign and links to the eight charities which have collaborated to bring Carers Week to life. In addition you can read fascinating facts, stories from carers themselves and find events which are taking place for Carers Week.
Holidays for All provide accessible holidays for families, couples and individuals looking to escape everyday life for a week or so. I came across Holidays for All at Naidex and was delighted to find a holiday provider who has so many contacts who can each provide fantastic getaways, whatever your needs.
Holidays for All- access holidays for carers and loved ones
The Holidays for All website offers links to ten different holiday providers who each specialise in different holidays and breaks. Some are here in Britain whilst others are abroad in Europe, or even further afield to America and Australia. This site is perfect if you’re a carer planning to take a loved one away because Holidays for All can advise you on your best holiday options (making it a stress free experience for you).
I’d also advice getting in touch with the Holiday for All team if you want more information about holidays that disabled or elderly people can go on alone with the addition of a care programme which is ready upon their arrival- a great option if you’re in need of a rest from caring.
Happy 30th Birthday to the Duke of Cambridge, Prince William.
June 21, 2012 at 12:52 pm | Posted in Royal Family | Leave a commentTags: 30th birthday, celebrations, Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, Royal Family
Today the Duke of Cambridge or Prince William as we’ve known him for so many years is celebrating his 30th birthday. The Search and Rescue pilot is said to be celebrating the milestone birthday with a low key affair surrounded by close friends and family after a month of extravagant celebrations for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Trooping the Colour Parade last weekend.
Happy Birthday Prince William
I can remember when Prince William was born in 1982, and how the he brought a great sense of joy to the Royal Family. Since we’ve had the pleasure of observing the young royal grow into a gentleman having watched him carry out royal engagements, attend school and university at St Andrews and his Royal Wedding to wife, the Duchess of Cambridge, in April 2011.
What will Prince William’s 30’s bring to him and wife, Kate? Many of us are hoping for a new addition to the Royal Family. From the Bath-Knight team and I Happy Birthday 30th Birthday to Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge.
Prince William as a baby
Young Prince William on his first engagement
Prince William walking behind his mother, Princess Diana’s, coffin.
Happier times at Eton
Prince William during his university days at St Andrews
Prince William and future wife, Kate Middleton, at St Andrews graduation.
Prince William and wife on their wedding day.
Olympic Torch Relay- Ireland to York
June 20, 2012 at 4:29 pm | Posted in Olympics | Leave a commentTags: Olympic Flame, Olympic Torch, Olympic torch relay, Torchbearers
The Olympic Torch Relay is now in the 33rd day of its tour around the United Kingdom. Since my last torch relay post the iconic flame has travelled from Ireland, toured Scotland and travelled through the North East of England to York, where the reply began today.
Olympic Torch on a stream train
Chariots of Fire recreation at St Andrews
During the last week or so of the Olympic Tour Relay have been somewhat overshadowed by other sporting events. England are playing in the Euro 2012 football tournament which has dominated most sporting headlines so you might be unaware that the Olympic Torch has abseiled down The Saga Music Centre in Gateshead, ridden on a steam train in York, prompted a marriage proposal in Middlesbrough and helped recreates a scene from one of Scotland most iconic film, ‘Chariots of Fire’ in St Andrews.
Abseiling down The Saga Music Centre in Gateshead
The Torch truly is making a huge impact on the people of Great Britain and touring the country in the most spectacular style. I can’t wait to see what else the Olympic Torch Relay organisers have in store as it makes its way through Lancashire and the Midlands before it heads to the south of England.
Carers Week 2012 – Easy access holidays and respite care breaks
June 20, 2012 at 1:27 pm | Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a commentTags: Access Travel, Care support, Carers Week 2012, Easy access holidays, Holidays, Holidays with Help, naidex, respite care breaks, Vitalise
Holidays are the perfect way to relax and unwind and can be a real pick-me up for tired carers. However, finding an ‘easy access’ holiday for elderly and disabled people, which provides all of the facilities you need, can be tricky.
During this year’s Nadiex National exhibition I spoke to ‘Holidays for All’ and discussed holidays that are specifically designed with elderly and disabled people in mind. To my delight there are lots of holiday options available that give both carers and their loved ones respite.
Here are my easy access holiday recommendations for Carers Week;
‘Holidays with Help’ offer costal breaks here in England- perfect if you don’t like flying. Holidays with Help welcome people of all ages with disabilities to join them for a fun packed holiday that will include days out, activities and plenty of good food and company.
Holidays with Help’s stand out feature has to be their care programme which includes unlimited care throughout a break. Meaning carers are provided with the option to let their loved one go on holiday alone with the peace of mind that they will be looked after by professionals, giving everyone a well-deserved break.
Visit www.holidayswithhelp.org.uk for more information.
For families who wish to go on holiday in accommodation that is guaranteed to meet mobility needs and requirements travelling with Access Travel is a great option. With over 20 years’ experience and in depth knowledge of easy access requirements, Access Travel, now have a collection of properties in the Canary Islands, Cyprus, main land Spain and Florida that are ideal if you are a carer taking a loved one away who needs wheelchair access, bathing aids, ramps etc…
Visit www.access-travel.co.uk for more information on self-catering break which the entire family can enjoy.
For short breaks that carers and disabled people can enjoy together ‘Vitalise’ breaks are a good choice. Holidaymakers can choose to stay here in the UK in one of Vitalise’s three purpose built holiday villages or go to a Vitalise holiday in a European destination.
Vitalise boasts freedom and choice in their holiday packages, offering guests endless choices of excursions. Alongside such they also offer a special package designed for couples affected by dementia, which I believe will be a popular choice. Vitalise also offer a care programme for guests meaning that a carer’s responsibility can be reduced whilst on holiday.
Visit www.vitalise.org.uk to download a holiday brochure.
- A very happy customer!
- Annette’s Websites of the Week – Angel Radio, Royal Voluntary Service, Garden on a Roll
- National Vegetarian Week 2013 – Egg, Chip and Pepper Bake
- Garden on a Roll
- National Vegetarian Week – Lentil Dahl and Veggie Pakoras
- Margaret Leigh-Jones – Britain’s Oldest DJ
- RHS Chelsea Flower Show – Stoke-on-Trent Story of Transformation
- The RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2013
- Turn that frown upside-down!
- National Vegetarian Week – The Hairy Biker’s Ploughman’s Fondue
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