Robert Johnson's posts: Recent Episodes
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With the impending demise of free Audioboom accounts I explain why I won't be taking up the new offer, thank audioboom for years of service, and let my listeners know where else they can find me out there on the world wide web.
I also take the opportunity to raise my concerns about the potential loss of important historical records if audio accounts are deleted without first being archived in some way, and about the challenges of retrieving one's content, with thousands of posts to save.
I repeat here though, as I stated in the recording, that I sign off with no bitterness towards Audioboom who have supported free accounts for a long time now despite a changing business model, allowing many of us considerable freedom in what and how much we recorded. I wish them well with their future direction.
I can also be found at: http://anchor.fm/bearingaway http://twitter.com/BearingAway http://www.bearingaway.co.uk
My fourth Toastmasters Speech, on the subject of authenticity
Toastmasters #PhoenixSpeakers #London
A plethora of thoughts, ideas and utterances fills a physically empty Turbine Hall.
More information here: http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artists/bruce-nauman-1691/long-read/raw-material
TateModern #TurbineHall #RawMaterial
I ring the Bell of Peace in Hiroshima, Japan.
Visit http://www.bearingaway.co.uk for more on my trip.
Mark Rogers and I are off to Japan and in this, hopefully the first of many audio and video recordings from the trip, I look forward to the journey.
You can follow the trip at http://www.bearingaway.co.uk and http://twitter.com/BearingAway
Big thanks to Paul Hopkins and Claire Randell for the theme music.
In my third Toastmasters speech I address a subject which is quite close to home, mainly working a guide dog.
I must confess that, despite good feedback, this wasn't my best speech ever. The introduction was far too long and I could have done with planning the ending a little better. Fellow guy dog owners may also notice a little bit of poetic license being employed!
Nevertheless, I hope you enjoy it.
Toastmasters #PhoenixSpeakers #London #Speech #Speech3 #GuideDog #Training #Working #Dummies #GuideDoggingForDummies
I joined Phoenix Speakers, a London Toastmasters club, back in October 2016, and this was my first speech, delivered shortly after.
I talk here about what led me to join, including losing my confidence speaking in public and battling to regain it.
The feedback on this speech was remarkably good, with the main recommendations concerning my tendency to stand quite still and clasp my hands, rather than appear more natural. I think there was also a suggestion that I should have slowed down a little
toastmasters #speech1 #icebreaker #2016 #PhoenixSpeakers
Fifteen Minutes was my second speech at the Phoenix Speakers Toastmasters club in London, made on the 8 March 2017.
It interweaves the idea of 15 minutes of fame with the story of my own moment in the limelight 10 years ago, when the story of my gene therapy operation was reported on around the world.
Unfortunately I was distracted a couple of times during the speech, once by my own side comment and once by noting the time lights changing but not knowing what colour they were on. I also trimmed the ending a little as I thought I had less time left than I did. Nevertheless the feedback was positive about the structure and content, even if it could have been a little slower and perhaps I could have worked on my stage presence a little.
After holding out for almost a year in order to keep messaging functionality and avoid the risk of losing existing recordings, I have finally succumbed to pressure and updated to the newest version.
This is something of a test recording to see if I can upload from the iPhone voice memo app. Let's see if it works…
Like other commuters I got a bit of a surprise when arriving at Waterloo a week or so ago, and made this recording from the mezzanine level, looking down on the main concourse.
Military #Band #SpandauBallet #Gold #80s #November #2016 #Waterloo #Station #Concourse
Busker #Busking #Music #GeorgeMichael #Bagpipes #Saxophone #Waterloo #LondonUnderground #JubileeLine
Eurostar #Paris #GuideDog #Geo #CheckIn #PetPassport #Identification #ID #France #Paris #Weekend #September #2016
Guide dog do you and I find our way independently from our TGV to the taxi rank at Paris Gare de Lyon station.
Weekend #France #Provence #Paris #Arrive #TGV #taxi #gare #lyon #GuideDog #Gio #Independent #Blind #Transfer
toulon #gare #sncf #TER #France #September #2016 #Weekend #Journey #Announcement #Jingle #Theme #Provence
Party #Singing #HeyJude #Beatles #chateau #angalade #Hyeres #September #2016 #Provence #France #Weekend
September #Party #2016 #France #Weekend #Chateau #Vineyard #Angalade #hyeres #FancyDress #Provence
France #Weekend #CoteDAzure #Provence #Lavandou #Mediterranean #Beach #Waves #Sand #GuideDog #Gio #Walk #September #2016
France #Weekend #Mediterranean #Beach #Provence #Lavandou #Walk #GuideDog #Gio #September #2016
September #2016 #TGV #Duplex #Reservation #GuideDog #Assistance #Marseille #LilleEurope #1stClass
LilleEurope #Eurostar #GuideDog #Gio #Assistance #Busca #Accordion #Outside #September #2016
We watch the race from immediately adjacent to the start/finish line as the leaders/by, followed 45 seconds later by the Pelaton.
TourOfBritain #Cycle #Race #London #RegentStreet #Pelaton
Paul, Claire and Nathan secured the most brilliant spot to watch the cycle race. All I had to do was turn up!
TourOfBritain #Cycle #Race #London #2016 #RegentStreet
Passing through London Bridge station on the day its new through platforms and lower concourse opened to the public for the first time I had to pause for a quick look.
LondonBridge #ThamesLink #ThamesLink2000 #Concourse #Undercroft #Platforms #New #Reopen #Impressive #Spacious #Arches #August #2016
On our way home we have a fast change at Lille Europe. This is us getting from the TGV to Eurostar check-in.
lille #Europe #Change #Station #gare #TGV #Eurostar #CheckIn #GuideDog #Gio #Travel #August #2016
For every stop announced on the Strasbourg tramway a different little jingle is played. Here are a couple of them.
strasbourg #Announcement #Stop #Jingle #Music #August #2016
Gio and I make our way back towards the city centre with church bells ringing in the background.
strasbourg #August #2016 #walk #GuideDog #gio #adventure
A bit of silliness on the Franco German border.
strasbourg #kehl #rhine #river #bridge #border #schengen #france #germany #GuideDog #Gio #Passerelle #DeuxRives #August #2016
Mark and I marvel at the sheer size of the cathedral before exploring a large metal model of it.
strasbourg #Cathedral #Size #Huge #Perspective #Architecture #Model #August #2016
Mark describes the European Parliament in Strasbourg as we look at it for the first time.
Strasbourg #EuropeanParliament #Architecture #Contemporary #August #2016
Here's a recording from earlier in the year that I should have uploaded ages ago. I made it after spending a lovely weekend with friends in Knaresborough.
I wonder around Tate modern's new annex Switch House with guide dog Gio.
TateModern #SwitchHouse #GuideDog #Explore #Bridge #Steps #Art #Contemporary #TurbineHall
Gio enjoying splashing around in a stream with my sisters dog, Angus, in July 2016.
GuideDog #3Run #Swim #Stream #River #Summer #2016 #Play #Gio
Including a wonderful one in the style of the Shipping Forecast and a rather less wonderful one from me.
BlindWeek #speeches #report #sailing
Aboard Buccaneer Charlie heading for Falmouth Haven. Unfortunately the geotag is wrong.
BlindWeek #BuccaneerCharlie
Our week-long trip is put on hold as the wind heads for Force 7. Thankfully all is calm and comfortable aboard Bucanneer Charlie.
BlindWeek #BuccaneerCharlie #mooring #wind
Everyone else on my boat has gone to bed but I want to enjoy the sounds of the water for a little while.
BlindWeek
My first sale of Blind Week aboard Buccaneer Charlie with Neil, Julie, and Fiona.
BlindWeek
I enjoy my Night Riviera sleeper compartment on my way from London Paddington to Falmouth. #BlindWeek
Having made it to the exit in time for the minibus to Henley station it was ever so slightly disappointing to have to wait over an hour in the rain only to discover that it had been cancelled due to there being too much mud. Never mind, true British spirit prevailed as twenty hardy souls trudged their way a mile down a farm track to the main road, where thankfully the original transport was able to meet them. Whilst tiring after a long day at the fair, it didn't dampen my memories of what was a wonderful time.
McAlpine #FawleyHill #SteamFair #2016 #Minibus #Station #Transport #Cancelled #Mud
Gio and I head for the exit and a long journey home after a brilliant day at the 2016 Fawley Hill Steam Fair, taking in its sounds as we went.
McAlpine #SirWilliam #FawleyHill #SteamFair #2016 #Music #Sounds #Fairground #DogShow #Arena #TractionEngines #Exit #GuideDog #May
This wonderfully named band plays in the beer tent.
AverageWifeBand #Henley #FawleyHill #McAlpine #2016 #SteamFair #May #BeerTent
More sights and sounds from the McAlpines' 2016 steam fair.
McAlpine #SirWilliam #FawleyHill #SteamFair #Aeroplane #TractionEngine #Steam #SteamRoller #May #2016
And eclectic mix of exhibits that would never be found anywhere else. The Fawley Hill Hill Steam Fair truly is a wonderful event!
McAlpine #SirWilliam #Birthday #FawleyHill #SteamFair #TractionEngine #Aeroplane #Camel #MainRing #Garden #May #2016
Television presenter, former castaway and friend of Sir William and Lady McAlpine, Ben Fogle introduces a parade of Labradors in the central ring during the 2016 Fawley Hill Steam Fair.
McAlpine #SirWilliam #Birthday #FawleyHill #SteamFair #Labrador #Dog #Show #Parade #BenFogle #May #2016
I take a ride on Sir William McAlpine's famous back garden railway, which is thought to be the steepest standard gauge line in Europe.
Steam #Railway #StandardGauge #Steep #McAlpine #Grounds #Garden #FawleyHill #May #2016 #SteamFair #Birthday #SirWilliam
It is truly one of a kind, the steepest standard gauge railway in the UK, possibly in Europe, and I had a ticket to ride it.
Every two years Sir William McAlpine opens up his back garden to the masses to enjoy a bit of a get together. Getting there is no mean feat however, including several changes and the last leg by small minibus.
The cathedral bells fade away as our trip (nearly) comes to an end. After this, the final recording in this series, we enjoyed an informal lunch in a local bar, did a bit of gift shopping for our colleagues back at work, and headed for the airport.
Thanks for listening.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #cathedral #bells #trip
As silly as it sounds it took us a while to work out the orientation of Madrid's Cathedral, with its wide transepts and ornate side chapel.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #cathedral
I only popped down to pay the bill but ended up wandering the streets of Madrid until I found a lovely garden the Neath the Bourbon Palace.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #sunshine #bourbon #palace #garden
The perfect combination, a generous portion of steak and the strains of a Spanish guitar.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #busking #guitar #spanish #argentine #steak
After going our separate ways for five hours Mark and I meet up outside the Prado.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #prado #walk #rain #taxi
Okay, it may be a strange subject for a recording, but I was interested in the bizarre sound emanating from a few pedestrian crossings is in Madrid and thought I would share it. Unfortunately the majority of crossings don't have any kind of audible signal and the only way to cross if you cannot see the lights is to wait until everybody else goes. The more crossings that tweet, the better in my opinion.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #pedestrian #crossing #audible #signal #tweet #atocha
Atocha's old trainshed is now a wonderful tropical garden. And as I wander along one of its paths I recount a strange coincidence.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #atocha #tropical #trainshed #coincidence #meeting
Whilst Mark spends five whole hours in the Prado gallery I trudge around El Retiro in the rain. Actually, I am doing the experience a disservice. It only rained, albeit totally drenchingly, for 90 minutes or so before it started, gradually, to brighten up. And all the while this magnificent park did its level best to lift soul.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #retiro #park #rain #explore #hike #walk
A wonderful bakery. Need I say more?
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #mallorquina #sol #bakery #pastry
I was rather taken with a turn of phrase in an announcement aboard the Cercanias train from El Escorial to Sol, and thought I would record it.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #ElEscorial #suburban #cercanias #announcement #MaximisePrecaution
We were enormously lucky, on entering the State Rooms in San Lorenzo el Escorial, to be invited to join a tour group just ahead of us. Without them we would not have had nearly as enlightening a visit as we were able to enjoy. Here is a taste of the beginning of the tour.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #ElEscorial #SanLorenzo #monastery #tour
It's mid afternoon and we are finally on our way to El Escorial. Shortly after making this recording, thinking that the train would stop at El Escorial for a while before heading back to Madrid, we took our time getting off, and almost ended up being carried away to a still unknown destination.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #ElEscorial #train #suburban #announcement
We return to Atocha station to find a train to El Escorial.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #Atocha #cercanias #ElEscorial
The longest waffles you've ever seen, dipped in hot chocolate, making for the perfect breakfast.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #chocolateriaSanGinese
We enter Plaza Mayor for the first time.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #plaza #mayor #horse #statue
After an early siesta we head out into Madrid to a recommended spot for our first taste of Tapas.
Madrid #Spain #2016 #Madrid2016 #May #Holiday #CityBreak #Weekend #cane #VI #VisuallyImpaired #RobertJohnson #MarkRogers #Food #Culture #CasaToni #tapas
Our hotel in Madrid, the Petit Palace Posada del Paine, was located on a pedestrianised Street just off the Plaza Mayor, meaning our first task was to find it from where the taxi dropped us off.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #hotel #PosadaDelPaine #PetitPalace #taxi
We depart Barcelona for a 2 1/2 hour high-speed ride across almost 400 miles of Spain to the capital Madrid.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #FirstClass
Goodness, this restaurant was amazing! The biggest shellfish platter I have ever come across and excellent service to boot.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #Restaurant #Evening #LateNight #Shellfish #Seafood #Amazing #Botafumeiro
Our TGV approaches Barcelona Sants station, at the end of a 900 mile trip from London for us, at least for day one.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #sants #end
The conductor on our train to Barcelona appeared to be practising for an attempt on the Guinness world record for making on-board announcements. The result was totally incomprehensible and I wonder whether he genuinely feels this to be the best way of providing customer service. Not very impressive.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #SNCF #announcement #onboard #incomprehensible #record #WorldRecord #fail
Best laid plans and all that… Our direct train from Lyon to Barcelona was cancelled after initially being delayed by 10 minutes at a time over the course of an hour, and we had to take a TGV to Valence TGV and change once more.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #ValenceTGV #change
Under five hours after leaving London by train we were already enjoying a beer in French sunshine.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #lyon #beer
Our Eurostar train's first proper stop on its way to the south of France is at Lyon Part Dieu, where we must change for a connection to Barcelona.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #lyon #PartDieu #change
"The next train is to Marseille!" - we start our journey on the three times a week London St Pancras to Marseille service.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #Marseille #lyon
I have a crash course in cane skills as I make my way to my friend Mark's flat for the night.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #CannonStreet #LongCane #Underground #Barrier #Stuck #Tube
It's 9 o'clock in the evening and I'm crossing the concourse at Waterloo, heading for Madrid, eventually.
Madrid #Spain #Sign #Barcelona #TGV #AVE #RENFE #EuroStar #Journey #CityBreak #Weekend #MarkRogers #RobertJohnson #VI #cane #Adventure #Madrid2016 #May #2016 #Start #GuideDog
When heard at London stations and Inspector Sands announcement usually heralds certain doom, such as a fire evacuation or bomb scare. On this occasion however it seems somebody had simply fallen asleep on the button.
InspectorSands #Warning #Announcement #Alert #Tube #Underground #Stratford #London
Gio seems to have taken to "singing" on public transport. Whether it is his chase instinct being activated by scenery passing outside, all the bells as the doors are unlocked, the experience seems to really excite his senses and motivate him to squeak. I will readily admit that it probably wasn't the best time to accept a request to stroke him, but at that moment I would have done anything to quieten him down or at least distract from the noise. Hopefully we can challenge this behaviour as, otherwise, longer journeys will be unbearable.
I look back on my time with (retired) guide dog Vance, who has died aged eight.
vance #guide #dog #GuideDogVance #died #death #life #Working #Partner #Independence #Dignity #GuideDog #obituary #thanks
First it was the man, slightly worse for wear, calling Gio over and whistling. Then it was the lady who really wanted to stroke him but held back. And then Gio seemed pretty desperate to get somewhere, but who knows where? All in all a rather peculiar journey.
A couple of songs from Joseph, reminding me of when I saw the original West End version as a child, with Jason Donovan in the lead role.
Gio and I dash – back across London to catch one of only a few connections to Richmond each hour, owing to engineering work.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Kingscross #Railway #Station #Tube #Underground #VictoriaLine #Vauxhall
A points failure outside the station causes our train to have to reverse some distance before approaching once more on a different track. Credit should be given to the train crew who kept us well informed throughout.
Train #Points #Phalia #Kingscross #Virgin #EastCoast #Reverse
Gio and I join an East Coast train at Peterborough.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #EastCoast #Virgin #Peterborough
Gio enjoys a free run with six month old Belgian Shepherd Collie cross Milly.
Unfortunately the wind noise on this Recording is rather distracting, so keep the volume low!
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #FreeRun #Field #Lincolnshire #Run #Wind
Gio and I make a textbook change at Peterborough and then have to stand in the wind for 15 minutes.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Peterborough #Railway #Station #Change
Heading off on an impromptu visit to my sister Gio and I must first cross London with suitcase in tow.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Suitcase #Holiday #Underground #Tube #NorthernLine #VictoriaLine #WarrenStreet #Waterloo
It's the day of the Syria conference at the QEII Centre in Westminster, half the area is locked down and the other half is rammed with traffic and pedestrians - presenting quite a challenge for my trusty guide Gio.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #QEII #Syria #Conference #London #Westminster #ParliamentSquare #Traffic #Hectic #Busy
Gio and I are rushing to the station as usual, though I somehow find time to reflect on the previous day.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Recap #Reflection #Railway #Station
Gio and I arrive at Waterloo in the morning peak and take a rather convoluted route to avoid crossing the concourse.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Waterloo #PeakTimeSubway #AlternativeRoute #Busy
Gio and I cross Vauxhall bridge in driving drizzle.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #VauxhallBridge #Wet #Wind #Drizzle #CycleSuperhighway
I sing Happy Birthday to Gio as he turns two.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Birthday #Happy #Celebrate #two
Gio and I take a windy evening walk to the station on our way home.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #vauxhall #Wind #Reflections
Gio is surprised by jets of water appearing out of the pavement at More London.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Fountain #Water #MoreLondon #LondonBridge
Gio and I race to the Shard for an offer that's too good to miss.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Underground #Tube #GreenPark #LondonBridge #Escalator #TheShard
Call me old-fashioned but not so long ago it was traditional to share only one side of your private telephone conversation with fellow travellers on the Tube. Now there seems to be a growing trend of people using Skype, FaceTime or speakerphone setting with scant regard for anybody else overhearing. Am I alone in thinking this rather rude?
FaceTime #Skype #Speakerphone #Phone #Train #Tube #Private #Rude
I talk about Gio's positive work and then go and call him Vance.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #richmond
Gio and I take a quick stroll on to the edges of Hampstead Heath whilst waiting for my friend Mark to arrive.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #HampsteadHeath #Walk #Distractions
I look back on the past few days of having Gio in the office as we wait for a train at Hammersmith. The Siren incident referred to happened shortly before this section of recording began and involved a decision to cross a road within a rather hectic situation. I decided not to include it however, due to excessive wind noise.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Reflection #Re-#Tube #Underground #Hammersmith #DistrictLine
We return to jeers old stomping ground whilst changing trains at Euston.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #euston #tube #change
Gio and I are getting used to crossing Waterloo together but it seems some people are looking out for us nonetheless.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Waterloo #Assistance #Help
I look back on our progress so far as Gio and I make our way to the office.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #office #commute #travel #recap
Gio is awarded for his efforts with a small game of fetch.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #fetch #game #reward #relax
We cross the concourse at Waterloo station as I tell how Gio has been a good boy all day at work.
GuideDog #guide #dog #working #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Develop #Bond #work #Partnership #PostQualification #Waterloo #Commute #GoodBoy #office
As I return to work with Gio my guide dog training diary becomes a working diary. I intend to keep it up sporadically, but it may not quite be to the same intensity and quality of previous entries.
GuideDog #Dog #Gio #2016 #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Commute #Working #Work #Travel
Still heading home, Gio and I walk from West Hampstead Thames link to West Hampstead Overground station.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
Gio and I head home after our catch up with Becca.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
A week after qualifying with Gio I meet up with Becca for a walk to Tate Modern.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
Paul Hopkins and I, along with our respective guide dogs, head for Orpington station in the early hours of the morning.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #orpington #station
They were all the rage this Christmas, and finally I got to have a go on a swegway whilst visiting Paul and Claire.
swegway #indoor #Practice #try #balance
A new route for Gio in the suburbs as we visit Paul and Claire in Orpington.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #orpington
I look back on the past three days' activities, including two fairly challenging walks.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #recap
Gio and I start heading for home and his work picks up considerably.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #sheen #mortlake
Gio and I have to cross the Mortlake station level Crossing, providing a good opportunity to see how he will react to the passing train.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #LevelCrossing #railway #mortlake
Gio and I begin a 4 mile long route in my local area.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #sheen #mortlake #practice
Having seen off a friend at Waterloo East Gio and I head for our own train in the mainline station.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #WaterlooEast #Connection #Walk #Concourse #Station #Waterloo #Mainline
In the final recording of our walk along London Southbank Gio and I make good progress through the London Bridge area towards Tower Bridge.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Southbank #London #LondonBridge #MoreLondon #RiverThames #TowerBridge #ThamesPath
We continue along the river to the Millennium Bridge.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #southbank #MillenniumBridge #TateModern #2016
Gio becomes extremely agitated whilst watching the skateboarders underneath the Southbank Centre.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Southbank #Centre #Skateboard #QueensWalk #Distraction #Agitation #Upset #Whine
We walk along Albert Embankment and past the London Eye.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #Southbank #Parliament #Walk #Independent #LondonEye #Busker
Gio and I set out from Vauxhall station in London for a walk along Southbank.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
I look back on a slightly challenging walk through Richmond and consider how the rest of the week might pan out.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #richmond #distract #squirrel
It's the day after we qualified and Gio and I are out in Richmond alone, tackling the circular route from three days earlier. It was possibly a courageous choice on my part, given the number of parks and gardens it passes, but it is also one of my favourite walks, and one I want to crack with him sooner rather than later.
Listening back, there are definitely points which I could have improved, including being more encouraging when he was distracted from finding certain kerbs, however this is all part of the learning experience.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #RichmondHill #squirrel #distract
Just 11 days after arriving at the Euston Premier Inn and beginning our training together Gio and I are qualified! In some ways, this is where the really hard work begins, cementing our bond together and learning to work as a team in any circumstance that life can throw at us.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #reflection #qualification
Having signed the guide dogs contract and handed over my 50p, signifying our qualification together, whilst waiting for the sun to go down, Gio and I walked across Waterloo Bridge back to the station.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #qualification #waterloo #bridge #night
What better challenge for a confident dog like Gio than a walk through the crowds on Regent Street?
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #RegentStreet #OxfordCircus #busy #Tube #Underground #Station #Escalator
We had done the route a couple of times previously with Becca but now it was just Gio and I as we made our way to Richmond Station together.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #solo #station
Looking back on a day in which Gio did some excellent work along busy streets and past challenging distractions in Westminster.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #reflection #Westminster #Whitehall #Protest #Demonstration #Noise #Distraction
We walk past the Palace of Westminster and down Whitehall, dodging police convoys and noisy demonstrators.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #westminster #whitehall #parliament #demonstration #protest #police
I look back on a mixed day of highs and lows, and an awful lot of learning points.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #bells #checking
Part of my favourite walking circuit, with plenty of distractions for Gio.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #RichmondHill #river #thames
It's time to feed and spend Gio but there is one small problem in the form of some very loud church bells.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #church #bells
I look back on the ninth day of guide dog training with Gio, a day off for both of us.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #home #richmond #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #toy #play
Piglet arrived in my life just over a week ago, soaked to the skin in saliva and seemingly an object of desire for my soon to be guide dog Gio. In the early days he became the ubiquitous toy for cuddling, reassuring, and throwing, but more recently I have begun to worry about his longevity.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #piglet #toy #comfort #throw
I look back on the eighth day of guy dog training when we free ran the dogs in the morning before returning home later in the day.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
A week after heading across town to the Euston premier in I found myself back at home in Richmond with Gio, with a little time to spare before the second stage of my guide dog training began.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #home #arrival
It's the final day of residential training and we have been driven over to Regents Park, somewhere with which our dogs are very Familia, for a morning free run.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #FreeRun #RegentsPark #whistle
I look back on the seventh day of guy dog training class, including a good off curb session and a slightly frustrating night walk.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
The final section of night walk, taking us to Great Nepalese on Eversholt Street.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #night #walk #Nepali #GreatNepalese
I'm sitting in reception waiting for the others to arrive before we set off on a short night walk.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
We practice the routine for getting passed obstacles which completely block the pavement, forcing us to walk in the road.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #OffKerb
I talk with John about how things are going on class.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
I return to Kingsway with Gio and walk to Aldwych.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #holborn #kingsway #aldwych #bus
I've eaten my penultimate hotel breakfast and I'm looking forward to the day ahead.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #breakfast #weather
It's the end of day six and I'm exhausted.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
A section of our afternoon walk along one side of Tavistock Square, including the negotiation of a bus stop and several groups of students.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #busy
Gio and I take on the Angel escalator on our sixth day of guy dog training.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #tube #escalator #underground #busker
Gio and I practice avoiding near and far traffic on the quiet streets of Somertown.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #traffic #avoidance
Traffic training is basically where going to dog and owner are trained not to get run over. We are currently waiting for our shot at it.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #traffic #near #far
I look back on day five of guy dog training and particularly on two walks where Gio continued to demonstrate his guiding skill.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
Tiredness is beginning to catch up on me as the fifth day of guide dog training comes to a close.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #play #spend #toilet #busy #tired
This is a 10 minute segment of a very pleasant (well, as pleasant as any walk along the Euston Road could be) wonder from Euston to Baker Street. Gio did some excellent work demonstrating how good his initiative can be.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #BakerStreet #tube
I look back on my fourth day of guide dog training, which started with a pretty lacklustre walk with Gio, followed by an excellent one in the afternoon. Later I had the opportunity to talk about his obedience, before giving him a little play with Sparky. All in all a good day.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
It wasn't the best start to my fifth walk of guide dog training, Gio stubbornly refusing to spend until we had toured the roads surrounding the hotel and returned to its car park. Once on the way properly it was clear that his enthusiasm of the past few days was less pronounced, and it was only when we came across parks on the return leg that he perked up a little.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #enthusiasm
My third day of guide dog training has come and gone and I have four walks under my belt now. Unfortunately obedience continues to be problematical but we have a plan.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #reflections #recap
I bought a new microphone with which to record walks whilst on guide dog training class, but it isn't working brilliantly. I would be interested in listeners' advice.
Microphone #Advice #Problem
I set off with Gio for my fourth walk of the guide dog training class. Unfortunately the recording keeps clicking and eventually cut out completely. I need to find a better way of recording walks!
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #walk #harness #evening
Talking with applicant guide dog owner John about his dog Sparky.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #sparky #labrador #lunch
Gio and I play in the hotel room after our third walk on guide dog training.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #play #walk
I reflect on my first full day of guide dog training, including a couple of really promising walks along Euston Road and a few concerns about obedience.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #obedience #stubborn
I harness Gio and head for the front door of the hotel.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #harness #walk #obedience
I take Gio down to the car park to spend for the first time on my own.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba #spend
Looking back over my first day of guide dog training with Gio.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
My new guide dog Gio arrives in my hotel room and makes himself feel at home.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
I head for the tube at London Waterloo with my trusty cane, looking forward to beginning guide dog training later in the afternoon.
GuideDog #Training #Class #Dog #Gio #2016 #PremierInn #euston #london #UK #Blind #VisuallyImpaired #VI #Learn #Independence #Mobility #AudioDiary #Audio #Diary #GermanShepherd # GoldenRetriever #gdba
In January 2016 I am training with my second guide dog, Gio, and this is the beginning of my audio diary. In this episode I think back to when I trained with my first dog and contrast it with my lack of preparation this time around.
GuideDog #Training #Diary #Gio #class #2016 #London #Experience #Blind #VisuallyImpaired
You're probably getting bored of these "Robert uses his long cane" type recordings, but this method of transport is still proving to be rather novel for me, and not in and especially positive way. What I have learnt through wielding the cane today is that using a guide dog removes a huge amount of stress for me, and I have a new found respect for those who choose not to go down that path whilst remaining independently mobile.
LongCane #Mobility #Blind #Night #Walk #Stress #Senses #Independence #Obstacles
It was a sort of baptism of fire using the long cane this morning. As if walking down Richmond High Street in the dark wasn't enough I then had to endure a trip across the Clapham Junction footbridge, seemingly against the flow of people for much of the way. Whilst there were plenty of nice people out today, willing to check that I was okay, there were many more who simply didn't notice the cane and ploughed on regardless.
LongCane #Mobility#ClaphamJunction #Station #Blind #TactilePath #PeakTime #Crowd #Busy #Stress
I'm between dogs this week but life has to carry on. Today was unfortunately unavoidable, a trip out of town for work, requiring walks to and from Richmond Station in the dark. Using the cane leaves me exhausted and I am reminded of why I love being a guide dog owner.
LongCane #Mobility #Walk #Night #Dark #NightBlindness #Blind #VI #Discomfort #Stress #Richmond #London
Vance has retired and it seemed as good a time as any to change my Twitter handle. So I can exclusively announce that, as of now, @BearingAway has replaced @GuideDogVance.
vance #GuideDog #Twitter #Handle #ProfileName
One of my Christmas presents this year was a box of treats from Yorkshire, kindly given to me by my sister. Here I taste two of them, a beer and some pork scratchings.
Christmas #Present #Beer #PorkScratchings #Taste #Review #Wharfebank #brewery #flame
My mum and I swap over Vance's identity medallions, symbolising his transition from a guide dog to a domestic pet. Happy retirement Vance, you have truly been a star.
GuideDog #vance #retire #retirement #service #ceremony #fb
My Mum, guide dog Vance and I see in 2016 on a bench by the River Thames in Richmond as fireworks explode in all directions. Vance subsequently completed what will probably be his final walk on harness before he retires from guiding duties on the 2nd January.
nye #NewYear #2016 #london #richmond #fireworks #GuideDog #vance #fb
Another trip to the Vet, hopefully my last with Vance, and I'm focused on getting him to retirement in one piece.
GuideDog #vance #retire #walk #work #richmond
Chatting with Claire, Paul, Nathan and the doggies in Cote Bistro in Richmond the day before New Year's Eve 2015.
GuideDog #vance #ben #usher #restaurant #chat #talk #retirement #NewYear #2015
Guide dogs Ben and Usher have come to wish Vance well for his retirement, and he's making sure to give them a warm welcome.
GuideDog #Visit #Home #Retirement #Usher #vance #ben
It is less than a week until my wonderful guide dog of 6 1/2 years, vance, is due to retire to the country. In this recording I reflect on a mini drama on Christmas day as he suddenly became a mobile, and our plans for the next few days.
GuideDog #Retire #Retirement #Vance #Reflections #Work #Rest
A final recording of The Rockitmen at the Rainbow Trout on the 27th December.
You can find out more about them at: https://www.facebook.com/rockitmen/
Pub #Sussex #Trout #rainbow #rockitmen #1066 #2015
The Rock-It Men continue their second set, including two songs with my Dad on the drums.
pub #band #rockitmen #MustangSally #drummer #guest #DerekJohnson #2015
Here's the band that played at Dad's 60th earlier in the year gigging at one of their more usual haunts - and giving great value as always.
pub #band #sussex #1066 #rockitmen
Travelling home very late at night it was lovely to be helped by these members of the public. It serves to remind one that there are a lot of kind people out there.
Guide dog Vance retires at the end of the year after giving me over six years of sterling service. Vance has become familiar to many at work and today may be his last in the office.
GuideDog #vance #retire #work
I read about them earlier today in the Independent, a group of Illinois students spreading Christmas cheer by singing Christmas carols and other festive tunes down the phone to people throughout the world - and I had to give it a go!
To have a song sung for you call them on +1 217 332 1882.
What a lovely initiative it is!
DialACarol #christmas #2015 #WeThreeKings #fb
It was just what I needed after travelling all the way from Bruges to London, a diversion via Ealing South on account of tube engineering works. Somehow it always seems to be the way though, speeding through Europe only to take two hours to complete the final 10 miles.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #tube #EalingSouth #assistance #bus
The train stopped briefly at Ashford International on the return leg to London, where my parents alighted. Having said how fast the journey from the tunnel to Ashford is the train then proceeded to sit there for over five minutes waiting for a platform. I thought I would spare you that bit.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #ashford #eurostar #announcement
We reflect on a successful trip to Bruges and talk about the wonders of the Cyhannel Tunnel.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #eurostar #tunnel #channel #chunnel #reflect
We board Eurostar at Brussels for the return leg to the UK.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #eurostar #service #assistance #brussels #board
With all of these recordings featuring beer you'd be forgiven for thinking that there was a theme to this trip. We had however walked for an hour and a half before this lunchtime pint so I think we deserved it!
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #beer #brewery #lunchtime
The musical bells in Bruges ring out once more as we set out on a Sunday morning walk.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #bells #sunday #horses #square #walk
This recording is rather hindered by the wind blowing the window shut and the sound of me completing my morning ablutions in the background. Nevertheless, it gives a small taste of the morning atmosphere in Bruges. You may need to turn the volume up a bit!
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #morning #atmosphere
T'Brugs Bertje (or Bertie) is wonderful and I would happily stay there all day were it not for the strength of the beer! There is not much more I can say.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #BrugsBertje #bertie #bertje #beer #pub #atmosphere
T'Brugs Bertie was about the closest thing to a typical English pub in Bruges, and we knew that in order to get in we had to be there early. We weren't the only ones!
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #beer #pub #Bertie #BrugsBertie
We take to the streets to explore Bruges, with the constant sound of church bells ringing across the rooftops.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #walk #wander #canal #bells
My dad takes a shine to my shoes, literally.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #shoe #shine #dad
Our first proper meal of the trip, in a brasserie with a particular focus on beer. It could have been made for dad and I!
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #brasserie #beer #lunch #cambrinus
Having settled into the journey I don't suppose vance was really expecting anything to happen, until at Ashford my parents appeared.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #eurostar #ashford #mum #dad #parents #surprise
It's finally time for "the off" and Vance and I head to St Pancras for the early morning Eurostar departure to Brussels.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #StPancras #eurostar #assistance #checkin
The journey begins properly as I reflect on some excellent service received from Eurostar.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #eurostar #assistance #SinBin
Hitherto unknown to me each of the original Eurostar trains contains a couple of carriages with what appears to be a small meeting room but which I discovered later to have been designed as a mobile prison cell. They do at least provide a little extra space for enormous guide dogs and so the train manager sent us that way upon reaching the platforms at London St Pancras station.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #eurostar #SinBin #MeetingRoom #Coach10
It's really really early, which must mean that we are going somewhere! First things first though, a certain dog needs his breakfast!
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #PremierInn #early #breakfast #departure
Stage one of our trip to Bruges has been completed, just about. After an uneventful trip across London I almost got us run over. But we're here now, so we should be thankful for that.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #PremierInn #StPancras
Vance is going abroad one final time, but before leaving we need to visit the vet.
BrugesTrip #Bruges #brugge #belgium #weekend #CityBreak #christmas #november #2015 #GuideDog #Vance #shepherd #VI #trip #vet #PETS #PetPassport #tapeworm
I couldn't help myself. Having just spent a couple of hours at Caffe Nero, meeting @UpsidedownPoetry I couldn't bear to leave York without first visiting my favourite cafe in all the world! First things first though, the queue.
I was in York, somewhere I know well, to meet somebody who it feels as though I know, from talking on audioBoom and reading her blogs, but who I had never actually seen in person. First up though, I had to find Caffe Nero.
I've heard two theories on why left luggage moved from its previously rather handy spot adjacent to platform one at York. One is that it was considered a security risk, the other is that somebody else was prepared to pay more rent. Either way the result is a station service located a five minute walk from the main concourse, alongside the inner ring road and over a bridge. Here I demonstrate how to get there.
york #LeftLuggage #walk
This rather long recording was made whilst wandering around the 2015 Harrogate Christmas Fair with Mark, Qing, Mark's mum, and dogs Archie, Rosie and of course guide dog Vance.
GuideDog #vance #christmas #fair #harrogate #yorkshire #sausage
Armistice #1918 #2015 #Euston #Tube #Underground #London #Remembrance #Silence #Announcement
Having stayed the night in Orpington with Claire and Paul I return home early in the morning to get ready for work.
Railway #Station #Train #Waterloo #East #Concourse #Barrier #GuideDog #vance
A recording from last year, taken when I was very kindly invited to share dinner with Claire, Paul and Nathan.
ClaireRandell #Chocolate #Soufflé #Dinner #Family #Discussion #Kitchen #Famous
Vance needed to go out so I took the opportunity to record a few minutes of fireworks audible from my back door. I thought the loud bangs overlaid on the familiar Sound of passing aircraft was quite jarring...
Firework #November #2015 #Richmond #London #guidedog #vance
The 2015 remembrance day service at Richmonds War Memorial.
As is the way in Richmond the crowds gathered quite late for today's remembrance day service. By the time the Last Post was played on a slightly squeaky trumpet however the terrace overlooking the wall memorial and the river Thames beyond was packed several deep. This recording includes the hymns "O God, our help in ages past" and "I vow to thee my country", the traditional two-minute silence (extended slightly and held before 11 AM - presumably as a modern twist), the laying of wreaths and the National Anthem.
Remembrance #Remember#Poppy #Service #Cenotaph #war #Memorial #Band #Military #Richmond #London #Thames #Silence #November #2015 #Ambience #Atmosphere #Anthem #Hymn
Inside the Olympic Stadium in Stratford.
london #rwc #2015 #stratford #olympic #argentina #SouthAfrica #bronze #ambiance #atmosphere
Passing through the turnstiles and being shown to our seats on the wheelchair platform.
london #rwc #2015 #GuideDog #vance #disabled #platform
Vance is a bit slow to get going as we complete the commute to work.
GuideDog #vance #commute #vauxhall #london
I enjoy some late afternoon sunshine by the river in Chiswick.
Beer #Chiswick #StrandOnTheGreen #pub #river #thames #october #sunshine #2015
Including a helpful member of the public and a very squeaky seat - yes, that's about as exciting as it gets this evening!
Sibby has drawn our attention to an ongoing debate on BBC Ouch regarding the word "disability" and whether it is now outdated. I make the case here that "human variance", a suggested potential alternative, moves us back towards A medical model of disability largely left behind for the social model.
Disability #Discussion #Ability #Social #Medical #Model #Semantics #HumanVariance
Claire, Paul and I travel from Oxford Circus to the river Thames on the Bakerloo line, including using four different escalators with our three guide dogs.
GuideDog #Underground #Tube #OxfordCircus #Embankment #Escalator #vance #usher #ben
Having had a lovely meal at Brasserie Zedel Paul, Claire and I decided simply to follow our noses, or rather our dogs' noses in order to reach somewhere we recognised. We ended up going in completely the opposite direction to that intended but it was still great fun!
GuideDog #Vance #Usher #ben #Adventure #London #Night #Soho #Walk #Lost #Navigation
General atmosphere in the bar of London's last surviving galleried coaching inn. #pub #atmosphere #london
Sheep #LondonBridge #London #Herd #Shepherd #Event #Worshipful #Sexy #Disappointment #Miscommunication
As strange as it sounds there were meant to be sheep being herded across London Bridge that Sunday afternoon in September. I later discovered that the event was indeed taking place but the public weren't and loud near it, despite the publicity it had received.
Sheep #LondonBridge #London #Shepherd #Wool
Concluding my recordings from the Thames barrier in London, this one captures the movement of the gates into underspill mode, including an informative commentary on the structure. Thanks to all at the Environment Agency for making the day so interesting.
River #Thames #London #Barrier #Annual #Closure #Information
Listen to the end for an excellent description of what the Thames barrier is and why it was built.
I decide not to enter the fan zone and instead try to summon some courage to visit a pub alone.
GuideDog #Vance #Blind #Dilemma #Richmond #Crowds #RugbyWorldCup
I wander in the park whilst listening to sounds from the Rugby World Cup fan zone on the other side of a wire fence.
RugbyWorldCup #Richmond #FanZone #Dilemma #GuideDog #Blind #vance #England #Wales
Guide dog Vance and I walk to the Old Deer Park on the day that England play Wales in the rugby World Cup 2 miles up the road in Twickenham.
Walk #GuideDog #RugbyWorldCup #England #Wales #OldDeerPark #vance
Catching a train from Westminster station with guide dog Vance.
Underground #Tube #Westminster #Station #ParliamentSquare #GuideDog #Vance
The majority of a guided tour of Richmond Lock and weir.
OpenHouseLondon #Richmond #Lock #River #Thames #2015
On a Saturday afternoon in September my mum, sister and I went on a little adventure to find the wide estuary in East Anglia known as The Wash.
TheWash #EastAnglia #Lincolnshire #Suffolk #Atmosphere
Vance and I escape work and head for Vauxhall Station along the river.
thames #river #lambeth #vauxhall #station #commute #GuideDog
Puppy Angus is a Collie Belgian Shepherd cross (perhaps an Anglo Belgian Sheep Dog or a Collegian Shepherd?) and like all five week old dogs is incredibly cute.
puppy #collie #BelgianShepherd #Collegian #SheepDog #shepherd #5week #play #Angus
My sister's ferrets enjoying a bit of downtime in the garage.
ferret #play #explore #garage #squeak
An evening walk along Millbank, past the Houses of Parliament, across Westminster bridge and into Waterloo station with guide dog Vance
Walk #London #Westminster #Parliament #Bridge #Waterloo #Guide #Dog.
After a further week without my guide dog, having returned from holiday with an infected leg, I finally had him back - and could enjoy a cane free walk along the river side in Richmond.
A well known dental hygiene product producer has released an app which purports to enable visually impaired people to know when somebody is smiling at them. I put it to the test.
listerine #Mouthwash #Dental #Hygiene #App #Gimmick #Marketing #Blind #VI
It's the middle of the afternoon and I receive a call out of the blue. It's from Microsoft and they are saying that I have a virus on my computer. Unfortunately for this scammer I don't use windows and I'm not playing ball.
scam #windows #fb
Walking with my long came along the river in Richmond in September 2015.
River #Thames #London #Surrey #Richmond #Kane #VI
A recording made in early September, shortly after I returned from my summer holiday with a leg infection. Here I reflect on life, albeit briefly, without a guide dog.
Having travelled to Sicily by train and back by plane I stand at the kerbside ready to be collected.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #gatwick #airport #debrief #review #london #TheEnd
Arriving at passport control at Gatwick airport we are greeted by a fire alarm and a malfunctioning lift. At least our bags have turned up on time however.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #Gatwick #london #airport #fire #alarm #passport #response #lift #fail #baggage #reclaim
Mark and I attempt a trip debrief but our interrupted by the British Airways lunchtime meal service.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #BritishAirways #meal #lunch #debrief
It's a good job we didn't have an accident on the way back from Sicily as I doubt any of our fellow passengers could have identified the nearest exit. Perhaps BA would be better off showing an episode of Air Crash Investigation before takeoff in order to ensure that passengers pay attention to the safety briefing.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #BritishAirways #safety #evacuation #briefing #attention #inattention #catania
We wait to board our British Airways flight back to the UK, growing increasingly confused by the airline agent's apparent inability to communicate with passengers. Once on board the aircraft all is thankfully calm and comfortable however.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #BritishAirways #Flight #Home #Airport #Catania #Service #Agent
Mark and I chatter on about this and that over our final meal in Taormina as I gradually fall asleep. Somehow we failed to mention how wonderful the food is at this establishment, rounding off The gastronomic aspects of our Sicilian adventure quite nicely.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #restaurant #dinner #taormina #jardine
Standing on the hotel's top floor terrace I'm watching the sun descend behind Mount Etna and thinking about the wonderful trip we have almost completed.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #taormina #VillaSchuler #terrace #view #sunset #dusk #CruiseShip #hotel #horn #atmosphere
Sunbathing has never been one of my favourite activities, especially as I could probably hold the world record for burning. Having enjoyed a rather busy time on Sicily however, we felt a proper rest was in order before we flew back to the UK. Cue the Paradise Beach club with its swimming pool, sung loungers, and ready access to the sea.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #taormina #ParadiseBeach #relax #sun #swim #pool #beach #sea
Enjoying a fine view in perfect solitude.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #atmosphere #view #taormina #castelmola #terrace #castle #etna
For my final independent outing of the trip I got up early and took a taxi further up the mountain to the little town of Castelmola, which sits at around 700 m above sea level, overlooking Taormina and the coast towards Catania. Arriving before 7 AM I had the whole place to myself as far as tourism went!
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #taormina #castelmola #view #museum #castle #dawn
A ride on one of the four wheel drive coaches which ferry visitors from the top of Mount Etna's cablecar to just below 3000 metres. The vehicles are quite remarkable, tackling incredibly steep and rugged to rain with a compliment of 20 passengers or so on board.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #etna #bus #coach #cablecar #4wd #FourWheelDrive #volcano #Davide #ContinentSicilia #guide #tour
Standing at almost 3000 metres above sea level Davide of Continent Sicilia tells Mark and I about some of the volcanic features around us. Unfortunately the wind noise is very high on this recording however it is worth bearing with, if you can, for Davide's insights.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #Etna #volcano #Davide #ContinentSicilia #private #tour #guide
In a cablecar with Davide of Continent Sicilia, ascending the third most active volcano in the World.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #etna #volcano #cablecar #ContinentSicilia #private #guide #tour
I return from my first morning walk in Taormina by limping down the steps next to our hotel, having had an altercation with a metal bench and lost. I didn't know it at the time that the injury would subsequently become infected and would still be causing me pain a week on.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #steps #accident #injury #leg #cut #bench #limp #taormina
Enjoying the sound of the waves on a beach below Taormina.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #taormina #mazzaro #beach #waves #sunset #atmosphere
Having failed to see Taormina's amphitheatre we descended two hundred metres by cablecar for a look at the sea instead.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #taormina #cablecar #funicular #mazzaro #beach
Having found Taormina's most famous sight closed for a pop concert Mark and I retire to a cafe for beer and traditional Sicilian street food.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #taormina #cafe #amphitheatre
Having travelled to Sicily from London and around the island by train we were finally on our last railway leg of the trip.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #IC #siracusa #taormina
I was drawn back to Altigia's promenade for one last time. A chance to appreciate the morning sun and air, and to reflect on a lovely time so far.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #sunrise #dawn #sea
The streets of Altigia are tricky enough with my limited daytime vision but navigating them at night with much greater reliance on the long cane is a whole different game.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #night #cane #mobility
After spending a good chunk of our final day in Siracusa doing our own thing Mark and I sat down by the sea for beer and ice cream (a classic combination, before you ask!).
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #alfio #cafe #beer #granita
I attempt to walk along the harbour front in Altigia whilst recalling the previous day's adventures.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #harbour #roads #pedestrian #challenges #difficult #ParcoArchaeologico
I wander through a street of Altigia's morning market as stallholders are still setting up.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #market #stalls #atmosphere
I visit the cathedral square on Altigia as restauranteurs open up their businesses and the sun slowly rises.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #piazza #duomo #square #cathedral #sunrise #dawn #morning
Your intrepid explorers go in search of the final resting place of Siracusa's most famous inhabitant.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #ParcoArchaeologico #archimedes #tomb #burial #ruse
It was said that this cave had mystical powers enabling Dionysius to hear every word whispered by his slaves and prisoners. Had he been standing outside today he would have had little trouble overhearing Mark and I.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #ParcoArcheologico #cave #quarry #dionysius #atmosphere #echoe
Those Greeks had foresight. Not only did they construct a giant amphitheatre on the outskirts of Siracusa, capable of accommodating five thousand people, but they also built it with Mark's and my accessibility in mind too - well, sort of.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #ParcoArcheologico #greek #amphitheatre #remains #steps
After a long wander around Altigia K met up with Mark for some breakfast.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #ISantiCromati #breakfast #hotel
I continue my walk around the outside of the island of Altigia in Siracusa.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #walk #atmosphere
My exploration pays off when I successfully find the sea.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #morning #walk #sea #coast #waves
In Siracusa we stayed on the island of Altigia, and early on our first full day there I set out alone to explore.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #siracusa #syracuse #altigia #walk #explore
Catania station wasn't exactly rammed with trains or passengers yet somehow proved something of a challenge to use.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #catania #station #navigation #information
Seated comfortably on one of Sicily's modern, air conditioned regional trains Mark and I reflect on the day's travels from Agrigento on the southwest coast to Palermo in the north, and from there south and east to Catania.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #agrigento #palermo #enna #catania #siracusa #syracuse #railway #experience #modern #accessible #airconditioned #pleasant
I enjoy breakfast on the garden terrace whilst fussing Leon the hotel dog.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #agrigento #VillaSanMarco #breakfast #terrace #garden #temple #leon #valley
We come towards the end of our odyssey through the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #agrigento #valley #temples #zeus #jupiter #walk
A chorus of bells jingling adjacent to the main path through Agrigento's Valley of the Temples.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #agrigento #valley #temples #atmosphere #goat
Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun, and in Agrigento Mark and I did little to banish that stereotype.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #agrigento #valley qqtemple #preserve #walk #heat #irreverent
I leave Mark in our room and enjoy a morning pre-breakfast swim in a pool with a view of a Greek temple. Could life be better?
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #VillaSanMarco #hotel #agrigento #swim #pool #temple #brioche #breakfast #friendly #family #welcome
I recap our adventure so far, from the balcony of our room at the Villa San Marco, and Mark pretends that it isn't morning yet.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #agrigento #temples #valley #SanMarco #morning #awaken #pool #view
We arrive in Palermo spot on time, and promptly leave again.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #palermo #sleeper #station #modern #regional #announcement #airconditioned
Having been shunted aboard the ship on our sleeper train from Milan to Palermo I climb up on deck to take in the view of the Messina Straits.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #trainferry #messina #deck #sea #crossing
The astute amongst my listeners may have noted a potential flaw in my plans to travel from London to Agrigento all the way by train - namely the three miles of water separating Sicily from mainland Italy, uncrossed by bridge or tunnel. Fear not however, your intrepid adventurers were not thwarted by this apparently insurmountable obstacle, owing to the existence of one of Europe's last surviving operational train ferry connections. On leaving the final mainline station our sleeper train was shunted back and forth until it had been split into three pieces and stabled in the vehicle deck of a ferry which then proceeded to cross the straits of Messina.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #ferry #train #trainferry #boattrain #board #embark #messina #crossing
Breakfast is finally offered and Mark turns out not to be. Dead after all.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #sleeper #morning
I awake from an excellent sleep and enjoy the sea views from my private window.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #sleeper #sleep #view
Some way past Pisa I settle into my berth and enjoy the rhythmical sounds of our sleeper train speeding through the night.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #sleeper #milan #palermo #pisa #ICNotte #compartment #atmosphere #sounds
After a busy day at the World Fair in Milan Mark and I relax aboard the Palermo sleeper.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #milan #palermo #sleeper #train #compartment
Having spent six hours exploring the Expo site we headed for the city centre and its very impressive cathedral.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #milan #metro #duomo #cathedral #piazza
The UK team for the Milan Expo had evidently been busy bees pulling together a pavilion that took a great metaphor and dined out on it as much as they could! Full marks though for coming up with something so innovative to catch people's attention before they buzzed off.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #expo2015 #milan #uk #britain #hive #innovation #pavilion
A meander through some of the Milan Expo's smaller standz.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #expo2015 #milan #kygisrepublic #2015
Mark and I continue our walk through the mammoth Expo 2015 site, soaking up the sounds, smells and sights of the various national pavilions.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #expo2015 #milan #walk
Sitting in the Nepali pavilion we reflect on our experience of Milan Expo 2015 so far and talk about the other stands we would like to visit.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #milan #expo2015 #nepal #review #CzechRepublic
Having been allowed to use the disabled people's entrance to the Nepali temple at the Milan Expo we head downstairs for some authentic cuisine.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #expo2015 #milan #nepal #food #temple #momo
Mark and I make for the Milan Expo site using the city's Metro.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #milan #metro #expo
We arrive in Milan aboard the Frecciarossa high speed train and attempt to navigate our way around the Central Station to find a suitable place to leave our bags.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #milan #central #station #luggage
We enjoy an hour of luxury in Business Class aboard TrenItalia's flagship train.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #frecciarossa #highspeed #turin #torino #milan
We make for Milan following a pleasant break in Turin.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #turin #PortaSusa
It's raining again, but this time we're safe and sound in our hotel in Turin.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #rain #Turin #storm #thunder
I thought Italy was meant to be sunny and hot in summer. So, why are Mark and I presently cowering beneath a modernist arcade across the piazza from Duomo Torino?
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #rain #turin #storm #thunder
Duomo Torino and the Turin Shroud.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #turin #cathedral #duomo #shroud
Public music in Turin.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #turin #music #german #recorded
A long introduction via an everlasting street.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #turin #torino #walk #introduction
Listening in as Mark uses an Italian ticket machine to arrange a couple of regional legs not possible in the UK.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #ticket #machine
After six hours on the TGV we rolled into Torino Porta Suza station and headed for our hotel, via the back entrance.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015
We've crossed the border and are wending our way towards Turin.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #italy #alps. #alpine #border
A rather comfortable seat for the next leg.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #tgv #lyon #gare
It is 5 AM and Mark and I are packing for our next leg on the journey to Sicily.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #mercure #hotel #gare #lyon
Mark and I make a bee line for the taxi rank at Gare Du Nord in Paris.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #paris #nord #taxi #eurostar
...not in an Octupus's garden but in the Channel Tunnel.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015
Before getting stuck in to the final bits of packing that I need to complete I take a wander down to the banks of the river Thames to enjoy the sunshine and clear air.
sicily2015 #sicily #holiday #railway #train #journey #VisuallyImpaired #blind #independent #august #2015 #River
Thames
London
Richmond
After eight months of planning I'm off to Sicily - by train all the way!
sicily2015 #cane #GuidDog #travel
A look back to the summer when our dogs had a lovely run together.
GuideDog #free #run #vance #ben #usher #woods
Back in the summer I came across a folly adjacent to the Royal Festival Hall on London's Southbank, but never got around to uploading the recording. So here it is!
Since I can't find my original photograph the image is from Wikimedia commons, at: https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Royalfestivalhall.jpg
Another recording from the drafts archive, taking one evening in Richmond after a trip to the vet. The recording is cut short to avoid catching too much of the gentleman at the end.
I was clearing out some old draft recordings when I came across this one from earlier in the year and thought it worth uploading. This depicts a walk through the streets of Whitby in North Yorkshire, which I visited as part of a grand day out from York. I unfortunately don't have a photograph to hand to upload so you will just have to imagine!
A bit more of Ticket 415 at the Great Yorkshire Show in July 2015
band #BlackSheep #beer #GreatYorkshireShow
The Black Sheep beer tent has become a landmark of the Great Yorkshire Show in recent years - and what does every good beer tent need, but a great pub rock band! Ticket 415 has to have the least memorable name of any band I've heard of, but thankfully they make up for it in quality. We ended up staying for the whole of the first set!