Saturday, December 26
Boxing Day Snaps
It's quiet.
Its rain sodden & very muddy
.jpg)
But at least its finally warmed up
.jpg)
But judging by the thick clumps of red berries high on the holly tree - the real winter cold has yet to arrive.
And the catkins seem to agree, already a couple of weeks behind their usual growth.
Labels: nature;
Friday, December 25
Hiccy Happy Hiccy Hicmas
Wonder if I managed to be the first to wish you well
Eat lots.
Drink enough.
Make Merry.
And then get outside and walk it off .............whatever the weather
Sunday, December 20
Christmas WanderLand
I love this time of year in the run up to Christmas.
No, not the stupidity of office parties, excessive drinking, & stop-until-you-drop-shopping.
For me it's the peace and quiet that can be found for these few special days when walking local paths.
For the moment the semi occasional visitors now have other places to be. Which is fine by me as it means my weekend wanderings in the New Forest are of a solitary nature, save for an occasional habitual dog walker, similarly benefiting from a lack of human activity.
Despite the car thermometer showing 3 degrees, in the forest puddles are frozen with thick ice, and the ground underfoot is hard & still frozen. Boggy areas, usually a hop skip & splash traverse, today are easily crossed, ice crunching underfoot as I take the straight line ahead.
Sun shine, although weak, is appreciated for the extra warmth offered as I move out from under the shade of the trees. On impulse I decide to extend my route onto Holmsley Tearooms. Usually a hive of activity, especially with the day tripping fraternity, today it is peaceful.
.jpg)
Dog and myself have the garden area to ourselves as we await our lunchtime repast.
.jpg)
We return along the old railway track, preparing to dive back down into deep woodland. Unexpectedly the mix of solitude, sun, and a clear path leading off into the distance unexpectedly brings one of those rare moments of Bliss.
That feeling of oneness with my surroundings; Open to the forces of nature all around me.
Its something I find quite regularly in the hills, especially after a couple of days wildcamping.
But to stumble across it today, on a short and familiar route, is a welcome surprise. And a reminder why I continue to seek the outdoor world, and saviour its offerings.
.jpg)
Christmas - well I can take or leave it personally.
But the rare joy that comes from visiting familiar areas, but finding unexpected joy, is my own gift to myself this Xmas time.
And to share with you, if you only care to go out there and look for yourself.
Oh - and as you can see the new mobile telephone has a much better camera with which to try & capture moments along the way.
Labels: nature, New Forest
Sunday, December 6
Hot & Bothered about Global Warming?
[WARNING: RANT MODE ON]
Demonstrations on London streets. Nepalese Cabinet meeting on Everest. Global leaders get together for Copenhagen Summit
Spotted the common link yet?
Yep - Global Warming is back on The Agenda.
Again.
Not that it really went away for some. But in the run up to the little get together of powerful people (on expenses) in Copenhagen, a wide variety of PR machines are ramping up to full power to Get Their Voice Heard.
And what voices.
" Together we DEMAND practical action by the UK to prevent global warming rising beyond the 2 degrees C danger threshold"
Stop Climate Chaos Coalition
"..we'll converge with thousands of others from around the world in Copenhagen to RECLAIM power and build a movement for climate JUSTICE"
Camp For Climate Action
My what a truly tolerant bunch. And making use of hard won democratic freedoms to make such autocratic demands.
Now I probably know as much (as little?) as the next person on this particular subject. Or as much as I want to be spoon fed. But it still doesn’t stop the various media outlets force feeding me a continual deluge of conflicting opinions, and occasional fact, in a determined effort to Keep Me Informed
(Whatever happened to News - ah carefree days before Opinion turned up)
So why do I feel that I know less today than ever before? And more frankly - care even less than in the past. Especially as my personal lifestyle interactions (so experts lecture at me) will affect Global Meltdown Really Quite Soon?
Some basic facts:
1. Whatever the climate change I won’t be around to see the result. Most likely neither will my kids. Beyond that time frame, I don't really lie awake worrying to be honest.
Selfish? Nope. Just less relevant than the more immediate pressures of day to day living & making sure the kids grow to adulthood as Good People rather than Bad People.
2. Will the seas boil? Or will the rivers freeze?
No-one seems to agree, apart from a media consensus that Its All Really Quite Terrible. And occasionally someone points out that the Earth's climate has always warmed-up & cooled-down over the millennia. So exactly why is the current situation so different, aside from the guesses at timing?
How do we really know that this wasn't the case in the past? (and just how was temperature & timeline recorded so accurately 20,000 years ago anyway?)
3. Its all my fault
I try to live in a general and considerate harmony with my surroundings (most outdoor enthusiasts tend to) But as one person amongst millions living across many First World Industrialised Nations, where Wealth & Power rules alongside Industrial Processes, well what difference do I really make?
OK. I've heard the argument that it all has to start somewhere; First step of a long journey ….etc.
But frankly…..can I really be arsed whilst I watch the majority of those around me, especially in the pre Xmas consumer insanity, happily drive their personal (eco friendly?) car betwixt a variety of retail outlets. Their insatiable urge to acquire goods that aren't really required, in a never ending and pointless paradox of expanding capitalism.
Consume or Die indeed.
And come the evening. It's time to settle down in the centrally heated hothouse called Home, before the 42" Plasma HD TV, to watch a parade of meaningless drivel (Celebrity Come Dancing Reality X Stars) and maybe order a home delivery of rubber tasting fast food, using one of the several mobile phones owned (and soon to be discarded) over the last couple of years. All without moving from the chair, so saving energy. And all at no socio-economic cost of course.
Do such people care about Global Warming?
Whilst many may earnestly declare they do, it seems to me that very few actually really give a damn when it comes down to downgrading their lifestyle. Drastically. And that is what is required.
Meanwhile any democratic elected Government that attempts to enforce such change would last only a short while before the Simpering Opposition Alternative promises to restore loss of privileges. Plus a bit more.
Ce la vie.
So how many of the "thousands of others from around the world" will be walking or cycling to Copenhagen?
And how many will fly or drive?
Point made?
I've a simpler solution to the perils of Global Warming:
1. Reduce the world's population by at least 40%.
2. Enforce a steep drop in daily living standards firstly amongst the industrialised populations, then the wannabes
3. Ban travel by any means other than self propulsion.
But whatever you happen to decide - just please stop bothering me!
I know why I live the lifestyle in the way that I do. And I believe I'm not so hypocritical as to Demand, Force, or Reclaim anything from anyone, especially where such Demands are so bloody unrealistic as to be pointless. Except for the TV cameras and club-joiners.
So please - sod off and leave me alone Eco-Warrior & Catastrophe Expert.
At least until Copenhagen is over & the media dust once again settles gently back onto tarmac covered ground. And the majority of humankind goes back to its basic nature of Sod tomorrow - what about today?
[WARNING: RANT MODE OFF]
[Apologies to any Hippies that may have tripped across this brief jotting.
Yes I know that you really care; And yes I know that I'm an ignorant, selfish & uncaring bastard with no regard for generations as yet unborn.
But I'm not just one voice. Merely an extremely small cog in a huge and bloody movement called human history. With a tale to tell - The Masses always win, even if some do happen to die along the way]
BBC Glossary: What's it all about?Labels: media
Saturday, December 5
TGO Website - New. Improved. 20% Free.
Don't know if anyone followed the TGO Magazine link on that last posting - but it looks like they've had the decorators in.
A revamped layout and even a RSS feed for lazy sods like me that have largely given up on scurrying around each individual website in which I have an interest.
Then again - perhaps it was just me missing the Makeover Announcement?
Very pretty Cameron.
And a step in the right direction.
Unlike the last Trail Magazine revamp which still feels like it was done by the local school as a community project.
Shudder.
(Edit: the TGO site is marked Beta. Some of the links remain to be sorted & the forum is unavailable - but it seems to have gone live late on Friday; Interesting selection of videos there already!)
Labels: Cameron McNeish, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Lake District Weatherline - New telephone number
I've one telephone number stored away on my mobile phone that whilst infrequently used, will never be deleted. When wildcamping high on Lakeland fells part of my evening routine is to call, phone signal permitting, The Lake District Weatherline service.
Over the years I've found the forecasts to be accurate, detailed & (for a solo hillwalker), key when pondering the next day's route.
To go high…..or low?
An important question for a walker travelling with no schedule to keep, other than to see what's beyond the next range of felltops.
But no matter what my intent, realism dictates that I should bend with the weather's vagaries, especially where extreme conditions are forecast.
(Wildcamping - ah so pretty)
Even in less inclement weather the choice between a high ridge walk in dense rain cloud, or a valley meander accompanied by patchy showers, can be the difference between a hard day with little enjoyment or an pleasant day of exploration.
(Wildcamping - ugh not so pretty)
That's even more relevant when high wind speeds are the alternative between safe passage low down or the increased risk of being knocked off my feet when ridging along exposed tops.
So thanks to the latest TGO Magazine for alerting me to the fact that the telephone no. for The Lake District Weatherline has recently changed to 0844 846 2444.
(Being curious, I tried the old number earlier today, only to be met with a recorded message giving a company's name and address details. But not a lot of guidance as to whether it will rain in Keswick tomorrow)
And whilst on the subject of Lakeland weather - fancy a job as a Fell Top Assessor?
"….report on the fell conditions from the summit area of Helvellyn from December through to April. Working seven days on and seven days off, including weekends and bank holidays, you will need to be able to climb from Glenridding to the summit of Helvellyn and back in four hours"
Well that’s probably me out of the running.
Then again the daily commute from the south coast might just get me down in the end.
Wonder whether any of the Assessors have ever thought about just wildcamping for their week in a nearby sheltered spot?
Now there's an idea.
And to get paid for it as well.
HmmmmLabels: Lake District, National Park, nature
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Its rain sodden & very muddy
.jpg)
But at least its finally warmed up
.jpg)
But judging by the thick clumps of red berries high on the holly tree - the real winter cold has yet to arrive.
And the catkins seem to agree, already a couple of weeks behind their usual growth.
Labels: nature;
Hiccy Happy Hiccy Hicmas
Wonder if I managed to be the first to wish you well
Eat lots.
Drink enough.
Make Merry.
And then get outside and walk it off .............whatever the weather
Sunday, December 20
Christmas WanderLand
I love this time of year in the run up to Christmas.
No, not the stupidity of office parties, excessive drinking, & stop-until-you-drop-shopping.
For me it's the peace and quiet that can be found for these few special days when walking local paths.
For the moment the semi occasional visitors now have other places to be. Which is fine by me as it means my weekend wanderings in the New Forest are of a solitary nature, save for an occasional habitual dog walker, similarly benefiting from a lack of human activity.
Despite the car thermometer showing 3 degrees, in the forest puddles are frozen with thick ice, and the ground underfoot is hard & still frozen. Boggy areas, usually a hop skip & splash traverse, today are easily crossed, ice crunching underfoot as I take the straight line ahead.
Sun shine, although weak, is appreciated for the extra warmth offered as I move out from under the shade of the trees. On impulse I decide to extend my route onto Holmsley Tearooms. Usually a hive of activity, especially with the day tripping fraternity, today it is peaceful.
Dog and myself have the garden area to ourselves as we await our lunchtime repast.
We return along the old railway track, preparing to dive back down into deep woodland. Unexpectedly the mix of solitude, sun, and a clear path leading off into the distance unexpectedly brings one of those rare moments of Bliss.
That feeling of oneness with my surroundings; Open to the forces of nature all around me.
Its something I find quite regularly in the hills, especially after a couple of days wildcamping.
But to stumble across it today, on a short and familiar route, is a welcome surprise. And a reminder why I continue to seek the outdoor world, and saviour its offerings.
Christmas - well I can take or leave it personally.
But the rare joy that comes from visiting familiar areas, but finding unexpected joy, is my own gift to myself this Xmas time.
And to share with you, if you only care to go out there and look for yourself.
Oh - and as you can see the new mobile telephone has a much better camera with which to try & capture moments along the way.
Labels: nature, New Forest
Sunday, December 6
Hot & Bothered about Global Warming?
[WARNING: RANT MODE ON]
Demonstrations on London streets. Nepalese Cabinet meeting on Everest. Global leaders get together for Copenhagen Summit
Spotted the common link yet?
Yep - Global Warming is back on The Agenda.
Again.
Not that it really went away for some. But in the run up to the little get together of powerful people (on expenses) in Copenhagen, a wide variety of PR machines are ramping up to full power to Get Their Voice Heard.
And what voices.
" Together we DEMAND practical action by the UK to prevent global warming rising beyond the 2 degrees C danger threshold"
Stop Climate Chaos Coalition
"..we'll converge with thousands of others from around the world in Copenhagen to RECLAIM power and build a movement for climate JUSTICE"
Camp For Climate Action
My what a truly tolerant bunch. And making use of hard won democratic freedoms to make such autocratic demands.
Now I probably know as much (as little?) as the next person on this particular subject. Or as much as I want to be spoon fed. But it still doesn’t stop the various media outlets force feeding me a continual deluge of conflicting opinions, and occasional fact, in a determined effort to Keep Me Informed
(Whatever happened to News - ah carefree days before Opinion turned up)
So why do I feel that I know less today than ever before? And more frankly - care even less than in the past. Especially as my personal lifestyle interactions (so experts lecture at me) will affect Global Meltdown Really Quite Soon?
Some basic facts:
1. Whatever the climate change I won’t be around to see the result. Most likely neither will my kids. Beyond that time frame, I don't really lie awake worrying to be honest.
Selfish? Nope. Just less relevant than the more immediate pressures of day to day living & making sure the kids grow to adulthood as Good People rather than Bad People.
2. Will the seas boil? Or will the rivers freeze?
No-one seems to agree, apart from a media consensus that Its All Really Quite Terrible. And occasionally someone points out that the Earth's climate has always warmed-up & cooled-down over the millennia. So exactly why is the current situation so different, aside from the guesses at timing?
How do we really know that this wasn't the case in the past? (and just how was temperature & timeline recorded so accurately 20,000 years ago anyway?)
3. Its all my fault
I try to live in a general and considerate harmony with my surroundings (most outdoor enthusiasts tend to) But as one person amongst millions living across many First World Industrialised Nations, where Wealth & Power rules alongside Industrial Processes, well what difference do I really make?
OK. I've heard the argument that it all has to start somewhere; First step of a long journey ….etc.
But frankly…..can I really be arsed whilst I watch the majority of those around me, especially in the pre Xmas consumer insanity, happily drive their personal (eco friendly?) car betwixt a variety of retail outlets. Their insatiable urge to acquire goods that aren't really required, in a never ending and pointless paradox of expanding capitalism.
Consume or Die indeed.
And come the evening. It's time to settle down in the centrally heated hothouse called Home, before the 42" Plasma HD TV, to watch a parade of meaningless drivel (Celebrity Come Dancing Reality X Stars) and maybe order a home delivery of rubber tasting fast food, using one of the several mobile phones owned (and soon to be discarded) over the last couple of years. All without moving from the chair, so saving energy. And all at no socio-economic cost of course.
Do such people care about Global Warming?
Whilst many may earnestly declare they do, it seems to me that very few actually really give a damn when it comes down to downgrading their lifestyle. Drastically. And that is what is required.
Meanwhile any democratic elected Government that attempts to enforce such change would last only a short while before the Simpering Opposition Alternative promises to restore loss of privileges. Plus a bit more.
Ce la vie.
So how many of the "thousands of others from around the world" will be walking or cycling to Copenhagen?
And how many will fly or drive?
Point made?
I've a simpler solution to the perils of Global Warming:
1. Reduce the world's population by at least 40%.
2. Enforce a steep drop in daily living standards firstly amongst the industrialised populations, then the wannabes
3. Ban travel by any means other than self propulsion.
But whatever you happen to decide - just please stop bothering me!
I know why I live the lifestyle in the way that I do. And I believe I'm not so hypocritical as to Demand, Force, or Reclaim anything from anyone, especially where such Demands are so bloody unrealistic as to be pointless. Except for the TV cameras and club-joiners.
So please - sod off and leave me alone Eco-Warrior & Catastrophe Expert.
At least until Copenhagen is over & the media dust once again settles gently back onto tarmac covered ground. And the majority of humankind goes back to its basic nature of Sod tomorrow - what about today?
[WARNING: RANT MODE OFF]
[Apologies to any Hippies that may have tripped across this brief jotting.
Yes I know that you really care; And yes I know that I'm an ignorant, selfish & uncaring bastard with no regard for generations as yet unborn.
But I'm not just one voice. Merely an extremely small cog in a huge and bloody movement called human history. With a tale to tell - The Masses always win, even if some do happen to die along the way]
BBC Glossary: What's it all about?Labels: media
Saturday, December 5
TGO Website - New. Improved. 20% Free.
Don't know if anyone followed the TGO Magazine link on that last posting - but it looks like they've had the decorators in.
A revamped layout and even a RSS feed for lazy sods like me that have largely given up on scurrying around each individual website in which I have an interest.
Then again - perhaps it was just me missing the Makeover Announcement?
Very pretty Cameron.
And a step in the right direction.
Unlike the last Trail Magazine revamp which still feels like it was done by the local school as a community project.
Shudder.
(Edit: the TGO site is marked Beta. Some of the links remain to be sorted & the forum is unavailable - but it seems to have gone live late on Friday; Interesting selection of videos there already!)
Labels: Cameron McNeish, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Lake District Weatherline - New telephone number
I've one telephone number stored away on my mobile phone that whilst infrequently used, will never be deleted. When wildcamping high on Lakeland fells part of my evening routine is to call, phone signal permitting, The Lake District Weatherline service.
Over the years I've found the forecasts to be accurate, detailed & (for a solo hillwalker), key when pondering the next day's route.
To go high…..or low?
An important question for a walker travelling with no schedule to keep, other than to see what's beyond the next range of felltops.
But no matter what my intent, realism dictates that I should bend with the weather's vagaries, especially where extreme conditions are forecast.
(Wildcamping - ah so pretty)
Even in less inclement weather the choice between a high ridge walk in dense rain cloud, or a valley meander accompanied by patchy showers, can be the difference between a hard day with little enjoyment or an pleasant day of exploration.
(Wildcamping - ugh not so pretty)
That's even more relevant when high wind speeds are the alternative between safe passage low down or the increased risk of being knocked off my feet when ridging along exposed tops.
So thanks to the latest TGO Magazine for alerting me to the fact that the telephone no. for The Lake District Weatherline has recently changed to 0844 846 2444.
(Being curious, I tried the old number earlier today, only to be met with a recorded message giving a company's name and address details. But not a lot of guidance as to whether it will rain in Keswick tomorrow)
And whilst on the subject of Lakeland weather - fancy a job as a Fell Top Assessor?
"….report on the fell conditions from the summit area of Helvellyn from December through to April. Working seven days on and seven days off, including weekends and bank holidays, you will need to be able to climb from Glenridding to the summit of Helvellyn and back in four hours"
Well that’s probably me out of the running.
Then again the daily commute from the south coast might just get me down in the end.
Wonder whether any of the Assessors have ever thought about just wildcamping for their week in a nearby sheltered spot?
Now there's an idea.
And to get paid for it as well.
HmmmmLabels: Lake District, National Park, nature
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Eat lots.
Drink enough.
Make Merry.
And then get outside and walk it off .............whatever the weather
Christmas WanderLand
I love this time of year in the run up to Christmas.
No, not the stupidity of office parties, excessive drinking, & stop-until-you-drop-shopping.
For me it's the peace and quiet that can be found for these few special days when walking local paths.
For the moment the semi occasional visitors now have other places to be. Which is fine by me as it means my weekend wanderings in the New Forest are of a solitary nature, save for an occasional habitual dog walker, similarly benefiting from a lack of human activity.
Despite the car thermometer showing 3 degrees, in the forest puddles are frozen with thick ice, and the ground underfoot is hard & still frozen. Boggy areas, usually a hop skip & splash traverse, today are easily crossed, ice crunching underfoot as I take the straight line ahead.
Sun shine, although weak, is appreciated for the extra warmth offered as I move out from under the shade of the trees. On impulse I decide to extend my route onto Holmsley Tearooms. Usually a hive of activity, especially with the day tripping fraternity, today it is peaceful.
Dog and myself have the garden area to ourselves as we await our lunchtime repast.
We return along the old railway track, preparing to dive back down into deep woodland. Unexpectedly the mix of solitude, sun, and a clear path leading off into the distance unexpectedly brings one of those rare moments of Bliss.
That feeling of oneness with my surroundings; Open to the forces of nature all around me.
Its something I find quite regularly in the hills, especially after a couple of days wildcamping.
But to stumble across it today, on a short and familiar route, is a welcome surprise. And a reminder why I continue to seek the outdoor world, and saviour its offerings.
Christmas - well I can take or leave it personally.
But the rare joy that comes from visiting familiar areas, but finding unexpected joy, is my own gift to myself this Xmas time.
And to share with you, if you only care to go out there and look for yourself.
Oh - and as you can see the new mobile telephone has a much better camera with which to try & capture moments along the way.
Labels: nature, New Forest
Sunday, December 6
Hot & Bothered about Global Warming?
[WARNING: RANT MODE ON]
Demonstrations on London streets. Nepalese Cabinet meeting on Everest. Global leaders get together for Copenhagen Summit
Spotted the common link yet?
Yep - Global Warming is back on The Agenda.
Again.
Not that it really went away for some. But in the run up to the little get together of powerful people (on expenses) in Copenhagen, a wide variety of PR machines are ramping up to full power to Get Their Voice Heard.
And what voices.
" Together we DEMAND practical action by the UK to prevent global warming rising beyond the 2 degrees C danger threshold"
Stop Climate Chaos Coalition
"..we'll converge with thousands of others from around the world in Copenhagen to RECLAIM power and build a movement for climate JUSTICE"
Camp For Climate Action
My what a truly tolerant bunch. And making use of hard won democratic freedoms to make such autocratic demands.
Now I probably know as much (as little?) as the next person on this particular subject. Or as much as I want to be spoon fed. But it still doesn’t stop the various media outlets force feeding me a continual deluge of conflicting opinions, and occasional fact, in a determined effort to Keep Me Informed
(Whatever happened to News - ah carefree days before Opinion turned up)
So why do I feel that I know less today than ever before? And more frankly - care even less than in the past. Especially as my personal lifestyle interactions (so experts lecture at me) will affect Global Meltdown Really Quite Soon?
Some basic facts:
1. Whatever the climate change I won’t be around to see the result. Most likely neither will my kids. Beyond that time frame, I don't really lie awake worrying to be honest.
Selfish? Nope. Just less relevant than the more immediate pressures of day to day living & making sure the kids grow to adulthood as Good People rather than Bad People.
2. Will the seas boil? Or will the rivers freeze?
No-one seems to agree, apart from a media consensus that Its All Really Quite Terrible. And occasionally someone points out that the Earth's climate has always warmed-up & cooled-down over the millennia. So exactly why is the current situation so different, aside from the guesses at timing?
How do we really know that this wasn't the case in the past? (and just how was temperature & timeline recorded so accurately 20,000 years ago anyway?)
3. Its all my fault
I try to live in a general and considerate harmony with my surroundings (most outdoor enthusiasts tend to) But as one person amongst millions living across many First World Industrialised Nations, where Wealth & Power rules alongside Industrial Processes, well what difference do I really make?
OK. I've heard the argument that it all has to start somewhere; First step of a long journey ….etc.
But frankly…..can I really be arsed whilst I watch the majority of those around me, especially in the pre Xmas consumer insanity, happily drive their personal (eco friendly?) car betwixt a variety of retail outlets. Their insatiable urge to acquire goods that aren't really required, in a never ending and pointless paradox of expanding capitalism.
Consume or Die indeed.
And come the evening. It's time to settle down in the centrally heated hothouse called Home, before the 42" Plasma HD TV, to watch a parade of meaningless drivel (Celebrity Come Dancing Reality X Stars) and maybe order a home delivery of rubber tasting fast food, using one of the several mobile phones owned (and soon to be discarded) over the last couple of years. All without moving from the chair, so saving energy. And all at no socio-economic cost of course.
Do such people care about Global Warming?
Whilst many may earnestly declare they do, it seems to me that very few actually really give a damn when it comes down to downgrading their lifestyle. Drastically. And that is what is required.
Meanwhile any democratic elected Government that attempts to enforce such change would last only a short while before the Simpering Opposition Alternative promises to restore loss of privileges. Plus a bit more.
Ce la vie.
So how many of the "thousands of others from around the world" will be walking or cycling to Copenhagen?
And how many will fly or drive?
Point made?
I've a simpler solution to the perils of Global Warming:
1. Reduce the world's population by at least 40%.
2. Enforce a steep drop in daily living standards firstly amongst the industrialised populations, then the wannabes
3. Ban travel by any means other than self propulsion.
But whatever you happen to decide - just please stop bothering me!
I know why I live the lifestyle in the way that I do. And I believe I'm not so hypocritical as to Demand, Force, or Reclaim anything from anyone, especially where such Demands are so bloody unrealistic as to be pointless. Except for the TV cameras and club-joiners.
So please - sod off and leave me alone Eco-Warrior & Catastrophe Expert.
At least until Copenhagen is over & the media dust once again settles gently back onto tarmac covered ground. And the majority of humankind goes back to its basic nature of Sod tomorrow - what about today?
[WARNING: RANT MODE OFF]
[Apologies to any Hippies that may have tripped across this brief jotting.
Yes I know that you really care; And yes I know that I'm an ignorant, selfish & uncaring bastard with no regard for generations as yet unborn.
But I'm not just one voice. Merely an extremely small cog in a huge and bloody movement called human history. With a tale to tell - The Masses always win, even if some do happen to die along the way]
BBC Glossary: What's it all about?Labels: media
Saturday, December 5
TGO Website - New. Improved. 20% Free.
Don't know if anyone followed the TGO Magazine link on that last posting - but it looks like they've had the decorators in.
A revamped layout and even a RSS feed for lazy sods like me that have largely given up on scurrying around each individual website in which I have an interest.
Then again - perhaps it was just me missing the Makeover Announcement?
Very pretty Cameron.
And a step in the right direction.
Unlike the last Trail Magazine revamp which still feels like it was done by the local school as a community project.
Shudder.
(Edit: the TGO site is marked Beta. Some of the links remain to be sorted & the forum is unavailable - but it seems to have gone live late on Friday; Interesting selection of videos there already!)
Labels: Cameron McNeish, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Lake District Weatherline - New telephone number
I've one telephone number stored away on my mobile phone that whilst infrequently used, will never be deleted. When wildcamping high on Lakeland fells part of my evening routine is to call, phone signal permitting, The Lake District Weatherline service.
Over the years I've found the forecasts to be accurate, detailed & (for a solo hillwalker), key when pondering the next day's route.
To go high…..or low?
An important question for a walker travelling with no schedule to keep, other than to see what's beyond the next range of felltops.
But no matter what my intent, realism dictates that I should bend with the weather's vagaries, especially where extreme conditions are forecast.
(Wildcamping - ah so pretty)
Even in less inclement weather the choice between a high ridge walk in dense rain cloud, or a valley meander accompanied by patchy showers, can be the difference between a hard day with little enjoyment or an pleasant day of exploration.
(Wildcamping - ugh not so pretty)
That's even more relevant when high wind speeds are the alternative between safe passage low down or the increased risk of being knocked off my feet when ridging along exposed tops.
So thanks to the latest TGO Magazine for alerting me to the fact that the telephone no. for The Lake District Weatherline has recently changed to 0844 846 2444.
(Being curious, I tried the old number earlier today, only to be met with a recorded message giving a company's name and address details. But not a lot of guidance as to whether it will rain in Keswick tomorrow)
And whilst on the subject of Lakeland weather - fancy a job as a Fell Top Assessor?
"….report on the fell conditions from the summit area of Helvellyn from December through to April. Working seven days on and seven days off, including weekends and bank holidays, you will need to be able to climb from Glenridding to the summit of Helvellyn and back in four hours"
Well that’s probably me out of the running.
Then again the daily commute from the south coast might just get me down in the end.
Wonder whether any of the Assessors have ever thought about just wildcamping for their week in a nearby sheltered spot?
Now there's an idea.
And to get paid for it as well.
HmmmmLabels: Lake District, National Park, nature
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
No, not the stupidity of office parties, excessive drinking, & stop-until-you-drop-shopping.
For me it's the peace and quiet that can be found for these few special days when walking local paths.
For the moment the semi occasional visitors now have other places to be. Which is fine by me as it means my weekend wanderings in the New Forest are of a solitary nature, save for an occasional habitual dog walker, similarly benefiting from a lack of human activity.
Despite the car thermometer showing 3 degrees, in the forest puddles are frozen with thick ice, and the ground underfoot is hard & still frozen. Boggy areas, usually a hop skip & splash traverse, today are easily crossed, ice crunching underfoot as I take the straight line ahead.
Sun shine, although weak, is appreciated for the extra warmth offered as I move out from under the shade of the trees. On impulse I decide to extend my route onto Holmsley Tearooms. Usually a hive of activity, especially with the day tripping fraternity, today it is peaceful.
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Dog and myself have the garden area to ourselves as we await our lunchtime repast.
.jpg)
We return along the old railway track, preparing to dive back down into deep woodland. Unexpectedly the mix of solitude, sun, and a clear path leading off into the distance unexpectedly brings one of those rare moments of Bliss.
That feeling of oneness with my surroundings; Open to the forces of nature all around me.
Its something I find quite regularly in the hills, especially after a couple of days wildcamping.
But to stumble across it today, on a short and familiar route, is a welcome surprise. And a reminder why I continue to seek the outdoor world, and saviour its offerings.
.jpg)
Christmas - well I can take or leave it personally.
But the rare joy that comes from visiting familiar areas, but finding unexpected joy, is my own gift to myself this Xmas time.
And to share with you, if you only care to go out there and look for yourself.
Oh - and as you can see the new mobile telephone has a much better camera with which to try & capture moments along the way.
Labels: nature, New Forest
Hot & Bothered about Global Warming?
[WARNING: RANT MODE ON]
Demonstrations on London streets. Nepalese Cabinet meeting on Everest. Global leaders get together for Copenhagen Summit
Spotted the common link yet?
Yep - Global Warming is back on The Agenda.
Again.
Not that it really went away for some. But in the run up to the little get together of powerful people (on expenses) in Copenhagen, a wide variety of PR machines are ramping up to full power to Get Their Voice Heard.
And what voices.
" Together we DEMAND practical action by the UK to prevent global warming rising beyond the 2 degrees C danger threshold"
Stop Climate Chaos Coalition
"..we'll converge with thousands of others from around the world in Copenhagen to RECLAIM power and build a movement for climate JUSTICE"
Camp For Climate Action
My what a truly tolerant bunch. And making use of hard won democratic freedoms to make such autocratic demands.
Now I probably know as much (as little?) as the next person on this particular subject. Or as much as I want to be spoon fed. But it still doesn’t stop the various media outlets force feeding me a continual deluge of conflicting opinions, and occasional fact, in a determined effort to Keep Me Informed
(Whatever happened to News - ah carefree days before Opinion turned up)
So why do I feel that I know less today than ever before? And more frankly - care even less than in the past. Especially as my personal lifestyle interactions (so experts lecture at me) will affect Global Meltdown Really Quite Soon?
Some basic facts:
1. Whatever the climate change I won’t be around to see the result. Most likely neither will my kids. Beyond that time frame, I don't really lie awake worrying to be honest.
Selfish? Nope. Just less relevant than the more immediate pressures of day to day living & making sure the kids grow to adulthood as Good People rather than Bad People.
2. Will the seas boil? Or will the rivers freeze?
No-one seems to agree, apart from a media consensus that Its All Really Quite Terrible. And occasionally someone points out that the Earth's climate has always warmed-up & cooled-down over the millennia. So exactly why is the current situation so different, aside from the guesses at timing?
How do we really know that this wasn't the case in the past? (and just how was temperature & timeline recorded so accurately 20,000 years ago anyway?)
3. Its all my fault
I try to live in a general and considerate harmony with my surroundings (most outdoor enthusiasts tend to) But as one person amongst millions living across many First World Industrialised Nations, where Wealth & Power rules alongside Industrial Processes, well what difference do I really make?
OK. I've heard the argument that it all has to start somewhere; First step of a long journey ….etc.
But frankly…..can I really be arsed whilst I watch the majority of those around me, especially in the pre Xmas consumer insanity, happily drive their personal (eco friendly?) car betwixt a variety of retail outlets. Their insatiable urge to acquire goods that aren't really required, in a never ending and pointless paradox of expanding capitalism.
Consume or Die indeed.
And come the evening. It's time to settle down in the centrally heated hothouse called Home, before the 42" Plasma HD TV, to watch a parade of meaningless drivel (Celebrity Come Dancing Reality X Stars) and maybe order a home delivery of rubber tasting fast food, using one of the several mobile phones owned (and soon to be discarded) over the last couple of years. All without moving from the chair, so saving energy. And all at no socio-economic cost of course.
Do such people care about Global Warming?
Whilst many may earnestly declare they do, it seems to me that very few actually really give a damn when it comes down to downgrading their lifestyle. Drastically. And that is what is required.
Meanwhile any democratic elected Government that attempts to enforce such change would last only a short while before the Simpering Opposition Alternative promises to restore loss of privileges. Plus a bit more.
Ce la vie.
So how many of the "thousands of others from around the world" will be walking or cycling to Copenhagen?
And how many will fly or drive?
Point made?
I've a simpler solution to the perils of Global Warming:
1. Reduce the world's population by at least 40%.
2. Enforce a steep drop in daily living standards firstly amongst the industrialised populations, then the wannabes
3. Ban travel by any means other than self propulsion.
But whatever you happen to decide - just please stop bothering me!
I know why I live the lifestyle in the way that I do. And I believe I'm not so hypocritical as to Demand, Force, or Reclaim anything from anyone, especially where such Demands are so bloody unrealistic as to be pointless. Except for the TV cameras and club-joiners.
So please - sod off and leave me alone Eco-Warrior & Catastrophe Expert.
At least until Copenhagen is over & the media dust once again settles gently back onto tarmac covered ground. And the majority of humankind goes back to its basic nature of Sod tomorrow - what about today?
[WARNING: RANT MODE OFF]
[Apologies to any Hippies that may have tripped across this brief jotting.
Yes I know that you really care; And yes I know that I'm an ignorant, selfish & uncaring bastard with no regard for generations as yet unborn.
But I'm not just one voice. Merely an extremely small cog in a huge and bloody movement called human history. With a tale to tell - The Masses always win, even if some do happen to die along the way]
BBC Glossary: What's it all about?Labels: media
Saturday, December 5
TGO Website - New. Improved. 20% Free.
Don't know if anyone followed the TGO Magazine link on that last posting - but it looks like they've had the decorators in.
A revamped layout and even a RSS feed for lazy sods like me that have largely given up on scurrying around each individual website in which I have an interest.
Then again - perhaps it was just me missing the Makeover Announcement?
Very pretty Cameron.
And a step in the right direction.
Unlike the last Trail Magazine revamp which still feels like it was done by the local school as a community project.
Shudder.
(Edit: the TGO site is marked Beta. Some of the links remain to be sorted & the forum is unavailable - but it seems to have gone live late on Friday; Interesting selection of videos there already!)
Labels: Cameron McNeish, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Lake District Weatherline - New telephone number
I've one telephone number stored away on my mobile phone that whilst infrequently used, will never be deleted. When wildcamping high on Lakeland fells part of my evening routine is to call, phone signal permitting, The Lake District Weatherline service.
Over the years I've found the forecasts to be accurate, detailed & (for a solo hillwalker), key when pondering the next day's route.
To go high…..or low?
An important question for a walker travelling with no schedule to keep, other than to see what's beyond the next range of felltops.
But no matter what my intent, realism dictates that I should bend with the weather's vagaries, especially where extreme conditions are forecast.
(Wildcamping - ah so pretty)
Even in less inclement weather the choice between a high ridge walk in dense rain cloud, or a valley meander accompanied by patchy showers, can be the difference between a hard day with little enjoyment or an pleasant day of exploration.
(Wildcamping - ugh not so pretty)
That's even more relevant when high wind speeds are the alternative between safe passage low down or the increased risk of being knocked off my feet when ridging along exposed tops.
So thanks to the latest TGO Magazine for alerting me to the fact that the telephone no. for The Lake District Weatherline has recently changed to 0844 846 2444.
(Being curious, I tried the old number earlier today, only to be met with a recorded message giving a company's name and address details. But not a lot of guidance as to whether it will rain in Keswick tomorrow)
And whilst on the subject of Lakeland weather - fancy a job as a Fell Top Assessor?
"….report on the fell conditions from the summit area of Helvellyn from December through to April. Working seven days on and seven days off, including weekends and bank holidays, you will need to be able to climb from Glenridding to the summit of Helvellyn and back in four hours"
Well that’s probably me out of the running.
Then again the daily commute from the south coast might just get me down in the end.
Wonder whether any of the Assessors have ever thought about just wildcamping for their week in a nearby sheltered spot?
Now there's an idea.
And to get paid for it as well.
HmmmmLabels: Lake District, National Park, nature
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Demonstrations on London streets. Nepalese Cabinet meeting on Everest. Global leaders get together for Copenhagen Summit
Spotted the common link yet?
Yep - Global Warming is back on The Agenda.
Again.
Not that it really went away for some. But in the run up to the little get together of powerful people (on expenses) in Copenhagen, a wide variety of PR machines are ramping up to full power to Get Their Voice Heard.
And what voices.
" Together we DEMAND practical action by the UK to prevent global warming rising beyond the 2 degrees C danger threshold"
Stop Climate Chaos Coalition
"..we'll converge with thousands of others from around the world in Copenhagen to RECLAIM power and build a movement for climate JUSTICE"
Camp For Climate Action
My what a truly tolerant bunch. And making use of hard won democratic freedoms to make such autocratic demands.
Now I probably know as much (as little?) as the next person on this particular subject. Or as much as I want to be spoon fed. But it still doesn’t stop the various media outlets force feeding me a continual deluge of conflicting opinions, and occasional fact, in a determined effort to Keep Me Informed
(Whatever happened to News - ah carefree days before Opinion turned up)
So why do I feel that I know less today than ever before? And more frankly - care even less than in the past. Especially as my personal lifestyle interactions (so experts lecture at me) will affect Global Meltdown Really Quite Soon?
Some basic facts:
1. Whatever the climate change I won’t be around to see the result. Most likely neither will my kids. Beyond that time frame, I don't really lie awake worrying to be honest.
Selfish? Nope. Just less relevant than the more immediate pressures of day to day living & making sure the kids grow to adulthood as Good People rather than Bad People.
2. Will the seas boil? Or will the rivers freeze?
No-one seems to agree, apart from a media consensus that Its All Really Quite Terrible. And occasionally someone points out that the Earth's climate has always warmed-up & cooled-down over the millennia. So exactly why is the current situation so different, aside from the guesses at timing?
How do we really know that this wasn't the case in the past? (and just how was temperature & timeline recorded so accurately 20,000 years ago anyway?)
3. Its all my fault
I try to live in a general and considerate harmony with my surroundings (most outdoor enthusiasts tend to) But as one person amongst millions living across many First World Industrialised Nations, where Wealth & Power rules alongside Industrial Processes, well what difference do I really make?
OK. I've heard the argument that it all has to start somewhere; First step of a long journey ….etc.
But frankly…..can I really be arsed whilst I watch the majority of those around me, especially in the pre Xmas consumer insanity, happily drive their personal (eco friendly?) car betwixt a variety of retail outlets. Their insatiable urge to acquire goods that aren't really required, in a never ending and pointless paradox of expanding capitalism.
Consume or Die indeed.
And come the evening. It's time to settle down in the centrally heated hothouse called Home, before the 42" Plasma HD TV, to watch a parade of meaningless drivel (Celebrity Come Dancing Reality X Stars) and maybe order a home delivery of rubber tasting fast food, using one of the several mobile phones owned (and soon to be discarded) over the last couple of years. All without moving from the chair, so saving energy. And all at no socio-economic cost of course.
Do such people care about Global Warming?
Whilst many may earnestly declare they do, it seems to me that very few actually really give a damn when it comes down to downgrading their lifestyle. Drastically. And that is what is required.
Meanwhile any democratic elected Government that attempts to enforce such change would last only a short while before the Simpering Opposition Alternative promises to restore loss of privileges. Plus a bit more.
Ce la vie.
So how many of the "thousands of others from around the world" will be walking or cycling to Copenhagen?
And how many will fly or drive?
Point made?
I've a simpler solution to the perils of Global Warming:
1. Reduce the world's population by at least 40%.
2. Enforce a steep drop in daily living standards firstly amongst the industrialised populations, then the wannabes
3. Ban travel by any means other than self propulsion.
But whatever you happen to decide - just please stop bothering me!
I know why I live the lifestyle in the way that I do. And I believe I'm not so hypocritical as to Demand, Force, or Reclaim anything from anyone, especially where such Demands are so bloody unrealistic as to be pointless. Except for the TV cameras and club-joiners.
So please - sod off and leave me alone Eco-Warrior & Catastrophe Expert.
At least until Copenhagen is over & the media dust once again settles gently back onto tarmac covered ground. And the majority of humankind goes back to its basic nature of Sod tomorrow - what about today?
[WARNING: RANT MODE OFF]
[Apologies to any Hippies that may have tripped across this brief jotting.
Yes I know that you really care; And yes I know that I'm an ignorant, selfish & uncaring bastard with no regard for generations as yet unborn.
But I'm not just one voice. Merely an extremely small cog in a huge and bloody movement called human history. With a tale to tell - The Masses always win, even if some do happen to die along the way]
BBC Glossary: What's it all about?
Labels: media
TGO Website - New. Improved. 20% Free.
Don't know if anyone followed the TGO Magazine link on that last posting - but it looks like they've had the decorators in.
A revamped layout and even a RSS feed for lazy sods like me that have largely given up on scurrying around each individual website in which I have an interest.
Then again - perhaps it was just me missing the Makeover Announcement?
Very pretty Cameron.
And a step in the right direction.
Unlike the last Trail Magazine revamp which still feels like it was done by the local school as a community project.
Shudder.
(Edit: the TGO site is marked Beta. Some of the links remain to be sorted & the forum is unavailable - but it seems to have gone live late on Friday; Interesting selection of videos there already!)
Labels: Cameron McNeish, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Lake District Weatherline - New telephone number
I've one telephone number stored away on my mobile phone that whilst infrequently used, will never be deleted. When wildcamping high on Lakeland fells part of my evening routine is to call, phone signal permitting, The Lake District Weatherline service.
Over the years I've found the forecasts to be accurate, detailed & (for a solo hillwalker), key when pondering the next day's route.
To go high…..or low?
An important question for a walker travelling with no schedule to keep, other than to see what's beyond the next range of felltops.
But no matter what my intent, realism dictates that I should bend with the weather's vagaries, especially where extreme conditions are forecast.
(Wildcamping - ah so pretty)
Even in less inclement weather the choice between a high ridge walk in dense rain cloud, or a valley meander accompanied by patchy showers, can be the difference between a hard day with little enjoyment or an pleasant day of exploration.
(Wildcamping - ugh not so pretty)
That's even more relevant when high wind speeds are the alternative between safe passage low down or the increased risk of being knocked off my feet when ridging along exposed tops.
So thanks to the latest TGO Magazine for alerting me to the fact that the telephone no. for The Lake District Weatherline has recently changed to 0844 846 2444.
(Being curious, I tried the old number earlier today, only to be met with a recorded message giving a company's name and address details. But not a lot of guidance as to whether it will rain in Keswick tomorrow)
And whilst on the subject of Lakeland weather - fancy a job as a Fell Top Assessor?
"….report on the fell conditions from the summit area of Helvellyn from December through to April. Working seven days on and seven days off, including weekends and bank holidays, you will need to be able to climb from Glenridding to the summit of Helvellyn and back in four hours"
Well that’s probably me out of the running.
Then again the daily commute from the south coast might just get me down in the end.
Wonder whether any of the Assessors have ever thought about just wildcamping for their week in a nearby sheltered spot?
Now there's an idea.
And to get paid for it as well.
HmmmmLabels: Lake District, National Park, nature
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
A revamped layout and even a RSS feed for lazy sods like me that have largely given up on scurrying around each individual website in which I have an interest.
Then again - perhaps it was just me missing the Makeover Announcement?
Very pretty Cameron.
And a step in the right direction.
Unlike the last Trail Magazine revamp which still feels like it was done by the local school as a community project.
Shudder.
(Edit: the TGO site is marked Beta. Some of the links remain to be sorted & the forum is unavailable - but it seems to have gone live late on Friday; Interesting selection of videos there already!)
Labels: Cameron McNeish, media, TGO Magazine, Trail Magazine
Lake District Weatherline - New telephone number
I've one telephone number stored away on my mobile phone that whilst infrequently used, will never be deleted. When wildcamping high on Lakeland fells part of my evening routine is to call, phone signal permitting, The Lake District Weatherline service.
Over the years I've found the forecasts to be accurate, detailed & (for a solo hillwalker), key when pondering the next day's route.
To go high…..or low?
An important question for a walker travelling with no schedule to keep, other than to see what's beyond the next range of felltops.
But no matter what my intent, realism dictates that I should bend with the weather's vagaries, especially where extreme conditions are forecast.
(Wildcamping - ah so pretty)
Even in less inclement weather the choice between a high ridge walk in dense rain cloud, or a valley meander accompanied by patchy showers, can be the difference between a hard day with little enjoyment or an pleasant day of exploration.
(Wildcamping - ugh not so pretty)
That's even more relevant when high wind speeds are the alternative between safe passage low down or the increased risk of being knocked off my feet when ridging along exposed tops.
So thanks to the latest TGO Magazine for alerting me to the fact that the telephone no. for The Lake District Weatherline has recently changed to 0844 846 2444.
(Being curious, I tried the old number earlier today, only to be met with a recorded message giving a company's name and address details. But not a lot of guidance as to whether it will rain in Keswick tomorrow)
And whilst on the subject of Lakeland weather - fancy a job as a Fell Top Assessor?
"….report on the fell conditions from the summit area of Helvellyn from December through to April. Working seven days on and seven days off, including weekends and bank holidays, you will need to be able to climb from Glenridding to the summit of Helvellyn and back in four hours"
Well that’s probably me out of the running.
Then again the daily commute from the south coast might just get me down in the end.
Wonder whether any of the Assessors have ever thought about just wildcamping for their week in a nearby sheltered spot?
Now there's an idea.
And to get paid for it as well.
HmmmmLabels: Lake District, National Park, nature
Over the years I've found the forecasts to be accurate, detailed & (for a solo hillwalker), key when pondering the next day's route.
To go high…..or low?
An important question for a walker travelling with no schedule to keep, other than to see what's beyond the next range of felltops.
But no matter what my intent, realism dictates that I should bend with the weather's vagaries, especially where extreme conditions are forecast.
(Wildcamping - ah so pretty)Even in less inclement weather the choice between a high ridge walk in dense rain cloud, or a valley meander accompanied by patchy showers, can be the difference between a hard day with little enjoyment or an pleasant day of exploration.
(Wildcamping - ugh not so pretty)That's even more relevant when high wind speeds are the alternative between safe passage low down or the increased risk of being knocked off my feet when ridging along exposed tops.
So thanks to the latest TGO Magazine for alerting me to the fact that the telephone no. for The Lake District Weatherline has recently changed to 0844 846 2444.
(Being curious, I tried the old number earlier today, only to be met with a recorded message giving a company's name and address details. But not a lot of guidance as to whether it will rain in Keswick tomorrow)
And whilst on the subject of Lakeland weather - fancy a job as a Fell Top Assessor?
"….report on the fell conditions from the summit area of Helvellyn from December through to April. Working seven days on and seven days off, including weekends and bank holidays, you will need to be able to climb from Glenridding to the summit of Helvellyn and back in four hours"
Well that’s probably me out of the running.
Then again the daily commute from the south coast might just get me down in the end.
Wonder whether any of the Assessors have ever thought about just wildcamping for their week in a nearby sheltered spot?
Now there's an idea.
And to get paid for it as well.
Hmmmm
Labels: Lake District, National Park, nature
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
