It's been a hard season, and a fairly disappointing one at that. Our initial optimism, bolstered by a strong winter and an early success at Dunbar, quickly gave way to increasing despondency as the season wore on. We thought perhaps the Scottish Championships were a blip, caused by bad weather, but then the British Championships proved a repeat, and so it went.
Still, it wasn't all bad. The result at Annan's "Riding of the Marches" was fantastic. And the Development Band was the major success of the year, starting as just an idea, meeting some fairly nasty resistance, and finally being able to take the field. Them winning a prize on that first outing was a great achievement, far better than could reasonably have been hoped.
Ultimately, the big outcome of this season is positive. Although we did poorly in terms of the championship, we did record a solid, mid-table result. Perhaps more importantly, we got a sense of what the judges are actually looking for, and should hopefully have some idea on what we need to do in order to do better next year. I have some thoughts in that regard, but at this point they are premature - there are some significant issues that need to be cleared up before we can move on.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Cowal Highland Gathering 2011
So, the last competition of the season. Could it possibly be any worse than the last two years?
This time out, the bus left slightly later than normal. I didn't leave the house until 6:30, which I suppose wasn't too bad. The journey to the competition was likewise fairly quick, getting us there about 9.
At this point we were given some significant freedom. The bus had to travel early because the Development band were playing at 11:50, but the 4A band weren't playing until 3:50, so there was a long wait. I spent the time reading, and then headed down to watch the Development band play in their qualifier.
I thought they were pretty good, to be honest. Frankly, the Development band are a bit better now than the whole band were two years ago, when we recorded our best ever result at Cowal. So, that seemed okay.
Sadly, they didn't qualify, but that was to come later. First, there was the matter of yet more waiting. Again, I spent the bulk of the time reading. And then, just as the 4A band were getting ready to play, we learned the Development band results.
They failed to qualify, coming 12th in their heat: 11th and 10th for piping, 10th for drumming, and 13th for ensemble. I guess the judges just didn't rate them after all.
So, the 4A band went on, and played as well as we have all year. The issues with the reel that we had had at the Worlds and the Europeans seemed to be sorted out, and we came off feeling pretty okay about things.
There was then yet more waiting. I took the opportunity to wander into town to get some food, and then did some more reading. The rest of the band took the opportunity to drink large amounts of alcohol.
The march past was okay. The chieftain was Blythe Duff, who I recall as the rookie cop from Taggart, which I last watched when I was back in school. Surprisingly, she proved a better chieftain than Sylvester McCoy last year.
We didn't win a prize. In fact, we did rather poorly in the contest, coming 12th overall. In piping we came 17th (last) and 10th, 5th in drumming, and 11th in ensemble. All in all, a very disappointing result. Still, I was determined not to get too disheartened by this: we knew, regardless of the result, that the season was basically done, so it was important just to be happy with the performance. We'd achieved that, so who cares about the result, right?
So far, so good. It had actually been a fairly enjoyable day, an oddity for Cowal. Perhaps we might actually get away with it?
We got back to the bus. There were some few rumblings about marching down the street, but I think it's now accepted that we just won't be doing that until we win something at the event. Fair enough, I guess, although I would prefer to do the parade on principle. (That said, some members of the band were in no fit state to do the parade.)
We got on the bus, and waited for the police to clear us to move out. And waited, and waited. We could have done the parade twice over in the time we had to wait. Still, no matter. Eventually, we were off.
And that's when it all kicked off. There was an incident (which I'm not going to recount here; it was that bad!), and then there was almost a fight as a result of the incident (aggravated by alcohol). As the pipe major moved to deal with it, there was then an awful lot of shouting from other people, a lot of pushing and shoving...
As we came off the ferry, there was a strong suspicion that the bus driver would pull over and call the police. Frankly, I would have supported that call; what happened was an absolute disgrace. At length, though, we got everyone sat down, separated the people who needed separated, and made it home.
I got home at 11:45.
As a result of this, I will be surprised if that bus company will accept our business next year. Honestly, I wouldn't blame them if they did not. I will also not be surprised if several people leave the band as a result, including several members of the committee. As things stand, I will not be competing with this band next year (since I'm not travelling on a bus where this can happen, and I'm not paying a monthly sub to cover the bus and then taking my car to competitions).
Frankly, I'm just disgusted with the whole thing. I hate Cowal.
#24: "Pathfinder: Shadows of Gallowspire", by Brandon Hodge
This time out, the bus left slightly later than normal. I didn't leave the house until 6:30, which I suppose wasn't too bad. The journey to the competition was likewise fairly quick, getting us there about 9.
At this point we were given some significant freedom. The bus had to travel early because the Development band were playing at 11:50, but the 4A band weren't playing until 3:50, so there was a long wait. I spent the time reading, and then headed down to watch the Development band play in their qualifier.
I thought they were pretty good, to be honest. Frankly, the Development band are a bit better now than the whole band were two years ago, when we recorded our best ever result at Cowal. So, that seemed okay.
Sadly, they didn't qualify, but that was to come later. First, there was the matter of yet more waiting. Again, I spent the bulk of the time reading. And then, just as the 4A band were getting ready to play, we learned the Development band results.
They failed to qualify, coming 12th in their heat: 11th and 10th for piping, 10th for drumming, and 13th for ensemble. I guess the judges just didn't rate them after all.
So, the 4A band went on, and played as well as we have all year. The issues with the reel that we had had at the Worlds and the Europeans seemed to be sorted out, and we came off feeling pretty okay about things.
There was then yet more waiting. I took the opportunity to wander into town to get some food, and then did some more reading. The rest of the band took the opportunity to drink large amounts of alcohol.
The march past was okay. The chieftain was Blythe Duff, who I recall as the rookie cop from Taggart, which I last watched when I was back in school. Surprisingly, she proved a better chieftain than Sylvester McCoy last year.
We didn't win a prize. In fact, we did rather poorly in the contest, coming 12th overall. In piping we came 17th (last) and 10th, 5th in drumming, and 11th in ensemble. All in all, a very disappointing result. Still, I was determined not to get too disheartened by this: we knew, regardless of the result, that the season was basically done, so it was important just to be happy with the performance. We'd achieved that, so who cares about the result, right?
So far, so good. It had actually been a fairly enjoyable day, an oddity for Cowal. Perhaps we might actually get away with it?
We got back to the bus. There were some few rumblings about marching down the street, but I think it's now accepted that we just won't be doing that until we win something at the event. Fair enough, I guess, although I would prefer to do the parade on principle. (That said, some members of the band were in no fit state to do the parade.)
We got on the bus, and waited for the police to clear us to move out. And waited, and waited. We could have done the parade twice over in the time we had to wait. Still, no matter. Eventually, we were off.
And that's when it all kicked off. There was an incident (which I'm not going to recount here; it was that bad!), and then there was almost a fight as a result of the incident (aggravated by alcohol). As the pipe major moved to deal with it, there was then an awful lot of shouting from other people, a lot of pushing and shoving...
As we came off the ferry, there was a strong suspicion that the bus driver would pull over and call the police. Frankly, I would have supported that call; what happened was an absolute disgrace. At length, though, we got everyone sat down, separated the people who needed separated, and made it home.
I got home at 11:45.
As a result of this, I will be surprised if that bus company will accept our business next year. Honestly, I wouldn't blame them if they did not. I will also not be surprised if several people leave the band as a result, including several members of the committee. As things stand, I will not be competing with this band next year (since I'm not travelling on a bus where this can happen, and I'm not paying a monthly sub to cover the bus and then taking my car to competitions).
Frankly, I'm just disgusted with the whole thing. I hate Cowal.
#24: "Pathfinder: Shadows of Gallowspire", by Brandon Hodge
Friday, August 19, 2011
Getting Back On Top
The last few weeks have been pretty grim, and the less said about them the better. Suffice to say, things have been rough, and I haven't exactly covered myself in glory. And that's all I'm going to say about that.
But part of the problem, I think, is that I've gradually let things slide, neglecting one thing because another was pressing, then neglecting that because of the first, and then...
And so, since the start of this week, and for the next couple of weeks, I'm going through the steps of getting back on top of everything. The apartment needs a clean, I need to get back to the painting, and the blogging, I need to get on top of my preparations for the game, I need to restock the freezer with lots of yummy food, I need to get back on the diet, the Sky+ box needs emptied again (and my subscription probably cancelled - but that's hard when the box is full of things to watch!), there's a wedding to plan...
So, it's going to be crazy busy for a while here. But, really, that's the way I like it. Relaxation isn't really my thing.
But part of the problem, I think, is that I've gradually let things slide, neglecting one thing because another was pressing, then neglecting that because of the first, and then...
And so, since the start of this week, and for the next couple of weeks, I'm going through the steps of getting back on top of everything. The apartment needs a clean, I need to get back to the painting, and the blogging, I need to get on top of my preparations for the game, I need to restock the freezer with lots of yummy food, I need to get back on the diet, the Sky+ box needs emptied again (and my subscription probably cancelled - but that's hard when the box is full of things to watch!), there's a wedding to plan...
So, it's going to be crazy busy for a while here. But, really, that's the way I like it. Relaxation isn't really my thing.
World Pipe Band Championships 2011
Oh dear.
This contest started badly, requiring a 4:30 start in order to get to the contest grounds before they closed down the car parking. Worse was to follow soon, when the bus we had ordered failed to materialise, being replaced with one that was only just big enough for everyone - I had visions of having to nominate someone to get off in Cumbernauld! (Actually, I would have nominated myself and Lady Chocolat, as I was suffering with a nasty cold.)
Anyway, we went, and we struggled through the morning. It wasn't a pleasant time, grim and grey, but you just get on with it. We started to get ready, bid good luck to the Development Band, and waited...
The World Championships are the only contest this year where there's a pre-qualification round in our grade. This made it a huge challenge just to get to compete, and after Ireland hopes were not terribly high.
We went on, and played as well as we could. Unfortunately, as with Ireland, the first three tunes were excellent, but the last one was really poor. It really lost us our chance. (Spoiler alert!)
We then scattered to the four winds while awaiting the results. One of the major benefits of the Worlds is the easy access to Glasgow City Centre, and all the joys that affords.
We didn't qualify. Nor did the Development Band. (In the end, we scored 15th and 16th for piping, 6th for drumming, and 15th for drumming, coming 14th overall, falling far short of the 6th needed to qualify. The Development Band scored 12th and 8th for piping, 12th for drumming and 12th for ensemble, thus scoring 13th overall, where they needed 4th or better.)
So, by lunchtime we were finished. On the plus side, the weather had vastly improved; it was actually a nice sunny day.
At this point, a lot of people left. Given my cold, I also felt strongly that I just wanted to go home. So, I went looking for the Pipe Major to try to let him know, but found no sign. Instead, I checked that there would be enough people left for the march past, sent a text informing him that we were off, and caught a train.
Bad move. There was later a text from the pipe major, sent to all members, expressing some outrage that people elected to leave in this manner. I haven't seen him since, as he's currently in France.
Oh well. It can't now be helped. And I remain convinced that leaving was the right choice; I really didn't feel well. In fact, I probably shouldn't have gone at all, but didn't want to leave the band in the lurch.
Anyway, there is now one more contest left in the season, at Cowal. It cannot be over soon enough.
This contest started badly, requiring a 4:30 start in order to get to the contest grounds before they closed down the car parking. Worse was to follow soon, when the bus we had ordered failed to materialise, being replaced with one that was only just big enough for everyone - I had visions of having to nominate someone to get off in Cumbernauld! (Actually, I would have nominated myself and Lady Chocolat, as I was suffering with a nasty cold.)
Anyway, we went, and we struggled through the morning. It wasn't a pleasant time, grim and grey, but you just get on with it. We started to get ready, bid good luck to the Development Band, and waited...
The World Championships are the only contest this year where there's a pre-qualification round in our grade. This made it a huge challenge just to get to compete, and after Ireland hopes were not terribly high.
We went on, and played as well as we could. Unfortunately, as with Ireland, the first three tunes were excellent, but the last one was really poor. It really lost us our chance. (Spoiler alert!)
We then scattered to the four winds while awaiting the results. One of the major benefits of the Worlds is the easy access to Glasgow City Centre, and all the joys that affords.
We didn't qualify. Nor did the Development Band. (In the end, we scored 15th and 16th for piping, 6th for drumming, and 15th for drumming, coming 14th overall, falling far short of the 6th needed to qualify. The Development Band scored 12th and 8th for piping, 12th for drumming and 12th for ensemble, thus scoring 13th overall, where they needed 4th or better.)
So, by lunchtime we were finished. On the plus side, the weather had vastly improved; it was actually a nice sunny day.
At this point, a lot of people left. Given my cold, I also felt strongly that I just wanted to go home. So, I went looking for the Pipe Major to try to let him know, but found no sign. Instead, I checked that there would be enough people left for the march past, sent a text informing him that we were off, and caught a train.
Bad move. There was later a text from the pipe major, sent to all members, expressing some outrage that people elected to leave in this manner. I haven't seen him since, as he's currently in France.
Oh well. It can't now be helped. And I remain convinced that leaving was the right choice; I really didn't feel well. In fact, I probably shouldn't have gone at all, but didn't want to leave the band in the lurch.
Anyway, there is now one more contest left in the season, at Cowal. It cannot be over soon enough.
Bridge of Allan Highland Games 2011
I wasn't actually able to make it, but while I was away the band attended the Bridge of Allan Highland Games, where they competed at both Grade 4 and Grade 4A level. I'm not certain, but I believe it was the 4A band that competed at both, rather than the development band.
Anyway, in Grade 4 we scored 12th for piping, 10th for drumming, and thus 13th overall. In Grade 4A, we scored 5th for piping, 3rd for drumming, and so 4th overall, which would have placed us in the prize-winning positions at a slightly larger contest.
Anyway, in Grade 4 we scored 12th for piping, 10th for drumming, and thus 13th overall. In Grade 4A, we scored 5th for piping, 3rd for drumming, and so 4th overall, which would have placed us in the prize-winning positions at a slightly larger contest.
European Pipe Band Championships 2011
The band's annual trip to Ireland saw us leaving on the Friday at about 5pm. Following a delay on the ferry and the inevitable bout of being lost in Belfast, we finally reached the hotel around 1 am. Fortunately, we weren't playing until late in the afternoon, so that wasn't a problem.
The hotel itself was fine, and the breakfast was really quite nice. It turns out that the Premier Inn actually is a pretty decent place to stay, in Belfast at least.
The Saturday was hot and sunny, something of a change for this season. It was a fairly enjoyable day all around, until the time came to actually get ready to play. Unfortunately, this was badly rushed, as the Pipe Major was playing with another band just before, and they were a bit delayed. Moreover, there were several problems with pipes that should have been resolved earlier but which needed attention.
Anyway, we did manage to get ready, and went on and played. The first three tunes were excellent; the best we had played them. Unfortunately, the last tune was pretty dire, and cost us badly.
We were one of the last bands to perform, and so the prize giving followed pretty soon thereafter. Sadly, we knew we weren't actually in with a realistic chance at a prize, but hope springs eternal. In the end, we scored 8th and 17th for piping, 15th for drumming, 6th for ensemble, and 11th overall. A poor showing, but actually better than the previous two majors of the year.
The rest of the night was spent resting, and then the journey home the next day was largely uneventuful, barring one bout of travel sickness.
Onward to the Worlds!
The hotel itself was fine, and the breakfast was really quite nice. It turns out that the Premier Inn actually is a pretty decent place to stay, in Belfast at least.
The Saturday was hot and sunny, something of a change for this season. It was a fairly enjoyable day all around, until the time came to actually get ready to play. Unfortunately, this was badly rushed, as the Pipe Major was playing with another band just before, and they were a bit delayed. Moreover, there were several problems with pipes that should have been resolved earlier but which needed attention.
Anyway, we did manage to get ready, and went on and played. The first three tunes were excellent; the best we had played them. Unfortunately, the last tune was pretty dire, and cost us badly.
We were one of the last bands to perform, and so the prize giving followed pretty soon thereafter. Sadly, we knew we weren't actually in with a realistic chance at a prize, but hope springs eternal. In the end, we scored 8th and 17th for piping, 15th for drumming, 6th for ensemble, and 11th overall. A poor showing, but actually better than the previous two majors of the year.
The rest of the night was spent resting, and then the journey home the next day was largely uneventuful, barring one bout of travel sickness.
Onward to the Worlds!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
How Was This Game Ever Popular?
As I noted in the blog in January, and as I've continued to note in the ongoing list of books, I have been gradually reading through the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons rulebooks for the first edition. I've been doing this mostly out of interest in the roots of the game; although my very first game was under first edition rules, I've never read the rulebooks before, nor have I ever run that edition.
Having read the 'core' rulebooks for the game (the Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual), I am completely at a loss to understand why this game was ever popular. The rules are complex and badly laid out, the books are extremely dense, and there's no real sense of organisation.
The Dungeon Master's Guide, in particular, was rather shocking. I have occasionally heard this hailed as a work of genius, and that may be so. But if so, it was one of those crazy geniuses that you know is brilliant, but can't follow at all. The book was a nightmare!
Having read this I can say confidently that, had I started with this edition, I would not now play these games. And, in fact, as nearly-heretical as it is, I have to say that the much-maligned second edition is actually the better game, if only because it is significantly more approachable.
As for the popularity of the game, I can only posit three explanations:
Or maybe I'm just old, and jaded, and tired. But a year ago, when I started picking up the first edition rulebooks, I had a notion of running a few games under the system to see how it compares. Having now read through half the books, I'm disinclined so to do. Oh well.
Having read the 'core' rulebooks for the game (the Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual), I am completely at a loss to understand why this game was ever popular. The rules are complex and badly laid out, the books are extremely dense, and there's no real sense of organisation.
The Dungeon Master's Guide, in particular, was rather shocking. I have occasionally heard this hailed as a work of genius, and that may be so. But if so, it was one of those crazy geniuses that you know is brilliant, but can't follow at all. The book was a nightmare!
Having read this I can say confidently that, had I started with this edition, I would not now play these games. And, in fact, as nearly-heretical as it is, I have to say that the much-maligned second edition is actually the better game, if only because it is significantly more approachable.
As for the popularity of the game, I can only posit three explanations:
- Most people actually started playing under the earlier 'original' D&D or the various 'basic' D&D sets, which had much shorter and more compact rulesets. When they moved to first edition they didn't read most of the new rules, but just continued using the old rules with the new monsters, spells and classes.
- Most people actually started playing under the tutelage of existing players. As such, they never read the rules, but instead just went with the flow. This is basically the 'Monopoly' approach.
- There was a fairly small corps of DMs in those days who had read the rules, and who served as the 'rule masters' for their respective groups. Most people just played under the aegis of these people. (This is similar to, but not quite the same as, #2 - in #2 people would gradually pick up some form of the rules; #3 posits a small, closed circle of 'expert users'.)
Or maybe I'm just old, and jaded, and tired. But a year ago, when I started picking up the first edition rulebooks, I had a notion of running a few games under the system to see how it compares. Having now read through half the books, I'm disinclined so to do. Oh well.
Thornton Highland Games 2011
The Thornton Highland Games took place a week ago on Sunday, and represented the first outing of our new Development Band. In fact, the 4A band, with which I play, were not competing at this contest. Nonetheless, several members of the 4A band travelled across to the Kingdom of Fife to support the younger members of our band.
It was a bright and sunny day, at least in the East. This was something of a surprise, as I had almost not left the house that morning, due to the heavy rain. Still, good weather makes for a better performance, so that was an advantage.
The Development Band went on, and they played very well. In fact, they actually played twice; once in the Grade 4 contest, and again in the Grade 3 contest. Both performances were good.
In the event, they came second out of three in the Grade 4, but came fourth out of four in the Grade 3 contest. This latter was entirely expected, since the other bands were all 'naturally' of a higher grade. The former was, of course, a fantastic result, not least because it was the band's first outing.
Watching from the sidelines was an interesting experience. Playing is definitely preferable! Still, I must admit to a certain pride. A few months ago, the Development Band was just an idea. It cost us a lot to get it going (in terms of finance, of course, but also in terms of the effort involved, and also in the loss of several promising young players). So, to finally see it all come together was a great feeling.
The 4A band next play at the European Championships in Ireland this weekend. The Development Band next play at the Dundonald Highland Games. Then, both bands will compete (in different grades) at the World Pipe Band Championships. Each band has three more contests before the season draws to its close.
It was a bright and sunny day, at least in the East. This was something of a surprise, as I had almost not left the house that morning, due to the heavy rain. Still, good weather makes for a better performance, so that was an advantage.
The Development Band went on, and they played very well. In fact, they actually played twice; once in the Grade 4 contest, and again in the Grade 3 contest. Both performances were good.
In the event, they came second out of three in the Grade 4, but came fourth out of four in the Grade 3 contest. This latter was entirely expected, since the other bands were all 'naturally' of a higher grade. The former was, of course, a fantastic result, not least because it was the band's first outing.
Watching from the sidelines was an interesting experience. Playing is definitely preferable! Still, I must admit to a certain pride. A few months ago, the Development Band was just an idea. It cost us a lot to get it going (in terms of finance, of course, but also in terms of the effort involved, and also in the loss of several promising young players). So, to finally see it all come together was a great feeling.
The 4A band next play at the European Championships in Ireland this weekend. The Development Band next play at the Dundonald Highland Games. Then, both bands will compete (in different grades) at the World Pipe Band Championships. Each band has three more contests before the season draws to its close.
Interminable
Is it just me, or is July lasting forever? I mean, it's not as if I necessarily want to rush through it, since we're only just getting what passes for summer up here, but June is a distant memory, and there's still almost a week to go!
#19: "Watcher of the Dead", by J.V. Jones
#20: "AD&D: Dungeon Master's Guide", by Gary Gygax
#21: "AD&D: Legends & Lore", by James M. Ward and Robert Kuntz
#22: "AD&D: Fiend Folio", edited by Don Turnbull
#23: "AD&D: Monster Manual II", by Gary Gygax
#19: "Watcher of the Dead", by J.V. Jones
#20: "AD&D: Dungeon Master's Guide", by Gary Gygax
#21: "AD&D: Legends & Lore", by James M. Ward and Robert Kuntz
#22: "AD&D: Fiend Folio", edited by Don Turnbull
#23: "AD&D: Monster Manual II", by Gary Gygax
Monday, July 04, 2011
The Riding of the Marches 2011
As was the case last year, the week after the British Championships, the band returned to Annan for "The Riding of the Marches", their version of the Highland Games.
It was a fantastic day - hot and sunny with just a hint of wind. I was very glad I took the last-minute decision to apply sunblock before leaving the house - the first time I have done so at a competition this year, and the first time it was necessary.
Unlike the British Championships, the bus to Annan didn't leave until just after 10, which meant that I woke at a somewhat civilised hour.
We went, we played, and it was good. Once again, we put in our best performance of the season, surpassing last week's effort. It is, however, worth noting that this week we played only our 4B set, not the somewhat harder MSR.
The rest of the day was spent in waiting. Not the best use of time, it must be admitted. And then there was the parade.
In truth, I quite admire the ingenuity of the organisers at Annan. They've found a way to get loads of bands to their gala day without having to pay them - run a competition with a big(-ish) prize, then have a street parade [i]before[/i] the prize-giving.
The band came second in our grade, having come second in piping, and first for both the drums and the bass section. A really good result, and marginally better than last year.
And then there was the journey home, which was fine but too long. There was some discussion of a stag weekend, which is apparently not to take place in Amsterdam as this is now too expensive. It sounds the sort of event that legends are made of. I wonder if I can persuade them to go without me...
#18: "Pathfinder: Wake of the Watcher", by Greg A. Vaughan
It was a fantastic day - hot and sunny with just a hint of wind. I was very glad I took the last-minute decision to apply sunblock before leaving the house - the first time I have done so at a competition this year, and the first time it was necessary.
Unlike the British Championships, the bus to Annan didn't leave until just after 10, which meant that I woke at a somewhat civilised hour.
We went, we played, and it was good. Once again, we put in our best performance of the season, surpassing last week's effort. It is, however, worth noting that this week we played only our 4B set, not the somewhat harder MSR.
The rest of the day was spent in waiting. Not the best use of time, it must be admitted. And then there was the parade.
In truth, I quite admire the ingenuity of the organisers at Annan. They've found a way to get loads of bands to their gala day without having to pay them - run a competition with a big(-ish) prize, then have a street parade [i]before[/i] the prize-giving.
The band came second in our grade, having come second in piping, and first for both the drums and the bass section. A really good result, and marginally better than last year.
And then there was the journey home, which was fine but too long. There was some discussion of a stag weekend, which is apparently not to take place in Amsterdam as this is now too expensive. It sounds the sort of event that legends are made of. I wonder if I can persuade them to go without me...
#18: "Pathfinder: Wake of the Watcher", by Greg A. Vaughan
Monday, June 27, 2011
Experimental Cookery 2011 #7: Chicken Chow Mein
Source: Chinese Food Made Easy by Ching-He Huang
Cook Time: About 15 minutes prep plus 15 minutes cooking
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 2
Equipment used: Wok, chopping board, sharp knives, spoons, etc.
This was an interesting one. I had previously tackled chicken chow mein while working through Jamie's book, so was curious to see how the two compared. This meal was considerably less involved than Jamie's version, considerably quicker and easier to put together, and generally less of a hassle.
The results from this meal were also quite excellent. Could perhaps have done with a bit more chicken (and I should probably have cut the chicken into smaller pieces), but otherwise it was pretty much ideal. I think this is the better of the two approaches.
Result: 8/10. Lady Chocolat gave this 10/10, but she is obviously easily impressed - after all, she agreed to marry me!
Cook Time: About 15 minutes prep plus 15 minutes cooking
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 2
Equipment used: Wok, chopping board, sharp knives, spoons, etc.
This was an interesting one. I had previously tackled chicken chow mein while working through Jamie's book, so was curious to see how the two compared. This meal was considerably less involved than Jamie's version, considerably quicker and easier to put together, and generally less of a hassle.
The results from this meal were also quite excellent. Could perhaps have done with a bit more chicken (and I should probably have cut the chicken into smaller pieces), but otherwise it was pretty much ideal. I think this is the better of the two approaches.
Result: 8/10. Lady Chocolat gave this 10/10, but she is obviously easily impressed - after all, she agreed to marry me!
The British Pipe Band Championships 2011
After a short break, our competition season resumed this week with the British Championships in Annan.
The weather forecast was for heavy rain. Fortunately, though, this never quite materialised, with the worst that we faced being a light shower or two during the march past.
The day started early, with a 5:30 start. The band were joined on this occasion by Lady Chocolat, who disappointed the ladies who follow the band by arriving absent her engagement ring (which was being resized). Still, we climbed aboard the bus, and began the long journey south.
The performance itself came and went, and went rather well, or so we thought. We were aware of a few things needing work, but both the Pipe Major and Lead Drummer were quite happy, thinking it our best performance of the season.
And then we settled in for the long wait...
Unfortunately, the results at the end of the day simply did not reflect our optimism about the performance. We came 13th out of 19, scoring a 4th and a 16th for piping, 14th for drumming, and 15th for ensemble. It would seem that there is something that the judges are looking for that we're just missing.
This was obviously a hugely disappointing result, especially given that we were quite happy with the performance. The one positive that we can take from this is that it basically means we cannot hope to be promoted this year (which was always a big ask), and so can relax a bit more, and try to enjoy the rest of the season.
The journey home was interesting, and somewhat uncomfortable, but for reasons largely unrelated to the result. I may comment on that in a later post, but it is definitely a topic for another time.
The next competition is the Riding of the Marches next week, which also takes place in Annan. The next major competition is the European Championships in Ireland at the end of next month.
#17: "The Fort", by Bernard Cornwell
(My current plan is to try to read through the latest Pathfinder book and "Watcher of the Dead" by J.V. Jones over the next week or so. Then, after next week's Riding of the Marches, I'll move on to tackle "War and Peace"...)
The weather forecast was for heavy rain. Fortunately, though, this never quite materialised, with the worst that we faced being a light shower or two during the march past.
The day started early, with a 5:30 start. The band were joined on this occasion by Lady Chocolat, who disappointed the ladies who follow the band by arriving absent her engagement ring (which was being resized). Still, we climbed aboard the bus, and began the long journey south.
The performance itself came and went, and went rather well, or so we thought. We were aware of a few things needing work, but both the Pipe Major and Lead Drummer were quite happy, thinking it our best performance of the season.
And then we settled in for the long wait...
Unfortunately, the results at the end of the day simply did not reflect our optimism about the performance. We came 13th out of 19, scoring a 4th and a 16th for piping, 14th for drumming, and 15th for ensemble. It would seem that there is something that the judges are looking for that we're just missing.
This was obviously a hugely disappointing result, especially given that we were quite happy with the performance. The one positive that we can take from this is that it basically means we cannot hope to be promoted this year (which was always a big ask), and so can relax a bit more, and try to enjoy the rest of the season.
The journey home was interesting, and somewhat uncomfortable, but for reasons largely unrelated to the result. I may comment on that in a later post, but it is definitely a topic for another time.
The next competition is the Riding of the Marches next week, which also takes place in Annan. The next major competition is the European Championships in Ireland at the end of next month.
#17: "The Fort", by Bernard Cornwell
(My current plan is to try to read through the latest Pathfinder book and "Watcher of the Dead" by J.V. Jones over the next week or so. Then, after next week's Riding of the Marches, I'll move on to tackle "War and Peace"...)
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
The Eternal City
Thursday
We woke up at half past five in the morning, feeling appropriately awful. Staggered out of bed, struggled through a light breakfast, washed, showered, threw away the milk, emptied the bins, got in the car, and went to the airport.
Had a moment of worry when Lady Chocolat asked "do you have your passport?" just as we got on the shuttle to the terminal, but fortunately I had had the foresight to pack it directly in my hand luggage, rather than relying on picking it up in the morning. (In truth, I always do this, so it shouldn't have been a worry, but...)
The first flight was fine, punctuated by the pleasant surprise that they supplied a second breakfast. The stop in Amsterdam was too short though - just enough time to wolf down a Burger King meal, get indigestion, and pile onto the next plane. The second flight was appropriately uncomfortable, especially when my neck cramped and there was literally nothing could be done about it.
Eventually, though, we got to Rome, collected our bags, took a taxi to the hotel, checked in, and collapsed. Huzzah! (In hindsight, should have booked Expedia's shuttle to and from the airport; this would have worked out cheaper than the taxi and slightly less stressful.)
The hotel was great. The room was extremely small, but we'd known about that when booking, and although it was small, it was very high quality, nice and clean and, perhaps most importantly, right in the centre of the city. Basically, we were able to walk back from the Vatican City in about an hour. Also, they provided a complimentary breakfast in bed every day, which was a nice touch.
That evening, we went out for a wander, and grabbed a bite to eat. We made the significant mistake of spending way too much on the meal - should have just had a main course (no starter), or stuck to their 'special menu', or something. Oops.
We also wandered down to the Pantheon, and took in the sights there. Nice.
Went back to the hotel quite early, and got some sleep.
Friday
Friday was the Vatican City. We got up early, had breakfast, got dressed, and made our way to the Metro station, bought a ticket, four short stops across the two lines, then a short walk, and we were there.
At this point, I almost caused great offense when I discovered that my zipper had slipped down, and in fact had become stuck. Most annoying. Fortunately, I managed to get this sorted without causing a scene. Still, LC ordered me never to talk about this to anyone, and so I shall refrain from doing so.
The rest of the morning was spent in St Peter's seeing the sights. I can't do it justice, so won't even try to describe it here. Basically, if you get a chance, you should go.
Went for lunch, and again spent way too much money. This was the last time we did so; our mistake here was in spending our time choosing food, then ordering drinks without consideration; turned out soft drinks were vastly over-priced.
The afternoon was spent with yet more walking, this time around the Vatican Museum. Again, I cannot do it justice. Maps and tapestries, and endless, endless scupltures... There was also a special exhibition of Faberge egss, which was something to behold.
Afterwards, we walked back via Ponte San Angelo, as featured in "Roman Holiday", one of LC's favourite films. I then proceeded to walk into a lamppost, which scrambled my sense of direction. Such fun!
In the evening, we went out again and found a decently-priced meal. Then, we wandered down to see the Colliseum all lit up by night, before hopping on the Metro to go home.
Except...
It turned out that one of the lines was closed down at 9 for work to be done, and so we found ourselves stuck in the middle of Rome, at night, with no clear idea how to get back. So, we set off in a likely direction, and thanks to some skillful map-work made our way home. Quite fortunate, really.
Saturday
Saturday was the day for the Forum, the Capitolino and Palatino hills, the Colliseum and the Circus Maximus. Another busy day, filled with lots of walking. That was also the day of a gay pride march in Rome, but we saw very little sign of them.
Saturday was also the day that it rained. The unending sunshine was broken by a very brief, warm shower. We duly ducked into a likely museum, wandered around for a few minutes, and by the time we were done, the rain was ended. Ten minutes later, and it was as if it had never happened.
Speaking of the sunshine: Rome was extremely hot and extremely sunny. Both LC and I got burned at various points; LC on her back, and me on the top of my head. This did have the advantage that I then simply had to wear my silly hat, so it wasn't all bad.
In the Forum, and also in the Colliseum, there was a special exhibition on about the emperor Nero, the burning of the city, and the reconstruction of the city thereafter. Interesting stuff.
Unfortunately, by the end of all this, the walking had really taken a toll. I had developed a really nasty cramp in one foot, that never really let up. This wasn't for the best, what with two more days to go.
Late that afternoon, we went to another museum, which LC again believed had been used as a location for "Roman Holiday". Anyway, it was rather impressive.
That evening we found ourselves a fairly nice, very modest, eatery and had a decent meal. That was where we were reminded of another lesson about Rome - often, the more modest the facade, the better the restaurant itself. More pizza; yum yum.
Sunday
On Sunday we jumped on one of the tour buses, and went for a trip around Rome. This proved to be rather interesting, and we saw a lot of sights. We travelled the full circuit, and then made our way back round as far as the Circus Maximus.
From there, we walked to the Bocca Della Verita, the Mouth of Truth, where we took pictures of our hands being chewed off (like in "Roman Holiday"). We grabbed a snack from one of the mobile snack bars, and then took a gentle wander across to Piazza Navona, intent on getting a bottle of wine and just watching the world go by.
However, that plan soon changed, for two reasons. The first of these was that there was a small market going on, where I picked up a nice picture of sunset over Rome. The second was that we learned there was a concert of Russian dance happening there that night, so we decided to come back later to see that.
We went back to the hotel, dropped our bags, then made our way along to the Spanish Steps (as featured in, well, you know...), then a short jaunt through the Villa Borghese (where we took pictures of giant Jelly Baby Commandoes, and LC with Batman and Superman), and then on to Piazza Del Popolo. There, we caught the tour bus again, and back to the hotel.
That evening, we had to face the issue that we had spent too much money, especially on those first two meals. As a result, we needed to get some more. So, as we made our way back towards Piazza Navona, LC tried to withdraw some money. The machine refused, claiming her card wasn't valid for international withdrawals. Uh-oh...
We tried another machine, with much the same result. Worse still, this one declared "Card Captured", which really freaked us out. Fortunately, it then relented, and gave back her card.
Still, LC was rather upset by this, and I must admit to a little panic. What if none of our cards worked? We didn't have enough cash to manage completely without...
Fortunately, my own card did work, and I was able to withdraw some money. This was a huge relief, as I'm sure you can imagine. I was thus able to lend LC enough money to keep us both going.
We then went searching for somewhere to eat, preferably without too much hard work. Still, we managed a sight-seeing coup - we found the eatery where they only spoke Italian! (This wasn't too bad. Turns out Italian is extremely easy when you know some Spanish, and the rest I could cover with the universal mimes...)
Sadly, the Russian Dance Concert was a bit of a dead loss. They elected to start with an hour of long, tedious speeches (in Russian and Italian), before actually getting to the dances. I was paranoid about pick-pockets, and we were both extremely tired. So, we stayed for a couple of dances, but left pretty quickly. A shame; what we did see was really rather good.
Monday
We took things easy on the last day. Most of the day was spent in the huge Villa Borghese, a massive public park filled with all manner of tribes and factions. The turtles and the squirrels were in an uneasy stand-off, the giant fish moved to their own inscrutable agenda, and so on...
That was really a marvellous idea. We needed an easy day after three hard ones, and the park was the perfect setting.
In the afternoon, we went back to the hotel for a short rest, did what packing we could, then went out for ice creams. Afterwards, we wandered along past the Spanish Steps to complete our "Roman Holiday" tour, before doing a little window-shopping in the absurdly-priced designer shops, and then back to the hotel to get changed.
In the evening...
#16: "Cloud Atlas", by David Mitchell (a book from The List)
We woke up at half past five in the morning, feeling appropriately awful. Staggered out of bed, struggled through a light breakfast, washed, showered, threw away the milk, emptied the bins, got in the car, and went to the airport.
Had a moment of worry when Lady Chocolat asked "do you have your passport?" just as we got on the shuttle to the terminal, but fortunately I had had the foresight to pack it directly in my hand luggage, rather than relying on picking it up in the morning. (In truth, I always do this, so it shouldn't have been a worry, but...)
The first flight was fine, punctuated by the pleasant surprise that they supplied a second breakfast. The stop in Amsterdam was too short though - just enough time to wolf down a Burger King meal, get indigestion, and pile onto the next plane. The second flight was appropriately uncomfortable, especially when my neck cramped and there was literally nothing could be done about it.
Eventually, though, we got to Rome, collected our bags, took a taxi to the hotel, checked in, and collapsed. Huzzah! (In hindsight, should have booked Expedia's shuttle to and from the airport; this would have worked out cheaper than the taxi and slightly less stressful.)
The hotel was great. The room was extremely small, but we'd known about that when booking, and although it was small, it was very high quality, nice and clean and, perhaps most importantly, right in the centre of the city. Basically, we were able to walk back from the Vatican City in about an hour. Also, they provided a complimentary breakfast in bed every day, which was a nice touch.
That evening, we went out for a wander, and grabbed a bite to eat. We made the significant mistake of spending way too much on the meal - should have just had a main course (no starter), or stuck to their 'special menu', or something. Oops.
We also wandered down to the Pantheon, and took in the sights there. Nice.
Went back to the hotel quite early, and got some sleep.
Friday
Friday was the Vatican City. We got up early, had breakfast, got dressed, and made our way to the Metro station, bought a ticket, four short stops across the two lines, then a short walk, and we were there.
At this point, I almost caused great offense when I discovered that my zipper had slipped down, and in fact had become stuck. Most annoying. Fortunately, I managed to get this sorted without causing a scene. Still, LC ordered me never to talk about this to anyone, and so I shall refrain from doing so.
The rest of the morning was spent in St Peter's seeing the sights. I can't do it justice, so won't even try to describe it here. Basically, if you get a chance, you should go.
Went for lunch, and again spent way too much money. This was the last time we did so; our mistake here was in spending our time choosing food, then ordering drinks without consideration; turned out soft drinks were vastly over-priced.
The afternoon was spent with yet more walking, this time around the Vatican Museum. Again, I cannot do it justice. Maps and tapestries, and endless, endless scupltures... There was also a special exhibition of Faberge egss, which was something to behold.
Afterwards, we walked back via Ponte San Angelo, as featured in "Roman Holiday", one of LC's favourite films. I then proceeded to walk into a lamppost, which scrambled my sense of direction. Such fun!
In the evening, we went out again and found a decently-priced meal. Then, we wandered down to see the Colliseum all lit up by night, before hopping on the Metro to go home.
Except...
It turned out that one of the lines was closed down at 9 for work to be done, and so we found ourselves stuck in the middle of Rome, at night, with no clear idea how to get back. So, we set off in a likely direction, and thanks to some skillful map-work made our way home. Quite fortunate, really.
Saturday
Saturday was the day for the Forum, the Capitolino and Palatino hills, the Colliseum and the Circus Maximus. Another busy day, filled with lots of walking. That was also the day of a gay pride march in Rome, but we saw very little sign of them.
Saturday was also the day that it rained. The unending sunshine was broken by a very brief, warm shower. We duly ducked into a likely museum, wandered around for a few minutes, and by the time we were done, the rain was ended. Ten minutes later, and it was as if it had never happened.
Speaking of the sunshine: Rome was extremely hot and extremely sunny. Both LC and I got burned at various points; LC on her back, and me on the top of my head. This did have the advantage that I then simply had to wear my silly hat, so it wasn't all bad.
In the Forum, and also in the Colliseum, there was a special exhibition on about the emperor Nero, the burning of the city, and the reconstruction of the city thereafter. Interesting stuff.
Unfortunately, by the end of all this, the walking had really taken a toll. I had developed a really nasty cramp in one foot, that never really let up. This wasn't for the best, what with two more days to go.
Late that afternoon, we went to another museum, which LC again believed had been used as a location for "Roman Holiday". Anyway, it was rather impressive.
That evening we found ourselves a fairly nice, very modest, eatery and had a decent meal. That was where we were reminded of another lesson about Rome - often, the more modest the facade, the better the restaurant itself. More pizza; yum yum.
Sunday
On Sunday we jumped on one of the tour buses, and went for a trip around Rome. This proved to be rather interesting, and we saw a lot of sights. We travelled the full circuit, and then made our way back round as far as the Circus Maximus.
From there, we walked to the Bocca Della Verita, the Mouth of Truth, where we took pictures of our hands being chewed off (like in "Roman Holiday"). We grabbed a snack from one of the mobile snack bars, and then took a gentle wander across to Piazza Navona, intent on getting a bottle of wine and just watching the world go by.
However, that plan soon changed, for two reasons. The first of these was that there was a small market going on, where I picked up a nice picture of sunset over Rome. The second was that we learned there was a concert of Russian dance happening there that night, so we decided to come back later to see that.
We went back to the hotel, dropped our bags, then made our way along to the Spanish Steps (as featured in, well, you know...), then a short jaunt through the Villa Borghese (where we took pictures of giant Jelly Baby Commandoes, and LC with Batman and Superman), and then on to Piazza Del Popolo. There, we caught the tour bus again, and back to the hotel.
That evening, we had to face the issue that we had spent too much money, especially on those first two meals. As a result, we needed to get some more. So, as we made our way back towards Piazza Navona, LC tried to withdraw some money. The machine refused, claiming her card wasn't valid for international withdrawals. Uh-oh...
We tried another machine, with much the same result. Worse still, this one declared "Card Captured", which really freaked us out. Fortunately, it then relented, and gave back her card.
Still, LC was rather upset by this, and I must admit to a little panic. What if none of our cards worked? We didn't have enough cash to manage completely without...
Fortunately, my own card did work, and I was able to withdraw some money. This was a huge relief, as I'm sure you can imagine. I was thus able to lend LC enough money to keep us both going.
We then went searching for somewhere to eat, preferably without too much hard work. Still, we managed a sight-seeing coup - we found the eatery where they only spoke Italian! (This wasn't too bad. Turns out Italian is extremely easy when you know some Spanish, and the rest I could cover with the universal mimes...)
Sadly, the Russian Dance Concert was a bit of a dead loss. They elected to start with an hour of long, tedious speeches (in Russian and Italian), before actually getting to the dances. I was paranoid about pick-pockets, and we were both extremely tired. So, we stayed for a couple of dances, but left pretty quickly. A shame; what we did see was really rather good.
Monday
We took things easy on the last day. Most of the day was spent in the huge Villa Borghese, a massive public park filled with all manner of tribes and factions. The turtles and the squirrels were in an uneasy stand-off, the giant fish moved to their own inscrutable agenda, and so on...
That was really a marvellous idea. We needed an easy day after three hard ones, and the park was the perfect setting.
In the afternoon, we went back to the hotel for a short rest, did what packing we could, then went out for ice creams. Afterwards, we wandered along past the Spanish Steps to complete our "Roman Holiday" tour, before doing a little window-shopping in the absurdly-priced designer shops, and then back to the hotel to get changed.
In the evening...
#16: "Cloud Atlas", by David Mitchell (a book from The List)
Super Secret Goal #3
When we were in France last year, on our last night Lady Chocolat and I agreed to get a bit dressed up and go for a nice meal out. This year in Rome, for our last night we got dressed up and went for a nice meal out. Lady Chocolat wore a blue dress and flats, while I wore my lucky purple shirt and Superman socks. It's important to get the details right.
So, we went for a nice meal at a very nice little pizzeria. LC kept wondering what was wrong, but I was appropriately unforthcoming.
After the meal, we went to the Trevi Fountain, there to throw coins in, as is the tradition.
The fountain was busy, even just after sunset, and even on a Monday night. I hadn't expected to be working with an audience, but oh well...
So, we were there. We had thrown our coins. We had had our pictures taken. The moment was upon us.
I turned to Lady Chocolat, and looked into her eyes.
"___," I said, "I love you. You're my best friend. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. So..."
I went down on one knee, my hand reaching into my pocket to produce the ring.
"will you marry me?"
She said yes. There was a round of applause.
The End.
So, we went for a nice meal at a very nice little pizzeria. LC kept wondering what was wrong, but I was appropriately unforthcoming.
After the meal, we went to the Trevi Fountain, there to throw coins in, as is the tradition.
The fountain was busy, even just after sunset, and even on a Monday night. I hadn't expected to be working with an audience, but oh well...
So, we were there. We had thrown our coins. We had had our pictures taken. The moment was upon us.
I turned to Lady Chocolat, and looked into her eyes.
"___," I said, "I love you. You're my best friend. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. So..."
I went down on one knee, my hand reaching into my pocket to produce the ring.
"will you marry me?"
She said yes. There was a round of applause.
The End.
Monday, May 30, 2011
West Lothian Highland Games 2011
I noticed on Saturday that while the event took place in Bathgate, it wasn't actually the "Bathgate Highland Games". Not that it makes much difference.
Saturday was a mixed day, weather-wise. When it was nice, it was really quite nice. However, every so often there were showers, which were particularly nasty. Fortunately, I was able to dodge all but one of these; there was one shower during the results ceremony that there was just no missing out on.
We didn't take a bus to this one, which proved to be a blessing. Rather than being stuck there for an hour while the driver escaped the car park, I was able to slip out quickly and easily, and got home in less than half an hour.
In terms of the actual competition, well...
We went on, and we played okay, or so we thought. Certainly better than last week, although not as well as the previous week. The commentary sheet we received was also fairly complimentary - there was not a single thing that we had to work on.
Except... we came seventh out of nine, the same result as two years ago, and considerably worse than last year.
That was bad enough, but the choice of winner was... interesting, to say the least.
Oh well, so much for that. For next year, I'm planning on advocating skipping any contest that doesn't have a "Grade 4 MSR" competition (unless we get upgraded again), in which case we won't be competing here again next year. It's a shame, since this is actually a rather pleasant day. Still, there's very little to gain from playing in the 'wrong' grade.
#15: "Pathfinder: Broken Moon", by Tim Hitchcock
Saturday was a mixed day, weather-wise. When it was nice, it was really quite nice. However, every so often there were showers, which were particularly nasty. Fortunately, I was able to dodge all but one of these; there was one shower during the results ceremony that there was just no missing out on.
We didn't take a bus to this one, which proved to be a blessing. Rather than being stuck there for an hour while the driver escaped the car park, I was able to slip out quickly and easily, and got home in less than half an hour.
In terms of the actual competition, well...
We went on, and we played okay, or so we thought. Certainly better than last week, although not as well as the previous week. The commentary sheet we received was also fairly complimentary - there was not a single thing that we had to work on.
Except... we came seventh out of nine, the same result as two years ago, and considerably worse than last year.
That was bad enough, but the choice of winner was... interesting, to say the least.
Oh well, so much for that. For next year, I'm planning on advocating skipping any contest that doesn't have a "Grade 4 MSR" competition (unless we get upgraded again), in which case we won't be competing here again next year. It's a shame, since this is actually a rather pleasant day. Still, there's very little to gain from playing in the 'wrong' grade.
#15: "Pathfinder: Broken Moon", by Tim Hitchcock
Friday, May 27, 2011
Seriously Domino?
So, after returning from Dunbar, I couldn't be bothered cooking, and so I ordered a pizza from Dominos. This isn't exactly an unusual experience, but I finally took notice of something that I'm sure has been there for some time...
After placing the order, there's a little button to click to add this little factoid to a Twitter page.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Seriously? Is this what we've come to?
"Dear World, I had a pizza today! It had pineapple on it!"
The thing is, I know that almost nobody reads the blog, and it's mostly just me writing stuff for the sake of it. I get that. But I do at least try to have some sort of content, or at least something that requires at least some thought.
I also understand that the blog medium is not the twitter medium, and that the latter is indeed well-suited to just posting random thoughts.
But still, an update on pizzas? I'm sure I would never do such a thing!
After placing the order, there's a little button to click to add this little factoid to a Twitter page.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
Seriously? Is this what we've come to?
"Dear World, I had a pizza today! It had pineapple on it!"
The thing is, I know that almost nobody reads the blog, and it's mostly just me writing stuff for the sake of it. I get that. But I do at least try to have some sort of content, or at least something that requires at least some thought.
I also understand that the blog medium is not the twitter medium, and that the latter is indeed well-suited to just posting random thoughts.
But still, an update on pizzas? I'm sure I would never do such a thing!
The Scottish Pipe Band Championships 2011
Last Saturday was the Scottish Pipe Band Championships, held once again in Dumbarton.
Unfortunately, it was a miserable day. The day started very windy, then shortly after we'd played it started to rain. And then it just didn't stop raining. Indeed, so bad was it that they cancelled the march past and prizegiving, and instead just gave out the results to the pipe majors in the hospitality tent at the end.
Tuning up was not a pleasant experience, as we were placed right on the water's edge, and the wind really destroyed the sound. This really wasn't a good idea; it effectively made it impossible to get a good sound.
Still, we went on, and we played. We were third on, so had had an early morning. It worked for the best, though, since we avoided the rain.
At the Championships, we only have to play once, at the Grade 4A level, playing our MSR. This week, we felt the performance was much better, at least from the pipers. The breaks were clean, the tunes were nice and controlled, and the sound was as good as could be hoped. Sadly, the drummers were less pleased with their performance, but we put that down to them having a bad day.
Unfortunately, the results didn't go our way. We were 7th and 15th in piping. Worse, the two judges failed to give consistent feedback; their remarks were directly contradictory literally on a paragraph-by-paragraph basis. The drummers came 14th, and the ensemble 12th.
Overall, the band was 13th, out of 23. This was a real shame, since we'd actually dared to hope for a prize, but definitely thought top-10 was reasonable.
Still, it was not to be. Next up is the Bathgate Highland Games, and then we have several weeks off before the British Championships at Annan...
Unfortunately, it was a miserable day. The day started very windy, then shortly after we'd played it started to rain. And then it just didn't stop raining. Indeed, so bad was it that they cancelled the march past and prizegiving, and instead just gave out the results to the pipe majors in the hospitality tent at the end.
Tuning up was not a pleasant experience, as we were placed right on the water's edge, and the wind really destroyed the sound. This really wasn't a good idea; it effectively made it impossible to get a good sound.
Still, we went on, and we played. We were third on, so had had an early morning. It worked for the best, though, since we avoided the rain.
At the Championships, we only have to play once, at the Grade 4A level, playing our MSR. This week, we felt the performance was much better, at least from the pipers. The breaks were clean, the tunes were nice and controlled, and the sound was as good as could be hoped. Sadly, the drummers were less pleased with their performance, but we put that down to them having a bad day.
Unfortunately, the results didn't go our way. We were 7th and 15th in piping. Worse, the two judges failed to give consistent feedback; their remarks were directly contradictory literally on a paragraph-by-paragraph basis. The drummers came 14th, and the ensemble 12th.
Overall, the band was 13th, out of 23. This was a real shame, since we'd actually dared to hope for a prize, but definitely thought top-10 was reasonable.
Still, it was not to be. Next up is the Bathgate Highland Games, and then we have several weeks off before the British Championships at Annan...
Dunbar Highland Games 2011
So, the piping season starts once again, this time slightly later than usual.
The first competition was, as always, at Dunbar. As with last year, they've moved the contest away from the seafront to another park. This cuts down on the wind considerably, which is a vast improvement.
For the most part, it was a lovely day - nice and sunny, with not too much wind. There was one extremely heavy shower, but it soon passed.
The band were playing twice - once in the Grade 4 contest (essentially, a Grade 4B contest), and again for a "Grade 4 MSR", which is basically a Grade 4A contest. This is a fairly new development at the minor contests - most of them still only have the one "Grade 4" contest.
We played really well at Grade 4 level, and left the field well pleased. However, there was a feeling that this was mostly meaningless, since it's not really the contest we're interested in. In the MSR, we unfortunately didn't play as well. The breaks from the march to the strathspey, and from the strathspey to the reel didn't go well. Also, the reel was too fast, causing it to fall apart a bit in the last part.
However, the results didn't seem to bear this out. In the Grade 4, we came third. In the MSR, we came fourth. (Unfortunately, the MSR only had a single prize for the winner.) So, a good result, albeit probably better than was really deserved.
And that takes us to the Scottish Championships at Dumbarton...
The first competition was, as always, at Dunbar. As with last year, they've moved the contest away from the seafront to another park. This cuts down on the wind considerably, which is a vast improvement.
For the most part, it was a lovely day - nice and sunny, with not too much wind. There was one extremely heavy shower, but it soon passed.
The band were playing twice - once in the Grade 4 contest (essentially, a Grade 4B contest), and again for a "Grade 4 MSR", which is basically a Grade 4A contest. This is a fairly new development at the minor contests - most of them still only have the one "Grade 4" contest.
We played really well at Grade 4 level, and left the field well pleased. However, there was a feeling that this was mostly meaningless, since it's not really the contest we're interested in. In the MSR, we unfortunately didn't play as well. The breaks from the march to the strathspey, and from the strathspey to the reel didn't go well. Also, the reel was too fast, causing it to fall apart a bit in the last part.
However, the results didn't seem to bear this out. In the Grade 4, we came third. In the MSR, we came fourth. (Unfortunately, the MSR only had a single prize for the winner.) So, a good result, albeit probably better than was really deserved.
And that takes us to the Scottish Championships at Dumbarton...
Experimental Cookery 2011 #6: Sticky Lemon Chicken with "Champ"
Source: Gordon Ramsay's Fast Food
Cook Time: About 20 minutes prep plus 20 minutes cooking
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: I made enough for three
Equipment used: Frying pan, 2 saucepans, chopping board, sharp knives, spoons, etc.
Well, I was due another complete disaster, and this was it.
The cooking of the chicken was nice and simple. I perhaps added too much salt and pepper, but it wasn't bad. Otherwise, it was just a case of adding things at the right time, and keeping a watchful eye.
But with the potato, I went badly wrong. Basically, I added way too much milk and cream to the potato. My own fault really, but I ended up with a runny slop that was fit only for the bin. Rather annoying, that, since it looked great right up to that point.
Result: 7/10 for the chicken; no score for the mashed potato
Cook Time: About 20 minutes prep plus 20 minutes cooking
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: I made enough for three
Equipment used: Frying pan, 2 saucepans, chopping board, sharp knives, spoons, etc.
Well, I was due another complete disaster, and this was it.
The cooking of the chicken was nice and simple. I perhaps added too much salt and pepper, but it wasn't bad. Otherwise, it was just a case of adding things at the right time, and keeping a watchful eye.
But with the potato, I went badly wrong. Basically, I added way too much milk and cream to the potato. My own fault really, but I ended up with a runny slop that was fit only for the bin. Rather annoying, that, since it looked great right up to that point.
Result: 7/10 for the chicken; no score for the mashed potato
Melancholy
I finished "Les Miserables" last night. It was a good read, not as good as "Tale of Two Cities" or "To Kill a Mockingbird", but certainly the best book I've read so far this year.
But I'm not sure what to make of the ending. Jean Valjean dies, of course, and it seems he dies rather unfairly, having been wronged one more time. And yet, he dies happy, and secure in having redeemed himself. As the bishop at the start claims, he has indeed "bought his soul for God."
So, is a happy ending, or a sad ending?
"It's an ending, and that's enough." - Marge Simpson.
#13: "Pathfinder: Trial of the Beast", by Richard Pett
#14: "Les Miserables, Volume Two", by Victor Hugo (a book from The List)
But I'm not sure what to make of the ending. Jean Valjean dies, of course, and it seems he dies rather unfairly, having been wronged one more time. And yet, he dies happy, and secure in having redeemed himself. As the bishop at the start claims, he has indeed "bought his soul for God."
So, is a happy ending, or a sad ending?
"It's an ending, and that's enough." - Marge Simpson.
#13: "Pathfinder: Trial of the Beast", by Richard Pett
#14: "Les Miserables, Volume Two", by Victor Hugo (a book from The List)
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