Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre

Great Nottinghamshire Bike Ride

Here we are at around the half-way point in Stoke Bardolf at the Ferry Boat Inn.






And then at the end of the ride, relaxing with a smoothie.

Here we are about to cross the finishing line.

A Grand Day Out - in Matlock

We (I to be precise) decided to jump on a train and head for the hills. The black and white photo was taken at Nottingham Midland Station as we waited for the train.

The weather was far better than predicted so we had a great time. We jumped off at Matlock Bath, had a regulation cappuccino and then walked over High Tor to Matlock. High up on the hills, we were presented with some stunning views of Matlock Bath. I spotted a buzzard flying in the valley below and we crept to the side of the cliff (sheer drop) to admire the views.

Once we got to Matlock itself, we went straight to the Fish Bar where we tucked into fish and chips (Margaret) and Steak and Kidney pudding (me - it's my favoutite).

We sat in the park watching the skateboarders and tennis players (not exactly Andy Murray standard) and then indulged in a home made 99.

Staff Retreat

We had a great staff retreat day on Monday last. 11 of us went on board this narrow boat at Sileby and meandered along the river on a leisurely day of relaxation and fellowship.

Life and Death

Life is full of opposites. Here we have a tree which has died and has fallen into the Grantham canal. But the coots don't mind the fact that it has died, they make the most of it and build their nest in the shade of one of its branches (click on the picture and it will appear full-sized).

This reminds me of the death and resurrection of Jesus. His death on the 'tree' (if I may refer to the cross in this way) may seem like a tragic loss but it actually brings life to all. 'By his wounds we are healed', say the prophet Isaiah and it's true - his dying brings us to life spiritually because we are freed from all that separates us from the love of God.

I'm sure these coots don't have a theology degree but they are wise enough to make this dead tree a place of new life.

I took this photo as I cycled to Cotgrave to a business appointment in the beautiful sunshine which we have all enjoyed recently.

Enjoy it while you can

As I look out of the window today and reflect upon the beautiful sunshine and colourful garden outside, I only wish I could be out there instead of in here working away.

Do we appreciate the beauty of what is all around us or do we focus too much on the mundane and trivial? Is the credit crunch weighing us down? Are we still fuming over MP's expenses? Or do we take time to sit still and appreciate the beauty of life all around us. Why not take 10 minutes out of your day today to walk around your garden and really look at its beauty - or to sit on a park bench and watch people as they pass by.

To discover the reality of God in the world takes a determined effort of listening and watching - only we need to use our spiritual ears and eyes and ask God's Spirit to reveal to us His truths.

A friend was recently diagnosed with cancer and said, "you never know what's around the corner". True - but the only reality is the here and now - enjoy it!