Here are a few pics from Nicky's surprise birthday trip to Bellagio, Lake Como, Italy

Just uploaded pics from my holiday to Ireland with Nicky, Caroline and Ricky. We had a fab time, highlights include kissing the Blarney Stone, visiting the Blasket Islands, having a go at pottery and Sea Kayaking. The locals were so friendly and welcoming, lots of very happy memories.

Interested in the 18th century??? Then I have the perfect link for you. My esteemed housemate has recently started a blog where she discusses all aspects of the 18th century. Its a vey interesting read

http://musingsonthec18th.blogspot.com/

This saturday night was the first night we've had clear skies over the weekend since my last attempt at capturing star trails. Although it was warmer than last time I was out for about an hour and a quarter it was still very cold. Armed with my tripod, remote shutter release cable, camera and camping chair I ventured out into the fields near my house and set up looking pretty much due north towards the A34.

I took 184 images over about an hour, this time I also took a dark frame reference pic to try to minimise noise from the camera's CCD. I think I should have bumped up the ISO as I took the pics on ISO200 rather that ISO400, so the image is lacking foreground detail and did not pic up as many stars as I had hoped. Still, the increased number of pics makes the trails much more prominent. As well as the composite image below, I also compiled the images into a star trails movie clip.

Just waiting for the next clear night

The FatFighters page is now up and running

This allows users to log in and record their weight loss progress, see their BMI and a purdy chart. You can also allow other users to see your progress. All for FREE. Check out the FatFighters page for details of how to sign up.