tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78105416878625366792024-03-21T20:35:06.564-07:00The Exeter BlogThe Exeter Blog is a blog all about living and playing in the city of Exeter in Devon, England. Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-37821898421021759312016-08-31T15:47:00.004-07:002016-08-31T15:47:51.742-07:00Celebrating All Things Organic for #organicSeptember<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm celebrating <a href="https://www.soilassociation.org/organic-living/organicseptember/" target="_blank">all things organic this September</a> - and in Devon that means there is LOTS to celebrate!<br />
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But why organic? Well, there are many reasons but they can pretty much be summed up saying: I love bees.<br />
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I love that they like to dance. I love watching one bee who's found a really good patch of flowers go crazy getting all the goodness for himself. I love how fuzzy the bumbles are. I love that there is a <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/student/news/swedish-university-bee-mcbeeface-beeyonce-beyonce-boaty-mcboatface-honeybees-a7087146.html" target="_blank">queen bee named after Beyonce</a>. I love watching them disappear into a foxglove and come back out. I love seeing them working away even when their pollen sacks are filled to bursting. They make me happy.<br />
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I mean just look at this guy?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiIuM6YIIbIq1nhP-BoXg_486nGMep3sslfr0H7j5LHeFmuL2Y6C1JoJtumkDgfg92F4q2WQSlTBbbqrH-qUR25sIo62sKGYoH0Wz6iOHRzO8TCL2Qssi5ZxtsFI4u-LyKXQs-0udL6U7T/s1600/bee+on+blossom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiIuM6YIIbIq1nhP-BoXg_486nGMep3sslfr0H7j5LHeFmuL2Y6C1JoJtumkDgfg92F4q2WQSlTBbbqrH-qUR25sIo62sKGYoH0Wz6iOHRzO8TCL2Qssi5ZxtsFI4u-LyKXQs-0udL6U7T/s1600/bee+on+blossom.jpg" /></a></div>
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When you see that little <a href="https://www.soilassociation.org/organic-living/organicseptember/" target="_blank">Soil Association</a> organic mark in the UK, it means no herbicides or artificial fertilisers. It also means more sustainable land management and more respect for wildlife. And that means more respect for bees - and everyone else by default. And most importantly it means bigger flavours and even healthier foods.<br />
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Farming is at the root all things organic so I will be starting out the by looking at organic vegetable box schemes before moving onto farmers markets and some of my favourite organic food shops. And though food is the first thing that comes to mind, but the range of products that can be organically sourced is immense. Shoes, make-up, clothing, nappies and even holidays can be made organically, so I'll explore some of these too!<br />
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I'm really excited!<br />
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<i>Reposted from <a href="http://www.rootsngreens.net/2016/08/celebrating-all-things-organic-for.html" target="_blank">RootnGreens </a>blog</i></div>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-78040947112234978802016-07-15T03:07:00.001-07:002016-07-19T13:24:43.622-07:00That Time I Ran Away to the Circus: Paulo Circus at Darts Farm, Exeter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is something special about a circus. Big tent. Bright lights. Rocking up to a field near you. Literally bringing magic to the masses. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePaulosCircus/?fref=nf" target="_blank">The Paulos Circus</a> is at Exeter's<a href="http://www.dartsfarm.co.uk/" target="_blank"> Darts Farm</a> until <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/254204938272022/" target="_blank">24 July</a>. They come every year and this time, I was there for opening night!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some serious hula hooping!</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">One of the <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/1317238/Clara-Paulo.html" target="_blank">oldest circus families</a> in the UK, 2016 marks 200 years and six generations of The Paulo family in entertainment. Animal free and family friendly, the show lasts just over and an hour but will make a lasting impression. My little one absolutely loved it and didn't want to leave! There was magic, acrobatics, and some truly remarkable hula hooping! My boy was raving about a certain bit of percussive juggling, an act I had never seen before, all the way home. BUT my favourite by far was the high wire work - like, there's a reason why it's a classic.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paulos Circus man on wire!</td></tr>
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In the tradition of performers from the as far back as the Renaissance, stretching into the birth of '<a href="http://www.circopedia.org/SHORT_HISTORY_OF_THE_CIRCUS" target="_blank">circus</a>' in the 18th century London and through the modern age, displays of extraordinary human skill are presented to amuse and inspire. During World War II, Paulo Circus shows boosted morale. And as recently as April 2016, The Paulos Circus presented a <a href="http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/14403704.Circus_lays_on_free_show_in_York_for_flood_victims/" target="_blank">free show for more than 350 Yorkshire Boxing Day flood victims</a>, earning them a nomination for the <a href="http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/14509705.Circus_and_motorbike_group_nominated_for_medal_after_making_flood_victims_smile/" target="_blank">York & District Medal</a>. Circus spokesman Kenny Darnell said: "We just wanted to give a little happiness to people who had suffered during the flooding."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfOPSBCDkUFJN64iLaIGfEoEq6APCR9jD4EWG2ANtQQrt1rakWEnjRsJYEucdBtvx9N1VH6FtEbFNc4BVlYUErvFSf93iPzoAw8jgne0mjtOCNk85wiNRYpFXu-hPTn570uq-OmPTIdVe/s1600/paulo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfOPSBCDkUFJN64iLaIGfEoEq6APCR9jD4EWG2ANtQQrt1rakWEnjRsJYEucdBtvx9N1VH6FtEbFNc4BVlYUErvFSf93iPzoAw8jgne0mjtOCNk85wiNRYpFXu-hPTn570uq-OmPTIdVe/s400/paulo.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/itv1-the-circus-family-the-darnells-behind-the-scenes-944606" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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We enjoyed the adventure of it, the magic and heading to the source of a tradition that continues to captivate.<br />
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<i><a href="http://www.pauloscircus.co.uk/venues/" target="_blank">The Paulo's Circus on Tour Summer 2016</a> </i></div>
Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-54777494595158970362016-03-04T09:39:00.003-08:002016-03-04T09:53:50.663-08:00Boston's Breakfast Cure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLGklNca_bNXMMgpKje-6LYwciTRFZnoyHLQ7zRVeQpBCCwD-6M8Dn6Vxmx9m29wn2LBgbk2QJSCitdPtqANCXGJnH_PGs_lNK-8HP78FfkXGFCZS8FsicVwFBpqKwIOYKAib4vTThw4n/s1600/BTP_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLGklNca_bNXMMgpKje-6LYwciTRFZnoyHLQ7zRVeQpBCCwD-6M8Dn6Vxmx9m29wn2LBgbk2QJSCitdPtqANCXGJnH_PGs_lNK-8HP78FfkXGFCZS8FsicVwFBpqKwIOYKAib4vTThw4n/s1600/BTP_1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I am not gonna lie. I was really excited to try <a href="http://www.bostonteaparty.co.uk/blog/post.php?s=2016-01-06-healthy-doesnt-have-to-mean-hungry" target="_blank">Boston Tea Party’s new healthy menu</a>. This is my kind of grub. Whole foods, fresh fruit, seeds, spices? Check, check and check. Not to say that BTP were a greasy spoon before. Far from it, their fresh squeezed orange juice has brought me back from the brink many many times and they have a long standing commitment to<a href="http://www.bostonteaparty.co.uk/blog/post.php?s=2015-03-09-award-winners" target="_blank"> real, good quality, ingredients that is no joke</a>. The new menu adds four new dishes to the mix and on recent trip, we got to sample three of them.</div>
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As a porridge loving vegan mama, the star of the show for me was the brown rice porridge. The in-house menu explains that it is vegan and comes with mango and blueberries but what is doesn't tell you is that it is made with coconut milk (YAAASSSS!) and covered in cinnamon. So along with having a decadent yet subtle refined sugar free sweetness, this little bowl of goodness is hitting out of the park with healthy fats, circulation boosting spice, high fibre, slow release carbs, loads antioxidants and a proper dose of mango flavoured vitamin C. And did I mention that it was well lush? Because it was. My toddler absolutely loved it as well, and it with nutritional stats like that, he can have as much, of his own, as he likes. We will meet again little bowl. Mark my words. We will meet again.</div>
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I also had the opportunity to try the granola, or as I started calling it, the lovely crunchy, toasty, cinnamony, bowl of spelty nom noms! It was soooo toasty. As in, I think the cinnamon was toasted as well, so that it has that extra bit of zing? And all of the little pumpkin seeds were just ready to pop out of their skins. While the incredibly nutritious chia seeds worked their magic amongst all of the nutty spelt flakes and the cinnamon dust. Top it off with fresh blueberries and raspberries, or even Greek yoghurt, and you've got yourself a party. </div>
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My partner had the enviable task of reviewing the smoked salmon with cream cheese on rye. In his opinion, this classic combination of salmon and cream cheese was made heartier with the rye bread and the nutrient rich chia seeds added and extra element of texture. With cream cheese as an ingredient, this dish is probably the most calorific of the bunch but all the protein of the whole grain, smoked fish and super seeds, should make a perfect post work out treat!</div>
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This menu is one that doesn't disappoint on flavour and at under a fiver a bowl, they are making sure that the superfoods don't come at super prices. On this trip we didn't get to the dukkah, but I'm sure we'll be back again. Watch this space!</div>
Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-47887912899835717802014-10-14T23:38:00.001-07:002014-10-14T23:38:29.249-07:00Killerton Apple Recipe: Pink Apple Nice Cream<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEe4Q0bht6Zoh8__LzkFsoqzQvPgC4fJOll0VS0ZDZj-1uXxWc-nYJa5cg6oZq1vkljLYxV8D6Kk8SjvMhB7wknV9hBcLPcjlGzlF1Xz0quT1L7BQe8NfbMZXm_0UkRk8krSfMcHBXuC0U/s1600/ex_apple_nicecream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEe4Q0bht6Zoh8__LzkFsoqzQvPgC4fJOll0VS0ZDZj-1uXxWc-nYJa5cg6oZq1vkljLYxV8D6Kk8SjvMhB7wknV9hBcLPcjlGzlF1Xz0quT1L7BQe8NfbMZXm_0UkRk8krSfMcHBXuC0U/s1600/ex_apple_nicecream.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink Apple Nice Cream in a Jar</td></tr>
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'Nice cream' is the deliciously indulgent, can't believe it's still healthy, eat anytime treat that is making vegans of Instagram go mad with glee. This one is made with <a href="http://theexeterblog.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/autumn-is-for-apples-killerton-apple.html" target="_blank">Killerton apples</a> and it's marvelous!<br />
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Short for 'banana ice cream', it is what happens when you blend frozen bananas with little or no liquid and is just what the dairy free doctor ordered. You can add almost anything to it to create new flavours - I've tried blackberries, strawberries and even spinach! So to celebrate Killerton's upcoming <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton/things-to-see-and-do/article-1355848991766/" target="_blank">Apple </a><a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton/things-to-see-and-do/article-1355848991766/" target="_blank">& Cider Festival</a>, here's my recipe for a pink apple nice cream treat. Free from added sugar and salt, it's as nutritious as it is delicious, great for breakfast or pudding.<br />
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This recipe uses the cardamom apple sauce that I made earlier, but you could use another apple sauce as well.<br />
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Pink Apple Nice Cream</h4>
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<li>2 frozen bananas (peel before freezing)</li>
<li>1/2 cup <a href="http://theexeterblog.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/killerton-apple-recipe-cardamom-apple.html" target="_blank">cardamom apple sauce</a></li>
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<li>It's as simple as putting the two ingredients into a blender/food processor and blending until smooth.</li>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-2692292523348296312014-10-07T15:57:00.000-07:002014-10-07T15:57:33.082-07:00Killerton Apple Recipe: Cardamom Apple Sauce<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cardamom Apple Sauce </td></tr>
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Apples are simply marvelous. They are probably one of the world's most popular fruits for this very reason. In cakes and pies, poached, candied, baked, brandied - you can do so much with them it's kind of insane - and did I mention cider? Because you know....cider.</div>
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In the supermarkets, you'll generally find no more than 10 varieties of apple at any given time and most of those are from far flung places like South Africa, New Zealand or America. What gives? There is more to appledom than Royal Galas and there plenty of apple varieties that grow in England and are ripe for the picking throughout the year. In fact, just up the road at the Killerton House estate, they're growing <a href="http://theexeterblog.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/autumn-is-for-apples-killerton-apple.html" target="_blank">100 varieties of old English apples</a> in their orchards alone! I was lucky enough to get a box of these tasty little fruits and have been whipping up a few <a href="http://theexeterblog.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/apple%20cider%20festival" target="_blank">seasonal recipes</a> with some of their delightfully pink apples and have been loving the results. </div>
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This is an incredibly simple recipe for what may very well be the classiest apple sauce I have ever eaten. Cardamom is so fragrant, so light, so beautiful, it plays perfectly with a the crispness of a fresh apple. It's almost a dessert on it's own, but for me it was the first step for few more apple based recipes to come. </div>
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<i>Stay tuned for Apple Nice Cream, Apple Waffles and more.</i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTFHf6XvJBmDsUskPzZlw5ipWOF6t-r2hIeD82OgIc_JBWP16XcjjCKPro1ZJd2CH95EmTQDTWqh1aWpgF5DrfbZBQX3GZ6hvxqJ32kqex28ix2Nq3hObxFdChozUyYgGetMe-GSilpLy/s1600/ex_apple_prep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTFHf6XvJBmDsUskPzZlw5ipWOF6t-r2hIeD82OgIc_JBWP16XcjjCKPro1ZJd2CH95EmTQDTWqh1aWpgF5DrfbZBQX3GZ6hvxqJ32kqex28ix2Nq3hObxFdChozUyYgGetMe-GSilpLy/s1600/ex_apple_prep.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chopped but not pealed, because I love the texture.</td></tr>
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<br />Cardamom Apple Sauce</h4>
<ul>
<li> 6 coarsely chopped small eating apples </li>
<li>15 green cardamom pods</li>
<li>2 tsp lemon juice</li>
<li>1 tsp cinnamon </li>
<li>water</li>
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<ol>
<li>Add cardamom pods to two inches water in steamer and steam apples for about 10 minutes or until soft. Remove from heat and let cool.</li>
<li>Add apples, lemon juice, and cinnamon to food processor AND open up the cardamom pods from the steamer water, to add the seeds of 10 pods to the apples and then blend.</li>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-52876227746511759572014-10-01T07:23:00.002-07:002014-10-01T07:23:57.762-07:00Apple Recipe: Rum Raisin Apple Crumble<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9vkTRRtMfBz54GcyFV4GZC1dAkudjHna4tbVOtyDvTgEgpu98_4h6vI2d_eSbUbhRCd_mWsK6nauEc1R24-RM8WoHDK0N7HfsBfLxic-gYgMjHE2NrnHLfTdNDiAFolTMuNODhDDjQltO/s1600/ex_apple_crumble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9vkTRRtMfBz54GcyFV4GZC1dAkudjHna4tbVOtyDvTgEgpu98_4h6vI2d_eSbUbhRCd_mWsK6nauEc1R24-RM8WoHDK0N7HfsBfLxic-gYgMjHE2NrnHLfTdNDiAFolTMuNODhDDjQltO/s1600/ex_apple_crumble.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rum Raisin Apple Crumble</td></tr>
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In honour of <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton/" target="_blank">Killerton House</a>'s up coming annual <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton/things-to-see-and-do/article-1355848991766/" target="_blank">Apple and Cider Festival </a>and National Apple Day, I have challenged myself to put together a collection of apple recipes to ring in the new season.<br />
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Now nothing says autumn to me like apple crumble and this one's got a bit a of a kick with a nice spiced rum and some raisins! As with most things, it's all about the ingredients, so if you've got a nice bunch of organic Killerton apples, like did, then you're off to a winner and if you've got a good quality rum, then all the better! Serve it how you like it with custard, ice cream or whipped cream, but it's got to be done!</div>
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Rum Raisin Apple Crumble</h4>
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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1/2 cup raisins<br />
1/4 cup rum<br />
4-5 coarsely chopped and peeled cooking apples<br />
2 cups flour<br />
2 tbsp sugar<br />
3 tbsp margarine<br />
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<li>Preheat oven to Gas Mark 6.</li>
<li>Soak raisins in rum for about 10 minutes - or in my case as long as it takes you to peel and chop the apples!</li>
<li>Combine flour, sugar and margarine in a bowl and squeeze into crumbly bits with your hands. </li>
<li>In a large bowl mix the apples, rum, raisins and cinnamon, then place in an oven proof dish. Pour the crumble mixture on top and place in the oven for 40 minutes.</li>
<li>Remove from the oven and serve warm.</li>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-54766824197902457262014-09-29T00:52:00.002-07:002014-09-29T00:52:20.632-07:00Autumn is for Apples: Killerton Apple & Cider Festival Rings in the Season <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Exeter's local National Trust property, <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton/" target="_blank">Killerton House</a>, is ringing in the harvest with their annual <a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton/things-to-see-and-do/article-1355848991766/" target="_blank">Apple and Cider Festival</a>. On Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 October, visitors to their Sparrow Park orchard will be treated to food, drink, song, and yarn bombing at their annual event.<br />
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Along with the cider festival, they're laying on a hog roast, morris dancers, live bands, a magician, wood crafts, archery, cycle tours, cider press demonstrations and more. Not to mention the fact that it's all going to look blooming magical with all the leaves changing colours.<br />
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This epically autumnal event is in honour of <a href="http://commonground.org.uk/projects/orchards/" target="_blank">National Apple Day</a> and Killerton's truly epic apple collection. With over 500 acres of traditionally managed orchards on the Killerton estate, they are growing 100 varieties of old English apple including the Killerton Sweet and Killerton Sharp which originate there. Killerton's wardens and volunteers produced an award-winning cider using a 200 year old farm press, as well as apple juice, apple chutney and orchard honey. And because they use traditional methods, the apples are grown without any chemicals, fertilisers or pesticides.<br />
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I was lucky enough to get a hold of a box full of some of their summer harvest and have been whipping up a few recipes to countdown to the event and celebrate this fabulous fruit. In the weeks to come, I will be sharing them here on the blog, so keep an eye out for tastiness.<br />
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-27607270654373695412014-09-23T14:14:00.001-07:002014-09-23T14:14:06.927-07:00Macmillan Coffee Morning Comes Harry's<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coffee at Harry's</td></tr>
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The <a href="http://coffee.macmillan.org.uk/Home.aspx#.VCHhpaZwbtQ" target="_blank">world's biggest coffee morning</a> is popping up in lots of Exeter venues but <a href="http://harrysrestaurants.co.uk/" target="_blank">Harry's</a> is bound to be the best. The Longbrook Street eatery is best known as a casual yet classy place for an evening meal with a nice wine list and a very big pud to finish. But on 26 September they are celebrating their 5th year <a href="http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Home.aspx" target="_blank">Macmillan Cancer Trust</a> coffee morning with an event everyone can enjoy.<br />
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Doors open at 730am and there will be stalls, a raffle, cake, entertainment, and even breakfast. Things should wind down by about 11 and hopefully they will have made a few bob for the trust by then. </div>
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Harry's is wheelchair and push chair accessible and should be a lovely morning all around.</div>
Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-28332637648081433602014-08-10T03:04:00.001-07:002014-08-11T05:59:00.744-07:00Restaurant Review: Byron Brings it Proper<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCX67298475" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Byron Proper Burgers</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB1GQ5i9lcxImFGzvlFC1IAMeRvAHZiErqtI5aV59tt7JJyP1bsrwX3KTBEp6muh81Mt6d9buR24UGAjyMRfTWzYoPrCZtVyDMBQLkUMNkzLEdXe_DX3Y0sgHxnGgVVBgt9SlVLl5VU5Mp/s1600/review_byrons2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></a></div>
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<span class="TextRun SCX67298475" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><span class="TextRun SCX67298475" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">Don't let the sleek lines and clean design fool you, <a href="http://princesshay.com/" target="_blank">Princesshay's </a>newest restaurant, <a href="http://www.byronhamburgers.com/" target="_blank">Byron: Proper Hamburgers</a>, is definitely about the food, and they're not messing around. </span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">You see, the guys behind Byron are into American burgers - like </span></span><i style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">really </i><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">into them - and they've done their research. They've drawn from some of the States' finest establishments and most indulgent bun based cheekiness to inspire a menu with a few across-the-pond nods that you won't see at most other British burger joints. Delivered with style and ease, Byron is a welcome addition to the city centre dinnersphere.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">Me and my meat eating wing man hubby popped in for an </span><span style="line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">indulgent</span><span style="line-height: 21.299999237060547px;"> lunch, taking advantage of the best summer since 2004, for a little al fresco dining. Our friendly server greeted and seated us, and we got down to business.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Byron in the sunshine</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">We kind of went for it, starting out with the Tortilla Chips which came with a lovely fresh tomato salsa and a guacamole that might just be the best in the city - no really - both chunky and fresh. For the mains, I had the Veggie Burger of Portobello mushroom, goats cheese and Mediterranean veg with an order of courgette fries, and a glass of cloudy lemonade. And my carnivorous comrade had the Smokey burger with a portion of skin on chips and a side of macaroni cheese all washed down with a Brew Dog pale ale.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch for two at Byron</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">For little old vegetarian me, my veggie burger was as good as any I've had, but the courgette fries(!) are something I only seen in the states and Byron were in fact BETTER than what I've had there. They were crispy, crunchy, perfectly seasoned and really worth the visit on their own. My lemonade was just like mom used to make and, for research purposes, I sneaked a taste of the mac n' cheese and can attest to it being as rich as any of Uncle Sam's offerings. Vegetarians & vegans can also try the avocado salad or mix up the veggie burger with additional/alternative sides like sliced avocado, crispy fried onions and jalepenos as well as a selection of cheeses and sauces. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The summer special: The Smokey</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">M<span style="color: #444444; line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">y partner also had high praise for his Smokey burger, saying that it fully lived up to its name with the taste of well...smokiness, coming through every bite. All that smoked cheddar, smokey barbecue sauce, crispy bacon and crispy onions perfectly complimented his medium rare Scottish beef patty and made for some very happy dining. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 21.299999237060547px;">His beer was a light, deliciously malty, day time pale ale called Dead Pony Club by Brew Dog,</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; line-height: 21.299999237060547px;"> part of a collection of quality craft beers available for on site.</span><br />
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And for puds, I had the brownie and he had the cheesecake. My brownie was hot and deliciously gooey and topped with a scrumptious drizzle of chocolate sauce. My husband's white chocolate cheesecake was an entirely different affair. This chilled cheesecake on a biscuit base, was decadently rich and well accompanied by the blueberry sauce. A perfect end end to proper lunch.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEI3klqNaIIGcNHPjAtaCWLLueohuGH3CqhFkFv3fedeVOHRq86wCh2_ktelmfuai6x-7ogk1sY-URmcE2QGSyyKN-N46touonwHexJi609n4TzRFWgifK3rPK_m_h7-Nq9qhCQoFT8Mw/s1600/review_byrons8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEI3klqNaIIGcNHPjAtaCWLLueohuGH3CqhFkFv3fedeVOHRq86wCh2_ktelmfuai6x-7ogk1sY-URmcE2QGSyyKN-N46touonwHexJi609n4TzRFWgifK3rPK_m_h7-Nq9qhCQoFT8Mw/s1600/review_byrons8.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBsJnBR8mZl0LO8CZsIpTNwWLspB17rLK9i1NsbpeF-Qadia6i6Q_4ML1_0dQJv1kYQrz6uBP7v-ngeOtaQjM37GlErf657icoZM3MoJkHzaspzCNhHrUq_IasMy25TyVH_wbjDhWqLti/s1600/review_byrons7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBsJnBR8mZl0LO8CZsIpTNwWLspB17rLK9i1NsbpeF-Qadia6i6Q_4ML1_0dQJv1kYQrz6uBP7v-ngeOtaQjM37GlErf657icoZM3MoJkHzaspzCNhHrUq_IasMy25TyVH_wbjDhWqLti/s1600/review_byrons7.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the kitchen were so quick as well.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtZTkjxN0WyZa8H2i5dAOSIp1tjurKx_q1_IciKk2FSJ4fRO_d08SVHsPT3omafkk5G5dWZR1AsCKOy5kz_Tzt8MVJfKuzijJ-Z1CZX9Y-4zBRFqpqQbVbF54a5v1kBnRc4NDPPJRR-hL/s1600/review_byrons6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJtZTkjxN0WyZa8H2i5dAOSIp1tjurKx_q1_IciKk2FSJ4fRO_d08SVHsPT3omafkk5G5dWZR1AsCKOy5kz_Tzt8MVJfKuzijJ-Z1CZX9Y-4zBRFqpqQbVbF54a5v1kBnRc4NDPPJRR-hL/s1600/review_byrons6.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside it's like a film noir set. Love the backlit factory windows.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCWFZEeaHovml29xYNyCiIRIASPtKFiHsrJDUdA0eZcTvqY2pJRIOktkVPLu2JxGR31EppmLM8rn-tbQM2gmV4Crjhk7ALp7q88-YlzYW8Bn8_Wy78iwcx5HoW_QTcLIhfN3qr_eTyo5OZ/s1600/ex_exelibrary6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCWFZEeaHovml29xYNyCiIRIASPtKFiHsrJDUdA0eZcTvqY2pJRIOktkVPLu2JxGR31EppmLM8rn-tbQM2gmV4Crjhk7ALp7q88-YlzYW8Bn8_Wy78iwcx5HoW_QTcLIhfN3qr_eTyo5OZ/s1600/ex_exelibrary6.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exeter's Newly Refurbished Library</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.devon.gov.uk/exeter_central_library" target="_blank">Exeter's newly refurbished library </a>has been open for just over a month and to put it bluntly: it's fantastic. The team behind it have well and truly hit the nail on the head.<br />
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It is a space that does everything a library should in the 21st century. The cafe with al fresco seating in <a href="http://www.exeter.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1962" target="_blank">Rougemont Gardens</a> is welcoming and open. The general lending area is clear and easily accessible. The children's library is lively and engaging. And whole space is so light airy and uncluttered that I could easily spend all day there.<br />
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Add to this their ample wifi, free web access, solar power and the awe inspiring <a href="http://www.devon.gov.uk/fablab-flyer.pdf" target="_blank">Fab Lab</a> and there are definitely reasons to be cheerful about your next check out. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxH0-mezh5MqHtMdtCPAlRkeHShqA2L8-rIk3UC-t1-dE0uZ-jPs8PB7a5Gd-jTTlH81D0V4MpyQRItD1UPwI3iVJV_GSuh-0Cs5sJj6FoGX9pH-5VT_nii-juLxrY-JAbmjIwzxzRtJB/s1600/ex_exelibrary1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxH0-mezh5MqHtMdtCPAlRkeHShqA2L8-rIk3UC-t1-dE0uZ-jPs8PB7a5Gd-jTTlH81D0V4MpyQRItD1UPwI3iVJV_GSuh-0Cs5sJj6FoGX9pH-5VT_nii-juLxrY-JAbmjIwzxzRtJB/s1600/ex_exelibrary1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cafe Opening onto Rougemont Gardens at Exeter Central Library</td></tr>
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I've visited twice so far and can't wait to get back - hopefully before my books are overdue. They seem keen to fill place with activity and get away from the traditional hushed environment. The first time I popped in, there were about 50 parents and children singing to their hearts' content in the children's library. When I went back the following Saturday, the Fab Lab was open with robots play with, a 3D printer to explore, and I even got to play with a homemade theremin!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQBC6FddxFAw9_YatDI9nUnHFXt6sqXrSWSJ0GHNGPqpfVMNcSjur9ytz9j97GUh5D5t5Fcs1GCl5b-kGrdA9HDdwg2Lh6bMtwd_6tHPAn4wdTdZFqPwaNjCLUOPB0PN7nZzILKeSLheR/s1600/ex_exelibrary5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQBC6FddxFAw9_YatDI9nUnHFXt6sqXrSWSJ0GHNGPqpfVMNcSjur9ytz9j97GUh5D5t5Fcs1GCl5b-kGrdA9HDdwg2Lh6bMtwd_6tHPAn4wdTdZFqPwaNjCLUOPB0PN7nZzILKeSLheR/s1600/ex_exelibrary5.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Children's Library</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGkKcaUyGT99gH6kcS2FlpD0wldlfreG-HbPKGTRLUe-uwcjTlgGHcMGQvWW-HUUJjHR4JDsrAcBHS8ohwdFD8C6ZswXuR3eymxWdqR3Jj1QYeg7mVuwuSEkQJ3_lJMJN4Jv85jPxSusxt/s1600/ex_exelibrary2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGkKcaUyGT99gH6kcS2FlpD0wldlfreG-HbPKGTRLUe-uwcjTlgGHcMGQvWW-HUUJjHR4JDsrAcBHS8ohwdFD8C6ZswXuR3eymxWdqR3Jj1QYeg7mVuwuSEkQJ3_lJMJN4Jv85jPxSusxt/s1600/ex_exelibrary2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friendly Robots at the FabLab</td></tr>
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Closed for refurbishment for what seemed like eons, Exeter's Library has now become a place for discovery. Exactly what a library should be. Well done you lot. And thanks very much.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh244aMaYq7iRF8XlZhKeSz9gLBdceYNBRBvUr9JungWNnQWbMmC9GTV3oo2D3Gz2NnN_ttY1YIXYM7XP5mVlwn37whKyKkNgxqNm4ik6jiibcgeQQOI1-czkxauEcCDpgdK3X3_-oyBsQ1/s1600/ex_exelibrary3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh244aMaYq7iRF8XlZhKeSz9gLBdceYNBRBvUr9JungWNnQWbMmC9GTV3oo2D3Gz2NnN_ttY1YIXYM7XP5mVlwn37whKyKkNgxqNm4ik6jiibcgeQQOI1-czkxauEcCDpgdK3X3_-oyBsQ1/s1600/ex_exelibrary3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some books at the Library</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjnV07sY-RTwiPJsYLeakBO0d2z719cR74PropxqdbAZQVDbHh7_af2sInRF03M4fZk-R3LtODLOZAQnAB4VwTJeOyIoOVjeNI4oGqN-iRQV7sk0bWm_RvDBRKeO3qfXSWXnDDgZDNtZA3/s1600/ex_exelibrary4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjnV07sY-RTwiPJsYLeakBO0d2z719cR74PropxqdbAZQVDbHh7_af2sInRF03M4fZk-R3LtODLOZAQnAB4VwTJeOyIoOVjeNI4oGqN-iRQV7sk0bWm_RvDBRKeO3qfXSWXnDDgZDNtZA3/s1600/ex_exelibrary4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New entrance at Exeter Central Library</td></tr>
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<br />Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-35734189035345292312014-05-20T00:30:00.000-07:002014-05-20T00:30:00.997-07:00Summer has Landed at the Exeter University Outdoor Swimming Pool<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVtiPS9aIRGLl6ZouqujBJGeWyuM5eBYsiKrQ_kPCLP_9qfW5KeYB2Dh_V8i7z9oa9BAn7yVWAU4CacqUEx-RxYfwxaCWKbIeOZyfFPCP41P2U6alngK1Ho9nvZ34N749wHMrbvUZkqyZ_/s1600/ex_CornwallHousePool.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exeter Outdoor Swimming Pool<br />
Source: <a href="http://sport.exeter.ac.uk/facilities/swimming/4">University of Exeter</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVtiPS9aIRGLl6ZouqujBJGeWyuM5eBYsiKrQ_kPCLP_9qfW5KeYB2Dh_V8i7z9oa9BAn7yVWAU4CacqUEx-RxYfwxaCWKbIeOZyfFPCP41P2U6alngK1Ho9nvZ34N749wHMrbvUZkqyZ_/s1600/ex_CornwallHousePool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVtiPS9aIRGLl6ZouqujBJGeWyuM5eBYsiKrQ_kPCLP_9qfW5KeYB2Dh_V8i7z9oa9BAn7yVWAU4CacqUEx-RxYfwxaCWKbIeOZyfFPCP41P2U6alngK1Ho9nvZ34N749wHMrbvUZkqyZ_/s1600/ex_CornwallHousePool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
With all of this lovely sunshine on the go I decided to take a little dip in the pool over the weekend. Just a quick stroll off Prince Charles Road and I arrived at Exeter University's outdoor pool. A delightful oasis on a lovely sunny day in the city, the 25m pool has a lane swimming section but most of its visitors are just in it to make a splash. Families in waders and students catching rays, it's relaxed friendly and an easy alternative it you haven't gotten up early enough to make it to Exmouth for the day.<br />
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If you're planning to go on your own, travel light as they have changing rooms but no lockers. The cost of a single swim is just <a href="http://sport.exeter.ac.uk/facilities/swimming/">£3 for adults and free for under 5s if you're not a member </a>-which is petty good, because you could easily stay all day. There are picnic tables and a shop next door if you fancy a bit of lunch.<br />
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All in all a good day out.<br />
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<i>Cornwall House Swimming pool is open daily from 8am-8pm, from now until 21 September 2014. </i>Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-46179864211852122852014-03-05T16:03:00.000-08:002014-03-06T01:14:57.952-08:007 facts about 9 places in the world also called Exeter<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukCyh7nikV-8gLu0sGKCOTxPwXG6fWvMTOcWPkD4vvx45qj807y5iu3UlsmVdQzwC5-kY7DPM5Gn1K-gOwEenLxMSg1uKMkOfMp2OIuLcBrza3yZpUri5-uRawMzLKfM30PlXnnE4CUNI/s1600/EB_NewHampshire_TonyBaldasaro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukCyh7nikV-8gLu0sGKCOTxPwXG6fWvMTOcWPkD4vvx45qj807y5iu3UlsmVdQzwC5-kY7DPM5Gn1K-gOwEenLxMSg1uKMkOfMp2OIuLcBrza3yZpUri5-uRawMzLKfM30PlXnnE4CUNI/s1600/EB_NewHampshire_TonyBaldasaro.jpg"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Souce <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tonybaldasaro/">TonyBaldasaro</a>)</td></tr>
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<br>Exeter, Devon may be the originator, but we've got tribute acts all over the globe. Let's meet some of our namesakes.<br>
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1. Exeter, Rhode Island is a small town in the smallest state in America. It's claim to fame is as the site "one of the best documented cases of the exhumation of a corpse in order to perform rituals to banish an undead manifestation", the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercy_Brown_vampire_incident">Mercy Brown Vampire Incident of 1892</a>. I know, it's a little crazy right?<br>
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2. Exeter New Hampshire, is our largest and famous twin. In fact it in inspired a book after two Exeter police officers, Eugene Bertrand and David Hunt, and a local teenager witnessed a<a href="http://www.ufocasebook.com/Exeter.html"> bright red UFO</a> at close range in 1965. The sighting attracted national press and the US Air Force admitted to the three men that it had been unable to identify the strange object they had observed. It is still considered to be one of the most impressive UFO sightings on record. Locals have even started putting on a <a href="http://www.exeterufofestival.com/q-a/">festival</a> in honour of the event.<br>
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3. Exeter. CA is apparently the 'citrus capital of the world'. Suck on that Florida!<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZv0I_R6Ntms2IBNTfl4cWFooslQ_Oi-1Rp1Oms-Dv3MPNHrHm7gcqoNjlZEqmsogsf8oTFoUwVIMYrR5OFq4v36hSpX3XWc8mQxuQMKyArp6dusv8FMRUtVMuf1_KrZXxd98ZtxyKrIs2/s1600/EB_BostonPublicLibrary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZv0I_R6Ntms2IBNTfl4cWFooslQ_Oi-1Rp1Oms-Dv3MPNHrHm7gcqoNjlZEqmsogsf8oTFoUwVIMYrR5OFq4v36hSpX3XWc8mQxuQMKyArp6dusv8FMRUtVMuf1_KrZXxd98ZtxyKrIs2/s1600/EB_BostonPublicLibrary.jpg"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exeter Loves Mural (Source <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24029425@N06/4563286960/in/photolist-7Xf3eo-8CCzvC-86N5XH-ecmaHt-eCgL3i-jFDA16-jFCcka-jFDAni-jFDHrP-jFCUXZ-jFCdw8-jFCKHr-jFCJeK-jFDBhp-jFF8A9-jFDfB6-jFFKQq-jFFtej-c7r3Qj-bEEAzb-8CEiqu-f6t2go-f6dL1Z-f6dKra-f6dHQv-f6sZv3-f6dNAa-f6sZ61-f6t2PE-aATn93-aDYx89-aAQKRK-aDUDst-aAQHbB-aAQGmv-aATr5d-aATscJ-aDYy2Q-aDUEwa-bJGpyV-bJGpXr-f6t3AW-8CBbgP-8CBbWv-ecmb4p-8CBbAZ-ecrNyJ-8DAKs9-8V2K4Q-8V2Kgm-8UYEV6">BostonPL</a>)</td></tr>
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4. Exeter, Canada calls itself, the '<a href="http://www.journeysontario.ca/Adventure/White_Squirrels.html">Home of the White Squirrel</a>' and has an annual festival in honour of this furry creature. They also have a town mascot by the name of 'Willy the Wonder Dog', who goes to the town rodeo. Why don't we have a rodeo?<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvqFNH8iVSKWzMn0QwA5Dflwz-XxL_2wOVulg81eWmSBzw7lNvYadJ-Cp2Q0DZIh_1qN2UXdQfGwI1S7u6j9yvyvBwga_I8H9zkoc638W0VnMuRHkkzU0OK1empmCnoWOebJ9kPc0eJPn/s1600/WhiteSquirrel_Conrad+Kuiper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWvqFNH8iVSKWzMn0QwA5Dflwz-XxL_2wOVulg81eWmSBzw7lNvYadJ-Cp2Q0DZIh_1qN2UXdQfGwI1S7u6j9yvyvBwga_I8H9zkoc638W0VnMuRHkkzU0OK1empmCnoWOebJ9kPc0eJPn/s1600/WhiteSquirrel_Conrad+Kuiper.jpg"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Squirrel in the Place (Source: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/conradkuiper/">Conrad Kuiper</a>)</td></tr>
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<br>5. Exeter, Illinois is the smallest Exeter with only <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exeter,_Illinois">70 people</a>. That's right the entire population could fit onto the dance floor at <a href="http://exetercavern.com/">The Cavern</a>. In fact, they could join the good people of Exeter Tasmania, pop. 389, and Exeter nr Adelaide, Australia, pop. 397 in the visitors stand at St James Park, with room to spare.<br>
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6.<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <a href="http://www.exetertownship.com/Pages/Home.aspx">Exeter, Pennsylvania</a> - not to be confused with Pennsylvania, Exeter - is a former mining town which was devastated after the Susquehanna River broke into a <a href="http://www.undergroundminers.com/knox.html">150 ft hole in the roof</a> of a neighbouring mine. <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"> </span>The whole network of anthracite mines was flooded during this <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knox_Mine_Disaster">Knox Mine disaster of 1959</a>. </span> Approximately<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"> 10 billion US Gallons of water poured into the gaping hole, t</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">welve workers died and it was the end of an industry for the town</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">.</span></span><br>
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7. <a href="http://www.ci.exeter.ne.us/general.htm">Exeter Nebraska</a>, got it's name because some of it's settlers were Exeter, New Hampshire but mostly because the railroad needed a town with an 'E' name for their alphabetical railway line. So it sits between Crete and Dorchester to the east, and Fairmont, Grafton, Hastings, Inland, Juniata, Kenesaw and Lowell to the west.<br><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi91lPsbmEyIPCMAWZ5PT4x4L6dCySNA7tM4pSoc2XO-AqBSyJ_4ev4el489FGt_TqXwvx7YzPRl1lGDa9_iDE86syUJHHRHx2d9uHff1O4PecfVd14veHp4N3nkaeR37g533wKQHXutVZ8/s1600/Exeter+Nebraska_USDAgov.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi91lPsbmEyIPCMAWZ5PT4x4L6dCySNA7tM4pSoc2XO-AqBSyJ_4ev4el489FGt_TqXwvx7YzPRl1lGDa9_iDE86syUJHHRHx2d9uHff1O4PecfVd14veHp4N3nkaeR37g533wKQHXutVZ8/s1600/Exeter+Nebraska_USDAgov.jpg"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local folk at Gregs Market in Exeter, Nebraska. (Source: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/usdagov/">USDAgov</a>)</td></tr>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-88940542230125991392014-02-13T13:43:00.000-08:002014-02-13T13:43:01.611-08:00Exeter's Most Romantic Destination?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzbR2qA1MbaKuas2rAfiqat21Dd5LKG1JBagdLQAl76nAFuL7gv7CUBFWbsyHawzgKMqoQz6x30Tz5QO9p_AHIQagTL8DAH6Zcwu4gL_AGxvOTfofTjXFQXcWildnmhr5HddgLqYxFY69/s1600/%C2%A9+Helen+Lisk+Photography+2013+-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzbR2qA1MbaKuas2rAfiqat21Dd5LKG1JBagdLQAl76nAFuL7gv7CUBFWbsyHawzgKMqoQz6x30Tz5QO9p_AHIQagTL8DAH6Zcwu4gL_AGxvOTfofTjXFQXcWildnmhr5HddgLqYxFY69/s1600/%C2%A9+Helen+Lisk+Photography+2013+-4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo: <b style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19.200000762939453px; text-align: start;">© </b>Helen Lisk 2013 -4</td></tr>
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I asked Exeter based portrait and wedding photographer, <a href="http://www.helenliskphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Helen Lisk</a> to name the most romantic spot in the city. Her answer was resoundingly clear: Exeter Quayside. Helen has been doing beautiful wedding photography all over Exeter and Devon for years, so she certainly knows a thing or two about romance.<br />
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So what makes the Exeter Quayside such a romantic place?</h4>
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I started a love affair with Exeter when I moved here ten years ago. We’ve always lived near to the <a href="http://www.heartofdevon.com/things-to-do/exeters-historic-quayside-p1215273" target="_blank">Quayside</a>, and I absolutely adore this area. Whereas there are endless beautiful places to enjoy near Exeter, from beaches, to moors, to the beautiful river valley and countryside, Exeter itself is just so lovely that we often don’t choose to go anywhere else. I love the openness of the river, the way that you can walk from the quay, along the river bank and feel like you are outside of the city in minutes. We love to hire a bike from <a href="http://www.saddlepaddle.co.uk/" target="_blank">Saddles & Paddles</a> and explore the paths around the river and canal, head up to the <a href="http://www.turfpub.net/" target="_blank">Turf Locks</a> for a pint of beer in the sunshine, watch the estuary in the late afternoon light. I love browsing through all the quirky little shops at the quay, or wandering across to <a href="http://www.thewelcomecafe.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Welcome Café</a> for coffee and cake in its lovely rooms. So it should come as no surprise that my idea of a romantic evening in Exeter would be based in this area.<br />
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When I first moved to Exeter with my lovely other half, Ian, we’d often go for a wander around the Quayside in the evening. So my ideal romantic evening would start here, with a walk along the riverside, the sun setting over the city, watching the swans nestling down for the night. I love to be reminded of what a beautiful place that we live in, and every time I walk around this area, I do just think how lucky we are to be here in Exeter. We would then have to head up the hill to the utterly wonderful <a href="http://www.thegoodpubguide.co.uk/pub/view/Hour-Glass-EX2-4AU" target="_blank">Hour Glass Inn</a>. Our first home in Exeter was just around the corner from this fantastic pub, and we have spent countless happy hours there over the years, tucked away at one of its little tables and sampling delicious local beers. For a special evening, I’d want to eat here as well, as the food is utterly delicious. Probably finishing with one of the lovely single malts on offer behind the bar and a quick game of Bananagrams on the pub table.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5Qu_Jw7lzlLOzq-T4CoQhnCKvgtgmptcHId7uz1WxZkhmfqawxoDlSJ7k5m0PB2QVyH1RcIoQnnCtCwkE1pNiU2FdsudaXrJZRT2dhKZAu-66FDmK7-tP4v3bFDHmcMVG63LrP2oazOk/s1600/%C2%A9+Helen+Lisk+Photography+2013+-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5Qu_Jw7lzlLOzq-T4CoQhnCKvgtgmptcHId7uz1WxZkhmfqawxoDlSJ7k5m0PB2QVyH1RcIoQnnCtCwkE1pNiU2FdsudaXrJZRT2dhKZAu-66FDmK7-tP4v3bFDHmcMVG63LrP2oazOk/s1600/%C2%A9+Helen+Lisk+Photography+2013+-2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: © Helen Lisk Photography 2013 -2</td></tr>
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On our first New Year’s Eve in Exeter, we walked from the Hour Glass and shared a bottle of champagne with friends at midnight, standing on Colleton Crescent and watching all the fireworks going off over across the city. This would be the perfect end to my evening – maybe without the champagne and probably no fireworks in the sky this time, but to stand there, snuggle up with my husband and look at all the lights twinkling across lovely Exeter… perfect!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFQtLG-8szaLbTLMQo3hUpE0Y13l_9Pu-mIqHqae4J1KYAiXYmLTkm_F5hkbO-5vjyUBbX11gvN3nNkdrG7xwkHfeHOUmFaVRvtinLSK424-wQYMlOVRa4znwg3buM_Wh8X1e1y8dskYs/s1600/%C2%A9+Helen+Lisk+Photography+2013+-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFQtLG-8szaLbTLMQo3hUpE0Y13l_9Pu-mIqHqae4J1KYAiXYmLTkm_F5hkbO-5vjyUBbX11gvN3nNkdrG7xwkHfeHOUmFaVRvtinLSK424-wQYMlOVRa4znwg3buM_Wh8X1e1y8dskYs/s1600/%C2%A9+Helen+Lisk+Photography+2013+-11.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Helen Lisk Photography 2013 -11</td></tr>
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<i>See more of Helen's work on at <a href="http://www.helenlisk.blogspot.co.uk/">www.helenliskphotography.co.uk</a>, or follow her on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/helenliskphotography" target="_blank">Facebook </a>and Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/helenliskphoto" target="_blank">@helenliskphoto</a>.</i>Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-13816929787869931802014-02-01T03:48:00.001-08:002014-02-02T06:12:50.791-08:00Say hello to Jelly: City Centre Children's Shop Extraordinare<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Introducing <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JellyCharityShop">Jelly</a>, quite possibly the most adorable children's shop in Exeter city centre and the only one with dedicated collection of great value, great quality, second hand, or 'preloved', goods. Run by a team of welcoming, committed, creative and inspired volunteers, this light and loved space is a must visit for tots in the city. Not just a clothes shop, this <a href="http://www.eci.org.uk/ECI-ProjectJelly-Childrens-Clothes-Shop">Exeter Community Initiatives</a> project has got books, games, toys and is gearing up to take prams as well. Not to mention the lovely bits and bobs for kids up to 11 years old.<br />
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The thing that makes Jelly different is that even in this small space, the team behind it have thought of everything to make shopping with little ones more enjoyable. When you visit Jelly you will be greeted by a whimsical window display created by the volunteer staff. As you browse the racks and shelves, your little one can amuse himself in their play area. And should your family need a comfort break, they have a quiet space for changing and feeding.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7rmpe3pmJX57BcxNwReqHXe8Wrj51bw6CNR4hLx-dgK4pPeTWHf6KArBZKxZakXUIyefwwSm5CznXdjlxbeOdbB8QcKW1l8lyGvVWID8VxozIv0brDs_lj-noVyWTunzm0n7N6bs9Y7e/s1600/ex_Jan14_Jelly4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7rmpe3pmJX57BcxNwReqHXe8Wrj51bw6CNR4hLx-dgK4pPeTWHf6KArBZKxZakXUIyefwwSm5CznXdjlxbeOdbB8QcKW1l8lyGvVWID8VxozIv0brDs_lj-noVyWTunzm0n7N6bs9Y7e/s1600/ex_Jan14_Jelly4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shop and play at Jelly</td></tr>
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The shop is the brain child of the good people of the Exeter Community Initiatives and all profits go back into community projects throughout city. And the ECI does all kinds of amazing - childrens centres, projects for sustainability, urban farming, youth work, and even a city farm - so shopping here is better than getting cash back because it helps make Exeter a more awesome place for your awesome kid.<br />
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Visit <a href="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/edit?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=zhoqTGkd5omU.kNYgUJsHt5GA" target="_blank">Jelly at 9 Paris Street,</a> Exeter City Centre.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clothing for infants, tots and older children</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toys, games and gifts.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Books for children of all ages</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoF1Eq0OJCcjwa1dCE1BCg_ZwAkIX_itxEjN5qtItmC3ln7PFAtOLYiFt3setXIwbiJnrdXCwHaGm0XKdQ8xWN2mFc2FZHNguUasKOFFl9QxRRKORpsE2YbamkvdcvSd6WRep4aFdPIAQO/s1600/ex_Jan14_Jelly2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoF1Eq0OJCcjwa1dCE1BCg_ZwAkIX_itxEjN5qtItmC3ln7PFAtOLYiFt3setXIwbiJnrdXCwHaGm0XKdQ8xWN2mFc2FZHNguUasKOFFl9QxRRKORpsE2YbamkvdcvSd6WRep4aFdPIAQO/s1600/ex_Jan14_Jelly2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jelly at 9 Paris Street, Exeter, Devon</td></tr>
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<br />Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-44242529389670629192014-01-28T05:15:00.000-08:002014-01-28T06:24:11.230-08:00Film, Food, Fun & Frolics at The Globe's Blues Brothers Night<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17.940000534057617px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
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<span style="color: black; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_648340579"></span> Thursday, 30 Jan, Newtown <span id="goog_648340580"></span></a>will be abuzz with a night of Blues Brothers booze, food, music and a little bit of fancy dress when the Reel Collective kick off their brand new night at the Globe with a Blues Brothers party to make James & Elwood proud. I caught up with Andy at <a href="http://www.globeinnexeter.co.uk/">The Globe</a> to get the scoop on what's in store.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: yellow;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">So who are the Reel Collective? </span></span></h4>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.30000114440918px; white-space: normal;">The Reel Collective is made up of Sal Hughes, Ali Pym, Ben Rothwell and Andy Miller. Sal works as a media lecturer at South Devon College and also co-hosts <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PhonicFilm" target="_blank">Ben and Sally's Film Show</a> on <a href="http://www.phonic.fm/" target="_blank">Phonic FM</a>. Ali is also a lecturer in media and film at Exeter College. Ben works at <a href="http://www.picturehouses.co.uk/cinema/Exeter_Picturehouse/" target="_blank">The Picturehouse</a> in Exeter and as a projectionist, and is the other half of Ben and Sally's Film Show. Andy is co-owner at The Globe in Exeter. This collaboration came about through a shared passion for classic films, community engagement, coupled with having a bit of fun. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">What can we expect on the night? </span></b></h4>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The first Reel Collective night is on Thursday the 30th of January with a screening of the cult classic, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080455/" target="_blank">The Blues Brothers</a>. This won't be your ordinary screening, the upstairs room will be lovingly decorated in a Blues Brother's style. A vegetarian friendly supper is included as part of the ticket price, as is post-movie dancing with soul, swing and Motown classics being lined up on the house record deck. If you're thinking of coming along, don your shades, pork pie hats, and anything else that gives a nod to the era and in particular the movie narrative itself. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">You guys have done a great job revitalizing the pub and giving it a welcoming & modern feel. This is should be a fun start to the new year, what else have you got in mind for 2014?</span></b></h4>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thanks, that's really kind of you to say. 2014 is looking good already with lots of projects on the cards right from the word go. We aim to run the Reel Collective nights on a bi-monthly basis. We will be serving food for the first time within the next few weeks, which is very exciting, as the kitchen refit has taken much longer than we first anticipated. Live music will still be a major feature on the landscape at The Globe going forwards, with some exciting new nights in the offing. We plan on utilising the upstairs bar space a lot more going forwards, again we will be posting any new developments on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/exeter.globe" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> - keep your eyes peeled for those in the next couple of months.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/blackzack00/">black.zack00</a></td></tr>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-57367214637602536132014-01-27T12:56:00.001-08:002014-01-27T12:56:27.280-08:00Exeter LOL Comedy Festival Review: Robert Newman's New Theory of Evolution<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rob Newman 2014 Comedy Tour </td></tr>
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Anyone going to <a href="http://www.robnewman.com/live.html" target="_blank">Robert Newman</a>'s show expecting to hear a gently introspective retrospective set like that which his former partner in crime <a href="https://www.edfringe.com/whats-on/comedy/david-baddiel-fame-not-the-musical" target="_blank">David Baddiel delivered at the Edinburgh Fringe</a> last summer, will be pleasantly surprised at being totally wrong.<br />
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Sunday night's sold out '<a href="http://lolexeter.com/2013/12/12/rob-newman/" target="_blank">New Theory of Evolution' show</a> at the <a href="http://www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/" target="_blank">Exeter Phoenix</a> was a brilliantly considered medley of surreal musings, charming anecdotes, a well read basis for his new theory of evolution and a little bit of ukulele. I won't go into the theory itself, because I hate comedy show reviews that spoil the punchline, but in the end I fully was convinced. There is a thread that carries through the show, something that seems to be a running theme of his <a href="http://www.robnewman.com/biog.html" target="_blank">body of work</a> for the last few years in fact, that as a society we have the potential to do better...and should at least make an effort to do so.<br />
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So while the show is in almost no way observational comedy - there is brief mention of his daughter and possible reference to an unnamed postman friend - it is not impersonal at all. You are laughing with him as he shares things that he's concerned about, cares about and may be attempting to influence, ever so slightly, with this new theory of his.<br />
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Sat in the audience I was reminded of Mark Thomas, Robin Ince and on occasion even one Mr. Stuart Lee, in that it's a show with a thesis that makes you think as much as you laugh. I like this. It makes me happy. It makes me pleased that there are people in the world that still find wonder and amusement in what everyone else takes for granted. These people are messengers that make sure that we don't just let daily nonsense pass us by unchecked and keep a keen eye out for ducks who are fluent in French and Flemmish.<br />
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<i>More comedy on at the Exeter Phoenix and throughout the city as part of the <a href="http://lolexeter.com/" target="_blank">LOL Festival</a> until 7 Feb.</i><br />
<br />Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-27087150394641656512014-01-24T06:27:00.002-08:002014-01-24T06:27:50.953-08:00Weekend Playlist: Exeter Gigs & RavesThe city is alive this weekend with all kinds of music. Feast your ears on this fine selection on gigs and happenings.<br />
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Friday</h4>
Indie band, The Raptors will be launching their new EP at the Exeter Phoenix's 'New Sounds' night. Drop in to rock out The Raptors, Foot-Joy, and the New Lights. Free from 8pm.<br />
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Dorset band The Devils Rejects, will be burning up the stage at The Firehouse on Friday night. Normal start is about 10pm. £1 entry, delicious pizzas, ales and ciders to be had.<br />
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Late night DJ mecca, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheCellarDoorExeter" target="_blank">Cellar Door</a> will be bring the funk with their new Friday night jam, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/flysocietycellardoor" target="_blank">Fly Society</a>. We're talkin' garage, hip hop, DnB, house and all out party tunes from 10-3 for £3 on the door.<br />
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Saturday</h4>
<a href="http://www.adamsweetmusic.com/" target="_blank">Adam Sweet</a>, is easily one of Exeter's premiere acoustic blues men and you can catch this long legged crooner on Saturday afternoon at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EvolutionExeter" target="_blank">Evolution Cafe</a> on Fore Street from about 1pm. <br />
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<a href="http://www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/rufiji-ngoma-a-charity-gig/" target="_blank">Rufiji's parties</a> are kind of legendary. They raise money for an Africa village and generally blow the roof off wherever they go. Saturday the will be joined by up and coming indie act The Beacons, for fun and frolics at the Exeter Phoenix. £8 from 8pm.<br />
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Sunday</h4>
Wicked awesome Americana band <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CutPurseRascals?group_id=0" target="_blank">Cut Purse Rascal</a>s will be launching their new <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/233638960150980" target="_blank">EP at the Bike Shed</a> on Sunday. They've got a great sound and a vintage style, should be a perfect <a href="http://www.bikeshedtheatre.co.uk/" target="_blank">Bike Shed </a>evening.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/116262713&color=ff5500&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true" width="100%"></iframe>Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-33479370372892299772014-01-20T13:15:00.001-08:002014-01-21T12:59:19.483-08:0010 Signs You Live in ExeterWhen you live in Exeter there are a few things that you take for granted. That there will be traffic on Exe Bridges whenever you need to cross it - and you will get caught at all of the traffic lights. That you can't possibly leave Timepiece at the end of the night without getting a burger. And that you are surrounded by students, some how they're everywhere. But when you go for a sunny walk by the river, catch up with your friend on the High Street, or see that statue with a cone on its head, you know that you're home.<br />
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1. Looking for a parking space when the students are here...</h4>
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2. Finding a parking space when the students are here...</h4>
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3. When you hear singing from the street at 3 in the morning...</h4>
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4. When you've been at the food festival all weekend...</h4>
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5. At the Great West Run...</h4>
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6. Before Exeter City play Plymouth, everyone says...</h4>
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7. After Exeter City play Plymouth, everyone says...</h4>
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8. When you finish shopping the High Street on a Saturday...</h4>
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9. At the end of the night, when you're trying to get to the the front of the queue at Uncle Raj...</h4>
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10. But when the sun is shining and you're sitting by the Waterfront with a pint in your hand...</h4>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-33373480826442020642014-01-10T00:26:00.001-08:002014-01-10T00:29:24.562-08:00Raise your glass to the 25th Annual Exeter Festival of Winter Ales!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pint of the local please!</td></tr>
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Exeter's local <a href="http://www.camra.org.uk/" target="_blank">CAMRA </a>will be celebrating quarter century of awesomeness today when they open the doors to the <a href="http://eedcamra.wix.com/exeter1#!2014-exeter-festival-of-winter-ales/cko8" target="_blank">25th Exeter & East Devon Festival of Winter Ales</a> at <a href="http://www.camra.org.uk/event_detail.php?id=4" target="_blank">St James Park</a> today. If you're wondering whether they're serious about it, we're talking 66 delicious winter ales, 12 refreshing real ciders, and Ginger Ale for good measure.<br />
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I went <a href="http://theexeterblog.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/meet-me-halfway-my-year-in-exeter-so-far.html" target="_blank">last year</a> and the year before, and was delighted on both occasions. There is great representation from local breweries like the <a href="http://www.otterbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Otter</a>, <a href="http://www.theexeterbrewery.co.uk/#" target="_blank">Exeter</a>, <a href="http://www.exevalleybrewery.co.uk/" target="_blank">Exe Valley</a> and <a href="http://driftwoodbeer.com/" target="_blank">Driftwood </a>breweries, as well as some northerners from Somerset and beyond.<br />
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If you go along, expect a casual, friendly atmosphere and a lot of very merry people. They open at 11 on Friday and Saturday. Last year they had 1800 visitors and in the past they've sold out(!) so grab a glass and get down there if you can.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfSvCvWqlyOGw7xTiWGo6EAW4wE8d_65CzgJfu6NjkPMiheII11TM7MTjMmqywNf-yfd8RkrtnCh1I4GF6nGPUf5NVP53FM5eH9rrD67FHIsIuAfS2rX0dbir0vQma9JV74HM5DTc0izE/s1600/20130118_213228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfSvCvWqlyOGw7xTiWGo6EAW4wE8d_65CzgJfu6NjkPMiheII11TM7MTjMmqywNf-yfd8RkrtnCh1I4GF6nGPUf5NVP53FM5eH9rrD67FHIsIuAfS2rX0dbir0vQma9JV74HM5DTc0izE/s1600/20130118_213228.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couple jars from last year's Festival</td></tr>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-86265730333890505892013-12-14T02:44:00.001-08:002013-12-14T11:42:05.416-08:00Secrets of Exeter Beauty: Arbonne Product Review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-MSlbNxPcZ7hYqE-f-vJboSnkoQoO7ZipL-gXX6rxzD13sCtyZoZsDhPpL3HMduNlNzOSu7A1Jf-iDv6FIMTWnciNE5c8rxyhWQdgLmyf9skAYoKBo3H_FgG5staKt9B3KonBMm2wxBjz/s1600/reveiw_Arbonne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-MSlbNxPcZ7hYqE-f-vJboSnkoQoO7ZipL-gXX6rxzD13sCtyZoZsDhPpL3HMduNlNzOSu7A1Jf-iDv6FIMTWnciNE5c8rxyhWQdgLmyf9skAYoKBo3H_FgG5staKt9B3KonBMm2wxBjz/s1600/reveiw_Arbonne.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exeter Arbonne Independent Consultant Emma Tellesy</td></tr>
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<a href="http://emmatellesy.myarbonne.co.uk/" target="_blank">Exeter Arbonne</a> beauty representative <a href="https://twitter.com/ArbonneEmma" target="_blank">Emma Tellesy</a> is confident, friendly, fabulous, intelligent and all round awesome. Not only is she a young mum and entrepreneur but she's also a pilot. That's right, 'ladies and gentlemen this is your captain speaking'....a pilot! And when a thoroughly modern woman invites you to try out something that she thinks the world of, you kind of have to give it a go.<br />
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So for the last week I've been moisturising like a boss with a beauty regime that has been truly lovely. Using the <a href="https://secure.myarbonne.co.uk/arbonne/emmatellesy.nsf/p1/1?OpenDocument&shoppingcart=1" target="_blank">Arbonne RE9 Advanced Anit-Aging Set,</a> I've been treating myself to a 5 step mini facial every morning and evening. There's a cleanser, toner, intensive renewal serum, eye cream, as well as a day and night cream. Now that might sound like a lot of steps - it did to me when I first got the pack - but by the end of the week I could do the whole routine in about 4 mins. And I found that because I knew I had to do it, I would get up just a little bit earlier and so actually had more rather than less time in the morning.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82hYaWOSn_53XvBT1s4jbb-xN9LMPzhj4J5ZCEDJJeBSTZ8Hxh7S5i2N4jfKkK9i8T-HQ8kIwEJKMBlNgQllI_idL17IZM6gBHkK0fJGWuRzKAqesQBT9DBpvbU6PM85D2F5NWncKCI6Y/s1600/reveiw_Arbonne1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh82hYaWOSn_53XvBT1s4jbb-xN9LMPzhj4J5ZCEDJJeBSTZ8Hxh7S5i2N4jfKkK9i8T-HQ8kIwEJKMBlNgQllI_idL17IZM6gBHkK0fJGWuRzKAqesQBT9DBpvbU6PM85D2F5NWncKCI6Y/s1600/reveiw_Arbonne1.jpg" /></a></div>
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And how was it? Well to start with the bottles are all really pretty, which is a little thing but makes you feel glam even before you begin. The face wash is light and gentle, but effective. Even after a night of gigging with my band in heavy makeup, I got a clear wash without any irritation. Aiming the spray-on toner took a bit of getting used to but I've used toners before and the upshot of this was that I didn't have to worry about finding cotton buds to apply it. The intensive renewal serum was small but gave good even coverage.The eye cream was the bit I was most impressed with because even with just a week of use, I definitely noticed a reduction in dark areas that, I must admit, I normally have under my eyes. And both the night and day creams helped me to keep a supple exterior throughout the week. Truly a treat.<br />
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Add to this the fact the RE9 is part of a suite of products <a href="http://emmatellesy.myarbonne.co.uk/arbonne/emmatellesy.nsf/p1/3?OpenDocument&startonpage3=1" target="_blank">Arbonne products</a> which are totally ethically sound - vegan approved for being free from animal testing and products, contain no petrolchemicals, use natural ingredients, and have a thorough environmental policy - and you've got a serious skin care contender.<br />
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After a only a week, I'm not sure if I'm flying as high as high as Emma, but I'm feeling well on my way!<br />
<br />Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-52054697596870831442013-11-25T13:13:00.000-08:002013-11-25T13:14:12.447-08:00Las Iguanas Lands in Exeter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHyIL1qwCu93sQmjnBXUYyVH_wed7Ird5dCgOZpFViggoxPM3fPGI1sqUVmtx9_mooL5jwnP_5qxqv4QpNoKo2MPR8Ao3qUlq3Rf4MIJ70p8gy3go99YUkLY0oMl2-7gcCHSJWhk-09aaL/s1600/Iguanas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHyIL1qwCu93sQmjnBXUYyVH_wed7Ird5dCgOZpFViggoxPM3fPGI1sqUVmtx9_mooL5jwnP_5qxqv4QpNoKo2MPR8Ao3qUlq3Rf4MIJ70p8gy3go99YUkLY0oMl2-7gcCHSJWhk-09aaL/s1600/Iguanas.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There was a photo booth...I just about got the hang of it!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.iguanas.co.uk/" target="_blank">Las Iguanas</a> launched their new <a href="http://www.iguanas.co.uk/locations/exeter" target="_blank">Exeter restaurant</a> this weekend with a bang. The party at their new Queen Street branch was heaving with VIPs grooving to a salsa beat and indulging in a delicious and generous selection of samples from the <a href="http://www.iguanas.co.uk/sites/default/files/Las%20Iguanas%20Menu%200913R_8.pdf" target="_blank">Latin menu</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhj5ibvpY5Nuclxyz-2wMqr0FXhhHG8i-MuNy1GLVKo1tV2sHBBOV-1bBvsWjGVjsH9fTSSaDTycL4XLNQd_HOrYHL9cKsv0eWoa_AoKJAcgc7y7eeYezgx_eSHv-AZcKLIvGYsnSvTYug/s1600/Iguanas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhj5ibvpY5Nuclxyz-2wMqr0FXhhHG8i-MuNy1GLVKo1tV2sHBBOV-1bBvsWjGVjsH9fTSSaDTycL4XLNQd_HOrYHL9cKsv0eWoa_AoKJAcgc7y7eeYezgx_eSHv-AZcKLIvGYsnSvTYug/s1600/Iguanas2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VIPs a plenty....if you look closely you might see an Exeter Chief</td></tr>
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We're talking mango & brie empenadas, mushroom quesadillas with garlic & thyme, mini smokey shredded beef burritos, nachos with quality guacamole & spicy salsa and that's before we even get down to the business of <a href="http://www.iguanas.co.uk/sites/default/files/Las%20Iguanas%20Drink%20menu%200913R_13.pdf" target="_blank">cocktails</a>! Their signature caipirinha and rum punch were the stars of the night and the friendly staff were working hard to keep everyone topped up.<br />
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I was so excited to attend the event because Las Iguanas is kind of the answer to my prayers. As a native Californian I grew up on Mexican food and have struggled to find a good restaurant to fill that need. While the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/samanthagustavo7869" target="_blank">Taco Macho</a> stall at the Exeter market, run by Ensenada Chef Gus, is a brilliant place for a spot of lunch, sometimes you just need more. Las Iguanas skill is that they manage to mix European ingredients with Latin recipes in a way that keeps the essence of the dish whilst giving if a fresh perspective. Add to this lovely staff and a vibrant atmosphere and you've got a recipe for awesomeness.<br />
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Bienvenidos a Exeter Las Iguanas!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbQUNZQoOKi82Vgb82eGeE1wEvbknuI3Fien16LOxBdFm0O1AQS56LEpReveJXXxd50KZfIN06r1hHtrNzHbGPH4829Gg5-5oZUakotdB_j3qcYF6D2oJGmfOKqudL4TsU7MIgEU2ynk/s1600/20130402_162124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbQUNZQoOKi82Vgb82eGeE1wEvbknuI3Fien16LOxBdFm0O1AQS56LEpReveJXXxd50KZfIN06r1hHtrNzHbGPH4829Gg5-5oZUakotdB_j3qcYF6D2oJGmfOKqudL4TsU7MIgEU2ynk/s400/20130402_162124.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious Veggie Burrito that I sampled at their Brighton branch last spring.</td></tr>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-51051311494318789482013-11-05T06:05:00.002-08:002013-12-14T10:05:07.825-08:00Speaking out for Exeter, Together<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wnpP_bL1fSQ/UknFT_pb0CI/AAAAAAAAHB4/V6zXwcgbBOw/s1600/20130928_130039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wnpP_bL1fSQ/UknFT_pb0CI/AAAAAAAAHB4/V6zXwcgbBOw/s400/20130928_130039.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cllr Richard Westlake, TOSFOR's Nazima Khan, MP Ben Bradshaw <br />
and myself at Ben's recent Multicultural Lunch event</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Exeter is a city that is home to a beautiful purpose built mosque, one of the country's oldest synagogues, a Sikh Temple, a number of restaurants and business serving our large Chinese student population and one of the </span><a href="http://www.exeter-respect.org/" style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;" target="_blank">South West's largest annual celebrations of diversit</a><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">y. I have friends here from all corners of England, Scotland, and Wales, as well as the Ivory Coast, Hong Kong, Palestine, Lebanon, Poland, Iran, Egypt, Germany, Venezuela, Mexico, Columbia, Kenya, South Africa, Malawi, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Italy, Brazil and France...to name but a few. Our city celebrates Diwali, Chinese New Year and Dia De Los Muertos, alongside Christmas, St George's Day, and our local Llamas Day traditions. It's part of who we are. It's part of what makes our city a great.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">On <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/315249158616304/" target="_blank">Saturday, 16 November, Exeter will stand up for the diversity</a> that has shaped our city for hundreds of years and will stand against a visiting </span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">contingent</span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> from the EDL</span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">. In 2011, the last time the EDL held a 'march' in Exeter, their half dozen members left with tails between their legs because <a href="http://uaf.org.uk/2011/02/exeter-hundreds-of-festive-antifascists-humiliate-handful-of-edl/" target="_blank">they were met with about 300 people from all different backgrounds reveling in their rights to revel</a> with whomever they chose! For Round Two, the fine folks from <a href="http://exetertogether.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Exeter Together</a> will be standing together for what we believe in with colourful English Disco Lovers style counter protest. I spoke with </span></span>long time activist and Exeter Together rep, Lizi Allnatt about plans for the day.<br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Who is Exeter Together?</span></span></h4>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">We are an umbrella group of lots of local organisations such as faith and political groups and trade unions, Woodcraft Folk and Exeter Unite Against Fascism. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why are you demonstrating?</span></span></h4>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">We are demonstrating because the English Defence League have decided to call a national demonstration in Exeter on Nov 16th. This is the first time the EDL have called a national demonstration here. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">What have you got planned?</span></h4>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Initially we wrote a statement which condemned the EDL and called for people to support an alternative event on the 16th Nov. So far over 80 local organisations have signed the statement and nearly 500 individuals. We have asked people to join with us and celebrate the diversity our beautiful city has. On Nov 16th we are marching from Belmont Park to Bedford Square and holding a rally in the centre of town. We have invited dancers and singers and poets to perform and there will be family friendly activities available. We hope that our event will be loud and proud and colourful. The police have assured us that our route does not clash with any plans the EDL may have so we really hope families will join us for the event.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Why is it important?</span></span></h4>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">We believe it is important to have an alternative demo to show that the EDL are not speaking for the people of Exeter when they claim that they are coming to claim back Exeter because it is being over run by Muslims both at the University and the city. They spend their time making racist Islamophobic comments/threats on their Facebook pages. Even <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-24442953" target="_blank">Tommy Robinson their old leader admitted recently that the organisation is riddled with racists and fascists</a>. We do not want these people to march around Exeter without an alternative view being shown. They do not really seem to know why they are marching here, however we fear that unchallenged views like those of the EDL can grow and spread fear and hatred and divide a community.<br /><br /><br />Come along to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/315249158616304/" target="_blank">Exeter Together march on 16 Nov at 1030, starting at Belmont Park, Exeter</a>.</span></span>Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-25948235818240631452013-08-12T17:10:00.000-07:002013-08-12T17:10:29.976-07:00Melosa storms Boomtown 2013: Chinatown may never be the same<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdS1X_IFsmQiA7BGBGSNGmMZA_tpbVCwXEf9kw1ZW6g8_sXKA0wyktYJ5U7i7RNLZK_EIO5XIopsqcKYBkst32YTDXxcW2AMr6yDZ_EDiSN9T2tODeO0G7Kq1-Q9Z50V0WrtvWnsWHkgZ/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNdS1X_IFsmQiA7BGBGSNGmMZA_tpbVCwXEf9kw1ZW6g8_sXKA0wyktYJ5U7i7RNLZK_EIO5XIopsqcKYBkst32YTDXxcW2AMr6yDZ_EDiSN9T2tODeO0G7Kq1-Q9Z50V0WrtvWnsWHkgZ/s1600/photo.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melosa at Boomtown's Chinatown </td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.boomtownfair.co.uk/" target="_blank">Boomtown</a> gets under your skin. So many townies in one field. So many small worlds raised from nothing. It is a festival like none other. It's filthy and skanky and brilliant. This year, <a href="http://theexeterblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/ska-for-all-occasions-melosas-grand.html" target="_blank">Exeter's ska band extraordinaire, Melosa</a>, returned to the town that boom built for the third time. They rocked the <a href="http://www.boomtownfair.co.uk/city-guide/city-districts/chinatown-1" target="_blank">Chinatown</a> stage on Sunday in true Melosa style. The set included classic Melosa tracks like <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/A-New-Chapter/dp/B005K8MASM/ref=dm_ap_alb3/275-6409073-5689214" target="_blank">Warning and Nemo</a> as well as my favourite song from the latest EP, <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Our-Word-Is-Weapon-Explicit/dp/B00APOEQYM/ref=sr_shvl_album_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1358020414&sr=301-4" target="_blank">Silverspoon</a>. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melosa at Boomtown 2013's China Town Stage</td></tr>
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And they were in good company with a line up that included ska reggae royalty like Lee Scratch Perry, Los Angeles cumbia kings Ozomatli, hip hop from High Focus Records and the dopest DJs in the vicinity.<br />
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The site was epic this year and between all the music, there was so much to see. Like Arcadia rising like a phoenix from the depths and worshiped by a seething crowd of thousands. The <a href="http://www.arcadiaspectacular.com/installation-hire" target="_blank">Lords of Lightning</a>. The Hidden Woods, engineered by our very own <a href="https://www.facebook.com/exetersoundhire" target="_blank">Exeter Sound Hire</a>. The giant Boombox. The graffiti. The roller disco. The ninjas. That's right; I said ninjas AND lightning AND a roller disco. Though the festival has at least doubled in size since I first went in 2010, they seem to have resisted the race to banality that saturates and sanitizes our world. It's not for everyone. It's just awesome.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrb0mOuVUIxuQDRTZwx_N7Aoy330BfgUvdfgOy2k2OJRahLJZTxAXNAEiiZnvURdoCjIlZCWXjRLKxCMlD_F4SCXJydl2vTpiLEgnfW_F8JzcgEgVpTF1S4n40iXTYkXXUKSVPvbNQ7IRa/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrb0mOuVUIxuQDRTZwx_N7Aoy330BfgUvdfgOy2k2OJRahLJZTxAXNAEiiZnvURdoCjIlZCWXjRLKxCMlD_F4SCXJydl2vTpiLEgnfW_F8JzcgEgVpTF1S4n40iXTYkXXUKSVPvbNQ7IRa/s1600/photo.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Behold, <a href="http://www.boomtownfair.co.uk/city-guide/main-stages/arcadia" target="_blank">Arcadia</a>.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdiYA-lnR-F7-Irff4QsnnPsz9Y03zqKw4WZeHoZFhR1qqLmMDswEhWOb32j79rsbMv_ataX-q6wfd-CHpDVAe0Jzk1Bl4RYNYKOS3ONho4yx7cM-W92h6oq0oQTw_q8EJ1lXM3GX_5eiw/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdiYA-lnR-F7-Irff4QsnnPsz9Y03zqKw4WZeHoZFhR1qqLmMDswEhWOb32j79rsbMv_ataX-q6wfd-CHpDVAe0Jzk1Bl4RYNYKOS3ONho4yx7cM-W92h6oq0oQTw_q8EJ1lXM3GX_5eiw/s1600/photo.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boomtown <a href="http://www.boomtownfair.co.uk/city-guide/main-stages/boombox" target="_blank">Boombox</a> Stage, like boom!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfDJomGW9ztuvRNITUaRqAtWHfT-z2qMdaVvwCzjvOn8ZdZ_UmHT4MA5Y5VOvbDxokD5m5Lxb7Fa7SbCNszlcwBbILysLayQJ_N1GnI27CvS83DpYp2dMcy5ocyn9BHVKeKGml1E5cHYu/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfDJomGW9ztuvRNITUaRqAtWHfT-z2qMdaVvwCzjvOn8ZdZ_UmHT4MA5Y5VOvbDxokD5m5Lxb7Fa7SbCNszlcwBbILysLayQJ_N1GnI27CvS83DpYp2dMcy5ocyn9BHVKeKGml1E5cHYu/s1600/photo.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset at the Town Centre</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-70770673678541361232013-06-25T14:52:00.001-07:002013-06-25T14:55:11.235-07:00Exeter Big Screen at the Park 2013 listings announced!The good folks at the Exeter Phoenix have really outdone themselves this year with the lineup for the 2013 <a href="http://www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/category/big-screen/" target="_blank">Big Screen in the Park</a> at <a href="https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?ie=UTF-8&q=northernhay+gardens&fb=1&gl=uk&hq=northernhay+gardens&cid=0,0,7894578885066634270&ei=7Q_KUb_mMsKl0wW934CACg&ved=0CKcBEPwSMAE" target="_blank">Northernhay Gardens</a>. One absolute classic, one total legend, a masterpiece and a visual feast? There will be much popcorn eating methinks.<br />
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If you've never been before, the way that it works is for 4 days every summer, they put a...big screen...in the park....and everyone comes along with a picnic and enjoys the show. It's brilliant. It used to be free but they sell tickets now at a reasonable £3 per film so that they can afford to do it again next year. Shows start at 9pm and it's just lovely to cozy up with your sweetheart and a film as the sunsets.<br />
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Envelope please. And the nominees for best Devon hillside picture show are....<br />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/the-goonies-pg/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Goonies on Weds 14 Aug</span></a></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOkOq88mibYaRmFAjR_RJYeLpGUwfFc8g0v3Plhwh-KXqf6oTN6Rb0r0EH7hMJcgLsXSrVbO0GOiE9EwQKcagwT_bsNNqaMWXt9kuTqW6okk4mY0YM48CYgDgMPWNH7Ea_bMd6W8sEBF6j/s1600/ex_june_goonie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOkOq88mibYaRmFAjR_RJYeLpGUwfFc8g0v3Plhwh-KXqf6oTN6Rb0r0EH7hMJcgLsXSrVbO0GOiE9EwQKcagwT_bsNNqaMWXt9kuTqW6okk4mY0YM48CYgDgMPWNH7Ea_bMd6W8sEBF6j/s1600/ex_june_goonie.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poster by <a href="http://brickhut.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Brickhut</a></td></tr>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/skyfall/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Skyfall on Thurs 15 Aug</span></a></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_y6nkgKKbkF_3Z-sbImf1XSScLp_EtCwXq4VzCtej3ZhM4G91lZHYsmsxcp1WpwmU3e1VCERRBNVUeUqY9bZvS6jTx28GwkYjRKddI0LOhorODWxD0w0zuQ1Li1RkUyhkGqxoxQ4aTKa/s1600/ex_June_bigscreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_y6nkgKKbkF_3Z-sbImf1XSScLp_EtCwXq4VzCtej3ZhM4G91lZHYsmsxcp1WpwmU3e1VCERRBNVUeUqY9bZvS6jTx28GwkYjRKddI0LOhorODWxD0w0zuQ1Li1RkUyhkGqxoxQ4aTKa/s1600/ex_June_bigscreen.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://jswoodhams.deviantart.com/gallery/" target="_blank">Poster by Jack Woodhams</a></td></tr>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/life-of-pi-pg/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Life of Pi on Fri 16 Aug</span></a></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-m0IM_AEcwRY70QDVQT6YDcSreJ2qP63t40EK5ihEFwHeAjLiy7P1jqsbl8B-K0zcTW9_sxpVb2UQkLsLkQ76B1pvouKiLwa34JC6UfSrDChfqOEyr7vlC41Ulyizpe5SlfFMxB7VEDp/s1600/ex_june_lifeofpi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-m0IM_AEcwRY70QDVQT6YDcSreJ2qP63t40EK5ihEFwHeAjLiy7P1jqsbl8B-K0zcTW9_sxpVb2UQkLsLkQ76B1pvouKiLwa34JC6UfSrDChfqOEyr7vlC41Ulyizpe5SlfFMxB7VEDp/s1600/ex_june_lifeofpi.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://society6.com/artist/Chungkong" target="_blank">Poster by Chungkong</a></td></tr>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/the-great-gatsby-12a/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Great Gatsby on Sat 17 Aug</span></a></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghBdcDsjT0Hb_jTbN5J3hOTfnFzafKtdApuhNgMukwktWBTlGsbHa-YfpxiaWUNYkxvq6uBZ8dVcV-vgcshVBnmg6i8IdxF6q_agd3xGK2sv0xeRlMUAk_xLRUNydEBtDZ2N0gAGbpBY5w/s1600/ex_June_bigscreen2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghBdcDsjT0Hb_jTbN5J3hOTfnFzafKtdApuhNgMukwktWBTlGsbHa-YfpxiaWUNYkxvq6uBZ8dVcV-vgcshVBnmg6i8IdxF6q_agd3xGK2sv0xeRlMUAk_xLRUNydEBtDZ2N0gAGbpBY5w/s1600/ex_June_bigscreen2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thefoxisblack.com/2011/01/10/re-covered-books-the-great-gatsby/" target="_blank">Poster by Tiffany Chen</a></td></tr>
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7810541687862536679.post-20571022498577919232013-06-23T15:49:00.003-07:002013-12-14T07:47:19.937-08:00Meet me Halfway: My Year in Exeter So Far<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8YoteDHSfPEmW__DIUt9zshlZZnw0X7uTbQuh-6QR1DBjx3g3YWnUEuIhVuVaJI5z3lFcWts-Hc9A9xzvO-tEjSXyEzcIWyCYVjE-SwPeO-N-Degw_aYdp2z6eJCuwdr160jidBaj8M4/s1600/crys1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8YoteDHSfPEmW__DIUt9zshlZZnw0X7uTbQuh-6QR1DBjx3g3YWnUEuIhVuVaJI5z3lFcWts-Hc9A9xzvO-tEjSXyEzcIWyCYVjE-SwPeO-N-Degw_aYdp2z6eJCuwdr160jidBaj8M4/s400/crys1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's hard to believe that Summer Solstice has come and gone. That the long dark, cold, wet winter which started back in March 2012 and only relented at the end of May 2013 will soon be making it's approach. Today, the longest day of the year and midpoint of our annual orbit of the sun, I reckon is a good time to take stock and look back on what I did with the whole first half of the year.<br />
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<h3>
NYE 2013</h3>
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I was lucky enough to spend NYE at The <a href="http://www.grapevineexmouth.com/" target="_blank">Grapevine </a>in Exmouth with my band <a href="http://www.lemonrock.com/lazylizardband" target="_blank">Lazy Lizard</a>. Wearing a carnival head dress and a brand new frock from Exeter's best dress shop, <a href="http://www.offthehookclothing.co.uk/" target="_blank">Off The Hook</a>, we had an amazing night and I was feeling pretty good.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAEa80dTAOn0BvjXjxkhuBYMVwG_lQ8T_l7KdyaQXMQwWYXTNP3RZFv_jwhE1nPuKMdCdB55RtCKkCH2fkcUsLlfTbLBz_oGINXY8BXReSo0gGb_waPWQxJ45buJqmR91ZVFDJnSFXSnVG/s1600/20121231_211712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAEa80dTAOn0BvjXjxkhuBYMVwG_lQ8T_l7KdyaQXMQwWYXTNP3RZFv_jwhE1nPuKMdCdB55RtCKkCH2fkcUsLlfTbLBz_oGINXY8BXReSo0gGb_waPWQxJ45buJqmR91ZVFDJnSFXSnVG/s640/20121231_211712.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
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<h4>
Exeter CAMRA Festival of Winter Ales</h4>
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This is one of my favourite annual Exeter events. More than 60 amazing real ales on tap at this fabulous beer festival run by our <a href="http://eedcamra.wix.com/exeter1" target="_blank">local chapter of CAMRA</a> every January. If you're a fan of real ales in Exeter it is a must do. If you're a local you are certain to find someone that you know there toasting a pint so you can raise a raiding party or just bowl up on your own and you're guaranteed a good time. I've been twice now and it's always full of friendly people and of course, delicious ales, ciders and even a few ginger beers.<br />
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Artist Michael Buckland</h3>
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I met London born, Exmouth based, artist <a href="http://www.westcountrygalleries.co.uk/artist/public/about/24345" target="_blank">Michael Buckland</a> one evening whilst checking out <a href="http://theexeterblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/ska-for-all-occasions-melosas-grand.html" target="_blank">Melosa </a>that The Grapevine in Exmouth. Tucked away in a corner, I could see him taking in the surroundings and scribbling way in his note pad. As he got up to leave I got a sneak peak at the drawing he'd done of our table of friends an was in awe of how much detail he'd captured such a short time. A few weeks later he popped up on my Facebook and somehow we arranged for me to sit for a portrait. I was honoured. Such a lovely experience.</div>
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<h3>
Tony Law at Exeter Phoenix</h3>
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Irreverent, surreal and joyful Canadian comedian <a href="http://www.mrtonylaw.com/" target="_blank">Tony Law</a> played his first show at the <a href="http://www.exeterphoenix.co.uk/" target="_blank">Exeter Phoenix</a> back in February. It was brilliant. He's amazing. I'm not telling you anything more about he elephants though.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6lRGknW6W_9Hz4Z5zxIg1s7GbKMbOnwYntOdO3DKeV7Y4WBHoMPAwCEXwqMTYvwd3x6OIzRmhhuiqxfIOBLNl7Ji4iFD7aBG04D08C_lEla_wKz0ZKJgWYw8igoEh_b73k-kGjTTyUvA/s1600/20130213_223533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6lRGknW6W_9Hz4Z5zxIg1s7GbKMbOnwYntOdO3DKeV7Y4WBHoMPAwCEXwqMTYvwd3x6OIzRmhhuiqxfIOBLNl7Ji4iFD7aBG04D08C_lEla_wKz0ZKJgWYw8igoEh_b73k-kGjTTyUvA/s400/20130213_223533.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Telling Our Stories, Finding Our Roots at RAMM</h3>
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As part of <a href="http://theexeterblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012_10_01_archive.html" target="_blank">Telling Our Stories, Finding Our Roots</a>, I have been researching the history of black American GIs who were based in Exeter during WWII. It has been a fascinating journey that has taught me so much about England, American, historic and current attitudes to race, my family, my culture, and my city. There are lots of different elements to the project. Interviews, research and storytelling will help us to present a website, school materials, and even a guided tour to the wider public, helping to spread the word about some of Exeter's multicultural histories. In March we did our first storytelling evening at <a href="http://www.rammuseum.org.uk/whats-on/storytelling-evening-telling-our-stories-finding-our-roots-fully-booked" target="_blank">RAMM </a>to an audience of more than 100 people. Everyone in our volunteer group and from the <a href="http://www.globalcentredevon.org.uk/projects/telling-our-stories-finding-our-roots" target="_blank">Global Centre</a>, worked so hard to make it happen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVcyVScXul2timxkCOVX_rtAxH6xM6CHj6f5EeAbeicY1ShrIzSRgxHr90xP-pLULCpq2QYDJpapfw5JMmJsw8-RMhHcGi4k3ZKE341pMw8FIgrnzL7tewQg-0BmhfTKkFmOZV_KlaDXzJ/s1600/Ignite_FBSandya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVcyVScXul2timxkCOVX_rtAxH6xM6CHj6f5EeAbeicY1ShrIzSRgxHr90xP-pLULCpq2QYDJpapfw5JMmJsw8-RMhHcGi4k3ZKE341pMw8FIgrnzL7tewQg-0BmhfTKkFmOZV_KlaDXzJ/s400/Ignite_FBSandya.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Exeter Pride at Exeter Phoenix</h3>
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<a href="http://www.exeterpride.co.uk/" target="_blank">Exeter Pride</a> has been going for a few years now and there are so many brilliant people working to make it on of the best pride celebrations in the South West. My band, Lazy Lizard, played at the March 2013 post parade party and it was oh so much fun. There was a conga line during our set and more importantly I got to wear the shiniest dress I could find from Jane Norman.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXQdttsTNcPCUxdHsL2x8ykmp2gXcmJg4Ua0IKvLMp0NQmAOECtQ823WQ0EYWzObpeEaPDBOYcMLv2lwtgwEpylzgFXaKTPixwe4xONaToI5p8Pun4thLuBkDEXFD828zmKkz_zGuR4tP/s1600/20130323_232746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXQdttsTNcPCUxdHsL2x8ykmp2gXcmJg4Ua0IKvLMp0NQmAOECtQ823WQ0EYWzObpeEaPDBOYcMLv2lwtgwEpylzgFXaKTPixwe4xONaToI5p8Pun4thLuBkDEXFD828zmKkz_zGuR4tP/s400/20130323_232746.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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History of Exeter's Black GIs</h3>
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In April, the Global Centre hosted a book launch for Marika Sherwood's latest title <a href="http://www.waterstones.com/waterstonesweb/products/marika+sherwood/world+war+ii+colonies+and+colonials/9670957/" target="_blank">'World War II: Colonies & Colonials'</a>. I was honoured to be asked to speak alongside this marvelously inspiring woman. She is a prolific writer and historian who's explored all aspects of BME history in Great Britain and subverted histories around the world. Her latest title is one of more than 50 publications that she's penned and is a must read.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb0u4nVQ7qFIrXEhavCp_h8XZDqmCoxK1bvAT7FzUpuYQTaqr3t2qfZk3iLuwIDCtrwQM2MzvxXH3ox88qoSdSrg8bdfSrKRdGGjeSIRVc37gju6TlIRNxMQQRKdMIAP7i-duT362P_Dld/s1600/20130430_194932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb0u4nVQ7qFIrXEhavCp_h8XZDqmCoxK1bvAT7FzUpuYQTaqr3t2qfZk3iLuwIDCtrwQM2MzvxXH3ox88qoSdSrg8bdfSrKRdGGjeSIRVc37gju6TlIRNxMQQRKdMIAP7i-duT362P_Dld/s400/20130430_194932.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Exeter Respect Festival</h3>
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<a href="http://www.exeter-respect.org/" target="_blank">Exeter Respect Festival 2013</a> was just brilliant. The weather was fabulous and they organisers really worked hard to use every possible resource to put on what is probably the city's largest annual event. Bringing together live music, community groups, faith groups, and local businesses, it was a great celebration of the diversity and energy of our city. I was lucky enough to participate as a performer with my hip hop group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thebitterati" target="_blank">The Bitterati</a> on the <a href="http://www.phonic.fm/" target="_blank">PhonicFM </a>stage and event more randomly, we were on <a href="http://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/story/2013-06-01/exeter-respect-festival/" target="_blank">ITV Westcountry</a>!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9TqcDEJiMnR0-rVD-PE7XXJ-x_vlyrOt19p3bilGSWa2kCdzbfyZ8R_9e65PQhwU5v1l_aMKhCY65mQoRbAry0FzlmhlZfF8tEvKkx1_Rbm_Xa2vessACjn_ulN_kHX5Z9jlNm1X27Q_2/s400/Bit_Respect_crew.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://www.clivechilvers.com/" target="_blank">Clive Chilvers</a></td></tr>
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Cheers to all my Exeter friends and neighbours for making this a great year so far!<br />
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Crystal Carterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146776963067308342noreply@blogger.com0