Hello Bloggers,

It was an oversight that I didn't show you the wonderful 'Christmas Steps' (1669) photos I took, whilst recently in Bristol, England. So, here they are now. And aren't they adorable: like the Dickens's England?

Mind you, you can't mention Bristol, without acknowledging it's horrendous connection with the slave trade ships. Bristol is a city in the South West of England (in case you didn't know) And between 1697 and 1807, 2,108 known ships left Bristol to make the trip across the Atlantic with slaves. Only half of which ever survived!   And how horrible that the first slave ship to leave Bristol was called 'Beginning'!

Anyway, sorry to kill the ambience, but I guess the truth is usually worse than fiction.......So; I was on a mission to get my saxophone cork-neck repaired. That sounds painful doesn't it? So, we are wandering around in freezing cold Bristol - wearing a skirt. Well, not my husband. At six foot six I don't really think a skirt would suit him. Mind you, he does have great legs!!

Anyway, we came across this gorgeous little gem of a pub called 'Three Sugar Loaves'! What a great name. Then, I found this great little article on the area by Philippa jacks, if are interested to find out more, or visit:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/bristol/content/articles/2004/07/12/christmas_steps_feature.shtml

Sadly, (yes, wait for it) most of these charming buildings were believed to originally be brothels, since they were so close to the port. Yes, I've killed the romance again, I know  Well, I guess it brings to mind that saying that : beauty is only skin deep.......

It's not known how these charming 'Christmas Steps' street got its name. But, I will pass on Philippa's wonderful ghost story from a couple who own 'Steps To Recruitment' who believe that some of the houses were built on top of an old cemetery! They claim to've seen the ghost  of a young Victorian girl and also been joined at their kitchen table by a ghostly lady, dressed all in black. Of course the Victorians always used to wear black, when in mourning, didn't they? Hmmmmm, interesting.....I bet all you American readers are getting on the next plane, aren't you? All that history and ghostliness!! Maybe that explains why it felt so FREEZING!! All those spirits wandering around  

I can't say I saw anything out of the ordinary. Apart from English people. They are true originals, it has to be said! But, thanks to Trevor Jones and his cute little musical repair shop in Bristol! My saxophone neck is in tip-top condition now. Oooarrrrr!

Here's another little Victorian street. You can't tell from this photo, but the guy on the left was laughing at me. I don't know why? Maybe, he was thrilled to have his picture taken? Or, maybe, he was caught on camera, living a double life? It's a shame he was dressed in such modern clothes - give him a top hat and tails, and it would've been a complete Victorian scene, that even the BBC would be proud of.

Just before I let you go, it's time to have a moan. Think of a sandwhich! Subway, maybe? Ok, I'm getting the psychic picture: lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise, cheese, chicken? Now, I'll show you a typical Swiss sandwhich......

No, this is no joke. And isn't it a desperately sad sandwhich? Yes, that's cheese, in case you're not sure, and two tiny slices of tomato. What is up with the Swiss sandwhich?? Why does it make you want to cry?

Usually, we buy a Swiss sandwhich, then fill it with filling?? But, you are right, that does kind of defeat the objective of convenience, doesn't it? And value for money?

Enjoy your sandwhich  www.moorethanart.com