I can remember the Solar eclipse here in England. It was a very eerie feeling. My eldest daughter and I were in the garden at the time and she burst into tears. I can remember trying to console her.
Me Frances Rose Agnes Napper
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking all or part of the sun’s light. This happens when the three celestial bodies are aligned in a straight line. During a total solar eclipse, the sun is completely obscured, turning day into darkness for a brief period. It’s a captivating phenomenon where the sun’s corona, its outer atmosphere, becomes visible as a faint halo around the moon. Partial solar eclipses occur when only a portion of the sun is obscured by the moon. Viewing a solar eclipse directly without proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage, so it’s important to use special glasses or indirect viewing methods to safely observe the event.
It began when I went to purchase a packet of frozen peas from Sainsbury’s and I visited the Thomas Cook travel agency on the same afternoon on my way home. Spontaneously, I booked a holiday tour to California. I embarked on the journey on my own, having never travelled to the USA before.
I arrived in California with a damaged suitcase. It was quite embarrassing as I held the coach up because I could not continue my journey with my underwear hanging out of my case. 😱😱 Thankfully, British Airways replaced my case with a new one. The case had one huge crack in it, which occurred during the journey! 😱
It felt so great to be in California.
California is known for its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities and offers a myriad of experiences. From the stunning beaches of Malibu and Santa Monica to the iconic landmarks of Hollywood and San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, there’s something for everyone. Explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Yosemite National Park or take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Indulge in the world-class cuisine of San Francisco’s Chinatown or the vineyards of Napa Valley. With its blend of culture, outdoor adventure, and urban sophistication, California promises an unforgettable journey.
Going to California often evokes images of scenic road trips along the Pacific Coast Highway, exploring iconic cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, basking in the sunshine on beautiful beaches like Malibu and Santa Monica, and experiencing the diverse culture and cuisine the state has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the rugged landscapes of Yosemite National Park or simply enjoying the laid-back vibe of coastal towns like Santa Barbara, a trip to California is bound to be filled with unforgettable experiences.
Yosemite ParkYosemite Park
Several years later, I can honestly say that this trip was memorable. 🙂
I went on holiday on my own, however, I met such a lovely bunch of people during my travels to the USA. They were simply the best. 🙂
Frances x
When we arrived, we were unable to disembark the plane due to someone suspected of “Swine Flu.” Eventually, after the paramedics arrived, we were given the all clear to go home.
This is the tree which is featured in the film “Sime Like It Hot” 🙂
Hotel del Coronado – where the film “Some Like It Hot” was filmed. It starred Marilyn Munroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemon Calico I met this nice ‘real life” Sherrif at Calico. He showed me his pistol. Here I am…. up in the helicopter. A School Bus
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge located in San Francisco, California. It spans the Golden Gate Strait, the entrance to the San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean. The bridge is characterized by its distinctive orange colour and Art Deco design. It’s one of the most photographed bridges in the world and a symbol of San Francisco. It was fabulous to see the bridge in real life. I stood on a huge block to capture this photograph. Lol the coach driver was not happy with me as I couldn’t jump of the block in a hurry and everyone was waiting for me. 🙂
Me at the del Coronado Hotel. Las Vegas
Universal Studios.
I was sitting in a boat at UniversalStudios, and Jaws jumped out at the side of me! I managed to click this photograph, just in time, as I screamed! 🤣
Matt Damon
I met a cardboard cutout of Matt Damon 🤣🤣
This was one of the hotels I stayed at.
The letter “F” for Frances directly across the road from the hotel. 🙂
My holiday came to an end after a few weeks of relaxing and enjoyable experiences. I recall meeting many wonderful people during my time away, including a particularly kind lady and gentleman with whom I shared a conversation during the flight home. The lady was very considerate; she held my hand as the plane landed in Britain, recognising that I was feeling somewhat nervous.
I proceeded through customs and went to retrieve my suitcase. I hugged a few of the people I had travelled with as we waited to collect put luggage together. Unfortunately, my suitcase did not arrive on the luggage carousel; I had to depart from the airport without it. Fortunately, a courier delivered it to me the following day. Despite a few minor setbacks during my journey, I look back on the experience with a sense of humour.
I love to visit London occasionally. It is like stepping into a living museum where history meets modernity. You can stroll along the Thames, marvel at iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Tower Bridge, explore world-class museums like the British Museum, and indulge in diverse cuisines from around the globe. The city’s vibrant energy, rich culture, and architectural wonders make it an unforgettable experience for any traveller.
My siblings went to live in London, soon after they left full-time education, however, I have always remained close to where my parents live, within 14 miles of my home town, in Stamford.
Walking at Ferry Meadows is a serene experience surrounded by lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and picturesque landscapes. As you stroll along the well-maintained pathways, you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna, including ducks, swans, and other wildlife. The gentle rustle of leaves and the chirping of birds create a soothing ambience, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. You can explore various trails, picnic spots, and recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for individuals, couples, and families alike. Whether you’re seeking solitude or companionship, Ferry Meadows offers a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
My name is Frances Rose Agnes Napper. I live in Cambridgeshire and my hobbies are Photography, Blogging, Reading, Music, IT, Social Media, Cinema and Theatre, I enjoy a little bit of cooking too.
I am presently divorced, however both of my daughters have completed University, and therefore they are both adults.
I have two daughters who have both completed university. I am an ex-Scaley Brat, due to my Father being in the Royal Air Force. I am well-travelled as I accompanied my father, with his postings.
That’s me in a nutshell. 🙂
******Please respect the fact that all of my photos are Copyright and I do not allow anyone to use any of my photos for their blog sites etc This site is purely for viewing only.
Please note that I use all of my own photographs to display on this blog. If I use anyone else’s, then I will acknowledge them.
This photograph was taken when I was just 16 years old. I was a fairly shy and reserved teenager. Being fairly shy can vary from person to person, but generally, it involves feeling nervous or uncomfortable in social situations, especially when meeting new people or being the centre of attention. It might mean preferring to listen rather than speak in group settings, feeling anxious about speaking up or needing time to warm up to new people. However, being shy doesn’t mean someone can’t enjoy socializing or forming connections—it just might take a bit more effort or time for them to feel comfortable. These situations describe how I spent my teenage years.
Having said all of that, a person can grow out of their shyness as they mature by having those friends who are caring because they understand how you feel or by having some friends who are a ‘little’ more extroverted, that can help too. Those friends have helped to bring me out of my shell. I am perhaps not as shy as I used to be because I am mature these days. 😉 When you have the right people around you, they can help to bring out the very best in you.
Me =Frances Rose Agnes Napper née de Souza
An old friend once said:
Imagine standing in front of an audience. Now imagine them all naked! 🤣🤣
I think I was scarred for life, imagining people I knew, naked, however, it seemed to do the trick and I have never looked back.
My real friends are the people who watch over me, from a distance, particularly as I am now “flying without wings.” They are the people who were there for me when I was younger when they sensed that I was a little shy. Some of those people are no longer with us anymore and I miss them all dearly. Losing friends who have passed away is incredibly difficult. It’s important to allow yourself to grieve and remember the good times you shared with them. Writing this blog is a way of honouring their memory.
Feeling more confident and less shy often comes with practice, exposure, and self-acceptance. Engaging in activities that challenge you, setting small goals, and celebrating your progress can help build confidence over time. Additionally, reminding yourself of your strengths and focusing on positive self-talk can also boost confidence.
If I can do it, then anyone can do it! 🙂
I have never played on my shyness, but instead, I have always forced myself to do things that I find challenging, to help me overcome my shyness.
SmileyRose Ramblings by
Frances Rose Agnes Napper (She/Her) 