many rivers to cross

My boyfriend does not like traversing bridges. The point of our break is to relax so we opted for a longer route avoiding the dreaded thelwall viaduct. Sadly we didn't realise the alternative route would involve several other bridges including the disliked runcorn bridge. I'm sure there's a moral there.

I don't get out much. Maybe this is a new and common thing, but it surprised me to see signs at the entrance of both pubs (the one where we slept and the one of the gig) saying people would not be served if wearing, or accompanying people wearing, tracksuits. Seems like discrimination to me.

I've seen the band 4 times now as my boyfriend is a big fan. Each time the support act has differed. Last night was the debut performance of The Great Indoors, so they're not on spotify yet but if they get there I recommend them - just to my taste with their tinkly xylophone, violin, awesome harmonies and words I could relate to.

Turns out my boyfriend hates shopping even more than I do. When the first shop failed to have its promised stock that was enough. So I've returned without any presents but we did have a nice time walking the walls. These were two of my favourite observations. Firstly the way the sun had melted all but a strip of frost remaining on the wooden handrail. The light was lovely today and the weather beautiful, if frosty. Winter is here. And below, a cormorant standing in shallow water holding its wings open to the wind to dry them. I don't envy it standing in the chilly water but loved the idea of holding my wings open to the elements. Might have to give that a try.