Mid Somerset Show

We visited the Mid Somerset Show on Sunday for the first time in several years. Whilst of course there were some super cute animals on display I was taken by the vintage cars, lorries and steam engines they had on display.

Courgette Cards

UK card makers Courgette Cards have a series of blank cards entitled "Collections of Collections". Whilst I plumped for the snow globes, the entire range really appeals.

The Bounch Gang

The latest addition to the BxH family goes back to its Kid Hunter/breakfast cereal roots. Kid Bounch bares a striking resemblance to the Smurf nemesis Gargamel. He is smaller than both the Captain and Kid Hunter. The figure doesn't seem to be articulated and I'm not going to try too hard to check least I break it. The only markings on the figure are the BxH logo under the foot; no serial numbers or country of manufacture. Surely BxH have enough new figures now to warrant another series of mini figs?

Hey Presto!

These may be my favourite books ever. Both clearly labours of love by their respective authors, they provide a visual and written history of two long established American novelty and toy companies. Wham O have produced many major toys including Slip N Slide and the Frisbee. Life of the Party is a visual treat, with page after page of wonderful photos illustrating the wonderful pranks and tricks the Adams company has made over the years. I had forgotten how much I loved these practical jokes whilst growing up and it has sparked my magpie instinct to start collecting them again.

budget DVD finds

Some recent budget DVD pickups. A Terry Thomas 3 film boxset for £3 at Fopp. The Russian blockbusters Nightwatch and Daywatch as a boxset, for £5 from Tesco.

18 Holes

Bagged a hole in one today! Plus I picked up a Donald McGill postcard.

Selfridges

In all the years I have been to Selfridges I have never visited their foodhall until last Saturday. I was prompted after hearing over their PA that Willie Harcourt-Cooze was their promoting his chocolate. I keen fan of his 72% I made my way there and was thrilled to have a nice chat with him and snaffle a awesome truffle he made. Also in the foodhall is a wonderful selection of (processed) foods from around the world. I was particularly impressed by their Australian selection - its like I have an epicurian double.

Weaver

After the first two suede colourways, this tan leather Weaver has now come out. At this stage its limited to the Clark's website from what I can find. It seems the more practical choice with the way the summer weather has been so far.

Other Criteria

Damien Hirst's Marylebone store is one of the most "robust" stores I have ever been to. It seem strange to describe a store in such a way but from the door handles to the fixtures and fittings it is incredibly solid. Where no expense has been spared no restraint has been put on some of the prices, not that there aren't one or two more affoardable items.